TrailBlazer Magazine - April 2017 by TrailBlazer Magazine

APRIL 2017

Summer

Vacation Guide

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R U F O R Y IENDS E T I V IN

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Your referral also enters YOU into our 2017 drawing for a chance to win these great prizes:

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Free Dues for 2018 10 Winners Selected ($4,000 value)

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

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

VOL. 39

■

WHAT’S INSIDE

ISSUE 3 /// APRIL 2017

lifestyle

Message from Marguerite

Tech Topics

22 On the Road Debbie Cochran 40 TrailMix - Rails-to-Trails Conservancy’s 2017 Pennsylvania Sojourn 43 4 Paws on the Road 44 Who’s in the Kitchen with TrailBlazer?

features

16 Summer Vacation Guide Food and travel go hand-in-hand today, as many travelers base their destinations on celebrity chef restaurants, cooking schools, farmers markets, food and beverage events, and more.

46 Ask RV Bill

calendars 10 On-Site Events 14 Local Events 64 Club Calendar

spotlight

regulars

24 Cracker Barrel, Your Roadside Pit Stop

48 Member Deals

There’s simply no other roadside stop in the nation quite like a Cracker Barrel Old Country Store®.

60 Crossword Puzzle 61 Sudoku Puzzle

30 Americana Music Triangle Music fans across the country now have a one-stop shopping resource to easily research and explore the more than 1,500 miles of Tennessee, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas highways and backroads that make up the new Americana Music Triangle.

Pics From The Parks

62 Preferred RV Dealer List

30 APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

MESSAGE from MARGUERITE In this issue, we highlight the great American road trip. Journeys that traverse over super highways, as well as iconic routes that allow you to meander the back roads. A good road trip enables us to explore so many destinations, from well-known landmarks and popular boardwalks, to picturesque overlooks that always command a photo op.

On August 21, 2017, we will be able to witness a total solar eclipse, the first such eclipse in the contiguous U.S. since 1979. And, in case you have yet to see the path, it will cross over a number of your favorite Thousand Trails campgrounds, providing you and your family with a prime viewing area for this spectacular event. This is certainly an event worth road tripping for.

Perhaps this summer you and your family are planning your maiden voyage. A new kind of adventure for your family, a camping vacation under the stars, a road trip that takes you to possibly some familiar and maybe some unfamiliar stops along the way. Each hour provides a sense of exploration and excitement, and perhaps new friendships along the way.

So whether your planning your own great American road trip, or making plans to travel to a Thousand Trails campground to witness The Great American Eclipse, as some are referring to it as, the key to a successful trip is the planning process that occurs prior to embarking on any journey.

As you know, RVers are famous for hitting the road and blazing a trail of adventure as they travel across the country. An initial maiden voyage was all it took to get them hooked, yearning to discover more. For RVers, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just as much about the journey as it is the destination, and a lot of times, the scenic route is the best route.

When you begin to make your plans, consider the scenic route to take advantage of an American pastime: the roadtrip. Who knows what kind of gems you may find along the way!

Marguerite Nader President & CEO APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Share your adventures in 3 easy steps!

www.trailblazermagazine.net CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mark Slattery EDITOR tbeditor@equitylifestyle.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mellissa Dempsey ADVERTISING SALES TBads@equitylifestyle.com MISSION STATEMENT TrailBlazer provides exclusive news and information for the members and guests of Thousand Trails 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. 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 NEW SUBSCRIPTIONS Visit www.trailblazermagazine.net and click on the ‘Subscribe’ tab to easily subscribe online today! PRINTED IN THE USA

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EACH Issue!

1. Capture a photo of your trip at one of our parks. 2. Share with us at TrailBlazer_photos@equitylifestyle.com. 3. Check out next month to see if you’re a winner.

Winners will receive a $50 Visa® Gift Card. Each issue we will select ONE “winning” photo from the submissions received (all submissions must be received by midnight on the last day of the month). The winning photo will be posted on the TrailBlazer website as well as in the magazine. Photo submissions should include a brief description, including location of your photo, your name, city and state and sent to:

TrailBlazer_photos@equitylifestyle.com or mail to:

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.

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▲ Colorado River (TX): Winter by the lake at dawn – Linda Sanders

PICS FROM THE PARKS

▲ Soledad Canyon (CA): The beautiful San Gabriel Mountains – Yefim Bam

▲ Bay Landing (TX): Sweetheart Trees – Linda Drinkard-Kirby

▲ Lake Medina (TX): Sunset over the lake – Danny and Marla Alacali APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

LUCKY WINNER?

WANT TO BE A

Lucky winners,

Jim & Brenda Gilmore from McKinney, TX

were camping at Lake Tawakoni, TX when they were presented with a $1,000 gift card! left to right: Jim Gilmore, Ralph Wynn TT Manager, and Brenda Gilmore

Thousand Trails is offering members the opportunity to win a

$1,000 Visa® Prepaid Gift Card

To earn entries into our monthly drawing, simply pay your 2017 dues on time and camp at your favorite TT Preserve. When you pay your annual dues for 2017 in full, you will be entered into our monthly drawing for a $1,000 Visa® Prepaid gift card. There will be one drawing/one winner each month from January through December 2017. In addition, once you pay your dues in full, each time you camp at a Thousand Trails Preserve in 2017, you will receive an additional entry into the drawing. The drawings are limited to persons who are of legal age. The drawings will be held at our corporate office on the 10th day after the end of each month. Winners will be notified by mail, phone or in person if camping at a Thousand Trails preserve. The odds of winning will depend on the number of entries, but are not expected to exceed 1:100,000. Winners are responsible for federal and state taxes on the award. You may also enter the drawings by printing your name, address, day and evening phone numbers, and email address on a 3” x 5” piece of paper and mailing it to the Sponsor in addressed, stamped envelope. You are limited to one mail-in entry which must be postmarked by December 15, 2017. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606.

TECH

TOP CS

RVing is a great adventure and there’s always something new to learn! by Paul and Kerri Elders This month, let's take a look at a few quick and easy Blackwater System maintenance tips and see how some very minor headlight adjustments can simplify your travels. Ready? Let's get going! Headlight Halos: Installing superbright headlights (like halogens) on your RV may sound like a great idea, but brighter isn’t always better. While bright headlights may help you see the road ahead more clearly, ultra-bright headlights can actually have a blinding effect on oncoming traffic. As a matter of fact, you can even unintentionally “blind” the drivers you follow behind, if your headlights are overly bright or improperly set for your loaded RV. How could that happen? Headlights that are perfectly set when a vehicle isn't carrying a trailer or a load can change dramatically when a heavy load is added to the rear. This added rear axle weight makes the vehicle's front end dip up, causing headlight beams to angle upward. Not surprisingly, misaligned headlights can temporarily blind drivers in oncoming traffic, which can be a bit of an issue for you both on winding, narrow roads. It can also be more difficult to clearly see the road ahead of your RV at night if your headlights are poorly aimed, since the headlight beams actually project a bit upward and off the road surface directly ahead of you. This effect is even more noticeable in a rainstorm or snowstorm. Improperly aimed headlights can actually make it harder to see in driving rain or heavy snow, because the rain or snow acts like a screen, reflecting the light directly back into your field of vision. Luckily, all these issues are easy to fix!

Ideally, headlights should be set after you’ve loaded your vehicle, especially if you're towing a trailer or fifth wheel. The best way to adjust headlights is to have your mechanic do it for you before leaving on your next trip. Swing by the RV Service Center with your tow vehicle and trailer or your motorhome, loaded as usual and with tires properly inflated. Your mechanic will know just how to adjust these and do it quickly. If you're already out on the road & realize this is a concern, a quick visit to a local garage or RV Service Center will quickly solve the issue. Blackwater Tips: Your RV's on-board blackwater (sewer) system helps make your RV a truly comfortable, self-contained homeaway-from-home. And it's easy to maintain! An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so Rule #1 for Happy Camping is a simple one: keep your system clog-free. This is extremely simple: always use RV bathroom tissue or a single-ply tissue. Adding enzyme-based RV tissue digesters to your tank will help dissolve and digest any bathroom tissue that's been added to your system, helping to assure trouble-free dumping of the blackwater tank. Another simple tip: It's actually a good idea to keep your blackwater valve closed, even when hooked up to a sewer connection at a campground. Why? If the blackwater valve is left open, all liquids can drain through the hose, leaving solids behind. This means that over time, solids can begin to collect on the bottom of the blackwater tank, the dump valve and, possibly, even in your sewer hose. Eventually, these collected solids can clog the drainage system. By keeping your

blackwater tank filled with at least 20% liquid at all times, you can help prevent this headache. Keeping an adequate volume of liquids in the tank will help flush the solids out of the blackwater holding tank each time you dump, carrying everything through the sewer hose and down into the campground’s dump tank, clog-free. When you first arrive at your campsite after a few days' travel, you'll want to empty your holding tank, since the solids are still suspended in liquid. Dump blackwater, dump graywater, re-close the dump valve, and then flush your toilet several times to replenish the water in the blackwater tank to about 20% capacity. Add some holding tank deodorant and/ or tissue digester and you're good till you’re ready to dump again. It's a good practice to keep a separate garden-type green water hose on hand that’s used only for rinsing your RV’s blackwater (sewer) lines. Never use your drinking water hose to rinse blackwater lines and fittings! Store your cleaning hose in a compartment close to the blackwater connections, but in an area completely separate from the compartment housing your drinking water hose to avoid any risk of cross-contamination. You'll also want to keep some cheap disposable plastic gloves on hand for blackwater tasks. They're helpful when dumping and rinsing blackwater connections. Once the job's complete, just reverse-peel the gloves off your hands directly into a trash can, then immediately wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water and perhaps finish with some hand sanitizer. Happy trails, trailblazers! APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

ACTIVITIES

AND

Activities and Events – On-Site

APRIL events Spring is just around the corner! Your friends at Thousand Trails can’t wait to get the seasonal festivities started! Whether you’re hunting Easter eggs, participating in a spring clean up, or dancing the night away with your fellow campers, there are fun activities happening all over the country at Thousand Trails this April. Check out all the events below!

Welcome Back!

Easter Weekend

It’s time for many Thousand Trails campgrounds in April to open! Here’s a few highlights to come from Spring 2017.

Easter Weekend is April 14 -16 Celebrate this spring holiday with us at Thousand Trails!

Come out and meet and greet your fellow campers of Harbor View (VA) the weekend of April 7-9. Come see what is new for you in 2017. Plan to get involved and make some memories. The Annuals Meeting and Luncheon at Harbor View (VA) will take place on April 15. Bring your favorite beverage, questions and comments. It is going to be a great season for all! We’re looking forward to making new friends in 2017 and excited about seeing our returning friends at Lake Gaston (NC). Come enjoy a weekend of setting up, mingling, and getting to know our campground, the weekend of April 2. The same weekend, the folks at Cherokee Landing (TN) will kick off the 2017 season with their very first bonfire!

There will be crafts, egg decorating and coloring all weekend long at Soledad Canyon (CA). The kids fishing derby is back at Lake of the Springs (CA)! Bring your kids to the pond on Saturday and later, there will be Easter egg coloring and a visit from the Easter bunny. Attend church services with some Thousand Trails members at Peace River (FL) on Easter Sunday. There will be lots of fun, eggs, and prizes for kids up to 12 at Bend-Sunriver (OR) on April 16. Hop into the season with an egg-cellent time at Circle M (PA) the weekend of April 14-16. Participate in our egg scramble and more! The folks at Chesapeake Bay (VA) will get together for all of the traditional Easter activities like egg dying, egg hunts, hardboiled egg races and more! Don’t miss out!

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

All events, times and dates are subject to change.

Activities and Events – On-Site

Spring Spruce Up and Earth Day Celebrations At Thousand Trails, we care about Mother Earth so that we can continue to get out and camp and explore the great outdoors! Whether you help tidy up your favorite campground or organizing an all-campus recycling drive, there are plenty of places to do your part this Earth Day, April 22! The folks at San Benito (CA) will be making their very own Earth Day t-shirts and participating in creating a community recycle area. Join the members at Green Mountain (NC) for a combined Mardi Gras/Earth Day celebration weekend! Get out and plant at PA Dutch Country (PA) for Spring Fun & Earth Day Weekend! Bring a flower to plant at PA Dutch and watch it grow.

Share A Meal with Friends & Family! As we emerge from the winter hibernation, it’s time to share a meal with our fellow campers! Here’s where you can share a fun meal or two with other Thousand Trails members this April. Pio Pico (CA) teams up with Kiwanis to host a vintage car show on the front lawn complete with a Chili Cook-Off (with prizes), vendors, local beers and food, the weekend of April 7. Who doesn’t love a yummy dessert potluck and fresh coffee in the afternoon? Members of Three Flags (FL) are invited to join us and sample their neighbor’s dessert creations on April 16. Don’t forget to bring your favorite dessert to share. Come to Long Beach (WA) for the Annual Razor Clam Festival, April 29-30. The city puts on a great festival from learning to catch and clean clams to chowder contests & entertainment. Bring a hot or cold dish to share with friends on the evening of Saturday, April 29 at Moody Beach (ME). We will supply the dessert, yahoo! Come enjoy our wine and cheese recipe swap social at PA Dutch Country (PA) the weekend of April 28. You bring the wine, we will supply the cheese and fondue dippers. Kids can enjoy the latest movie and eating popcorn at a social of their own in an adjacent room.

Some events may require a participation fee.

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Activities and Events – On-Site

Friendly Competition at Thousand Trails Enjoy the fresh air and a bit of healthy competition at Thousand Trails campgrounds. Here’s where campers will be playing games this April. Join the folks at Lake of the Springs (CA) for the kids fishing derby the weekend of April 14-16! Come and enjoy family fun and games in our Member Lounge at Moody Beach (ME) the weekend of April 21. The following weekend, it’s Outdoor Games Weekend at Moody Beach (ME) and Gateway to Cape Cod (MA)! Come play basketball, dodge ball, baseball and games of your choice this weekend. Get out and enjoy the spring air. Drivers, start your golf carts! The Chesapeake Bay Races will take place the weekend of April 21 at Chesapeake Bay (VA). Pick a steel-spined navigator to guide you through the hay bale lined course! Enter your pup in the 2nd Annual Thousand Trails Dog Show the following weekend, April 28, also at Chesapeake Bay (VA). Who can find the most goodies on the list? Check in at the office at Harbor View (VA) to sign up for a Family Scavenger Hunt on April 22 Happy Hunting!

Dance the Night Away There’s nothing better than listening to music and dancing the night away with your best friends at Thousand Trails. See where the party’s at this April! Enjoy a fun night of music, stories and laughter with your friends and family at Orlando (FL) for an R & R Night of Music, on April 8. The following weekend at Orlando (April 15) there will be gospel entertainment all weekend by your favorite artists! The folks at Lake and Shore (NJ) are bringing DJ Sonja to spin the tunes on Saturday April 15! Keep a lookout and there might be a surprise appearance…bring your dancing shoes for the first DJ dance of the season at Lake Gaston (NC) on April 15!

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Activities and Events – On-Site

Pranksters Unite on April 1st It’s finally the end of the winter season! Let’s laugh it off with everyone at Thousand Trails who are participating in April Fool’s Day (April 1). Pranksters Unite! Join us for our April Madness capers: candy bingo, mini golf tournament, pool tourney, and a Mad Hatter contest with prizes at April Foolishness Weekend at Verde Valley (AZ). Jokes, comedy, silliness, and laughs all weekend long at Orlando (FL)! For the silly kids at San Benito (CA), it’s whoopie cushions and slime making for a wacky weekend of fun.

Cozy Movie Nights Grab some popcorn and your family and friends, of course, to relax and enjoy a movie night after fun-filled days in the sun at Thousand Trails! See below to catch the best flicks this April. The folks at Seaside (OR) will have free popcorn and easter treats for the Saturday Night Movie on April 15! Chesapeake Bay (VA)’s Classic Movie Series kicks off the weekend of April 17 with a screening of “Little Shop of Horrors” (rated PG-13) after a day of reviving the flower beds for spring. Don’t miss the family movie the weekend of April 14 at Wilderness Lakes (CA)! That weekend, also at Wilderness Lakes, there will be a Wild Wonders Animal presentation, Easter crafts, and Dominic’s Karaoke for the whole family!

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Activities and Events – Local

LOCAL

CALENDAR events

▲ Shark

Cove Photo courtesy of Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center

BAY LANDING (TX)

LAKE WHITNEY (TX)

SOUTH JETTY (OR)

April 8-9 Antique Western Show and Sale Peruse antique wares for only $5 admission. Enjoy a live performance from Bubba Harper and the 24/7 Band on Saturday night. nbssca.org/events

Every Friday and Saturday Night in April Live Rodeo Action Every Friday and Saturday night catch the Stockyards Championship Rodeo in Fort Worth, presented by Stockyards Hotel.

April 1 Florence Fest This annual event features carefully selected boutique wineries, live jazz, regional artwork and great food. Produced by Coast Radio. visittheoregoncoast.com

April 30 6th Annual Cowtown Conjunto Festival An estimated 8,000 people attend for music, food, and good country fun! Concerts by Dwayne Verheyden, Da Krazy Pimpz, Los Badd Boyz Del Valle, Elias Arredondo, Conjunto Prestigio, Grupo Pression, Squeeze Box Bandits, Sonido Próximo, Conjunto Cats. billybobstexas.com

April 7 Dwight Yoakam in Concert See this multi- award winning Americana music artist, Dwight Yoakam. His latest release, "Swimmin’ Pools, Movie Starts", harkens back to his landmark debut, "Guitars, Cadillacs, Etc.," with it’s cheeky title and line up of some of Yoakam’s most classic songs in his beloved Bakersfield sound. wfmpec.com

April 5, 8 National Theater Live: Amadeus Experience the powerful story of Amadeus accompanied by a live orchestra. eugenecascadescoast.org

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

MOODY BEACH (ME) April 21-23 27th Patriots Day Celebration Concerts, craft fair, re-enactments, hayrides, American pie contest, taste of the town, duck race, and more. visitogunquit.org

All events, times and dates are subject to change.

LEAVENWORTH (WA)

Daily during April Shark Cove Open at the Sea Center Museum visitors have the chance to get up close to docile marine predators like coastal sharks and rays; see baby sharks in their translucent egg casings, explore interactive exhibits, and the ever-popular shark touch pool! Open daily. Adults: $8.50; Seniors (65 and over): $7.50; Teens (13-17 years): $7.50; Children (2-12 years): $6; Children under 2 years are free. sbnature.org

April 5-6 Taste Leavenworth This is the kick-off event for Leavenworth’s Spring Sensations festivities! Grab your “Taste Passport” that features deals for participating restaurants throughout Leavenworth. There will be live music and fun for everyone! leavenworth.org

VERDE VALLEY (AZ) April 2 Gary Arbuthnot: Stage & Screen Gary Arbuthnot, international flute virtuoso, joins the Prescott Chorale for a presentation of musical scores; from contemporary movies to Broadway, to some of the biggest pop groups of the modern era, this is “Stage and Screen.” ycpac.com April 15 50s & 60s Graffiti Gold Show with Tom Tayback and the Daddy O's If you’re a fan of the golden oldies from the 50’s & 60’s, you’ll love this authentic blast from the past at the Sound Bites Show Room in Sedona. “Tom Tayback and the Daddy O’s” are a true throwback, fondly recalling the good old days of Jukeboxes, 45s, soda shops, and sock hops in the gym. Get nostalgic and leave your cares at home, ‘cause the memories of those great old days will fly unchecked as you relive a time when music refused to let you sit still. graffitigoldshow.com

April 2017 Spring Sensations Each April in Leavenworth we say ‘auf Wiedersehen’ to winter with a month-long celebration called Spring Sensations! All April-long Leavenworth’s finest shops, lodging and restaurants feature culinary specials with a ‘pear’ticular focus – after all, Leavenworth is one of the largest growers of organic pears in the USA! leavenworth.org April 21-22 Leavenworth Ale-Fest The Leavenworth Ale-Fest is the town’s first ale-centric festival. The inaugural festival took place in April, 2007 and has grown each year into what it is today. A fun and exciting event offering brew tasting with over 40 ales and ciders, foods from local businesses, and music by popular Northwest bands. Online Ticket sales. leavenworthalefest.com

LYNCHBURG (VA) April 27-30 Cavalier Theatre Presents Mary Poppins Mary Poppins, the classic story about a special nanny to the young Jane and Michael Banks. Even grown-ups can learn a lesson or two from the nanny who advises that “anything can happen if you let it!” nwwafair.com

Some events may require a participation fee.

Activities and Events – Local

RANCHO OSO (CA)

April 29 World's Largest Tree Hug Join us as we attempt to break the Guinness World Record with the most people hugging trees in one place at the same time and then celebrate at our after party! There will be live music, food trucks, inflatables, make-and-take crafts and interactive activities, demos, vendors, rock climbing, hit the trail on a mountain bike demo, chill out in our hammock lounge, enjoy a craft beer or even make a rain barrel. End the night with a free showing of “The Lorax” at our movie in the park. lynchburgparksandrec.com

LAKE OF THE SPRINGS (CA) April 15 Grass Valley Sportsmen's Club Trout Derby 2000 Rainbow Trout will be stocked by California Fish & Game and Grass Valley Sportsmen’s Club. State Fishing and Derby regulations will apply and be strictly enforced. This is a rain or shine event. Pets are not allowed at this event. Sign-in begins at 7am, then fishing will be from 8am to 12pm and awards at approximately 12:30pm. Please bring your own fishing equipment. gvsportsmens.org

GATEWAY TO CAPE COD (MA) April 8-9 4th Annual Herring Run Festival Massachusetts’ Herring Run in is one of the most spectacular natural resources in New England. Join local residents, businesses and artisans in a celebration of this natural resource. Featuring Food & Games, Exhibits, Demonstrations, Music, Fine Art & Lots of Herring! The Oliver Estate will be opening for tours for the first time ever, each day from 10am1pm! There will also be Spinning, Cooking, Blacksmith, Tavern & Music with special guest Paul Revere! discovermiddleborough.com APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Summer

Vacation Guide

by Joan Rykal

Can’t decide where to go on vacation? East or west? Mountains or beach? The heartland, the forestlands, Disneyland? Well, as the song goes “This Land is Your Land,” so why not let the lyrics point the way.

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

This

Land is

Your

Land

While there is definitely a deeper meaning behind Woody Guthrie’s iconic folk song, “This Land is Your Land,” most Americans consider the song a tribute to the beauty of our country. Taking it as an anthem to all the natural splendor that combines to make traveling America a wonder at every turn, TrailBlazer offers actual destinations to consider as counterparts to some of those famous lyrics. (For full lyrics, see page 20.)

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

From California… The Golden State really does have something for everyone, not to mention some pretty fantastic weather. Here’s a quick snapshot that reassures all travel tastes will find something in sunny Cali. Mountains: The Sierra Nevada mountain range is the major mountain range in California. Mt. Whitney, the highest point in the contiguous United States is located in the Sierra Nevada range as is Yosemite National Park. Yosemite offers it all from hiking to climbing to fishing and biking. Make Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes your home base as you explore Yosemite. Beaches: Here are just a few that were named as winners in the 2015 USA Today “Best California Beach” contest. Coronado Beach, just outside San Diego; Santa Monica Beach with its boardwalk amusement rides; and Huntington Beach, also known as Surf City

To the New York Island USA. The added benefit is getting to know the beach towns associated with these sandy locales where you’ll find delicious seafood, great shopping, and arts and culture. Don’t miss the International Surf Museum in Huntington Beach or brunch and a historic tour of the Hotel Del Coronado. The Big City: Consider San Diego and the Gaslamp Quarter for great entertainment and fine dining; Los Angeles which includes the attractions of Tinsel Town and is also just about an hour from Disneyland in nearby Anaheim, or the City by the Bay, San Francisco with highlights including Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown and a stroll over the Golden Gate Bridge. Stay at nearby Encore/Thousand Trails Resorts this summer. Visit ThousandTrails.com for the campgrounds near these locations.

For our purposes, we’re going to head north of the island of Manhattan and explore the Adirondacks. The trip from NYC proper is about three and a half hours but the difference from city to country is amazing. The Adirondack area of Lake George offers recreational activities, historic sites, wineries and lots of family fun. Experience life as a soldier in the King’s Army at Fort William Henry, which was originally constructed as a British outpost to protect the colonies. Now a living history museum, Fort William Henry offers daily military demonstrations as well as guided tours. For an adventure-packed visit, consider the many opportunities for whitewater rafting, tubing, zip lining and even hot-air balloon rides. Enjoy a Lake George dinner cruise with the Lake George Steamboat Company. Nearby Encore/Thousand Trails Resorts: Lake George Escape and Lake George Schroon Valley.

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

From the Redwood Forest… About two hours north of Thousand Trails Russian River Campground you’ll find Avenue of the Giants, a scenic 31-mile drive lined by majestic redwoods. Don’t miss the Shine Drive Thru Tree, and although it is privately owned, the owner charges about $6 to let you drive through. Talk about a roadside attraction – where else can you drive through a tree? There’s also the Eternal Tree House, which sits inside the stump of a massive redwood and has a café and gift shop. If you continue north and are planning to visit the fabulous Thousand Trails resorts along the Oregon coastline, you’ll have an opportunity to see some Oregon redwoods. In Brookings, Oregon, which is just about three and a half hours from Thousand Trails’ South Jetty location, you’ll find the Oregon Redwood Trail, one of only two places to view Redwoods north of California. At Loeb State Park, there is an easy 2.6 mile Redwood Nature Loop.

To the Gulf Stream Waters The Gulf Stream is actually a current in the Atlantic that stretches from the tip of Florida and runs north along the eastern coast to Newfoundland where it turns and heads across the ocean toward Ireland.

Spanish fort. Castillo de San Marcos is located in the area of St. Augustine known as Old City that features cobblestone streets and offers horse drawn carriage tours or walking tours of this historic city.

Florida’s oldest city, St. Augustine, sits on the east coast where the Gulf Stream flows. In fact, Ponce de Leon first described the Gulf Stream in 1513, about the same time he explored the area that became St. Augustine. Today, visitors to this historic city can tour the Fountain of Youth Archeological State Park which is said to be the site of de Leon’s landing site. There is also Castillo de San Marcos, a 20.5 acre national monument which contains the ruins of an old

At the St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum, “pirate” tour guides show you around the museum and explain the 800 artifacts and exhibits on display. There’s even a treasure hunt for kids! Nearby Encore/Thousand Trails Resort: Bulow RV Resort

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

…that Ribbon of Highway The great American road trip is possible thanks to the many ribbons of highway that traverse our country. There are super highways and iconic routes that allow you to meander the backroads. The Pacific Coast Highway runs the length of California and offers more scenic views than you can imagine. Major cities along the route include San Francisco, Santa Cruz, Monterey, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Take your time and enjoy the quaint towns along the way as well as the big cities, stopping to enjoy Half Moon Bay, Bodega Bay, Big Sur and Pismo Beach. Nearby Encore/Thousand Trails Resorts: Pio Pico, Rancho Oso, San Benito, Soledad Canyon The Overseas Highway takes you from Key Largo to Key West, Florida, and offers the perfect

This

Land is

Your

Land

Written by Woody Guthrie in 1940, but wasn't released until 1951. 20

route to explore the Florida Keys. Highlights of the Overseas Highway include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park where you can enjoy the reefs while snorkeling or above from a glass bottom boat tour; Key Largo, known for its diving adventures where deep sea lovers can see the Christ of the Abyss statue and many sunken hulls of lost steam ships and freighters, and Bahia Honda State Park, with its historic bridge located on Big Pine Key. Nearby Encore/Thousand Trails Resorts: Fiesta Key RV Resort and Sunshine Key RV Resort and Marina. If you’re looking to visit a lot of places in a long stretch, consider a transcontinental drive along US Route 80 which will allow you to get from San Francisco, California, to Teaneck, NJ. Encore and Thousand Trails resorts are well-represented along the way.

Check out roadtrippers.com to find highlights along this super highway as you make your way cross-country. Route 6 takes you along the 117 mile trip through charming Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Route 6 actually runs cross country to California, but if you want to enjoy a New England summer vacation, take a trip along Route 6. See whaling mansions and the Pilgrim Monument in Provincetown, hop on a whale watcher cruise in Hyannisport or visit the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum, enjoy the exhibits at the Cape Cod Museum of Art and then really enjoy a lobster roll at the Sesuit Harbor Café, both in Dennis. Nearby Encore/Thousand Trails Resorts: Gateway to Cape Cod and Old Chatham Road.

This land is your land, this land is my land From the California to the New York Island From the Redwood Forest, to the Gulf stream waters This land was made for you and me

When the sun come shining, then I was strolling In wheat fields waving and dust clouds rolling The voice was chanting as the fog was lifting This land was made for you and me

As I went walking that ribbon of highway I saw above me that endless skyway Saw below me the golden valley This land was made for you and me

This land is your land, this land is my land From the California to the New York Island From the Redwood Forest, to the Gulf stream waters This land was made for you and me

I roamed and rambled and followed my footsteps To the sparkling sands of her diamond deserts All around me a voice was sounding This land was made for you and me

When the sun come shining, then I was strolling In wheat fields waving and dust clouds rolling The voice was chanting as the fog was lifting This land was made for you and me

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To the sparkling sands of her diamond deserts Sedona, Arizona is located in the Upper Sonoran Desert in northern Arizona and is known for its red rock formations. While there is no doubt that these rock formations, which include the often photographed Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock, offer a stunning backdrop for a desert vacation, they may well provide spiritual benefits to its visitors.

magnifies everything you’re feeling – so if you are happy, that happiness will be magnified and conversely, if you are negative, the same would apply. Sedona Red Rock Tours (sedonaredrocktours. com) offers a specific vortex tour. You can also hike and bike the area on your own.

Many people believe that these rock formations contain a concentration of vortexes, which release psychic energy from the earth. Native Americans believed in the spiritual powers of these vortexes and considered the land sacred. Both the aforementioned Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock are in fact vortex areas. It is believed that the energy from the vortexes

The Mojave Desert not only encompasses California’s Death Valley, but also Nevada’s Las Vegas Valley and offers a much different landscape than what a typical tourist will see when the visit the area’s famed “Strip.” Red Rock Canyon, which is just about 20 miles from the bright lights of Sin City, is Nevada’s first designated National Conservation

Nearest Encore/Thousand Trails Resort: Verde Valley.

Area. The area encompasses 195,819 acres of the Mojave Desert with 600 species of plants and an abundance of wildlife including wild burros, rabbit and desert bighorn sheep. The Conservation Area is also a protected habitat for the desert tortoise, one of whom, Mojave Max, serves as the mascot for the area’s conservation programs and is included in many of the educational events. The area has great hiking trails and for those less athletic, there is a 13-mile Scenic Drive. Nearest Encore/Thousand Trails Resort: Las Vegas.

On The Road

Debbie

Cochran by Lynn & Cele Seldon

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 country artist and avid RVer, Debbie Cochran For some singers, life on the road can be a grind, driving from city to city and not spending quality time in the town they perform in. But, for traditional country artist Debbie Cochran, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s often the road that inspires the music she sings.

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Debbie and her husband Elmer are avid members of the RV community and spend a good portion of the year traveling on the road in their 42-foot RV. “This is a great way to see the world,” smiles Debbie. “Being members of the Winnebago Itasca Travelers (WIT) RV club, it’s one big party goin’ down the road.” With her latest single “Faith Can” hitting the airways last fall, Debbie manages to maintain the best of both worlds – getting to travel around the country for pleasure, but also still managing to perform and promote her album, “Before We Met The World,” wherever she visits.

“Wherever I go, my music goes. I take my guitar, my keyboard… everything.

”

Life on the road has inspired Debbie so much that she has written a song called “Winnebago Ride,” which secured her a performance at the WIT Grand National Rally by Winnebago Industries. Debbie traverses a path to fulfill her lifelong dream of being a recording artist and is proving that it’s never too late to pursue your childhood aspirations. “Faith Can” is the title track of her current album, produced by well-known Kent Wells (Dolly Parton’s producer and bandleader). The song tells the story of Kate Foster and her courage and willpower to conquer leukemia. Due to this terrible disease, doctors had to amputate Kate’s leg; however, she did not let that stop her from chasing her dream of becoming a competitive gymnast like her parents. Radio and industry critics have given this “Helen Mirren meets Debbie Boone” performer rave reviews, including earning the DisCovery Award from renowned music critic, Robert K. Oermann, and gaining praise for her

inspirational and heartfelt sound and lyrics. Debbie has developed a firm foundation for her traditional “halo-country.” “Life on the road is our favorite place to be,” says Debbie. “Wherever we park, we call it home. We were leaving the Smoky Mountains one day, when a song came to me titled, “Happy Soul.” That describes us the best.

Debbie, tell us about your RV. We have a Winnebago Ellipse. We call it by its model number, “The 42.” We love the idea [of] “Made in USA.” We have toured the amazing Winnebago factory in Forest City, IA.

What's your favorite thing about traveling in your RV versus staying in a hotel? First, we love the idea of home, anywhere we desire to travel and park for the night. It’s a peaceful experience. We meet the nicest people with a common interest to explore the world on wheels. We love having our own bed on board. Elmer tries to limit my carry-on clothes. I slip in a few extras, with rhinestones, when he’s not looking

What are a few favorite things onboard? My guitar named “Martin” is top priority. Elmer says his favorite thing to have on board is me. When he calls for reservations, they will ask if he has a pet. He says yes. Her name is Debbie. He loves the open road. When we leave our home, he peels out of the driveway. We finally slow down when he knows we've gone too far to turn back.

What about favorite destinations? We have visited so many beautiful places in the USA and Canada. We drove the Alaska Highway through Canada to Anchorage, Alaska, and back. Modern-day pioneers. The mountains were breathtaking.

Mount McKinley stood tall out of the clouds the day we were in Denali. We witnessed the northern lights and even experienced an earthquake in Tok, Alaska. We saw wild life, which included the most beautiful herd of wild horses that ran out of the woods and came close to us on the road and turned back into the woods. It was mesmerizing. The only bear we saw was in a museum in the Yukon. We have seen many beautiful colorful flowing streams in our travels through Canada and the US. The Colorado River is beautiful traveling through the Grand Canyon. We saw brilliant green colored rivers rippling downstream as we traveled through Canada. However, we live on the White River in Arkansas, so that would be my favorite.

Where do you like to eat on the road? We love to dine at Cracker Barrel. They have parking provided for RVs. If Elmer has green beans, he's a happy camper.

Do you have any funny RVing stories to share with us? We were leaving Kent Wells Production Studio in Franklin, Tennessee, and forgot to put in the bedroom slide. We wondered why everyone was honking. I thought they were paparazzi! Also, my first time I drove was in a 40-foot Winnebago. I was doing great, keeping it between the lines. Then Elmer said, “Turn in there.” It was a service station. So I whipped it in quickly and the SUV went up and down the embankment and there was an attendant standing between two gas pumps and his eyes opened as big as saucers. Just like in the movies. Elmer was speechless. I made it to the pump without a mishap. The truck was still in one piece and attached. All photos courtesy of Anthony Scarlati APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

here’s simply no other roadside stop in the nation quite like a Cracker Barrel Old Country Store®. As huge fans with dozens of stops, tasty meals, fun purchases, and audiobook rentals under our belts, we decided to get the scoop on this iconic all-American brand so beloved by RVers and other hungry trailblazers on American’s highways and byways. by Lynn & Cele Seldon

All photos courtesy of Cracker Barrel 24

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The pit stop you know and love... The History The fascinating history of Cracker Barrel is rooted in good ol’ southern hospitality, homestyle cooking, shopping, and atmosphere and décor that make each of the 641 (and counting) “home away from home” locations 43 states consistent, but also unique. It all started on September 19, 1969, when Dan Evins opened the first Cracker Barrel Old Country Store on Highway 109 in Lebanon, Tennessee. From those humble beginnings, Dan’s mission was to please people with a warm welcome and a good meal at a fair price. And, yes, the corn bread was made from scratch starting that September morning – and still is at every location today. APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

All American Brand Dan grew up when family mealtime was special and he wanted to re-create the Tennessee old country stores from his childhood. He figured that folks traveling on the new highways might appreciate a comfortable place to stop for a good meal and unique gifts. The concept was such a success that, by 1977, Dan and his investors had opened more than a dozen stores from Tennessee to Georgia. In 1981, Cracker Barrel went public, going way beyond the front porch all the way to Wall Street. As the company continued to grow consistently throughout the 1980s and early-1990s, Cracker Barrel reached a $1 billion market value in 1992, and, by 1993, achieved revenue nearly twice that of any other family restaurant chain. By the turn of the century, there were more than 420 locations across the country. In 2010, the groundbreaking Cracker Barrel Cares™ was formed. Cracker Barrel’s loyal employees had always joined together to help co-workers during times of crisis, but these efforts were formalized through an employeefunded non-profit organization that continues to help employees in need. Last year, in their “2016 Consumer Picks” survey, Nation’s Restaurant News named Cracker Barrel the Best Family-Dining Restaurant in America. Today, with 641 locations and counting, Tennessee, Florida, and Texas have the most opportunities for family dining at its finest. But, with locations in 40 other states, it seems like a Cracker Barrel experience is just off yet another exit just down the road. Even Cracker Barrel veterans may not know that the company also owns and operates Holler & Dash™ Biscuit House. Specializing in signature biscuits (like the Chicken Holler, with fried chicken, cheddar cheese, and pickles, topped with mild, hot, or make ‘em holler hot sauce), and with other options on the menu, they currently have four locations in Nashville (Brentwood), Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, and Orlando (Celebration). 26

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▲ First Cracker Barrel Opened 1969

▲ Famous Sunrise Sampler

▲ Pecan Crusted Catfish

The Food Of course, the classic cuisine continues to drive Cracker Barrel traffic – and the occasional waiting area on the front porch. Founded on country cookin’ at a good price, Cracker Barrel continues to deliver on the food front.

▲ Relax on the front porch

▲ Sirloin Steak

▲ Popular Jumbo Checkers Game

For many fans, it all begins with breakfast – and Cracker Barrel accommodates by serving homestyle country breakfasts all day. From fluffy buttermilk pancakes, Grade A farm fresh eggs, hickory-smoked bacon, and so much more, every breakfast is made to order. The taste-tempting “Traditional Favorites” list on the menu has to start with Uncle Herschel’s Favorite™, named for Dan’s real-world uncle and early goodwill ambassador, Herschel McCartney and featuring two cooked-to-order eggs, grits, sawmill gravy, homemade buttermilk biscuits with real butter, fried apples or hash brown casserole, a choice of hickorysmoked country ham, sugar-cured ham, U.S. farm-raised catfish fillet, eight-ounce hamburger steak, grilled pork chop, or fried chicken tenderloin, plus preserves or jam and apple butter, on request. Of course, there are many other breakfast options to be enjoyed morning, noon, and night, including healthy Wholesome Fixin’s® menu choices (600 calories or less), like the fruit and yogurt parfait and apple and cinnamon oatmeal. Starting at 11 a.m. across the country, Cracker Barrel lunch and dinner is served hot and fresh. At this same time, value-priced “Weekday Lunch Specials” are a popular mid-day choice, as are “Daily Dinner Specials,” which are served starting at 4 p.m. Monday to Thursday and at 11 a.m. Friday through Sunday.

▲ Baked Apple Dumpling

Those with a hearty appetite will want to order from the Fancy Fixin’s® list, with generous portions of meat loaf, roast beef, chicken fried chicken, chicken and dumplings, varied seafood, and more accompanied by a choice of three country vegetables and made-from-scratch buttermilk biscuits or corn muffins with real butter. APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

The lighter Wholesome Fixin’s® concept extends from breakfast to lunch and dinner (still 600 calories or less), with possibilities like Southern-style trout, ovenfried chicken breast, and more, served with wholesome and lighter side dishes. Of course, there are also other beloved Cracker Barrel specialties, including hot soups, bowls of pinto beans, cooked with country ham and served

with corn muffins, and beans and greens (cups of their pinto beans and turnip greens, served with onion, relish, and corn muffins). Breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus for kids introduces young ones to country cooking. Everything is washed down with bottomless servings of water, iced tea (sweetened and unsweetened), soda, coffee, and more.

▲ Oven Baked Fried Chicken

▲ Rustic Decor

The Atmosphere & Décor Even veteran visitors may not know that the artifacts hanging from the walls and ceiling at every Cracker Barrel location are unique. Almost every tool, old toy, utensil, sign, advertisement, photograph, and more that decorates the stores is authentic and unlike anything else found in other locations. When founder Dan Evins opened the first Cracker Barrel back in 1969, he turned to Don and Kathleen Singleton, owners of 28

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a local antiques shop, to provide an old country store décor to his new restaurant. The couple enjoyed it so much over the years that they passed the job down to their son, Larry, in 1980. More than 35 years later, Larry is still the Manager of the company’s massive Décor Warehouse in Lebanon. Larry typically oversees a collection of more than 90,000 objects in the Décor Warehouse, where – once Larry personally makes purchases across the country – his team restores and archives each object. As soon as Cracker Barrel breaks ground on a new location, Larry and his

team start planning – including researching the town’s history to identify artifacts that will complement the town and region. After searching the collection, designers begin the layout process on full-size replicas of the restaurant’s interior walls. The finished design is then photographed before the articles are packed and sent along with the photographs to the new store. Each new store is thus an Americana “museum,” typically with 900 to 1,000 or more items. Singleton has purchased more than 600,000 objects for Cracker Barrel since 1980.

▲ Sweet treats

▲ Kimberly Schlapman from Little Big Town

The Shopping

The Music

Just like the food, it’s hard to resist the shopping options at Cracker Barrel. The famed rocking chairs are just the tip of the shop ‘til you drop iceberg.

Country cookin’ and country music (and other genres) go hand-in-hand, so it’s no surprise that music has also become a big part of the overall Cracker Barrel experience. Each store features dozens of varied CDs for sale, including many that are exclusive to Cracker Barrel.

The categories for Cracker Barrel shoppers include: home and furniture; clothing and accessories; nostalgic electronics; music, movies, and books (including popular audiobooks for rent); toys and games; personal care; college fan items; military; collections; beloved foods and candies; sale items; and gift cards. In 2013, the company added to the possibilities by launching Cracker Barrel-licensed products, also made available in supermarkets. The menu of options now includes a variety of bacon, hams, deli meats, baking mixes and more under the CB Old Country Store™ brand. Of course, most items in Cracker Barrel stores are also available online, but nothing can match the in-store experience. The shopping is as unique as the food, atmosphere, and décor.

For instance, last year’s exclusive Dolly Parton release, “Pure & Simple,” included 10 new tracks inspired by Parton’s East Tennessee Roots, two versions of Parton’s chart-topping hits, “Jolene” and “9 to 5,” a 48-page magazine filled with photos and interviews highlighting memorable stories from Parton, and coupons to various Parton attractions (including beloved Dollywood). As part of Parton being Cracker Barrel’s Spotlight Music artist, Parton hosted the first Cracker Barrel Front Porch Series on their YouTube channel, which featured Parton and emerging artists playing music, games, and more.

“My relationship with Cracker Barrel goes back a long way,” says the superstar. “We make a great team.”

Of Parton and her history with Cracker Barrel, the company’s senior marketing manager, Julie Ulmer, says, “With our shared Tennessee roots and authentic Southern styles, Dolly and Cracker Barrel are a natural fit. From limited edition rocking chairs to exclusive and gold-certified albums, we’ve had a long and successful relationship.” Over the years, Cracker Barrel has released albums with a wide variety of artists, some of which have debuted in top spots on a range of Billboard charts. Other Spotlight Music partners include the brand’s first pop albums with a capella group Pentatonix and “Fight Song” singer Rachel Platten, their first R&B album with Anthony Hamilton, as well as recent albums by Dailey & Vincent, Cole Swindell, Black Shelton, and many others. In addition, CDs from a wide range of musicians can be purchased in-store or online, including the work of Reba McEntire, Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, Dierks Bentley, Rodney Atkins, The Willis Clan, and Cyndi Lauper. Thus, from food and shopping in a unique atmosphere to road music to enjoy between Cracker Barrel stops, it’s easy to see why there are typically so many RVs parked outside. APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

by Lynn & Cele Seldon Music fans across the country now have a one-stop shopping resource to easily research and explore the more than 1,500 miles of Tennessee, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas highways and backroads that make up the new Americana Music Triangle. This massive preservation, informational, and premier road trip planning project brings to life nine uniquely American genres of music in the South. With more than 30 communities linked along the “Gold Record Road,” music-minded road warriors can now explore blues, jazz, country, rock and roll, R&B and soul, gospel, Cajun/zydeco, bluegrass and more. From Elvis Presley’s birthplace in Tupelo and his over-the-top Graceland in Memphis to the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center in Indianola, the honkytonks of Broadway in Nashville, and the history of the legendary Muscle Shoals sound at Fame Recording Studios and Muscle Shoals Sound Studios, there’s something for everyone. 30

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AMERICANA MUSIC TRIANGLE FOLLOW THE GOLD RECORD ROAD BETWEEN NEW ORLEANS, MEMPHIS, NASHVILLE, AND BACK!

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â&#x2013;² Jon

Cleary in New Orleans, LA Photo courtesy of Anthony Scarlati Photography

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“WHERE MUSIC MADE HISTORY, AND HISTORY MADE MUSIC” - Americana Music Triangle

he Americana Music Triangle and its laptop- and mobile-friendly website is a culmination of more than three years of work and collaboration by a multi-state team of musicians, historians, tourism officials, and digital media experts. Aubrey Preston, co-owner of Nashville’s historic RCA Studio A and founder of the Americana Music Triangle, says, “As we studied the musical and historical timelines of the South, we noticed gaps in communication between cultural attractions and a lack of coordinated efforts to educate and entertain fans and visitors. In the spirit of southern hospitality, we partnered to create intuitive, easy-to-use preservation [and] travel materials and an online ‘webguide’ to share with fans and visitors from across the country and around the world.” Designed to be completed in about three weeks if pursued in one trip, but easily broken down into smaller outings, the American Music Triangle is divided into five basic segments that basically complete a clockwise loop between New Orleans, Memphis, Nashville, and back. The sections are: New Orleans to Natchez; Vicksburg to Memphis; Memphis to Nashville; Nashville to Muscle Shoals; and Tupelo to New Orleans. Of course, New Orleans and other famed Louisiana lyrical hotspots are great places to start. In the Big Easy, Preservation Hall, just off bustling Bourbon Street, is a great place to begin an exploration of the birthplace of traditional jazz and Crescent City’s live music scene (call or go online for reserved seats and walk-up availability). The nearby Frenchman Street area is another great destination for live music, with Maison providing a perfect introduction to the options day and night. Another nearby option is busy House of Blues, with Sunday’s ears- and stomach-pleasing “Gospel Brunch”

a bucket list event for New Orleans music and food lovers. Jazz and more can also be found near and far at local favorites like Fritzel’s European Jazz Pub, the Jazz Playhouse at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, Musical Legends Park (all on Bourbon Street) and Tipitina’s on Napoleon Avenue. Food seems intertwined with music all along the Americana Music Triangle and that’s apparent from the start in New Orleans. Some great options in and near the French Quarter include fresh seafood at Pêche, classic shucked oysters at either Acme Oyster House or Felix’s, Emeril’s (of Emeril Lagasse fame), or New Orleans classics like Galatoire’s, Antoine’s or Brennan’s. Further afield, Commander’s Palace and La Petite Grocery in the Garden District are well worth the short drive or trolley ride, with Toups Meatery in Mid City providing another tasty excursion for local flavor from Top Chef star Isaac Toups.

▲ Whiskey

River Landing, Henderson, LA Photo courtesy of Anthony Scarlati Photography

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Other music-oriented stops in New Orleans might include: the National Jazz Historical Park within Louis Armstrong Park, honoring jazz great Louis Armstrong and located at the site of historic Congo Square, one of the few places where slaves could gather on Sundays to play music that would eventually evolve into jazz; one-time Cosimo Matassa’s J&M Music Shop, just across the street from the park and a music recording landmark; the jazz collection at Louisiana State Museum on Jackson Square; and lots of festivals and events (the case on the entire drive), including the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

to head for great food, plus live music, as is adjacent and friendly Birdman Coffee and Books. Adjacent to both hotspots, the classic 3V Motor Court is the oldest one in the state. Highway 61 is a 1,400-plus mile road that connects New Orleans with Wyoming, Minnesota, with a lot of it paralleling the mighty Mississippi. Next, it’s on to Mississippi on MS 61 and charming Natchez, right along the Mississippi River. Visitors will first want to head to the chilling Rhythm Night Club Memorial Museum, which honors the victims of the tragic 1940 nightclub fire that took more than 200 lives. Look for the Mississippi Blues Trail marker in town. It’s one of more than 150 fascinating markers across the state that’s great for reading. The historic Under the Hill Saloon, one of the oldest bars along the Mississippi River, is a great place to head for food and music. Across the river, ten miles northwest, the town of Ferriday is well worth the short diversion for the fascinating Delta Music Museum (featuring the town’s three famous cousins, Jerry Lee Lewis, Jimmy Swaggart, and Mickey Gilley), as well as the Lewis Family Museum in the childhood home of Jerry Lee Lewis.

▲ Howlin’

Wolf Museum in West Point, MS Photo courtesy of Anthony Scarlati Photography

Cajun country to the southeast of New Orleans is next, with live Cajun, Zydeco, and more found at The Jolly Inn in Houma. To the north, Thibodaux’s Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center hosts a popular live Cajun music jam on Monday nights that’s well worth the diversion. The drive then heads northwest to Lafayette, which is known as “The Heart of Acadiana” and is filled with Cajun and Creole culture. Highlights here might include: live music and local cuisine at many possibilities, including famed Prejean’s, Randol’s, El Sid O’s, the Blue Moon Saloon, and more; beloved smoked meats at Johnson’s Boucaniere; Vermilionville Historic Village, a recreated Acadian village with weekly Cajun jam sessions; and Martin’s Handmade Accordions in nearby Scott. After passing through Baton Rouge (with a possible stop at the Buddy Stewart Music Foundation antique record museum or Teddy’s Juke Joint), quaint St. Francisville on LA 61 is well worth a stop. Magnolia Café is the place

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Heading north, MS 61 continues on to Vicksburg for the start of the “Vicksburg to Memphis” second section of the drive. Known more for Civil War history in many ways, Vicksburg also has lots of music connections. Possibilities include colorful Catfish Row Art Park and the floodwall murals on Levee Street (look for the mural of Willie Dixon playing at the legendary Blue Room) and soul food and music at friendly LD’s Kitchen. Leland is next, with the sleek Highway 61 Blues Museum featuring the blues history of the area (an incredible 150-plus well-known blues musicians come from within a 100-mile radius of tiny Leland) and larger-than-life murals celebrating their blues heritage. The Americana Music Triangle often features “diversions” from the main route and there are two out of Leland that are highly recommended. Taking MS 82 east for about 15 miles, Indianola is a must-see for fans of the late and great B.B. King and the blues in general. The first stop should be the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretative Center, which explores the life and music of King and much more. Those in search of live blues will want to check out the schedule at historic Club Ebony, 308 Blues Club, and The Blue Biscuit.

King Biscuit Blues Festival in Helena, AR ▲ Photo courtesy of Anthony Scarlati Photography

▲ Elvis

Presley Statue in Tupelo, MS Photo courtesy of Anthony Scarlati Photography

The Little Ryman in Tuscumbla, AL ▲ Photo courtesy of Anthony Scarlati Photography

▲ Reggie

Young in Memphis, TN Photo courtesy of Anthony Scarlati Photography

Fame Recording Studios in Muscle Shoals, AL ▲ Photo courtesy of Anthony Scarlati Photography

▲ Neshoba

County Fair in Philadelphia, MS Photo courtesy of Anthony Scarlati Photography

Greenwood is 45 miles further east and well worth the short drive, thanks to opportunities to explore the Robert Johnson grave mystery (the blues legend has three possible grave sites), a Mississippi Country Music Trail marker for Bobbie Gentry’s hit song, “Ode to Billie Joe,” and locations from the hit novel and film, “The Help.” Those looking to improve their campground cooking skills should enroll in one or more classes at the excellent Viking School, where there’s also a fun retail store. As can be expected for the home of Viking Range, Greenwood’s dining scene is world-class – including tasty options like The Crystal Grill, Delta Bistropub, and Giardina’s. Back on MS 61 out of Leland, Cleveland is the next stop. Two highlights in Cleveland proper are found at Delta State University. The new state-of-the-art Grammy Museum Mississippi is the only official Grammy museum outside of Los Angeles and it does a great job spotlighting the musicians, 36

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songwriters, and producer of the Delta through their Grammy awards and more. Just a block away in Delta State’s Ewing Hall, “A Cast of Blues” is a sculptural exhibit by blind sculptor Sharon McConnell of more than 50 life masks of blues performers cast directly from their faces, including Bobby Blue Bland, David “Honeyboy” Edwards, and Bo Diddley. On the way back to MS61, be sure to stop by Dockery Plantation (or call ahead for a tour), the birthplace of the Blues. Clarksdale is next and it’s well worth a multi-day stay. The Delta Blues Museum is a great place to start, with lots of exhibits highlighting blues music in the area. There’s also the interesting Rock & Blues Museum. For live music, it’s hard to beat iconic music and food at Ground Zero Blues Club, co-owned by actor Morgan Freeman and current Clarksdale mayor Bill Luckett, Jr., as well as Red’s Blues Club, one of Mississippi’s handful of remaining classic juke joints.

For all things music and art, check out Cathead and Hambone Art and Music. The road north on MS 61 to Tunica and, ultimately, Memphis, features a diversion over to Helena, AR. Here, the Delta Cultural Center has a great “Delta Sounds” exhibit and also plays host to the longestrunning daily blues show in the country. “King Biscuit Time” has been on the air since 1941 and Sonny Paine has been the host since the early-1950s. Bubba’s Blues Corner is a great independent record store nearby. Back on the road and just south of Tunica proper on old MS 61, look for little Hollywood Café. Claimed as “the birthplace of the fried pickle,” it was featured in Marc Cohn’s hit, “Walkin’ in Memphis,” and still hosts live music. Known for its casino resorts, Tunica is also well worth a stop thanks to the Gateway to the Blues Museum, which features lots of exhibits, instruments, colorful paintings, movies and more.

All photos courtesy of Anthony Scarlati Photography

Memphis means more music in its many forms. Of course, there’s the legendary live music of Beale Street. But the laundry list of other lyrical options must include: the birthplace of Rock ‘n Roll at Sun Studio; Stax Museum of American Soul Music (on the original site of iconic Stax Records); the Gibson Guitar Factory Tour and Retail Shop; the Rock N Soul Museum; and, of course, Elvis Presley’s Graceland. Although not completely related to music, the National Civil Rights Museum chillingly portrays the period when so much of the music of this area was being created and is a Memphis can’t-miss.

Michael Hudman’s Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen or Hog and Hominy.

Of course, the Memphis food scene rivals the live music scene, with classic stops including Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous for dry-rubbed ribs, Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, and one of three Central BBQ hotspots. Or step it up a notch at Food & Wine “Best New Chef” Kelly English’s Restaurant Iris or James Beard-nominees Andy Ticer and

Next, Jackson’s International Rockabilly Hall of Fame and Museum recognizes pioneers of the genre, including Jackson native Carl Perkins, who wrote “Blue Suede Shoes.” Nearby, Historic Brooks Shaw’s Old Country Store Restaurant is a great place to stop for lunch or an old-time soda.

The third section of the Americana Music Triangle is the 225-mile drive northeast to Nashville (“from Beale Street to Broadway”) and doesn’t feature many stops, but several are well worth the short diversions. Brownsville is the first good bet, including the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center and its Tina Turner Museum at Flagg Grove School, as well delectable barbecue sandwiches, ribs, and more at Helen’s Bar B Q (Helen Turner is one of very few female pitmasters in the nation).

Nashville is known as “Music City” for good reason, thanks to lots of lyrical history, musicoriented museums, and a live music scene that’s likely unrivaled in the world. Lower Broadway from Fifth Avenue to the Cumberland River and the entire Lower Broad Entertainment District seems to have live music almost 24/7, ranging from longtime honky tonks like Robert’s Western World, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, and The Stage on Broadway to the Ryman Auditorium, Nudie’s Honky Tonk, and much more. Other stops for music lovers have to include: the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and the Music City Walk of Fame in the Walk of Fame Park across the street; the Grand Ole Opry; the Johnny Cash Museum; the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and Gallery; historic RCA Studio B out on Music Row; United Record Pressing; and so much more, including the recently new Patsy Cline Museum. APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

All photos courtesy of Anthony Scarlati Photography On the events front, it seems there’s something happening every day or weekend, including the appropriate AmericanaFest in September. On the food front, the menus in Nashville are just as interesting to read as the sheet music of hit songs. For a taste of the south, it’s hard to beat Husk, located in an historic house near downtown proper. For something unique to Nashville and beyond, check out the “meat and three” and more at Chauhan Ale & Masala House, star chef and “Chopped” judge Maneek Chauhan’s southern take on Indian fare. And, for an afterhonky tonk drink, wind down at Carter’s in the stunningly renovated Union Station Hotel. Heading south on the forth section of the Triangle, the revitalized Tennessee town of Franklin is just 20 miles south of Nashville, but it’s a world away in many ways. On the way, on I-65 south, look for the diamondshaped WSM radio tower. This 1932 tower was originally used to broadcast the Grand Ole Opry, bringing the sounds and stars of the Americana Music Triangle to more than 35 states and Canada. In quaint Franklin proper, more music awaits. Check out the schedule of live music at the 38

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

impeccably restored Franklin Theatre. And there’s alwayshopping Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant, where live music and food make for a popular Franklin duet, with other options including Gray’s on Main, Kimbro’s, and Bunganut Pig. Music lovers of vinyl discs and much more will also want to head to Carpe Diem. “Sweet Home Alabama” is next and the Muscle Shoals area, best reached via the bucolic Natchez Trace Parkway, is likely to be a favorite stop for anyone driving the Americana Music Triangle. While on the Parkway, be sure to stop at the Wayne County Visitor Center in Collinwood, just north of the Tennessee-Alabama state line. They can give directions to “Tom’s Wall,” which is the largest known unmortared stone wall in the nation and the largest monument to a Native American woman. Muscle Shoals was – and still is – at the epicenter of music recording history. Two iconic recording studios offer tours. First, head to Fame Studios, which launched the famed Muscle Shoals sound back in 1959, cranking out hits from Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, Percy Sledge, and many others, with most artists using the studio’s house band, the “Swampers.”

Nearby, Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in the town of Sheffield was recently restored and opened for tours, highlighting their history of hits with the Rolling Stones, Rod Stewart, Paul Simon, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and many others. It was founded in 1969 by the original Swampers, who are immortalized in the Lynyrd Skynyrd song, “Sweet Home Alabama”. Other stops in the Muscle Shoals area should definitely include the Alabama Music Hall of Fame in Tuscumbia, which highlights the achievements of an incredible number of Alabama natives and those with deep connections with the state’s famed genre-crossed music scene; the “father of the blues” W.C. Handy Home, Museum and Library; and the musicsoaked scene at appropriatelynamed Swampers Bar and Grille in Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa, including hundreds of historic photos and other memorabilia, plus frequent live music. Natchez Trace Parkway next leads back into Mississippi and Tupelo for the start of the fifth and final section of the Americana Music Triangle. Of course, Tupelo is best known for the Elvis Presley Birthplace, which includes the cottage where he was born, the

FOLLOW THE GOLD RECORD ROAD FOLLOW THEAMERICANA GOLD RECORD ROAD THROUGH THE MUSIC TRIANGLE

THROUGH THENUMBER AMERICANA MUSIC TRIANGLE THE WORLD’S ONE MUSIC DESTINATION THE WORLD’S NUMBER ONE MUSIC DESTINATION

transplanted church he attended as a child, and much more. Along with the Birthplace, the AmericanaMusicTriangle.com

“Elvis Presley Self-Guided Driving facebook.com/AmericanaMusicTriangle

AmericanaMusicTriangle.com Tour” includes downtown’s @AMTriangle

facebook.com/AmericanaMusicTriangle Tupelo Hardware, which was @AMTriangle where Elvis got his first guitar –

and they still sell everything from musical instruments to nuts and bolts today. After becoming a worldwide sensation, Elvis returned to Tupelo for a homecoming concert, which is memorialized with a statue at the site of the one-time fairgrounds where he performed. Back on the Natchez Trace Parkway, the drive to Jackson could include a stop in at the Sparta Opry, which is about an hour southwest of Tupelo and features varied live music most Friday evenings. Jackson has a

long lyrical history, including Malaco Records, the world’s premier gospel label and also known as the “Last Soul Company.” Known for its blues-y vibe, live music is frequently found at Iron Horse Grill, Hal and Mal’s, and elsewhere. About two hours further down the Parkway, Natchez is next for those who didn’t stop on their way north. From there, the Americana Music Trail leads back through Baton Rouge and the end of one of the world’s most musical drives.

Plan your trip with AmericanaMusicTriangle.com. It showcases hundreds of attractions and events along the triangle-shaped “Gold Record Road” linking New Orleans, Memphis, Nashville, and back to New Orleans.

▲ Beale

St in Memphis, TN

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

TrailMix This spring, challenge yourself to seeing the great outdoors on two-wheels while riding on the Rails to Trails Sojourn, June 18-23 with host, Wilderness Voyageurs.

â&#x2013;˛ Rails

to Trails Conservancy 2016 Photo courtesy of Mark Abbott 40

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Rails -to- Trails Conservancyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2017 Pennsylvania Sojourn

by Annie Berman

This six-day bike tour takes riders along the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) and the Montour Trail in Pennsylvania. The GAP, which stretches 150 miles from Pittsburgh, PA to Cumberland, MD, is made up of two former railroad corridors, hence, it is called a rail-trail. The GAP has a long history of being utilized as a railroad that brought supplies from Pennsylvania, through Maryland, and to Washington D.C. Today, the Great Allegheny Passage is one of the premier destinations for bicyclists. The Montour Trail is a popular, multi-use recreational trail near Pittsburgh. Adventurers from all over come to ride on the trails crushed limestone surface, which is the most comfortable surface for bikers. Tree canopies shade riders on the hottest of summer days.

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Sojourn starts with all riders gathering in Pittsburgh and then hopping on a motorcoach to the Deal Trailhead, the beginning of the sojourn! In the first two days of the sojourn, riders are given two choices to experience the GAP and the Montour Trail and encouraged to take a couple of different adventures on the first two days and more activities as a group on the following leg of the trip. Also on this journey, see incredibly designed buildings by Frank Lloyd Wright, take a sidetrip to whitewater raft on the Youghiogheny River, and rack up those miles on two of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest bike trails. Wilderness Voyageurs is based in Ohiopyle, PA, about 170 miles from Thousand Trails Gettysburg campground in Dover, PA. The Rails-To-Trails Conservancy converts unused railroad tracks into scenic trails with the goal of encouraging people to live healthier lifestyles and travel to historical and beautiful places. 42

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

All photos courtesy of Rails to Trail Conservancy There are several bike tours of the Rails-To-Trails pathways, so be sure to check out their website for more details on past and upcoming tours at www.railstotrails.org. Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make it on the sojourn in June? Ohiopyle State Park is popular in the summer months for fishing and hiking and the Youghiogheny River Lake is a popular location for whitewater rafting and power boating in the summertime.

paws ROAD

Email Jenn your questions and share your pics at TBPets@equitylifestyle.com

ON THE

Traveling and Camping with Companion Animals

Hello, Jenn! My family and I are looking forward to our summer excursions in the California Thousand Trails system. We are coming from Northern New Mexico and this will be our first time visiting the west coast for any length of time. We have two King Charles Cavalier Spaniel's, both of which love the water. We will shave them for this journey, as I am worried about ticks. I am not accustomed to encountering the little creatures in our area of rural Chama & Farmington and will be using topical treatment rx from the vet. Anything you can suggest for us to be on the lookout for would be appreciated. What about Lyme disease? Rancho Oso is our first stop and we hear the hiking trails there are wonderful. Happy Trails, Laura & Tim JENN Thank you for sharing your summer plans with us and I'm sure your adventures West will be extremely memorable for the entire family. It's wise that you are thinking ahead and planning for possible critter encounters as they are bound to happen. There are 850 species of ticks in the world- 49 are in California! The most common is the Black Legging Tick, Lxodes Pacificus. These bloodsucking creatures feed on vertebrates by piercing the skin with their special mouthparts. They have upturned hooks specially designed to keep locked in to their chosen host’s skin. Thanks, Mother Nature…! Ticks

by Jenn Gehr

will be found in all areas of natural vegetation and are especially active in California in the spring and the summer. In general, ticks feed on rabbits, mice, birds and mountain lions but they will absolutely feet on humans, dogs and horses as well. Lyme disease is a bacterium that causes flulike symptoms, including muscle soreness, neck stiffness, headache, slight fever and tiredness. Early symptoms include expanding rash near the tick bite that can occur seven days to one month after the initial bite. In CA, the hosts for the Lyme disease are primarily wood rats. Ticks transfer the bacteria from infected wood rats to other wood rats or animals – or humans and our dogs! About 1-6% of the Western Black Legged Ticks carry Lyme disease. I'm glad that you have taken precautions to use a waterproof topical treatment on your pets. Tick check yourself and your clothing to help ward off these little buggers, too. Stay on the designated trails as much as possible. Ticks like to move out to the farthest tips of plants and shrubbery so they can grab a hold of us with their little legs and hook on. Throughout your walk, look around at your extremities and your pets body for ticks that might have jumped onboarddiscovering their presence and removing them promptly before they have attached. Tip: I strap a little fanny pack around my waist & carry slanted tweezers, antibacterial wipes or gel, Neosporin and Benadryl tablets with me everywhere I go!! After your hike, make sure you remove all of your clothing and check for ticksespecially in warm, moist areas like armpits and the scalp. Before I bring the dogs in the RV, I set them up on the picnic table and go over them carefully, sometimes using a flashlight. Of course, the shorter your pet’s hair

is, the easier identification will become. Learning how to properly remove a tick is a simple yet critical skill. Remove the tick with tweezers by grabbing the mouth part as close to the skin as possible and gently pulling it straight out. Do not break off the head. There is no other way to remove a tick. Do not try to burn it out with a match or drowned it with a soap like solution – it won't work! If you are unable to remove a part of the tick, seek medical/veterinary guidance. Ideally, if you pull the ticket out, place it's body in a small Ziploc bag and write on the bag the location and the date you collected the tick. If a adverse reaction were to occur in the next several weeks, hoping to identify line disease is ideal if you have the host species. By using slow and steady tension with tweezers at the base of the skin where the tick is attached, pull straight up on the tick with a steady tension, not a jerk that could dismember the tick. This method should remove the tick safely from your skin or your pet. Clean the area, apply antibacterial appointment and keep an eye on it for several days. Keep your dogs on a leash as off leashed pets disturb wildlife and often wonder into infested tick/rattlesnake territory. If my pets have taught me anything, it’s to pay attention to them. If I see them scratching, I immediately hunt out why/what they are itching. In doing so, I have found ticks and what not’s that I had overlooked in my initial inspection. Jenn, Months ago you wrote about the many benefits of salmon oil and indeed, my vet agreed. Please share again the name of the one you use so I can order it up. Thanks, Shell JENN I’m happy to help! Alaska Naturals Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil is my go-to, daily add in. Start slowly to avoid a loose stool and feed with a meal once a day. www.AlaskaNaturalsPet.com APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Who’s in the kitchen with

TrailBlazer?

This month the focus is on a common allergen, dairy! Dairy allergies and sensitivities are often overlooked in our culture due to the amount of cheese and milk hidden in almost everything! It’s certainly not bad for us, as long as we are consuming the right kind and in smaller quantities than we are typically served. When opting for dairy, always try to choose the unhomogenized, whole milk variety. This can be hard to find so regular whole milk will do if your grocery store doesn’t carry the unhomogenized version. Some states allow the sale of raw milk, cheese, and yogurt which is both unpasteurized and unhomogenized. This type of dairy can be healing to the digestive tract due to the rich nutritional content and probiotics. Many individuals who are sensitive to dairy find they can tolerate this form. Recreating dairy filled favorites are one of my top tricks to stay on track when incorporating a healthy lifestyle. This way you’ll never feel like you’re missing out! I can’t go without mentioning this month’s mac & cheese recipe which doesn’t have an ounce of cheese in it, yet tastes like a dream and is packed with vegetables! For more recipes, nutrition information, and healthy lifestyle tips connect with me over at:

Prep time: 10 min Cook time: 4-8 hours Serves 4-6 Enjoy immediately or store in fridge for later!

Ingredients • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk • 3 tbsp. chia seeds

3. Once the mixture has become thick like a pudding remove

• ¼ tsp. of vanilla extract

4. In a small jar, layer the pudding, 1 tbsp. of peanut butter and ¼ cup strawberries, & repeat until desired layering of parfait is reached.

• 8 tbsp. unsalted peanut butter • 2 cups of strawberries, diced

Dairy Free Pesto Sauce Prep time: 15 min Cook time: 15 min Makes about 1¼ Cup

Ingredients • 1½ cup of pine nuts

Refreshed Nutrition

• ¼ tsp. of salt

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

1. In a large bowl with a lid, mix the coconut milk, almond milk, chia seeds and vanilla extract until well combined.

• 14oz can of coconut milk

info@refreshednutrition.com @Refreshed_Nutrition

Directions

2. Place in the refrigerator for 4-8 hours to allow the chia seeds to expand.

• ⅓ cup + 2 tbsp. of olive oil (add a little more if you like a smoother sauce) • 2 cloves of minced garlic

www.refreshednutrition.com

PB & J Chia Pudding Parfait

• ¼ tsp. of pepper • 1½ cup of stemless basil leaves

Directions 1. Place pine nuts in a food processor and puree until they become much smaller chunks, similar to a meal. 2. Add remaining ingredients and puree until desired consistency.

Vegetable 'Mac & Cheese' Ingredients • ²/³ cup coconut cream

• ½ cup + 1 tbsp. nutritional yeast • ½ tsp. salt & ½ tsp. pepper • ¼ tsp. ground mustard • ¼ tsp. paprika • 1 tsp. garlic powder • 1 cup diced onions • 1 cup diced red pepper • 1 cup diced zucchini • 1 cup shredded carrots • 2 15oz bags of frozen cauliflower rice • 2 pieces of gluten free bread • 2 tbsp. butter or coconut oil

Directions Prep time: 15-20 min Cook time: 20 min Serves 6-8

1. Preheat oven to 375°. 2. In a large ungreased pan place cauliflower on medium heat to defrost.

3. While the cauliflower is heating dice up the remaining vegetables and set them aside in a bowl. 4. Once the cauliflower has fully defrosted (about 5-10 min.) add in the remaining vegetables and the spices. Cook for another 10 min. 5. While the vegetables are cooking toast two pieces of gluten free bread. Once toasted place in a food processor and grind into fine bread crumbs. 6. Remove the breadcrumbs and place in a small pan on medium heat with butter or coconut oil. 7. While the breadcrumbs are combining, add the coconut cream to the vegetable mixture and stir until well combined. Then add the nutritional yeast, stirring until dissolved and well combined. 8. Place the vegetables in a small casserole dish and evenly top with the bread crumbs. 9. Bake for 20 minutes, let cool and enjoy!

Pesto Chicken Wings Prep time: 15 min Cook time: 45 min Serves 6

Ingredients • 3 lbs. chicken wings • 1 cup dairy free pesto • salt & pepper to taste • lemon wedges (optional)

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 450°. 2. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a cooling rack on top. Spread the chicken wings on top of the cooling rack and sprinkle with salt and pepper, bake for 20 min. 3. While the chicken is baking make the dairy free pesto. 4. Remove the chicken from the cooling rack and place in a large mixing bowl, cover with dairy free pesto, mixing until all wings are well coated. 5. Remove chicken wings from the bowl and place them back on the cooling rack. Place in the oven and cook for another 25 minutes. 6. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon wedges if desired! APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

ASK

RVBILL

YOUR TECH QUESTIONS ANSWERED!

Windshield Reflection

Bill: I wrote you about an issue some time ago and you were very helpful. I’m wondering if you have an advice on how to mitigate glare on the instrument panel. We have a 2012 Fleetwood Bounder, which we like and are very, satisfied with. However, the dash is such that it is almost impossible to see any info, including the backup camera and “radio” dials when the sun is out. The direction does not seem to matter. Any ideas? Terry

Hi Terry, it's great to hear from you and good to see that you are enjoying your motorhome. It sounds like the sunlight coming through the windshield reflects on the dash because of the angle of the face of the dash. Is the glare worse when the sun shines directly through the windshield? More than likely you'll have to do a bit of experimentation to find a solution. I would try setting either a piece of carpet or cardboard on the dash overhanging the instrument panel blocking the glare and see if that works, you might try window tinting on the side windows and a cross the top of the windshield. That includes a back up camera. I've seen back up cameras that were mounted on the dash and had a visor over them to cut the glare. Thanks for the write in. 46

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Motorcycle Trailer

Bill, I was great seeing you at the Sunriver Thousand Trails. We are purchasing a used 2005 32-foot Carriage Cameo fifth wheel and I understand that the frame of the trailer is built very well. My question is could we put a lift on the back of the trailer for our Harley motorcycle? I believe that our motorcycle weighs in at about 800 or 900 pounds loaded plus the lift. Don and Gayle

Hello, Friends! I'm afraid that you won't be able to put the motorcycle on the back of your trailer, simply for the fact that the added weight will offset the kingpin weight and make the fifth wheel handle poorly. Fifth wheels need between 18 and 25% of their gross weight to be on the king pin for proper handling. That particular trailer should be around 2200 pounds of Pin weight, if you put the leverage of 800 or 900 pounds on the rear of the trailer if you can imagine what it would do reducing that 2200 pounds. By the time you paid for a custom-made hitch and a hydraulic lifting motorcycle rack for the back you may be able to purchase an “Idaho Tote”. This is a type of trailer that bolts permanently to the back of the fifth wheel frame, solving the problem of towing doubles and it has a swivel wheel so that the fifth wheel can be backed up without jackknifing.

Surge Protectors

Bill, What is your opinion on surge protectors? Which manufacturer makes the most reliable unit? I've heard many horror stories about lightning or voltage problems in RV Parks and would like to avoid such problems. Cheers, John

Water Heater

I have an Atwood model G6A2 water heater in my 1994 pace arrow motorhome. During our last outing the water heater would not function on propane. I looked at the burner area see if there were any pieces of debris or something preventing the ignition cycle without luck. I can hear a loud ticking noise when the switch is turned on but I don't get in the ignition. Could it be the sparker thing? Jeff

Jeff, Direct spark ignition water heaters are convenient but can be problematic. The problem could be in the circuit board, thermostat and ECO (emergency cut off) switch, a simple adjustment of spark probably assembly, a ground, the gas valve, or simply gas pressure.

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

John, There are a lot of pros and cons about surge protectors, whether you purchase a unit that hard wires into your system or simply plugs into the pedestal. If you purchase a unit that plugs into the pedestal, you can eliminate it if there is a problem related to voltage or wiring. Built-in surge protectors can cease to function if it detects faulty

wiring at the pedestal leaving you without power. This type of surge protector can be very noisy, say, in the middle of the night if there's a problem with the power going on and off it will surely wake you up with a loud clacking noise. If you do decide to have a built-in unit, get the model with the remote read out if available. You can use this to diagnose what is wrong with the voltage or configuration of the

wiring. I think for the most part now days RV parks are pretty consistent with their AC systems. Lightning is a whole different story. If you do not have a surge protector, unplug your RV and run on your batteries until the lightning storm subsides. I suggest Progressive Industries as they are tried and true along with the best warranty in the business.

A quick way to tell if gas pressure is the problem, light three of the burners on your stove and turn the water heater on. Watch the flames, As soon as you hear ignition, see if the flames reduce significantly in the size which will mean the gas pressure is dropping too low for the water heater to ignite. Replace the LP regulator. If the burner flame does not diminish in size then you will need to check the other items that I had mentioned. You may want to have a technician diagnose it at this point, as it can be dangerous when you're working with a gas appliance. If it does prove to be the circuit board, replace with a board from Dinosaur Electronics. The Dinosaur Boards are the best circuit boards that I have ever used with a failure rate of less than 1%.

Mice

rodents can squeeze through holes that are much smaller than they are. Science shows if they can fit their head through a space, the rest of the body will fit, too. Try soaking peppermint oil onto cotton balls and place in paper cups around the RV. Mice hate the smell of the strong oil peppermint and if they get a whiff of it before they even enter the RV they'll change their mind for a return visit. Distribute the cups of peppermint cotton balls in storage compartments from front to back of your RV in locations that the smell wont permeate the inside of your RV, not that the peppermint is so bad, but it might irritate your pets sensitive noses. You could even leave cups of the peppermint oil around the tires, power cord and water hose where they are most likely to climb up into your domicile.

Bill, We love camping in rural areas such as state parks and national forest campgrounds. The problem that we are running into is that mice seem to think that our motorhome makes a great home. I don't want to poison them and have them die in the coach emitting a bad smell for a week or two. Trapping seems to work, but would like to prevent them from entering our rig altogether. I've plugged up every hole that I can find on the outside to no avail. Dean

Hi, Dean. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not sure which is worse, a dead mouse that smells or the urine and filth that they leave behind especially if long term occupancy is established. It's always amazed me how

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals

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Member Deals ▲ ViewPoint RV & Golf Resort (AZ)

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& Marina

(FL)

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals â&#x2013;˛ Forest Lake Village RV Resort (FL)

Florida

50% OFF Weekly Stay

at Forest Lake Village Promo Code: TT50FLV Valid 4/1/17 - 10/1/17. 7 day min stay and 14 day max stay. Book by 9/1/17.

20% OFF Monthly Stay

at Forest Lake Village Promo Code: TT20FLV

ge RV Resort (FL)

â&#x2013;˛ Forest Lake Villa

RVontheGo.com 1-888-443-7301

Call! Click! Camp!

Valid 4/1/17 - 10/1/17. 31 day max stay. Book by 9/1/17. *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 $4 per day resort fee. Electric not included for stays of 30 days or longer. Rates do not include taxes. Amenities vary by resort. Cannot be combined with any other 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. Valid on new reservations only.

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals ▲ Mt. Hood Village RV Resort (OR)

Washington & Oregon

$29/night at Mt. Hood, Portland Fairview, ▲ Portlan

d Fairview

RV Camp

ground (O

and Tall Chief

Promo Code: TT29WO Valid 4/1/17 - 4/30/17.

$159/week at Mt. Hood, Portland Fairview, and Tall Chief mping f RV & Ca

ie ▲ Tall Ch

A) Resort (W

Promo Code: TT159WO Valid 4/1/17 - 4/30/17. *Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

See if a Membership Upgrade is Right for You!

MAXIMIZE

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

Call today 888-842-8617 or visit thousandtrails.com/member-upgrade » For more information, see a membership specialist on your next visit!

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Get More Locations Plan Further Ahead Explore New Accommodations Travel Club

Upgrade Now for as low as $134.05 / Month* Which Camping Pass Upgrade is right for you? Camping Pass

Elite Basic

Elite Connections

Booking Window

60 Days

120 Days

180 Days

Maximum Stay

14 Days

21 Days

Thousand Trails

Access to Campgrounds in your zone(s)

Encore Access Park to Park Family Access Reciprocal Network Getaway Cabins Travel Club

*Monthly payment plans available. Up to 60 months to pay. 16.99% APR. 60 payments of $134.05 assuming you purchase the Elite Basic for $5,995 and make the minimum down payment. Sales tax and any applicable fees due at time of purchase. This advertising is being used for the purpose of soliciting sales of resort campground memberships. This document has been filed with the Department of Licensing, State of Washington, as required by Washington law. Value, quality, or conditions stated, and performance on promises are the responsibility of the operator, not the Department. The filing does not mean that the Department has approved the merits or qualifications of any registration, advertising, or any gift, prize or item of value as part of any promotional plan.

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Answers can be found on page 65.

ACROSS 1 Carriage 4 Stuff 8 Ten (pref.) 11 Poultry disease 13 Negative 14 Pub fare 15 International (abbr.) 16 Harem 18 Cot 20 Exit 21 Fish whisker 24 Papal court 25 Hole-in-one 26 Abet 28 Snake 32 Daughter of Laban 34 Belonging to (suf.) 36 Antelope 37 Author 39 Sheep's cry 41 Cost, insurance and freight (abbr.) 42 Month abbr. 60

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

44 46 49 50 53 56 57 58 59 60 61

Goal Legal recovery of goods Science class Carp (2 words) Contest Afr. eye-worm Boss on a shield Comfort Social Security Number (abbr.) Sediment Cess

DOWN 1 Hindu title 2 Wear 3 Riot 4 Central nervous system (abbr.) 5 Eggs 6 After (Fr.) 7 Scant 8 Dingle 9 Ancient Gr. city 10 Cyclades island

12 17 19 21 22 23 27 29 30 31 33 35 38 40 43 45 46 47 48 51 52 54 55

Common man Famous Goddess (Lat.) Unction Scientific name (suf.) Tall tale Drop Tug New York canal Float Villain Capture Mournful Mulberry of India Muck Kemo _____ Tablespoon (abbr.) Ger. landscape painter Son of Judah Compass direction Laughter sounds Television channel Cowboy's nickname

Terms and Conditions for 2017 Referral Promotion from page 2.

Answers can be found on page 65.

Activities and

Events – Local

END LOCALCAL events AR

Find The Evergreen Tree

▲

Bavarian IceFest in Leavenw Photo courtesy orth, WA of Icicle TV

PIO PICO (CA)

Jan 26-29

Farmers Insuranc e Open 2017 The annual PGA Insurance Open Tour Farmers men’s golf tournament is played at the Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, of the 2008 home U.S. Open. Be sure to check the website for detailed information about special events and tickets. farmersinsuranceop en.com Jan 21-22 & Feb 11-12 Free Weekend at Borrego State Park

Month of Februar y Museum Month

Presented by Macy’s, this popular event allows participants to enjoy half-off entry fees Museum Council at 40+ San Diego museums. The membership savings encourag locals and visitors es to explore a variety of arts, culture and scienceoriented destinatio ns. From Oceanside Museum of Art down to the Tijuana Estuary, there are ample opportun edutainment, ities for creating memorie and fun for the whole family. s sandiego.org

To kick off its golden anniversa Anza-Borrego ry, Foundation will “BPC for Free” – six weekend offer WHALER’S free access REST (OR) for new visitors s of Park’s most to Jan 28 popular hiking the Borrego Palm trail. Hearts for Canyon (BPC) Horses family-friendly, is The annual three-mile hike a “Hearts for known for its Horses” benefit auctions oversized palm grove and bighorn tree food, live music, will feature great sheep sightings, culminating and auctions. is the Oregon in a palm oasis Coast Aquarium This waterfall. and largest fundraise ’s r that supports theabf.org/bpc-free “tuition assistance the ” program for persons who would benefit equine assisted from activities and therapy programs . brighthorizonsriding JANUARY/ .org FEBRUARY 2017 TRAILBLAZ

TB_Jan_Feb_2

016_V11.indd

All events,

Feb 23-26

Newport Seafood & Wine Festival Taste award-wi nning wines, winemakers, meet and up-and-coming see who is The Newport in the wine world. hosts the longest continuous wine competiti Northwest for on in the the last seafoodandwine.com 40 years.

BAY LANDIN Feb 25 Clint Black

G (TX)

Country music superstar, Clint Black, plays Billy Bob’s of Texas in Fort Worth. billybobstexas.com

PEACE RIVER

(FL)

Jan 20-29 Cat On a Hot Tin Roof Tennessee Williams’ American masterpie gothic ce about two brothers vying father’s inheritan for their dying ce. Produced by special arrangem ent with Dramatists Play Service. highlandslittletheat re.org times and dates

are subject

to change.

12/12/16 4:10 PM

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 Visa® Prepaid Gift Card!

Rick & Rita Stafford of Kings Mountain, NC

found the tree on Page 12 of the January/February Issue.

Did you find the tree in this issue? Send your entry (postcards only) to: TrailBlazer Evergreen Tree

Two North Riverside Plaza Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. Postmark deadline is April 30, 2017 and remember –the tree could be a different color and size.

For each Eligible Referral (as defined) through April 30, 2017, you will receive a $50 Visa® Prepaid Card. In addition, for each Eligible Referral through December 31, 2017, you will receive one entry in a drawing for the following prizes: (i) Grand Prize is either a trip to Hawaii or a 7 night Caribbean Cruise, valued at $4,000, that includes roundtrip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Hawaii or Florida, and one hotel/ cruise room for 7 nights; (ii) Second Prize is a trip to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando, valued at $2,000, that includes roundtrip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando and one hotel room for 4 nights and (iii) ten (10) Third Prizes waiving payment of the winners’ annual dues for 2018, not to exceed $545 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, 2018. The winners will be notified by telephone. The odds of winning a prize depend on the number of entries and are not expected to exceed 1:10,000. For this promotion, an Eligible Referral is a person who (i) purchases a new Zone Camping Pass from us between January 1, 2017 and December 31, 2017 and (ii) lists you as the referring member. This offer is only for members in good standing of Thousand Trails and its affiliates. Due to legal restrictions, (a) residents of AZ, FL, NV, and PA are not eligible to participate in the drawing and you will not receive an entry in the drawing for purchases made by residents of AZ, FL, NV, or PA, and (b) residents of AZ and PA are not eligible to receive a $50 Visa® Prepaid Card and you will not receive a $50 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.

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

PREFERRED RV DEALERS

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

USA A&L RV Sales TN - Christiana, Johnson City, Sevierville www.alrvsales.com A Great Outdoor RV Center TX - Canton • www.agorv.com Affinity RV AZ - Dewey, Prescott, Prescott Valley www.affinityrv.com All Valley RV Center CA - Acton • www.allvalleyrvcenter.com Al’s Trailer Sales OR - Salem • www.alstrailers.com Alpin Haus NY - Amsterdam, Port Jervis, Saratoga www.alpinhaus.com American Family RV VA - Chesapeake www.americanfamilyrv.com Appleton Camping Center WI - Appleton • www.appletoncamping.com B&B RV CA - Anderson • www.bbrv.me 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 Boat-N-RV NY - West Coxsackie; SC - Ridgeland PA - Hamburg • www.boatnrv.com Braun’s Fun Time Campers IN - Indianapolis www.funtimecampers.com Browns RV SC - McBee www.brownsrvsuperstore.com 62

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Burlington RV Superstore WI - Sturtevant • www.burlingtonrv.com Camperland Trailer Sales TX - Conroe • www.camperland.net Campers Inn CT - Union; FL - Leesburg, Jacksonville NC - Kings Mountain, Mocksville, Raleigh NH - Kingston, Merrimack PA - Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, MA - Raynham; SC - Myrtle Beach VA - Fredericksburg; GA - Macon, Atlanta www.campersinn.com

Dunlap RV KY - Bowling Green www.dunlaprvcenter.com Economy RVs MD - Mechanicsville www.economyrvs.com Ellis Travel Trailers GA - Statesboro www.ellistraveltrailers.com ET Quality RV CA - Two locations in Yuba City www.etqualityrv.com

Canopy Country RV Center WA - Ellensburg, Union Gap www.canopycountry.com

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

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

Freedom RV WA - Liberty Lake www.freedomrvusa.com

Chesaco RV MD - Joppa, Frederick, Gambrills PA - Shoemakersville • www.chesacorv.com

Funtime RV OR - Tualalin • www.funtimervinc.com

Clear Creek RV WA - Silverdale www.clearcreekrvcenter.com Colerain RV OH - Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus IN - Indianapolis, KY - Lexington www.colerainrv.com Conejo Wholesale Auto and RV CA - Thousand Oaks www.conejowholesaleauto.com Country Camping Corner NC - Kings Mountain www.countrycamping.com Crossroads Trailers NJ - Newfield www.crossroadstrailers.com Cunningham Campers, Inc. IN - Jeffersonville www.cunninghamcampers.com Curtis Trailer Center MI - Schoolcraft www.curtistrailercenter.com

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 Grandview Trailers Sales VA - Bedford www.grandviewtrailersales.com Hayden’s RVs VA - Richmond • www.haydensrvs.net Indian Valley Camper Center PA - Souderton • www.ivccrv.com Haylett RV MI - Coldwater www.haylettautoandrv.com Jeff’s Couch’s RV Nation OH - Hamilton • www.couchsrvnation.com

Keystone RV Center PA - Greencastle • www.keystonervcenter.com

RV City AZ - Huachuca City • www.rvcity.net

Vogt RV TX - Ft. Worth • www.vogtrv.com

Krenek RV Super Center MI - Coloma • www.krenekrv.com

RV General Store OK - Newcastle • www.rvgeneralstore.com

Waterdog RV OR - Dayton • www.waterdogrv.com

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

RV’s For Less TX - Bryan • www.rvsource.com

Welcome Back RV Outlet TX - Athens • www.welcomebackrv.com

La Mesa RV AZ - W. Phoenix CA - Sacramento, San Diego FL - Ft. Myers, Orlando, Port St. Lucie, Daytona Beach • www.lamesarv.com

RV Source TN - Knoxville • www.rvsforless.net

Western Travel Sales WA - Lynden www.westerntravelsales.com

Lux-Liner LLC CA - Acadia • Lux-liner.com

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

McKay’s RV & Marine Center ME - Holden • www.mckaysrv.com

Safford RV VA - Thornburg • www.saffordrv.com

CANADA

Media Camping PA - Media • www.mediacamping.com

Sahara RV NV - Las Vegas • www.sahararv.com

Action VR QC - Saint-Nicolas • www.actionvr.ca

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

Scott Motor Coach NJ - Lakewood • www.scottmotorcoach.com

Véhicules Récréatifs JD QC - Sherbrooke • www.vrjdrv.ca

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

VR Depot QC - Vaudreuil-Dorion • www.vrdepot.ca

Opelika RV Center AL - Opelika • www.opelikarv.com

Seguin RV TX - Seguin • www.seguinrv.com

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

Simi RV & Off Road CA - Simi Valley • www.simi-rv.com

VR Emond Plus QC - Sainte-Nicolas www.vremondplus.com

Patterson RV TX - Wichita Falls • www.pattersonrv.com

Sky River RV CA - Buellton, Paso Robles, Pismo Beach www.skyriverrv.com

Paul Evert’s RV Country AZ - Bullhead City, Flagstaff CA - Fresno; NV - Laughlin OR - Coburg; WA - Fife, Milton, Mt. Vernon www.rvcountry.com Phillips RV Center MI - Mount Morris • www.phillipsrv.com PPL Motorhomes TX - Cleburne, Houston, New Braunfels www.pplmotorhomes.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 Roadhouse Camper & RV PA - Lake Ariel (Scranton) www.roadhousecamper.com Roy Robinson RV WA - Marysville • www.royrobinsonrv.com Russ Dean Family RV WA - Pasco • www.russdeanrv.com

RVs Northwest WA - Spokane • www.rvsnorthwest.com

Snyder’s RV VA - Virginia Beach • www.snydersrv.com Strickland Marine & RV SC - Seneca www.stricklandmarineandrv.com Sunbelt RV Center TX - Belton • www.sunbeltrv.com Sundown RV Center CA - Atwater • www.sundownrv.com Super Deals RV Inc. GA - Temple • www.superdealsrv.com TAC Trailer and RV NC - Moyock • www.tactrailerandrv.com The Trail Center SC - North Charleston • www.trailcenter.com Tonies RV VA - Salem • www.toniesrv.com Toscano RV CA - Los Banos • www.toscanorv.com TravelTime RV TX - Sulphur Springs • www.traveltimerv.com Vancouver RV & Park Model Center Wa - Vancouver • www.vancouverrv.com

Wilder RV WA - Port Angeles • www.wilderrvs.com

VR Prestige QC - Terrebonne • www.vrprestige.com VR Souliere QC - Lanoraie, Lavaltrie www.vrsouliere.com GO VR QC - Ange Gardien • www.go-vr.com Horizon Lussier QC - Maryville • www.horizonlussier.com JCS Entreposage QC - Trois Rivières www.entreposagejcs.com Leasure Days RV ON - Ayr, Kingston, Pembroke, Smith Falls, Sudbry QC - Buckingham, Gatineau, Sherbrooke NB - Salisbury NS - Truro www.leisuredays.ca Le Centre du Vr Victoriaville QC - Saint-Albert • www.vrvictoriaville.com Roulottes AS Levesque QC - Châteauguay, Saguenay, Sainte-Hélène, Trois-Rivières www.roulotte.ca Roulottes Remillard QC - Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu www.roulottesremillard.com APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

y l l a Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s R ! e m i T Calendar

CLUB APRIL 2017 Bounders United (BUTTN)

If you are interested in attending please contact wagonmaster Yvonne Codde at (209) 207-8184. BUTTN are members who own or have owned a Bounder motorhome and belong to the Bounders United and Thousand Trails NACO.

TT SINGLES Central California

Contact Jane Davis at (209) 986-1088 or email janedjd@pacbell.net or Judy Rogers at (775) 772-1872 or email fifthwheeler61@yahoo.com.

TTWest/FMCA

May 11-14...................... San Benito, CA Jul. 6-9......................Russian River, CA Sept. 7-10.........Lake of the Springs, CA Nov. 9-12........................ Ponderosa, CA Members of Thousand Trails and FMCA meet at Northern California Preserves bimonthly. Contact Manny Francis at (415) 606-7596 or email to mannyfrancis@live.com. Reservations are required two weeks in advance.

Rolling Thunder of Texoma

Apr. 6-9......................Lake Texoma, TX Sept. 25-Oct. 8...........Lake Texoma, TX We meet twice a year in the north Texas area. For more information call Dianna Huff at (405) 641-8226 or visit rollingthunderfmca.com.

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

RVers seeking RVers? Rally clubs from coast to coast love to meet at our destinations. Join in on the fun! Northwest

We also have new contact people and email, phone numbers: WagonMaster Daphne Bailey (Oregon) (503) 590-8566, daphnebailey07@ comcast.net. Secretary Dottie Michel (Washington) (360) 941-3126, ttnw_sec@yahoo.com.

Lewis and Clark TTN

Apr. 19-23........................... Seaside, OR May 18-22................. Crescent Bar, WA June 15-19....................... Paradise, WA July 17-21.......................Birch Bay, WA Aug. 14-18..............Bend/Sunriver, OR Sept. 7-11............................ Seaside, OR Oct. 12-16..................Whalers Rest, OR Roger Beausoleil: President Lewis and Clark TTN chapter of FMCA. Contact person, Roger Beausoleil (503) 390-4753 or rogerabeau@msn.com.

TT of Texas/FMCA

May 12-14.................. Lake Texoma, TX Sept. 8-10.................. Lake Whitney, TX Nov. 17-19...................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: ttfmcaralliesandmore.blogspot.com.

TT Travelers Southern California

Apr. 3-5......................Palm Springs, CA May 1-3............. Oakzanita Springs, CA Jun. 5-7........................Rancho Oso, CA Jul. 10-12........................... Pio Pico, CA Aug. 7-9.............. Wilderness Lakes, CA Sept. 11-13........... Soledad Canyon, CA Oct. 2-4.............. Oakzanita Springs, CA Nov. 6-8......................Palm Springs, CA Dec. 4-6.............. Wilderness Lakes, CA We normally meet the first Mon, Tues, and Weds mornings of each month for coffee and those evenings for potluck and games. For more information, please contact our wagonmaster, Jim Brooks (805)320-2588 or email at willys46@sbcglobal.net.

TTN So Cal Weekenders

Apr. 7-9................ Soledad Canyon, CA May 5-7............. Oakzanita Springs, CA Jun. 2-4.............................. Pio Pico, CA Aug. 4-6............................. Idyllwild, 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

Answers – Crossword puzzle can be found on page 60.

Answers – Sudoku puzzle can be found on page 61.

Show Appreciation...Big-Time Adopt-A-Manatee® for Mom This Mother’s Day

APRIL 2017 TRAILBLAZER

On Location

2017 Total Solar Eclipse August 21st

by Annie Berman

he solar eclipse that has got celestial fans pumped up for this summer is happening August 21, 2017! Astronomers have been talking about this rare event for awhile because

it is the first total solar eclipse in the continental US in 38 years – so you can bet that there will be thousands of people will be planning to watch. To see the complete solar eclipse, viewers are vying for spaces along the “path of totality” – this is the path where the sun, moon, and earth will line up the most and where viewers will have the best view of the eclipse. The path of the eclipse starts on the Oregon Coast, passes through Idaho, Wyoming and Nebraska; then through the northwest corner of Kansas, into Missouri, Tennessee, and South Carolina, then following the path southward as the Earth orbits.

To book your next stay, call or visit our website.

844.289.6231 ThousandTrails.com

Grab your goggles, a comfy seat, and your friends and family for this rare celestial event and make plans to stay with Thousand Trails ASAP! To stay within the path of totality or very close to it, check availability at the following Thousand Trails Campgrounds: Pacific City, OR Bend-Sunriver, OR Whalers Rest, OR Natchez Trace, TN Carolina Landing, SC Oaks at South Point, SC

WHAT WOULD YOU DO IN AN EMERGENCY? SkyMed members simply call our toll-free number and speak to a caring SkyMed representative

24 SEVEN 365. Thousand Trails Members Qualify For Association Discounts Attend A SkyMed Meeting For Details 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Hospital-to-Hospital Emergency Air Transport Vehicle & Vessel Return Visitor Transportation Transportation for Recuperation Nearer Home Commercial Carrier Medical Escort Flights

6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.

Ground Ambulance Helicopter 100 Mile Waiver SkyMed Plus (Pet Return) Minor Children / Grandchildren Return Primary Driver Disability Physical Remains Return

800-679-2020

13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18.

www.skymed.com/thousandtrails

Escort / Companion Transportation Return Transportation After Recovery Incidental Expense Allowance Organ Retrieval Organ Recipient Transportation Global Emergency Travel Services

Savings can take you to amazing sights.

geico.com | 1-877-434-2678 | Local Office

Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. ÂŠ 2017 GEICO