TrailBlazer Magazine - July 2017 by TrailBlazer Magazine

JULY 2017

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Southern Maine

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

YOU receive a $25 VisaÂ® PrePaid Card when your friend purchases a Thousand Trails Camping Pass!

ENTER

TODAY!

GRAND PRIZE 7-Night Cruise or Trip to Hawaii ($4,000 value)

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

SECOND PRIZE

THIRD PRIZE

4 Nights in Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando ($2,000 value)

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

or visit THOUSANDTRAILS.COM 2

*Details and qualifications for participation in this promotion may apply and are set forth on page 45 of this magazine.

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

VOL. 39

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WHAT’S INSIDE

ISSUE 6 /// JULY 2017

lifestyle

Message from Marguerite

26 On the Road Cody Johnson 41 4 Paws on the Road 42 Tech Topics 44 Who’s in the Kitchen with TrailBlazer? 46 Ask RV Bill

features

66 Explore Maine

16 Southern Maine

calendars 8

With classic Maine beaches, varied coastal towns, outdoors opportunities, great golf, shopping, and lots of fresh seafood, Southern Maine serves as a microcosm of the Pine Tree State in many ways.

On-Site Events

14 Local Events 64 Club Calendar

spotlight

regulars

30 Out N’ About – Solar Eclipse 2017

43 Sudoku Puzzle

Pics From The Parks

48 Member Deals 59 Crossword Puzzle

This summer, a major solar eclipse will sweep across the nation on August 21, 2017 and some communities are doing more than just gathering up groups of people to watch this historic event.

62 Preferred RV Dealer List

34 Road Trippin’ the Mighty Mississippi There are big cities along this river, such as Minneapolis, St. Louis and New Orleans as well as little towns like Prairie du Chen, WI, Savanna, IL, and McGregor, IA.

34 JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

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MESSAGE from MARGUERITE Our #100DaysofCamping promotion is in full swing and, based on the photos we have been receiving, summer fun is being had by all. I am always amazed with the range of images we receive, from the youngest of campers, just six-days-old, to some of our more seasoned campers, all enjoying time at their favorite Thousand Trails destination. The peak summer travel season is upon us and we find ourselves inundated with summer vacation recommendations. Whether those are coming from family and friends, or features in top travel publications, we are all interested in learning more about what makes certain vacation destinations stand out above the rest. Many of today’s top summer vacation destinations are selected based on overall value and location. The resurgence we are witnessing in the RV industry can also be attributed to these key factors. Many are discovering the versatility that owning or even renting an RV provides. And, it’s not just families and retirees who are jumping on the RV bandwagon. Millennials are also contributing to the overall growth in RV sales. Many are recognizing the freedom and flexibility the RV lifestyle provides, which is why so many of us love it.

You will also discover these characteristics in the myriad of products Thousand Trails offers our customers. Our properties are in areas of the country that are consistently featured in today’s top travel guides. From the rocky coastline of Maine to the Pacific Northwest, our properties are in areas where people want to vacation. When considering a location that the whole family will enjoy you may debate over location, ranging from popular beach towns, national parks, mountain adventures, picturesque rocky coastlines, or amusement parks. I do realize that families today have many options to explore the flexibility that camping provides, which is an attribute that can not be overlooked when considering that next vacation stop. I appreciate that so many of you have chosen to spend the #100DaysofCamping with us, from coast to coast. I’m looking forward to seeing how you are taking advantage of the summer days.

Marguerite Nader President & CEO

JULY 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 American Express® Prepaid 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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VISIT WWW.RVONTHEGO.COM Remember! Thousand Trails members get preferred rates at Encore RV resorts.

▲ Tahoe Valley (CA): Family having a weekend full of hiking, smores, and more! – Kimberly Grovers

PICS FROM THE PARKS

▲ Verde Valley (AZ): Midnight stars at Cathedral Rock under the Milky Way. – Marcy Starnes

▲ Lake of the Springs (CA): Fishing on the lake. – Robin Jackson

▲ Lake Whitney (TX): Mela & Pepper in bluebonnet patch. – Denise Pina JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

ACTIVITIES

AND

Activities and Events – On-Site

JULY events There’s always something fun happening every weekend at Thousand Trails and family campground! Check out what’s in store for this month and be sure to also check out your 2017-2018 Theme Weekends guide to get you going on your summer plans at Thousand Trails!

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On the Hunt Scour your campground for clues from aliens above or for that special prize you’re gunning for at the end of it all. No matter the outcome, you know you’re in for some full-time fun at Thousand Trails. Check out these scavenger hunts...

Independence Day Celebrations Wave your American flag proudly and enjoy BBQs and fireworks too. We are celebrating Independence Day at Thousand Trails and we hope to see you there! Decorate your golf carts, ATVs, motorcycles, and bicycles for the parade at Verde Valley (AZ)! Join us for old-fashioned activities like watermelon eating contests, egg tosses, and more too! Enjoy your 4th of July at Peace River (FL) and watch fireworks right from our campground! Our celebrations at Orlando (FL) begin on Saturday, July 1, with a BBQ by the pool followed by our Wet & Wild Wagon Ride and Golf Cart Parade! Finish off the weekend with a fireworks display down at Hancock Lane. The annual fireworks show over the lake at Carolina Landing (SC) is sure to be spectacular! Enter the horseshoe tournament or splish splash at the pool! Happy Birthday, America, from the folks at Cherokee Landing (TN)! We will kick off our annual celebration with golf cart parades, music, and plenty of food. Be ready for the amazing fireworks show over the pond! 8

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Join us at Pacific City (OR) the weekend of July 7 for a cosmic weekend. All ages are invited to the scavenger hunt at Russian River (CA) on July 8! The out of this world activities includes an extraterrestrial scavenger hunt and a movie for the kids. Who will find the golden horseshoe at Horseshoe Lakes (IN)? Show off your skills to find it the weekend of July 15. Join us at Indian Lakes (IN) on July 22 to hunt for clues in various places of the resort that will lead you to a secret treasure! Hop on your golf cart or bicycle for the scavenger hunt at Wilmington (OH).

All events, times and dates are subject to change.

Activities and Events – On-Site

Cowboy Hoedown Weekend Yee-haw! It’s time to throw on those cowboy boots, hop in a line dance, and lasso up your friends and family this summer. Bring your super soakers, water guns, and buckets because you’re about to get wet! We’re hosting the Wild West Water Wars at Twin Mills (IN) the weekend of July 7! Join us at Forest Lake (NC) for a Wild Wild West Weekend, July 14-16! We’ll show an old-school family friendly Western movie, play lots of games and catch some good old line dancing and root beer floats on Saturday. There will be a western music DJ and a free BBQ the weekend of July 28 at Sturbridge (MA). Bring your best chili recipe and your sharpest corn-shucking skills to PA Dutch Country (PA) the weekend of July 28 for a Country Bumpkin Weekend! Do-si-do at the amateur square dance and be sure to pick up an activity schedule for more down home activities this weekend.

Carnival Win prizes? Pig roast? Live entertainment? Sounds like a carnival is coming to Thousand Trails! At La Conner (WA) we’re putting a new twist on an old favorite - carnival activities on July 4th weekend! There will be lots of great carnival activities plus live entertainment from The Murphtones. The Annual Carnival Weekend at Sea Pines (NJ) takes place July 21-23. There will be lots of games, a dunk tank, food, and a DJ spinning tunes under the Pavilion on Saturday night. Celebrate the Farm with Gettysburg Farm (PA) on July 22. There will be a live band, dunk tank, cotton candy, funnel cakes, and so much more! Plus our first a la carte pig roast! It’s fun and games all day at the Kenisee Karnival Open house at Kenisee Lake (OH) the weekend of July 28! The Castaways Band will provide live entertainment and there will be face painting, carnival games, plus a craft show.

Chocolate Lover’s Weekend Never heard of a “vanilla-holic?” Yeah, neither have we. We’re celebrating that undeniably addicting flavor that almost everyone loves…chocolate! See where chocolate lovers are gathering at Thousand Trails this July! Don’t miss the entire festival of chocolate, hosted by the fine folks at Little Diamond (WA) the weekend of July 7. There will be a chocolate slip n slide, flashlight candy hunt, candy bar bingo, and lots of other chocolatey games. You won’t want to miss out at Lake & Shore (NJ) the weekend of July 7 for Chocolate Lovers Weekend. There will be a chocolate pit tug-o-war, chocolate games, late night chocolate hunt, crafts, and more! Plus a Chocolate Potluck Buffet on Saturday night. Join us at St. Clair (MI) for a chocolate lovers dream weekend! Bring your cameras so you don’t miss out on the chocolatey memories.

Some events may require a participation fee.

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Activities and Events – On-Site

Throwback Weekend Take it back…allllllll the way back! We’re showcasing Theme Weekends that remind of yesteryear. See where the nostalgia will hit this month! Dig out your poodle skirts and grease your hair for a rock and roll party at Bay Landing (TX), July 14 to 16. We will have activities that all the cool cats enjoyed back in the day like hula-hooping, bubble gum blowing, cherry soda chugging, croquet, and root beer floats! Come dressed in your best attire from the 70s and 80s and show off your best disco dancing moves at Green Mountain (NC) the weekend of July 14! Whether it’s the Cabbage Patch, the Running Man, The Hustle, or the Funky chicken, we want to see your moves! Dress like your favorite 80s or 90s rock star at Tranquil Timbers (WI) the weekend of July 28 for an 80s & 90s Rock Party and Game Show Weekend! Prizes for gameshow participants and costume contest will be awarded!

Prehistoric Park At some of our resorts, we’ll be turning time back to a prehistoric era. See where you can learn all about dinosaurs and take part in prehistoric activities this month at Thousand Trails. We have it on good authority that not all dinosaurs are extinct… There have been reports of dinos spotted at Chesapeake Bay (VA) So, put on your best dino costume for the Dinosaur Costume Contest and crash the Stegosaurus Stomp DJ dance! Or try your hand at Bedrock Bowling, all to take place the weekend of July14. Join us at Timothy Lake (PA) for a Sand Fossil Hunt the weekend of July 28! And see if you’ve got the scariest roar at the Best Dino-roar contest. Enjoy a campfire and s’mores in the evening. Learn how reptiles once ruled the Earth with a visit from the “Reptile Man” at Thunderbird (WA) the weekend of July 28. Dinosaurs are taking over Seaside (OR) the weekend of July 14! Join us for a dino dig, dinosaur egg hunt, and lots more dino activities!

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Activities and Events – On-Site

Furry Friends

Christmas in July

Show off your pet’s talents or meet some new furry friends this summer at Thousand Trails!

Ho Ho Ho! Santa’s coming! Wait, in July? That’s right! We’re celebrating Christmas in July at Thousand Trails! Who says you can’t have Christmas twice a year?

Come see animals that you don’t see every day at the Wild Wonders Animal Presentation at Wilderness Lakes (CA) on July 4th weekend. On Saturday July 9, the folks at Cultus Lake (BC) will host their 3rd Annual Doggy Show and Parade at the Rec Center. Then, enjoy roasted marshmallows at the community fire pit later that evening! Post your cutest pet picture at Chestnut Lake (NJ) for a chance to win a special prize! Plus hot dogs (the eating kind) will be served from 1pm to 2pm on Saturday July 15! Want to show off your doggy’s skills? Enter your four-legged buddy into our doggy race and costume contest at Paradise (WA) the weekend of July 28. Meet live alpacas at Birch Bay (WA) the weekend of July 15! Royce, the Alpaca Whisperer, will be making a visit so we can pet, feed, and learn all about alpacas.

Go for a sleigh ride, have a snowball fight, make an ornament and try to get the best gift at the white elephant gift exchange at Williamsburg (VA) the weekend of July 14! Join us at Snowflower (CA) on July 15 to make Christmas ornaments and get a jump start on the holidays. Santa will be visiting Yukon Trails (WI) the weekend of July 21! Enjoy site decorating, watermelon feed, and cookie decorating with Santa for this “off-season” celebration. Join us Friday July 21 at Moody Beach (ME) for a Christmas Carol Hayride! And do not miss our pancake breakfast with Santa on Saturday! Santa will be loading up his golf cart and heading towards Lynchburg (VA) the weekend of July 29! Show your holiday spirit by dressing up and lighting up your site! Plus, a visit with Santa at the Activity Center.

Adult’s Only Weekend Need a break from the kids? We don’t blame you! That’s why we’ve got activities for campers of ALL ages! See where to drink, dance, and have some adults only fun this summer at Thousand Trails. Enjoy the adult’s annual hot tub/wine and cheese party at Bay Landing (TX) the weekend of July 7! Remember to drop off your kids at the clubhouse for a movie night. Bring your favorite wine and we’ll supply the rest for a wine and cheese weekend July 14 at Timothy Lake (PA). How well do you know your partner? The folks at Birch Bay (WA) will host a newlywed-style game on July 22 sure to bring laughs for the entire family! July 21-23 at Pacific City (OR) will be Parent’s Weekend! Friday Night movie takes place downstairs for the kids while the parents play BINGO upstairs! Make a masterpiece at the paint & wine party at Pine Country (IL) the weekend of July 21! Advance signup is required!

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Activities and Events – On-Site

Pool Parties Cool off at these pool parties at Thousand Trails this July. It’s a Wet & Wild Beach Mountain Weekend at Idyllwild (CA) the weekend of July 7. Join us for a sand castle building contest, a hula hoop contest, plus a free spaghetti dinner! Cool off and play games at the pool party at Lake Conroe (TX) on July 8 during Splish Splash Weekend! And, plan to get soaked the next weekend, also at Lake Conroe (TX) for water games galore! There will be water volleyball, a water balloon toss, and water gun fights on July 15! Enjoy cooling off and having fun at Lake of the Springs (CA) the weekend of July 22. It’s hot out so bring your super soakers and water balloons! Or, relax by the pool or jump in the lake to cool off at Lake of the Springs.

Pirates Invade Ahoy, mateys! Join us for swashbucklin’ good times at Thousand Trails this July during our pirate themed weekends! It’ll be a pirate inspired weekend at Grandy Creek (WA) July 14! It will be jam-packed with nautical themed activities plus a treasure hunt! Hope to SEA you there! Make some swashbuckler crafts at Morgan Hill (CA) the weekend of July 28 and while you’re at it, visit Gilroy for the annual garlic festival! The Pirates of the Deschutes River were here and we’re going to find their hidden booty at Bend-Sunriver (OR) on July 29! Follow the clues and your family might be the big winners at the Treasure Chest Hunt! Search for hidden treasure at Soledad Canyon (CA) the weekend of July 28! Enjoy black pearl sundaes and even get tattooed!

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

LUCKY WINNER?

WANT TO BE A

Lucky winners,

Sharon and Michael Jacobs from Mount Vernon, WA were camping at Mount Vernon, WA when they were presented with a $1,000 gift card!

Sharon and Michael Jacobs

Thousand Trails is offering members the opportunity to win a

$1,000 American Express® 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 American Express® 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. JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER 13

Activities and Events – Local

LOCAL

CALENDAR events

▲ SuperGirl Pro Surf Contest in California Photo courtesy of supergirlpro.com

ARROWHEAD (WI) Sundays in July Delis Farmers Market Open air farmers market in the heart of the Dells River Arts District. Provides local community with fresh and healthy products from Wisconsin vendors; supports local economy. Every Sunday until October. dellsfarmersmarket.com

CULTUS LAKE (BC) July 13 8th Annual Leap of Faith This fundraiser gives you the opportunity to support vulnerable and homeless youth. Register by contacting maren@cyruscentre. com and collect pledges to take part in the tandem skydive. Help Cyrus Centre provide emergency housing to homeless and vulnerable youth in our community! Jumps and event take place from 4pm8pm at Skydive Vancouver. facebook.com/cyruscentreministries 14

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

July 8 - Aug 8 Anonymous Show This 2017 show and fundraiser brings together local artists of all skill levels and ages, creating work in a diversity of styles, subject matters, and mediums. Join us for the reception, light refreshments and meet the artists. This exhibit runs from July 8-August 8 and are always from 6pm-8pm at the Reach Gallery & Museum. thereach.ca/exhibitions

July 22-23 Cultural Survival Bazaar Celebrate tradition and culture of indigenous peoples at the Cultural Survival Bazaar at DCR Pilgrim Memorial Park. Buy traditional and contemporary crafts, indigenous music, picnic, enjoy international food vendors, live music. Native American band, Spirit Wing, Malian Band, Sidy Maiga and Afrimanding to perform! bazaar.culturalsurvival.org

GATEWAY TO CAPE COD (MA)

VERDE VALLEY (AZ)

July 1-4 Edaville’s Red, White, and Blue Days Come celebrate America’s independence at Edaville Family Theme Park, 10am-6pm at Edaville Railroad. Military members are free, and immediate family members get 50% off the full priced admission at the gate only. Admission includes Thomas Land, Dino Land, all rides and attractions. edaville.com

July 4 Clarkdale’s Old-Fashioned 4th of July Pancake breakfast, kid’s parade, music in the gazebo, children’s games, town parade, fire truck rides! The annual 4th of July Kids Parade will start at 9am beginning at the Clarkdale-Jerome School. clarkdale.az.gov

All events, times and dates are subject to change.

DIAMOND CAVERNS (KY) July 3-8 Hart County Kentucky Fair Don’t miss out on six exciting nights at the Hart County Fair. Gate admission includes carnival rides, shows displays, fireworks, and attractions. Drag racing, swine show, beauty pageants, and more contests this year too! hartcountyfairky.com July 8 Duncan Hines Festival Features Uncle Duncan’s Duck Derby, the Adventures in Good Baking Contest, a brownie eating contest, live music, a silent auction and plenty of local arts & crafts vendors. Event takes place from 4-10pm. chaneysdairybarn.com

HARBOR VIEW (VA) July 4 July 4th Celebration and Fireworks Beautiful display of fireworks at the Colonial Beach Municipal Pier. colonial-beach-virginia-attractions.com July 8-10 Colonial Beach Triathlon Festival A great triathlon event set in scenic Colonial Beach. Swim, bike and run a 10K course. Registration to participate is open until the Tuesday before the event. vtsmts.com/colonialbeachinternational

MOODY BEACH (ME)

SAN BENITO (CA)

July 8-9 35th Annual Summer Solstice Craft Show The best of traditional, country and contemporary arts and crafts displayed at Wells Jr High School from 70+ juried crafters. 10am-4pm rain or shine, plus free parking and admission. summersolsticecraftshows.com

July 1-3 Hollister Independence Rally Enjoy live entertainment, poker runs, poker walks, food, beverages, and more with other motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the country. hollisterindependencerally.com

July 29 Harbor-Fest All day event featuring games and activities for the whole family including kids fishing tournament, kayak races, paddle board demos, world championship lobster trap toss, talent show, Wells Chamber of Commerce Silent Auction, Wells Rotary Club Chicken BBQ, Concert, plus parking and admission. wellschamber.org

PIO PICO (CA) July 4 Big Bay Boom Big Bay Boom July 4th Fireworks display over San Diego Bay. Free parking lots and shuttle service to Harbor Island and Shelter Island, provided by the Port of San Diego. This event is free! bigbayboom.com July 28-30 SuperGirl Pro Surf Contest Join thousands of fans to watch more than 100 of world’s best female surfers compete in the largest all-women competition and be a part of the Supergirl Pro Festival Village! The Festival Village includes a new Food Truck Experience, live concerts, a beer garden with a lounge area live-streaming the contest, half-pipe skateboarding exhibitions from X Games pros, the Supergirl Surf Film Fest, free hairstyling by Paul Mitchell, celebrities, and more! supergirlpro.com

Some events may require a participation fee.

Activities and Events – Local

July 14-15 Camp Verde Cornfest First celebrated 25 years ago, Cornfest pays homage to the Verde Valley’s famous sweet corn, grown at Hauser and Hauser Farms in Camp Verde. This “corny” oldfashioned family event will have plenty of food, fun, games, music, vendors and, of course, sweet corn. This free event starts at 3pm on Friday at 10am on Saturday. campverdepromotions.org/ cornfest-july

July 15 31st Annual Street Festival and Car Show Classic Car Show of over 200 cars, three stages of live entertainment, chili cook-off, “kids zone,” merchant sales, vendors, and demonstrations. Free admission. downtownhollister.org

WILDERNESS LAKES (CA) July 1 Menifee Independence Day Celebration The Parade starts at 5pm followed by lots of entertainment, games, crafts, face painting, kids zone, and pie eating contest. Fireworks at 9:15pm. cityofmenifee.us/378/IndependenceDay-Celebration July 14-Aug 13 Orange County Fair Orange County Fair including rides, games, 4H and FFA, and fair food. ocfair.com/ocf2

LAKE GASTON (NC) July 8 Second Saturday Hike at Roanoke Canal Trail Hikes begin at 9AM, so arrive early; rain or shine. Admission to the Roanoke Canal Museum is free for hike participants. visithalifax.com July 15 Touch A Truck Children of all ages can come to explore, touch, and ask questions about all kinds of vehicles, from big rigs to emergency vehicles. theroanokerapidstheatre.com JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Southern Maine

by Lynn & Cele Seldon

â&#x2013;² Old Orchard Beach Pier Photo courtesy of VisitMaine.com 16

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

From Kittery to Portland & Beyond With classic Maine beaches, varied coastal towns, outdoors opportunities, great golf, shopping, and lots of fresh seafood (think “lobstah” and much more), Southern Maine serves as a microcosm of the Pine Tree State in many ways. From Kittery to Portland and beyond, Southern Maine’s vast coastal and more limited pine treecovered inland possibilities provide a great introduction to “Vacationland.”

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Kittery

BOAT TOURS • Fort Foster PARK • SHOPPING

The waterfront town of Kittery provides a perfect introduction to all that Southern Maine has to offer. From dining with views to shop ‘til you drop shopping and more, Kittery is a perfect start (or end) to a drive up (or down) the region’s coastline and beyond. As Maine’s oldest incorporated town and historically “guarding” the mouth of the Piscataqua River, there are several Kittery area sightseeing possibilities to work up an appetite for food and shopping. These include: the historical Lady Pepperrell House; Fort McClary State Historical Site (built back in 1690); Fort Foster (once a World War II fortress and now a popular public recreation and beach facility); and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Visitors won’t go hungry in Kittery. Top spots for fresh seafood and much more are: famed Bob’s Clam Hut; Lil’s Café (opened by Lilian Mangos, a beloved cashier who worked

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

the window at Bob’s Clam Hut for years); tasty Tulsi (Indian cuisine, with Tulsi North just north in Wells); and Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier out on Kittery Point (a great place to try whole lobstah for the first or 15th time). Visitors also won’t go thirsty in Kittery, thanks to beer-driven choices like new Woodland Farms Brewery (including nonalcoholic beers), Maine Beer Café, Tributary Brewing Co., and Best Brew Tours. Shopping is equally popular and that’s especially true out on US 1, where outlet shopping and more await. Interesting shopping options include many outlet malls and shopping centers with all of the top brands, Kittery Trading Post with their massive inventory of outdoor recreational gear, clothing, and footwear for hunting, fishing, camping, kayaking, and lots of other possibilities on or near US 1.

▲ Kittery Point Harbor Photo courtesy of VisitMaine.com

THE PERFECT MIX OF A WATERFRONT TOWN with a LONG NEW ENGLAND HISTORY

▲ Lobster Roll and Fries Photo courtesy of VisitMaine.com

York

BEACH TOWN • FAMILY FRIENDLY • LIGHTHOUSES

The “Yorks” area is famed as being the home of beloved Nubble Light and Stonewall Kitchen, Maine’s famed specialty food creators. The area includes York Village, York Harbor, York Beach, Cape Neddick, and more. Nubble Light is officially called the Cape Neddick Light Station and it was built in 1879 on a nub of land (thus, the nickname). Though it makes for great pictures, there is no public access to the island or Nubble Light. Other area possibilities include the Old York Historical Society, York’s Wild Kingdom Zoo & Amusement Park, and dramatic waterfront golf at Cape Neddick Country Club, one of many worldclass courses in Southern Maine. Located downtown at 2 Stonewall Lane, the York location of Stonewall Kitchen is where it all started more than 25 years ago. Today, Stonewall Kitchen ground zero visitors will find the company’s home offices,

production facilities (with a Viewing Gallery), a bustling Company Store with anything and everything Stonewall Kitchen and much more, the popular Stonewall Kitchen Café, and even a Cooking School with a busy and popular schedule. Food is definitely at the forefront in the area, so there are many other tasty dining options, including, Fishermen’s Dock, Dockside Restaurant on York Harbor, The Central Restaurant & Bar, varied choices at elegant Cliff House, and Fox’s Lobster House, which is adjacent to Nubble Light. For dessert, visitors won’t want to miss Goldenrod Kisses in York Beach, serving up their famed saltwater taffy, candies, confections, and irresistible caramel corn since 1896. The York area also provides a perfect place from which to head west to several of Southern Maine’s inland attractions. Less than 10 miles to the

▲ Nubble Lighthouse Photo courtesy of VisitMaine.com northwest, Mount Agamenticus encompasses 13,000 acres of intact forest, including 40-plus miles of varied hiking trails and the Mount Agamenticus Learning Lodge, located in an old summit ski lodge. The mountain has great views of the coastline, as well as lots of lakes, for which inland Southern Maine is also known. Over in South Berwick 10 miles further west, more outdoors options await in Vaughan Woods State Park, which features 250 acres along the scenic Salmon Falls River and has more hiking options. Home of the oldest power mill in the country, South Berwick also has several historic homes, including the Sarah Orne Jewett House, the Old Hamilton House, and the Counting House, which now houses the Old Berwick Historical Society.

ONE OF THE MOST PHOTOGRAPHED LIGHTHOUSEs IN THE WORLD JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Ogunquit

PERKINS COVE • SEAFOOD • MUSEUMS

Busy Ogunquit is a quintessential Southern Maine coastal town. From classic beaches, ocean views, and walks to unique sightseeing, shopping, and fresh seafood, Ogunquit has much to offer. The most popular way to start an exploration of oceanfront Ogunquit is on the Marginal Way, a 1.25-mile paved walkway that winds right along the Atlantic Ocean. Walkers can start from town or at the “end” in Perkins Cove, a little port with popular dining, shopping, fishing, and varied boat tours. Back in town proper and nearby, there’s the Ogunquit Museum of Art, Ogunquit Heritage Museum, Ogunquit Fire Company Fire Museum, Barn Gallery, the Ogunquit Playhouse (featuring live musical theatrical productions throughout the summer since 1933), Beach Plum Farm, and lots of shopping (like Seaglass Jewelry Studio and

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Oqunquit Trading Post just up US 1). Beach Street leads out of downtown, across the Ogunquit River, to Ogunquit Beach. Dining is big business in Ogunquit. Top options include: Ogunquit Lobster Pound; Northern Union; Charlies; and The Lobster Shack, Barnacle Billy’s, and Oarweed Restaurant & Lobster Pound, all out in Perkins Cove.

▲ Perkins Cove Photo courtesy of VisitMaine.com

FAMOUSLY KNOWN AS THE “BEAUTIFUL PLACE BY THE SEA”

▲ Walking path in Ogunquit by Perkins Cove Photo courtesy of VisitMaine.com

Wells

WILDLIFE REFUGE • BEACHES • LAUDHOLM FARM

Just to the north, up US 1, the Wells area has much to offer, including seven miles of oceanfront, a working harbor, lighthouses, the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, Wells Reserve at Laudholm, antiques shops and other shopping, and fresh seafood and more in various restaurants. This area can also serve as a great base for exploring all of Southern Maine. The town of Wells features four beaches, with Wells Beach, Crescent Beach, Drakes Island Beach, and Moody Beach all making for great coastal drives along Ocean Avenue, Webhannet Drive, Atlantic Avenue, and Island Beach Road, as well as world-class beachcombing. Back off of US 1, Wells Harbor is operated by the town and has a marina, fishing, and canoe and kayak rentals. Along with the rest of Southern Maine, there’s also easy access to The Eastern Trail, a 65-mile multi-use greenway linking Kittery and Casco

▲ Laudholm Farm Photo courtesy of VisitMaine.com

Bay in South Portland. Outdoors lovers will also want to head to the Wells location of Renys (“A Maine Adventure”), an outdoors-oriented bargain store that has 16 locations across the state.

the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive Ins & Dives” and there’s even a seafood dinner called The Triple D, which includes three Maine Diner classics: a cup of seafood chowder, lobster pie, and a codfish cake.

The area also features many unique restaurants. The options include: family-run Forbes Seafood Restaurant & Takeout (since 1921); Fisherman’s Catch Restaurant; Jake’s Seafood; Tulsi North (popular Indian cuisine and a sister restaurant of Tulsi in Kittery); and the Maine Diner.

Just past the restaurant, nature lovers will want to look for the left turn on Port Road to the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, which was established in 1966 in cooperation with the state to protect valuable salt marshes and estuaries along 50 miles of Maine coastline. There’s a pretty onemile trail that provides a perfect introduction to the Refuge. This road also has a turnoff for Wells Reserve at Laudholm, which is a National Marine Estuary with even more hiking and a headquarters that’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The drive up toward “the Kennebunks” (Kennebunk and Kennebunkport) can include several interesting stops. Just north of Wells proper, the legendary Maine Diner is hard to miss on the right. For more than 30 years, this classic Vacationland diner serves up a long list of menu favorites, including breakfast all day, many homemade possibilities, and lots of seafood. The restaurant was featured on

FOUNDED IN 1643, 3rd OLDEST TOWN IN MAINE

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Kennebunk & Kennebunkport

The Kennebunks are next and the easiest way to explore both towns and more is to continue on Port Road past the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge and along the coast to Kennebunkport. Beach Avenue then leads right along the coast and several beaches before a short drive up the mouth of the Kennebunk River to the Lower Village of Kennebunkport, taking a right on Route 9 and to the town’s famed Dock Square area. Bustling Dock Square is the place to park for lots of shopping and dining, including Beach Grass for everything coastal and The Clam Shack, serving up fried seafood, boiled lobster dinners, lobster rolls, and more since 1968.

“presidential” sightseeing options in the Kennebunks include the Village Green, St. Ann’s Church, Anchor to Windward, and the First Families Museum at White Columns.

Ocean Avenue leads out of Dock Square to the right and back towards the Atlantic. The great views on this short drive include several pulloffs for pictures of the Bush family’s coastal Maine compound, Walker’s Point. Other beloved Bush

Heading out of Kennebunk on US 1, antiques lovers will want to look for Antiques USA and other nearby antiques stores just three miles north of town. An alternate to heading straight up US 1 to Biddeford, Saco, and Old Orchard

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There are varied ways to head back to US 1 and the town of Kennebunk, with a stop at the Seashore Trolley Museum (with 250-plus vehicles in the collection making it the largest and oldest electric railway museum in the world) providing an interesting diversion. The town is the area’s commercial center, but it also features the Brick Store Museum, with exhibits, events, and more illustrating the history, arts, and culture of the Kennebunks and surrounding areas.

▲ Ocean Avenue coast Photo courtesy of Robert Dennis Beach is to take yet another coastal road (State 9) past Goose Rocks Beach, Fortunes Rocks Beach, and Biddeford Pool before heading into Biddeford proper.

THIS TOWN IS YEAR-ROUND FROM SUMMER FUN TO A COLORFUL AUTUMN TO WINTER WONDERLANDS

▲ Relax in red adirondacks Photo courtesy of Robert Dennis

Biddeford, Saco, & Old Orchard Beach The town of Biddeford has two unique dining options in The Palace Diner (opened in 1927 in what is believed to be Maine’s oldest dining car) and Pizza by Alex, which has served Greekstyle pizza since 1960. Across the Saco River, Saco is an old mill town that includes shopping, dining, and more (including The Run of the Mill Public House & Brewery) in and near some of the huge former mill buildings. Saco is also the home of Way Way Store, a nostalgic general store and gas station built in the late1920s.

It’s about a half-hour on US 1 or I-95 from Old Orchard Beach to downtown Portland. Scarborough makes for a nice stop on US 1 along the way. Those in search of another great lobster dinner and even lobster chowder will love The Lobster Shack at Two Lights, which is just across the street from the Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse and overlooks typically huge breaking waves. Southern Maine explorers who don’t have plans to visit Portland Head Light as part of a tour might also want to head there before heading downtown.

Old Orchard Beach is next, with a classic Maine beach town awaiting visitors. Along with a seven-mile beach, other attractions include an oceanfront amusement park that first opened in the early-1900s, a pier, beach-y shopping options, and fresh seafood and more at Jumpin’ Jake’s Seafood Café & Bar and Surf 6 Oceanfront Grille & Bar.

7 miles of sandy beaches AT OLD ORCHARD BEACH FOR YOUR PERFECT summer DAY

▲ Saco Downtown Photo courtesy of VisitMaine.com

▲ Old Orchard Beach Photo courtesy of VisitMaine.com

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Portland

BOAT HARBOR • LIGHTHOUSES • FESTIVALS • LOBSTER • MUSEUMS

Maine’s largest city at 65,000-plus (Augusta is the state capital) is one of America’s “hot” destinations for good reason and serves as a great end (or beginning) to an exploration of Southern Maine. Situated on Casco Bay and just 50 miles or so from Kittery and the state line, Portland’s bustling Old Port, lighthouses, historic forts, varied attractions, boat tours, dining, and shopping are all Southern Maine musts. Known as Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s “City by the Sea,” downtown Portland is generally divided into four districts: Waterfront District; Old Port District; and Arts District. Most sightseeing, shopping, dining, and more is found in the first three. A city tour with Portland Discovery Land & Sea Tours is a great way to get an overview of the city. Their “Portland City and Lighthouse” tour on their trolley features a 105-minute, fully-narrated tour that provides a perfect introduction to

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Portland’s history, hidden gems, and much more. Sights include: the Old Port, Shipyard Brewing Company; Portland Observatory; Portland Museum of Art; Portland Children’s Museum; the childhood home of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow; Victoria Mansion; a 30-minute stop at Portland Head Light; and more. The company also offers a 45-minute “Peek at Portland” and several cruises (as well as combination land and sea tours). Lighthouses are on many tour itineraries. Greater Portland features six lighthouses: fabled and much-photographed Portland Head (built in 1791 and commissioned by George Washington); Portland Breakwater (Bug Light); Spring Point Ledge; Ram Island Ledge; Cape Elizabeth; and Cape Elizabeth West (known collectively as “Two Lights”). After an introduction to Portland’s sightseeing options on land and at sea, it’s time to explore.

Most visitors find Portland quite walkable. The Waterfront District is the perfect place to start, with the Portland Visitor Center (14 Ocean Gateway Pier), lots of restaurants and shopping, several sightseeing possibilities on land and sea, the Portland Science Center, and the Casco Bay Ferry Terminal for boat trips near and far. Among many unique offerings on the Waterfront, Lucky Catch Cruises near Portland Lobster Co. feature varied cruises that highlight Portland’s history, lighthouses, and lobster industry, including hauling up lobster traps. They will also sell participants the catch at great rates, with the Portland Lobster Co. cooking them up with all the fixings. The cobblestoned streets of the Old Port District proper have even more sightseeing, dining and shopping. Rebuilt after a fire in 1866, the brick and cast iron buildings provide an authentic

HOP ON THE FERRY AND EXPERIENCE MAINE’s LARGEST CITY downtown shopping and dining experience. The Arts District of Portland is also a stand-alone downtown destination. The first stop once there is typically the world-class Portland Museum of Art, which was designed by I.M. Pei and features significant holdings of American, European, and contemporary art, as well as iconic works from Maine. There’s also the adjacent Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine, Portland Stage, the State Theatre, the Institute of Contemporary Art, and the renovated Merrill Auditorium. The dining options in Portland are among the best in Maine and the Northeast. Of course, fresh seafood reigns supreme, but Portland’s options range even further afield. Downtown possibilities include: DeMillo’s (a Portland classic for good reason); Eventide; Scales; Gilbert’s Chowder House; Duckfat (featuring French fries using handcut Maine potatoes cooked in duck

fat); and BaoBao Dumpling House for creative dumplings and more with lots of locals.

Of course, a traditional lobster dinner or a lobster roll are must-eats! Restaurants throughout Greater Portland will accommodate and many offer waterfront views (including aforementioned Portland Lobster Co. and nearby DeMillo’s). Portland’s craft beer scene is as hot as the dining scene. Many breweries, brewpubs, and more await thirsty visitors, but one great way to enjoy the scene without drinking and driving is through The Maine Brew Bus (“Driving You to Drink Local”). They offer up to 12 all-inclusive tours a week on their bright green bus throughout the year, with more than 20 producers on their list of

possibilities. The Great Lost Bear is another efficient option, with 72 beers on draft. For those who consider shopping as important as eating and drinking, Portland doesn’t disappoint. Lots of unique shopping can be found throughout town, including: Lisa-Marie’s Made in Maine; Cool As A Moose (apparel and more); beloved Cross Jewelers (jewelry and more inspired by the coast of Maine and New England); Sea Bags; Maine Potters Market; The Blue Lobster; Chart Metalworks (custom nautical chart and map jewelry and accessories); Something’s Fishy; and Shipwreck & Cargo. The area around downtown Portland is also well worth exploring, including the East End (with Fort Allen, East End Beach, and more), East Bayside, Parkside (home of the Portland Sea Dogs), the West End, South Portland, and aforementioned Portland Head Light (in Cape Elizabeth).

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

On The Road

RODEO ROPER & CLOTHING LINE OWNER

CODY JOHNSON by Lynn & Cele Seldon

Whether you spend life on the road for pleasure or work, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 rodeo team roper and western clothing company owner, Cody Johnson.

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▲ Cody Johnson team roping Photo courtesy of C Bar C Photography

We really don’t know where life will take us. For Stephenville, Texas native Cody Johnson, that’s even more true. Growing up in the Lone Star State, he knew his way around rodeos. And it soon became a life-long dream of his to be in the rodeo. He got on a few bareback bronc horses and bulls in junior rodeos as a high schooler. Then, he got introduced to team roping in his twenties and the dye was cast.

For those of you who don’t know what team roping is, it’s a competitive rodeo event that features a steer and two mounted riders. The first roper is the ‘header’ and the goal is to rope the front of the steer, usually around the horns. Then, the ‘heeler’ ropes the steer by its hind feet. The origins of team roping are from ranching days, when this was how the cattle were caught to brand or doctor them.

Some twenty years later, Cody is a renowned team roper and set the record for winning the largest World Series of Team Roping jackpot ever in 2013, where more than 513 teams competed. He has also roped in several championship buckles and saddles at some of the most prestigious roping competitions across the country including the Las Vegas World Series Finale, the NTL Finals, and the US Finals. JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

▲ Photo courtesy of Luann Johnson Several years ago, life took a turn and Cody founded a clothing line called Apparel by Twister J with his boutique-owning wife and daughter. Cody still spends more than 200 nights on the road, traveling from rodeo to rodeo in his 2015 Hart Living Quarters horse trailer, while helping to promote the family western apparel line. And he’s made some pretty interesting friends and found some interesting ways to give back along the way. We chatted with Cody by email about his life on the road and more.

Since everyone isn’t familiar with team roping, what can you tell us about it? Team roping is a real rush of adrenaline. It can be the highest of 28

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highs when it all works like it’s supposed to and the lowest of lows when it doesn’t. It’s the only rodeo event where five beating hearts have to work in tune with each other – two ropers, two horses, and one steer. That leaves a lot of room for error. And, it usually all happens in a few seconds, so there’s no time to second guess yourself. You have to love it or it can make you crazy.

A clothing line seems like an odd departure for a rodeo superstar. How did Apparel by Twisted J come about? My wife and daughter started a boutique a few years back, so we started learning about the fashion industry and decided we wanted to have our own clothing company. With our connections within the western industry we were able to secure some licensing agreements with some of the big rope

companies so we started making soft goods for them. At the same time, we began making apparel with our own Twisted J logo on them and people really embraced our brand. Our mainstays are high quality tees, tanks, hoodies, caps, and jackets. It has huge following now, even outside of the western community.

We understand you’ve become quite friendly with Steven Tyler and have joined forces with him on his charitable organization, Janie’s Fund, which helps girls overcome the trauma of abuse and neglect. Tell us more about that. Through some of our connections, we were presented with the opportunity to sponsor the launch party for Janie’s Fund

with a benefit concert in New York City. We already had a deep respect for Steven Tyler as an artist, so when we learned of his passion for helping these girls that had suffered abuse, we knew it was the right project for us. The event is over, but we are still raising money for Janie’s Fund through an exclusive tee that we designed and produced especially for Steven and Janie’s Fund. It can be purchased on our website at getalittletwisted.com

You spend most of the year traveling from event to event. Tell us more about your home on the road. I travel in a 2015 Hart Living Quarters horse trailer pulled by a 2014 Schwalbe Peterbilt truck. The living quarters are 22 feet and has room to sleep four comfortably –

five or six if you don’t mind closeness – and has all the amenities of home: two flat-screen TVs, full refrigerator, microwave, and a really big closet. The trailer holds four horses, so we can all take a horse with us, and has a huge tack compartment for all our equipment.

What do you like to do onboard?

Before we bought this rig, we owned a 43-foot motorhome and pulled a four-horse bumper pull trailer behind it for the horses. That was really great because we could also use it for vacation with the family. So, we’ve stayed at lots of family-friendly RV parks all over the country. We really enjoy RV life whether it’s family vacations or on the rodeo road.

We don’t cook onboard – didn’t even have a stovetop put in this trailer when we designed it. My wife’s pretty good about fixing some of my favorite things and sending them with me to eat along the way. Other than that, we just eat at restaurants.

What’s your favorite thing about staying in a motorhome versus a hotel room?

Cracker Barrel for breakfast is a favorite and pretty much any good steakhouse we come across.

Most of the time, if it’s not my turn to drive, I’m either sleeping or on the phone doing business or entering more rodeos.

Do you cook onboard?

Any favorite restaurants along the way?

Staying in the trailer allows us to stay right on the grounds where the rodeo/roping event is. That’s where we stall the horses and we like to be close to the animals. Also, it’s a huge convenience to have a place right there in the parking [lot], where you can go and rest during the event.

What are three of your favorite things onboard? The satellite TVs, the walk-in closet, and the big tack room.

Do you do long hauls to get where you are going or do you sightsee along the way? We normally have to drive straight to the destination because of the horses. It’s not beneficial to have them standing in the trailer any longer than necessary. Once we’re at the destination, depending on event schedule and location, we have been known to do some sightseeing when we can.

▲ Photo courtesy of Zack Whitford

We understand that your bus was recently wrapped in Steven Tyler’s “We’re All Somebody From Somewhere” first-ever solo album artwork. That’s probably turning some heads on the road. How do you feel being wrapped in Steven Tyler? It’s definitely drawing plenty of attention, but we like attention so we’re enjoying it. And, of course, we’re honored to be associated with Steven.

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Out nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; About

Get a front row seat to the

SOLAR ECLIPSE AUGUST 21

by Annie Berman

e s p i l c E r a l o S e h t Celebrate ! S U e h t around

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In case you haven’t heard, there’s a major solar eclipse that will sweep across the nation on August 21, 2017 and some communities are doing more than just gathering up groups of people to watch this historic event. There will be festivals, educational events, and excursions to the best viewing locations, and millions of people coming together to witness this once-in-a-lifetime event. We’ve rounded up a whole bunch of eclipse-centric events that are happening near the Thousand Trails family of campgrounds so you can revel in the experience with other curious campers! Always remember to take proper safety precautions. Do not look directly at the sun and wear glasses that are meant for viewing eclipses. Also, remember to wear sunscreen. For more information about eye safety during the eclipse, be sure to visit: nasa.gov/ content/eye-safety-during-atotal-solar-eclipse. JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

SOLAR ECLIPSE AUGUST 21ST

Oregon Solar Fest Madras, OR Listen to music, take a helicopter ride, a hot air balloon tour, and mingle with other eclipse enthusiasts at the Oregon Solar Fest in Madras, OR, August 17-22. This festival is a partnership event with NASA and is smack dab in the middle of the Path of Totality in an area theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve dubbed, Solartown. Madras is just a one hour drive from the Bend-Sunriver RV Campground. To purchase tickets visit oregonsolarfest.com

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Eclipse Viewing at Pfeiffer Winery Junction City, OR Looking for a beautiful spot to watch the eclipse? Perhaps youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll enjoy the view with your fellow wine enthusiasts at Pfeiffer Winery. Located in Junction City, OR, this winery is having a special viewing party from their Water Garden. Other festivities include special musical performances and wine tastings throughout the day. Pfeiffer Winery is within the path of totality and the eclipse will reach 99% visibility here. Wine club members can attend for free, there is a $5 fee for the general public. Pfeffer Winery is a one hour drive from the South Jetty RV Resort, and one and a half hours from Whalers Rest RV Camping Resort.

Viewings in the Great Smoky Mountains Bryson City, NC Bryson City is a small city along the Great Smoky Mountains, which sits directly in the Path of Totality. This little city is taking advantage of their prime eclipse positioning and are holding an entire weekend of events! Local businesses will participate in the “Eclipse Crawl” with eclipsethemed food and drinks. The local Fire Department will host a full-dome planetarium experience for free! Be sure to check out the downtown block party on Monday, August 21. $10 gets you parking and viewing glasses. Bryson City is located about two hours from Carolina Landing RV Resort. For more information on eclipse events happening in the Great Smoky Mountains, visit greatsmokies.com/2017eclipse.

Solar Eclipse Viewing at Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm Woodburn, OR Witness the eclipse at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm! There will be family-friendly events happening on the farm all weekend including tours, Milk Can dinners, a pig roast, entertainment and more. Camping on the farm is encouraged but not required. Some events, like the Milk Can dinners, require reservations, so be sure to check the website,woodenshoe.com. The Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm is about one hour and fifteen minutes from the Mt. Hood Village RV Resort.

Solar Eclipse Fest Long Creek, SC The Chattooga Belle Farm will be the host of the Solar Eclipse Fest 2017 in Long Creek, South Carolina. Chattooga Belle Farm lies directly in the Path of Totality and so visitors from around the world are expected to show up. This one day festival, on August 21, runs from 10am-6pm and is $15 for admission or $35 for a VIP ticket. There will be plenty of activities including food trucks, distillery tours, astronomy talks, stargazing, drum circles, fruit picking, crafts, yard games, and more. To purchase tickets and for detailed event information, visit solareclipsefest2017.com. Chattooga Belle Farm is located about a forty minute drive from Carolina Landing RV Resort.

Witness the Eclipse at Wickliffe Mounds Wickliffe, KY It might sound a little bit crazy to drive three hours just to look at the sky for two minutes…but life is short and it’s doubtful that you’ll regret seeing this once-ina-lifetime event surrounded by a whole lot of enthusiastic eclipse fans. Witness the solar eclipse from the top of the Wickliffe Mounds archeological site, which is in the Path of Totality. The group will gather at 1pm EST on the mounds. The Wickliffe Mounds are about a three hour drive from the Diamond Caverns RV Campground. For more information on viewing the eclipse at the Wickliffe Mounds, visit parks.ky.gov.

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

ROAD Trippin’

ON THE MIGHTLY MISSISSIPPI by Joan Rykal

▲ New Orleans, LA 34

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“The Mississippi River towns are comely, clean, well built, and pleasing to the eye, and cheering to the spirit.”

−Mark Twain

Famed American author, Mark Twain, wrote about the Mississippi River towns in his 1883 memoir, “Life On the Mississippi.” He recounted his life along the “Great River” as a steamboat pilot. And while life has certainly changed from the days in which Twain traversed the Mississippi, you can still explore many of these towns that Twain described. If you choose to make the trip by land, rather than by steamboat, the best way is by travelling the Great River Road, a 3,000 mile road trip that will take you through 10 states from Minnesota south to the Gulf of Mexico. If you have no desire to enjoy this road, designated as a National Scenic Byway, you can tool it in a little over 36 hours. But if you want to enjoy this American treasure, plan on a 14-day plus road trip that will provide you unforgettable lessons in culture, geography, history, and nature as well as a primer of culture and culinary arts. There are big cities along the way, such as Minneapolis, St. Louis and New Orleans as well as little towns like Prairie du Chen, Wisconsin, Savanna, Illinois, and McGregor, Iowa. There are national parks, historic monuments, amazing bluffs and plenty of birds (the Great River Road runs along the Mississippi Flyway which is a bird migration route). JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

▲ Memphis, TN

▲ St. Louis, MI

Big City Life Minnesota’s Twin Cities, also known as Minneapolis-St. Paul, is home to more than 3 million people and boasts such attractions as The Mall of America, Walker Art Center, the Minneapolis Zoo and the recently opened Paisley Park, the estate of the late musical virtuoso, Prince, which is now open to the public for tours. Walker Art Center and its adjacent Minneapolis Sculpture Garden are a definite must-see. The Center has 11 galleries exhibiting modern and contemporary works while the Sculpture Garden spans 11 acres featuring over 40 permanent installations including “Spoonbridge with Cherry” designed by Claes Oldenburg and wife Coosje van Bruggen. For information visit walkerart.org. When it opened in 1992, The Mall of America (MOA) was the largest shopping mall in the US. The Mall sees more than 42 million visitors annually and contains over 520 retail stores plus a theme park, Nickelodeon Universe, the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium, as well as theaters and restaurants. One big plus about shopping at MOA – Minnesota does not charge sales tax on clothing! For hours and more information, visit mallofamerica.com. 36

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Get a glimpse into the life of the Purple One with a visit to Paisley Park, Prince’s private estate that was recently opened to the public after his untimely death in April 2016. There are a variety of tours available and varying prices and times that offer insight to the musician’s life with exhibits that include his wardrobe, awards, musical instruments and other personal items.

See the famous Budweiser Clydesdales up close when you tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery where you can view these magnificent horses in the historic stables dating to 1885 as well as learn about the brewery’s 7-Step Brewing Process during a complimentary tour. Afterwards, enjoy a brew and some great food in the Biergarten. For tour info visit budweisertours.com.

There’s plenty to see and do in St. Louis, Missouri. In addition to the soaring 630-foot Gateway Arch, there’s the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, the famed St. Louis Zoo, and the sprawling Forest Park, which has been open since 1876 and was the site of the 1904 World’s Fair.

Music lovers and BBQ buffs will love Memphis, Tennessee. Of course, it is home to Elvis Presley’s Graceland but Memphis is also considered the birthplace of the blues since that’s where legendary bluesman W.C. Handy created his illustrious music, including “Beale Street Blues” and “Memphis Blues.” Speaking of Beale Street, the city’s infamous thoroughfare offers over a mile of BBQ joints and music venues. Of note is B.B. King’s Blues Club or Blue’s City Café, both of which offers live music and BBQ. Other Memphis attractions include Sun Studio, where it all began for Elvis and the National Civil Rights Museum, which provides the history of the Civil Rights Movement in the US.

The Gateway Arch, designed by architect Eero Saarinen, opened in 1965. Built as a monument to “westward expansion” visitors can choose to take an elevator ride to the top for breathtaking views of both the city as well as the Mississippi River. After you’ve finished viewing St. Louis from the sky, come down to earth and visit Forest Park, the seventh largest urban park in the US, which houses not only the St. Louis Zoo, but also the World’s Fair Pavilion, Cabanne House, which has the distinction of being the first brick farmhouse west of the Mississippi, the John F. Kennedy Memorial Forest and Flegel Falls among other attractions, both natural and man-made. For Park information, visit forestparkforever.org.

“Laissez les bon temps roulez” which translates to “Let the good times roll” is the mantra when you visit New Orleans, Louisiana, where the Mighty Mississippi winds down into the Gulf of Mexico. New Orleans is rich in history and heritage which you can learn about though its multitude of ghosts tours, cemetery tours, swamp tours and plantation tours.

▼ St. Louis Cathedral in the French Quarter in New Orleans

“Laissez les bon temps roulez” which translates to “Let the good times roll” is the mantra of New Orleans. JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Don’t miss Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop or Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo, both located on the city’s infamous Bourbon Street, for a true New Orleans experience. There’s also Café Du Monde known for its café au lait and beignets, and the landmark Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis King of France, the oldest Catholic cathedral in continual use in the United States. For a bit of history on the city’s most famous event, the annual Mardi Gras parade, visit Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World where you can see old floats as well as new ones being created.

▲ Mark Twain Memorial Bridge, MI

River Towns An abundance of outdoor recreational activities as well as a history lesson or two can be found in Prairie du Chen, Wisconsin, the oldest European settlement on the Upper Mississippi River. Also considered Wisconsin’s second oldest city (Green Bay is the oldest), the area was settled by the French in the late 17th century. Experience Victorian life with a visit to Villa Louis, located on St. Feriole Island, in Prairie du Chen. Visitors can tour the grounds and estate of the Dousman family, which has been restored to the elegance of the 1890s and is part of the Wisconsin Historical Society. An exhibit, “And the Bride Wore: 50 Years of Wisconsin Wedding Fashion” runs through September. Another event to note is the Carriage Classic, scheduled for Sept. 8-10, which features competitive carriage driving in arena and obstacle courses.

▲ Wyalusing State Park, WI

Nearby Wyalusing State Park offers hiking trails, fishing and camping opportunities. Across the river and just south of Prairie du Chen is McGregor, Iowa which is home to Pikes Peak State Park with its 500-foot bluff that overlooks the Mississippi. ▲ McGregor, Iowa 38

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

▲ King Biscuit Music Festival

From this height, visitors can see where the Wisconsin River meets the Mississippi as well as amazing views of both Iowa and Wisconsin. Also in McGregor is Spook Cave where visitors can experience a cave tour and an underground boat tour.

over millions of years from both the Mississippi River and nearby rivers. A major crop grown here is rice and Riceland Rice, headquartered in Stuttgart, Arkansas, is the world’s largest miller and marketer of rice. Another major crop is cotton.

In Savanna, Illinois you’ll find Mississippi Palisades State Park which offers hiking trails and beautiful views of the river. The park’s Lookout Point is the highlight that provides sweeping views of the landscape.

Stop in Helena, Arkansas and visit the Delta Cultural Center which tells the history of the area through both permanent and changing exhibits. One exhibit details the history of the Delta during the Civil War while another digs into the rich musical history of the area which has produced major music legends, including Johnny Cash. (Cash fans can visit his birthplace in historic Dyess Colony, about two hours north of Helena.)

If trains are your thing, consider a visit to the Savanna Train Car Museum which provides rail history as well as views of old engines, passenger cars and more train memorabilia. Hannibal, Missouri, boyhood home of the afore-mentioned Mark Twain who chronicled life on the Mississippi, was founded in 1819 and quickly became a flourishing river town. Today it maintains all the charms of a river town and is also home to a thriving artisan colony. Visit Mark Twain’s Boyhood Home and Museum to learn about the life and works of Twain as well as view 15 original Normal Rockwell paintings created for special editions of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. For art enthusiasts, there is 50 Miles of Art which is an arts corridor running through the towns of Hannibal, Louisiana and Clarksville (all connected by scenic Route 79) which features artist’s galleries and studios, as well as crafts shows and other events. For more information visit 50milesofart.com.

If you’re a music lover, plan your trip to Helena to coincide with the King Biscuit Music Festival, scheduled for Oct. 4-7. This festival has been going strong for 30 plus years and has become a destination for blues enthusiasts from all over the world. The festival came about as Helena is the home of the longest running radio show ever, King Biscuit Time, which has been playing blues music since 1941 and made Helena a blues center. King Biscuit Time celebrated its 17,000th broadcast on May 13, 2014. The late, great King of the Blues, B.B. King credited the King Biscuit Hour as an influence on his legendary career. The festival is considered one of the foremost showcases of blues music in the US. The King Biscuit Music Festival also features a 5K run, a BBQ cook-off and a blues symposium. For more information visit kingbiscuitfestival.com.

The eastern portion of Arkansas is known as the Arkansas Delta – a primary agricultural region of the state thanks to its rich soil, which is the result of the deposits ▲ Hannibal, Missouri JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

▲ Ground Zero Blues Club, Clarksdale, MS

For more music history, head to Clarksdale, Mississippi where the Delta Blues were born and Robert Johnson sold his soul to the devil at the crossroads (so named because it is the intersection of Highway 61 and Highway 49 and aptly marked with three big guitars.) Clarksdale’s Delta Blues Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the blues and has exhibits that include authentic artifacts of famous blues musicians. Right next door to the museum is Ground Zero Blues Club (of which actor Morgan Freeman is a co-owner) which showcases Delta Blues musicians as well as serves up Mississippi favorites including catfish and BBQ. Don’t miss the Muddy Waters Cabin Site which marks the famous bluesman’s family home. Historic Vicksburg, Mississippi was a major port for cotton trading in the 19th century and is also know for the Civil War’s Battle of Vicksburg which 40

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Enjoy a home tour of 17 homes dating from 1700 through the Victorian Era area. Another interesting place to visit while in Vicksburg is the Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum, which is the site where the soft drink was first bottled in 1894. There is also a restored candy store where visitors can enjoy Coca-Cola floats and ice cream. ▲ Vicksburg Bridge, MS ultimately gave the Union Army control of the Mississippi River and was a turning point in the war. Today visitors to Vicksburg can expect to find a river town bustling with a variety of options including casinos, spas, shopping, antebellum mansion tours as well as a viewing of the Vicksburg National Military Park. Civil War buffs will enjoy the self-guided tour of the Vicksburg Campaign Trail that shows both Union and Confederate encampments as well as monuments and memorials on this 16-mile drive.

These are just a few of the highlights along the Great River Road. For more information visit experiencemississippiriver.com which also has a downloadable app to help navigate your trip. However you choose to tackle this adventure, be sure to take your time and enjoy the ride.

▲ Vicksburg Civil War Campaign Trail

paws ROAD

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

ON THE

Traveling and Camping with Companion Animals

Jenn, I have a very finicky cat and a new kitten on the way from the shelter. I have tried so many different dry foods and I’m trying to get the cat on a more healthy diet which I know includes less kibble, if any at all, and more raw food. My adult cat loathes anything with salmon or a fishy smell. What do you think about single protein sources? I have been struggling with crystals in my cats urine and my holistic veterinarian suggested that I eliminate kibble in order to remove the natural build up of crystals from forming. My friend told me that by rotating only raw food has completely heal their cats need to have surgery ever again. I want that for my cat! Because I travel extensively as a full timer, freezedried food makes a great deal of sense to me. To be clear, my cat will not eat anything that smells like fish formula. Please advise me more on how this will help benefit my cat. Meowww, Gabrielle JENN Feeding pets high quality, wholesome raw foods mimics their natural diet of animals in the wild. Primal Freeze Dried formulas are nutritionally complete and are to be fed as an ongoing feeding program that encourages protein source rotation. Stop feeding your cat kibble. He will not self starve! Your cat might complain for a few days or so but eventually, your cat will eat the food that it is offered. Hold true

by Jenn Gehr

to the cause, for your pets sake! Make sure that treats are only raw food-based such as freeze-dried liver or organic freeze-dried chicken. Void feeding anything with synthetics or hormones and everything must be grain free. You will see an elevated level of health and your cat when you switch to wholesome, quality raw ingredients. I feed and recommend Primal Pet Foods so often because I feel their strict food safety standards and third-party laboratory testing offers incredible food safety for my cats and dogs. Once the freeze dried food is hydrated with a little water or fermented goats milk, it will maintain an optimum freshness for 3 to 5 days when refrigerated. Fed with confidence and know that you are offering your pet the most bio-available composition of quality nutrients available. I suggest trying the turkey flavor, pork or the rabbit for the most finicky felines. Better yet, ask about a starter pack in the frozen section to have a chance to try several isolated meat proteins in one package. Jenn, To my delight, I’ve noticed many of the Thousand Trails have dog areas with access to water where my dog could swim or play. Is there a life jacket that you could suggest or any tips on purchasing one that would be suitable for my 23 lb dog? Now that I am recently retired and traveling full-time, I would like to start taking my canine companion on the kayak as well and having a life jacket in place would be great peace of mind. Happy Trails, Joanne

JENN The amazing adventures we have been on and wonderful people that we’ve made friends with along the way will be THE highlight of your days ahead. Smart thinking on making a life jacket purchase for your dog and insisting on an excellent fit. While any brand will do as long as it fits properly, strong and sturdy construction is critical. An ill fitting life jacket is of no use for proper flotation so purchasing one that does not interfere with your dogs shoulder movement is critical. Adjust the fit of the jacket when your dog is in a standing position. Using the grab handle on top of the flotation device, lift your dog up as though you were pulling him out of the water. Does his head and shoulder dip down or does his rump slide back and out of the lifejacket? If so, this jacket does not fit your animal. When you lift up, your pet needs to stay balanced within the flotation device in order for it to work properly in the water- this fit test is critical and could save your dog’s life. The vest must fit snug! While I am partial to Ruffwear’s products because they are strong and secure while been thoughtfully designed for both dogs and their humans, there are many brands and styles to choose from. I have included a photo (thank you, Susan Wilgus and her dear Boston Terrier, Hattie) with an excellent example of how to lift your pet to ensure a proper fitted life jacket. Remember, when you pick up your pet from the grab strap, they must stay completely level within the jacket. JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

TECH

TOP CS

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

by Paul and Kerri Elders This month, we’ll take a quick look at something virtually invisible that quietly keeps our RV’s rolling happily down the highway: our wheel bearings. We’ll give you a few quick and easy tips to make sure those little soldiers keep reliably doing their job, day after day. We’ll also give you some tips on fuel economy and how to improve blackwater sewer hose connections. Let’s get going!

with gravel or sand. Position this bag directly on top of the ninetydegree fitting. This simple, flexible little weight can be easily stowed along with your sewer hose for future use. Better yet, just empty the Ziploc® bag when you decamp, then refill with fresh gravel or sand at your next stop. And, remember to ALWAYS wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly after handling your sewer hose or blackwater valves. Simple. Easy!

Blackwater Connection Tips:

Improving Fuel Economy:

The humble sewer hose is actually a very important part of your RV’s utility system. The sewer hose gets the unenviable job of carrying effluent (sewage) and wastewater from your RV’s blackwater and greywater tanks to a convenient sewer dumping connection, either at a campsite or a dump station. Sometimes, successfully securing the fittings to the end of the flexible hose can be challenging. Since most fittings merely screw onto the hose itself, this connection point can occasionally be a source of leaks and spills. Just adding a little duct tape around the perimeter of this connection can effectively eliminate most leaks.

Here are a few simple tips to help you save a little money at the gas pump:

After you’ve made a good, secure connection to your RV’s dump valve, it’s a good idea to use a ninety-degree, right-angle fitting on the portion of the hose that connects to the campsite’s sewer line. This fitting usually successfully seals off odors from the sewer line, keeping both you and the neighborhood happy. If you don’t get a good, odor-proof seal, there’s a simple Old School trick to insure the sewer fitting stays tightly sealed to the sewer line. Just fill a quart-size Ziploc® bag 42

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

1. Check your tires before leaving on any trip. Fuel efficiency will be reduced if your tires aren’t properly inflated. 2. Travel light. Don’t carry unnecessary heavy items in your RV or tow vehicle. Whenever possible, avoid carrying a full load of fuel or a full load of freshwater. Dump your holding tanks before leaving camp to save weight. Remove accessory racks when not in use. 3. When possible, drive on interstate highways. Remember that the stops and starts at stop lights and stop signs can cost fuel mileage. It takes more fuel to BUILD momentum than it does to maintain momentum. 4. Shift gears smoothly and appropriately. Stay within your engine’s RPM power range and don’t overuse your brakes. Generally speaking, the higher the gear you travel in, the less fuel you’ll use. 5. Avoid excessive braking, because it also wastes momentum and costs you some fuel mileage. Excessive acceleration away from lights as they turn green also wastes fuel.

6. If your schedule permits, always feel free to take the day off from travel when headwinds are high; wind resistance costs a surprising amount of fuel mileage. 7. Take your time and keep passing to a minimum. Just by pacing your driving to the flow of traffic, you’ll conserve momentum and save fuel. Wheel Bearings Make The Wheels Go Round: Even the most luxurious motorhome on the market depends as much on the viability of a tiny wheel bearing as it does on its massive Caterpillar engine. We seldom think of it this way, but in reality, the entire weight of your RV is supported not just by your tires. Wheel bearings, tiny little round steel balls, smaller than half the size of a marble, continuously roll around and around as you drive. Wheel bearings, small as they are, help reduce friction as your wheels rotate on their axles. We take them for granted till they freeze or seize, but these little guys serve us well, mile after mile. Just a little care and maintenance, will keep them rolling reliably for many thousands of miles. If you’re on a long road trip, it’s a good idea to check your wheels at each stop. Slowly and carefully place your hand over the hub of each wheel at least once a day to check for excessive heat. If the area around the wheel’s hub is excessively hot, you may have a dry wheel bearing and should have this remedied at a service center ASAP before continuing on your journey. It’s also a good practice to have your wheels repacked and adjusted annually by a qualified mechanic. Happy trails, road warriors!

Terms and Conditions for 2017 Referral Promotion from page 2.

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▲ Portland Fairview

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availability.

Reservations resort fee. Electric required. Rates not included or promotions. based on a for stays of standard site, 30 days or events; certain Rates exclusively for longer. Rates unless otherwise members of restrictions do not include specified. Stays Thousand Trails, may apply. taxes. Amenities Valid on new of vary by resort. 30 days or less are reservations NACO, Mid-Atlantic, Leisure only. Time and Outdoor Cannot be combinedsubject to $4 per day MAY 2017 with any other TRAILBLAZ World. Offer not valid on ER offers holidays and special

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An evergreen tree is hidden somewhere in this issue. Send us postcard telling us where you found it, and if your card is drawn you’ll win a $25 American Express® Prepaid Gift Card.

Carol Core

of Sebastian, FL found the tree on Page 50 of the May 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.

4/18/17 1:13 PM

For each Eligible Referral (as defined) through December 31, 2017, you will receive a $25 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 $25 Visa® Prepaid Card and you will not receive a $25 Visa® Prepaid Card for purchases made by residents of AZ or PA. We reserve the right to extend, modify, suspend, or RVontheGo .com 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.

Postmark deadline is July 31, 2017 and remember – the tree could be a different color and size. JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Who’s in the kitchen with

TrailBlazer?

Let’s talk seasonal eating! Seasonal eating is simply the act of eating the foods that are grown and harvested within the season. Have you ever craved a bowl of chili in the summer, or a salad in the winter? The chances are probably pretty slim. We tend to crave what’s in season because it’s what our ancestors ate years ago before grocery stores were even a thing! Seasonal eating is an amazing step we can take in our health journey for various reasons. The first and most important is it’s a way for us to receive the most nutrients from our foods! When we eat in season, we receive the biggest nutritional punch because the food hasn’t traveled from miles away. This not only enhances the taste but also broadens the variety of foods we consume. Due to the reduction in travel time seasonal foods often come from local farmers, which is an amazing way to support your community and encourage sustainability! Use this time of year to throw more color into your salads, swap your potatoes out for fresh fruit, and take a family trip to your local farmer’s market to see what new vegetables are in season!

Cheeseburger Salad Ingredients • ½ tsp. salt & ¼ tsp. pepper • ½ tsp. garlic powder • 1 tsp. onion powder • ½ tsp. paprika

For more recipes, nutrition information, and healthy lifestyle tips connect with me over at: www.refreshednutrition.com

• 1 lb. ground beef • 1 onion, diced small

info@refreshednutrition.com

• 2 bunches of romaine, chopped

Refreshed Nutrition

• 1 tomato, diced

@Refreshed_Nutrition

• ¼ tsp. oregano

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

• 3 tbsp. pickles • optional ketchup, mustard, mayo

Total time: 30 min Serving Size: 4

Directions 1. Place the ground beef and spices in a medium sized pan on medium heat. Cook until evenly browned and spices are well combined. 2. While the meat is cooking, chop the veggies and place them in a salad bowl. 3. Place the ground beef in with the veggies and top with pickles and desired amounts of ketchup, mustard, and mayo!

Tuna Salad Total time: 10-15 min Serving Size: 3-4

Cilantro Lime Chicken Kabobs Ingredients For the Dressing: • 1 cup cilantro • ¼ cup olive oil • 2 tbsp. sesame oil • ½ lime, juiced • 1 clove garlic, minced • ¼ tsp. cumin & ¼ tsp. salt For the Kabobs: • 1 lb. cubed chicken tenders • 1 sliced green bell pepper • 1 sliced red bell pepper • ½ sliced red onion

Total time: 30-40 min Serving Size: 3-4

Directions 1. Place the ingredients for the dressing in a food processor and blend until a smooth sauce forms. 2. Layer the kabobs, alternating between chicken, peppers, and onions leaving a little bit of space between each for even cooking. 3. Drizzle the cilantro lime sauce evenly on top of the skewers. 4. Grill on medium heat, flipping when browned on each side.

Ingredients • 2 2oz cans of tuna fish, in water, no salt added • 1 stalk of celery, chopped small • 2 tbsp. onion, chopped small • 1 tsp. old bay seasoning • ½ tsp. celery salt & ½ tsp. paprika • ¼ tsp pepper • ½ + ¼ tsp. garlic powder • ¼ cup + 2 tbsp. mayo

Directions 1. Mix the celery, onions, and tuna together. Add in the spices and mix until well combined. 2. Once spices are evenly combined, add in mayo until well combined. 3. Serve on a salad or in a sandwich!

Chocolate Covered Almonds Total time: 50 min

Ingredients

• 1 cup chocolate chips • 2 tbsp. coconut butter • ½ tsp. vanilla extract • 2 cup raw, unsalted almonds • 1 tsp. Himalayan sea salt

Directions 1. Line a medium baking sheet with foil or parchment and set aside.

2. In a small pot add chocolate chips, coconut butter, and vanilla extract. Melt on low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it does not burn. 3. Add in the almonds and stir until well coated. 4. Remove from heat and pour them on top of the baking sheet, spreading them out evenly. 5. Sprinkle with the sea salt and place uncovered in the freezer for 30 min. 6. Remove from freezer and snap the almonds into smaller chunks.

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

ASK

RVBILL

YOUR TECH QUESTIONS ANSWERED!

Water Filter

Bill, I set up my calendar to create an automatic recurring note every six months to replace the water filter cartridge on our RV (it is a single Pentair Pentek CFB-PB10). I started to replace it this morning and discovered that the old cartridge looks absolutely new, with no stains or residue of any kind. As I recall, the last time I replaced it, it was obvious this was necessary although it had been significantly longer than six months. Is there any reason not to leave it in place a while longer? I just put it back in the canister since it didn’t look like it needed to be replaced. Can its condition be determined by visual observation or is there any other reason to change it on a regular schedule? I haven’t noticed any decrease in the water pressure. Newmar told me that the filter is ahead of everything, so that all the water goes through it, whether used directly from the incoming hose or from the storage tank. Thanks, Bob MacLeod

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

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Bob, This is a great, insightful question. Your particular filter is a .5 micron modified carbon block filter. It is designed to remove chlorine, taste, and odor as well as a small amount of lead reduction. This design does resist plugging up with debris for a longer filter life. Carbon block filters do a much better job than activated charcoal filters because the water is forced through the carbon instead of around the carbon particles. Under normal conditions, you can run this filter for about 12 months. Unfortunately, you cannot visually determine the condition of the filter as they do filter out chlorine and other particles that can cause a taste and odor problem and they can become less effective in a shorter period of time. You have indicated that your water pressure is still good so it is obviously not plugged up by a large amount of particles. If the water still tastes pure and you have good flow, there is no reason why you shouldn’t be able to continue to use it for a few more months.

Air Conditioner

Bill, summer is here and I’m concerned about our 10-yearold Coleman air conditioner. Can you give me a few tips for maintenance and what I need to look for to ensure that we won’t be out camping this summer and wind up without a functioning airconditioner. Brad Johnson

Brad, Annual service on rooftop a/c units is imperative. Here’s a rundown on servicing your Coleman air conditioner. Start the process by removing and cleaning the return air filter. While the filter and intake grill assembly is off, use a bright flashlight and look up into the air-conditioner and locate the evaporator. Be sure that all of the fins are clear of debris and clean. Inspect the wiring to make sure everything is intact. Remove the shroud that covers the upper unit of the air-conditioner. Hopefully you have access an air compressor- using about 100 psi, blow the dust and debris out of the condenser- these are the fins at the rear of the air-conditioner. Blow out any leaves or debris that may surround the fan and compressor area, and inspect all of the wiring. Providing there will not be any issues with mechanical failure, your air conditioner should function normally for many hours.

Corrosion on Batteries

Bill, My 2006 Winnebago batteries that reside under the step as you enter the motorhome have been a constant problem with corrosion growing from the terminals. They are roughly about four years old, and they don’t last very long when I’m boondocking. I don’t want to take it into the repair shop every time the corrosion builds up, is there any type of a battery that I can replace my battery is with the do not continually build up corrosion? I would really like a maintenance free battery because it’s not easy for me to get under the step keep adding distilled water. Any suggestions? Thank you, Lori Davis

Sticking Frame

Hi, Bill, What do you suggest that I can put on the rubber seals on my storage doors to keep them from sticking to the frame? Thanks, Dan Chase

Lori, I understand that it’s kind of a nuisance to have to get under the steps in such a tight area while cleaning the corrosion and adding water to the batteries every month or two. The corrosion is caused by the gassing effect, which is normal with older lead acid batteries. Your Winnebago motorhome came with a pair of 12 V batteries. My suggestion would be to replace the 2 12 Volt batteries with 2 6-Volt batteries – the Lifeline GPL-4CT would fit in place of your 2 12 Volt batteries. Your local shop will be able to properly execute this installation, as they need to be wired in series instead of parallel like 12 Volt batteries. Lifeline Batteries are absorbed glass mat and absolutely maintenance free. These fantastic batteries can even be shipped via UPS because they don’t contain any liquid. Shop around on the Internet for the best price. As an added bonus, the two Lifeline Batteries will give you quite a bit more storage when you’re out boondocking.

Hi Dan, it’s good to hear from you. Try cleaning the seals with Goo-Gone® first then wipe with alcohol. Next, soak a rag heavily with silicone spray and wipe all of the seals two times. If the surface of the seals is starting to peel off, this is the sign it will be time to replace them.

Gas Regulators

Hey Bill, I do have a question about our 2016 Redwood fifth wheel. We have a propane tank on either side of the trailer and it appears that there are two LP gas regulators, one on each side, although one is smaller than the other. The smaller of the two has a small hole in it is slowly leaking propane. I am somewhat handy and have all the necessary tools but I am not sure what that small regulator is called and what I should order. Jim & Belinda

The smaller LP regulator that you are mentioning is actually what they call a high pressure regulatorthis helps regulate the pressure for that long run of the LP line from one side of the coach over to the automatic change over LP regulator. When the diaphragm starts leaking on any type of an LP regulator, it will seep out one of the vent holes. When manufactures first started installing propane tanks on either side of the trailer, it was soon discovered that the long run of high-pressure line caused problems with the automatic regulator. There are different pressures on the smaller regulator that you are mentioning. My suggestion is to remove the leaking regulator and take it into a RV parts counter and ask them to order a new one if they don’t have it in stock. JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals

Thousand Trails Members Always Save At

RVontheGo.com Call! Click! Camp!

1-888-443-7301 â&#x2013;˛ Alpine Lake RV Campground (NY)

Thousand Trails Standard Discount:

20% Off Daily Rates Use Promo Code: S! ALWAY At all ENCORE ! Resorts

â&#x2013;˛ Lake George Es

cape RV Campgroun

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Valid at all Encore RV Resorts *Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

**Subject to availability. Reservations required. Rates based on a standard site, unless otherwise specified. 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. Valid on new reservations only.

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals ▲ Portland Fairview RV Campground (OR)

Washington & Oregon

$32/night at Mt. Hood, Portland Fairview, ▲ Mt. Ho

od Village

RV Resort

(OR)

and Tall Chief

Promo Code: TT32WO Valid 7/1/17 - 7/31/17. Book by 7/15/17.

$169/week at Mt. Hood, Portland Fairview, and Tall Chief mping f RV & Ca

ie ▲ Tall Ch

A) Resort (W

Promo Code: TT169WO Valid 7/1/17 - 7/31/17. Book by 7/15/17. *Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals ▲ Twin Lakes RV Campground (NC)

North Carolina

Buy 2 Weeks Get 2 Weeks FREE!

Valid at Goose Creek, Lake Myers, Twin Lakes, and Waterway

Promo Code: NCB2G2TB Valid thru end of 2017 Season. Holidays Included. Book by 7/31/17.

▲ Goose Creek

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d (NC)

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

Wisconsin

Buy 2 Weeks Get 2 Weeks FREE!

Valid at Arrowhead, Blackhawk, Lakeland, Fremont Jellystone ParkTM, Neshonoc, Plymouth Rock, Tranquil Timbers, and Yukon Trails

Promo Code: WIB2G2TB Valid thru end of 2017 Season. Holidays Included. Book by 7/31/17.

▲ Yukon Trails RV

Campground (WI)

*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.

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals ▲ O’Connell’s Yogi Bear ParkTM (IL)

Illinois

Buy 2 Weeks RVontheGo.com Get 2 Weeks FREE! 1-888-443-7301

Call! Click! Camp!

Valid at O’Connell’s Yogi Bear ParkTM

Promo Code: OCB2G2TB Valid thru end of 2017 Season. Holidays Included. Book by 7/31/17. *Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

Northeast

30% OFF Weekly Rates

▲ Narrow

s Too RV C

Valid at all Encore RV Resorts in New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts ampgroun

d (ME)

Promo Code: NE30TB Valid thru end of 2017 Season. Not valid during holidays. Book by 7/31/17. *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.

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals ▲ Southern Comfort RV Resort (TX)

Texas

$99

Weekly Stay Valid at Alamo Palms, Country Sunshine, Fun N Sun, Lakewood, Paradise Park, Paradise South, Southern Comfort, Sunshine RV and Tropic Winds

▲ Alamo Palms RV

Resort (TX)

Promo Code: TT99STX Valid 7/1/17- 9/1/17. 14 Day Max Stay. Book by 8/1/17.

$259

Monthly Stay Valid at Alamo Palms, Country Sunshine, Fun N Sun, Lakewood, Paradise Park, Paradise South, Southern Comfort, Sunshine RV and Tropic Winds

Promo Code: TT259STX Valid 7/1/17- 9/1/17. 31 Day Max Stay. Book by 8/1/17.

▲ Cou

ntry Su

nshine

RV Res

ort (TX

)

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals ▲ Victoria Palms RV Resort (TX)

Texas

$139

▲ Tropic

Weekly Stay at Victoria Palms Winds RV

Resort (T

Promo Code: TT139STX Valid 7/1/17 - 9/1/17. 14 Days Max Stay. Book by 8/1/17.

$299

Monthly Stay at Victoria Palms Promo Code: TT299STX V Resort

Sun R ▲ Fun N

(TX)

Valid 7/1/17 - 9/1/17. 31 Days Max Stay. Book by 8/1/17. *Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals ▲ Palm Springs Oasis RV Resort (CA)

Palm Springs

$199

Weekly Stay at Palm Springs Oasis

▲ Foothills West RV

Resort (AZ)

Use Promo Code: TT199PSO Valid 7/1/17 - 12/15/17. Book by 12/1/17. *Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

RVontheGo.com 1-888-443-7301

Call! Click! Camp!

▲ Monte Vis

ta Village RV

Resort (AZ)

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals ▲ ViewPoint RV & Golf Resort (AZ)

Arizona

$349 One Month Special ▲ Cactus

Gardens R

V Resort (A

Valid at Araby Acres, Cactus Gardens, Capri, Casita Verde, Countryside, Desert Paradise, Foothill Village, Foothills West, Fiesta Grande, Golden Sun, Mesa Verde, Suni Sands, and Valley Vista

Promo Code: TT349AZ Valid 7/1/17 - 8/31/17. Book by 8/1/17.

$599 One Month Special Valid at Mesa Spirit, Monte Vista, Paradise RV, ViewPoint, and Voyager ort (AZ)

RV Res untryside

▲ Co

Promo Code: TT599AZ Valid 7/1/17 - 8/31/17. Book by 8/1/17. *Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals â&#x2013;˛ Mesa Spirit RV Resort (AZ)

Arizona

$199

Weekly Stay

at Mesa Spirit Use Promo Code: TT199MS

â&#x2013;˛ Venture In

RV Resort (A

Valid 7/1/17 - 8/31/17. 14 day maximum. Book by 8/15/17.

Arizona

$1,049

50% OFF

at Venture In

at Arizona RV Resorts

3-Month Stay

Weekly Stay

(excluding Venture In, Salome KOA, and Mesa Spirit)

Use Promo Code: TT1049VI

Use Promo Code: TT50AZ

Valid 7/1/17 - 10/31/17. Book by 8/1/17.

Valid 6/1/17 - 8/31/17. 7 day min. 14 day max. Book by 8/1/17.

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

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals ▲ Fiesta Key RV Resort & Marina (FL)

Florida

20% OFF Weekly Stay

)

ort (FL s RV Res

al Palm

▲ Tropic

Sunshine Key & Fiesta Key Promo Code: TT20KEYS Valid 7/1/17 - 10/1/17. 14 Day Max Stay. Book by 9/1/17.

50% OFF Weekly Stay

Valid at all Florida RV Resorts (excluding Forest Lake Village, Sunshine Key and Fiesta Key) ▲ Ramble

rs Rest RV

Campgrou

nd (FL)

Promo Code: TT50WFL Valid 7/1/17 - 10/1/17. 14 Day Max Stay. Book by 9/1/17.

JULY 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 7/1/17 - 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 7/1/17 - 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.

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Answers can be found on page 65.

ACROSS 1 Clothing 5 Russian news agency 9 Hebrew letter 12 Pain 13 Spore sacs 14 Laconian clan group 15 Moon of Saturn 16 Countersink 17 Compass direction 18 Telegraph signal 20 Large square pattern 22 Soldiers 25 Shellac 27 Exudate plant 28 Fiddler crab genus 29 Cleopatra’s attendant 31 Sound (pref.) 34 Head covering 35 Of the throat 37 Eng. cathedral city 38 Rosebug, e.g. 40 Wife of Ramachandra 41 Female ruff

42 44 45 46 49 51 52 54 58 59 60 61 62 63

Air-to-air missile (abbr.) Arabic letter Nocturnal mammal Sauce Indian dance drama Arab. garment First miracle site Mayan year Mother of Hezekia Warm Berne’s river Israelite tribe Gr. wine container Carplike fish

DOWN 1 Needlefish 2 Exclamation 3 Fluidity unit 4 Bauble 5 Hades 6 Ibsen character 7 Jackfish 8 Cotton tree

9 10 11 19 21 22 23 24 26 30 32 33 36 39 43 46 47 48 50 53 55 56 57

Aloe (2 words) Priest Deviate Few (pref.) Cartograph Innards Adjective-forming (suf.) Ditto (2 words) Lean-tin alloy Soak Olive genus No (Russian) Frog genus Burmese knife Very (Sp.) S. Afr. assembly Eastern bishop’s title Liang Herringlike fish Pile Amer. Automobile Assn. (abbr.) Trajectory Spelling Contest JULY 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!

JULY 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)

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.

JULY 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 alrvsales.com A Great Outdoor RV Center TX - Canton • agorv.com Affinity RV AZ - Dewey, Prescott, Prescott Valley affinityrv.com All Valley RV Center CA - Acton • allvalleyrvcenter.com Al’s Trailer Sales OR - Salem • alstrailers.com Alpin Haus NY - Amsterdam, Port Jervis, Saratoga alpinhaus.com

Camperland Trailer Sales TX - Conroe • camperland.net

Economy RVs MD - Mechanicsville • economyrvs.com

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 campersinn.com

Ellis Travel Trailers GA - Statesboro • ellistraveltrailers.com

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

Freedom RV WA - Liberty Lake • freedomrvusa.com

Charlie Obaugh RV VA - Staunton • charlieobaughrv.com

ET Quality RV CA - Two locations in Yuba City etqualityrv.com Floyd’s RV OK - Norman • floydsrvs.com

Funtime RV OR - Tualalin • funtimervinc.com

American Family RV VA - Chesapeake • americanfamilyrv.com

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

Appleton Camping Center WI - Appleton • appletoncamping.com

Clear Creek RV WA - Silverdale • clearcreekrvcenter.com

General RV Center IL - Huntley MI - Brownstown, Mt. Clemens, Wayland, White Lake, Wixom OH - North Canton generalrv.com

B&B RV CA - Anderson • bbrv.me

Coastal RV VA - Carrolton • coastalrv.com

Gibs RV Superstore OR - Coos Bay • gibsrvsuperstore.com

Bama RV AL - Dothan • bamarv.com

Colerain RV OH - Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus IN - Indianapolis, KY - Lexington colerainrv.com

Grandview Trailers Sales VA - Bedford • grandviewtrailersales.com

Big Country RV OR - Bend, Redmond • bigcrv.com

Conejo Wholesale Auto and RV CA - Thousand Oaks conejowholesaleauto.com

Hayden’s RVs VA - Richmond • haydensrvs.net

Blade Chevrolet RV WA - Mt. Vernon • bladerv.com

Country Camping Corner NC - Kings Mountain • countrycamping.com

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

Crossroads Trailers NJ - Newfield • crossroadstrailers.com

Baydo’s RV of Chehalis WA - Chehalis • baydosrvs.com

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

Cunningham Campers, Inc. IN - Jeffersonville www.cunninghamcampers.com

Browns RV SC - McBee • brownsrvsuperstore.com

Curtis Trailer Center MI - Schoolcraft • curtistrailercenter.com

Burlington RV Superstore WI - Sturtevant • burlingtonrv.com

Dunlap RV KY - Bowling Green • dunlaprvcenter.com

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

Gloucester RV Sales & Service VA - Gloucester • gloucesterrv.net

Indian Valley Camper Center PA - Souderton • ivccrv.com Haylett RV MI - Coldwater • haylettautoandrv.com Jeff’s Couch’s RV Nation OH - Hamilton • couchsrvnation.com Keystone RV Center PA - Greencastle • keystonervcenter.com Krenek RV Super Center MI - Coloma • krenekrv.com Lakeside RV Sales SC - Anderson • lakesidervsales.com

La Mesa RV AZ - W. Phoenix CA - Sacramento, San Diego FL - Ft. Myers, Orlando, Port St. Lucie, Daytona Beach lamesarv.com Lux-Liner LLC CA - Acadia • lux-liner.com McKay’s RV & Marine Center ME - Holden • mckaysrv.com Media Camping PA - Media • mediacamping.com Mike Thompson RV Superstores CA - Cathedral City, Colton, Fountain Valley, Santa Fe Springs mikethompson.com Opelika RV Center AL - Opelika • opelikarv.com Open Road RV Center WA - Arlington, Monroe openroadrvcenter.com Out of Doors Mart NC - Colfax • outofdoorsmart.com Patterson RV TX - Wichita Falls • pattersonrv.com Paul Evert’s RV Country AZ - Bullhead City, Flagstaff CA - Fresno; NV - Laughlin OR - Coburg; WA - Fife, Milton, Mt. Vernon rvcountry.com Phillips RV Center MI - Mount Morris • phillipsrv.com PPL Motorhomes TX - Cleburne, Houston, New Braunfels pplmotorhomes.com Princesscraft RV TX - Round Rock • princesscraft.com R.B. Taylor & Sons VA - Lynchburg rbtaylorandsons.com Recreation Plantation RV Sales IL - Lynwood recreationplantationrvsales.com Roadhouse Camper & RV PA - Lake Ariel (Scranton) roadhousecamper.com

RV General Store OK - Newcastle • rvgeneralstore.com

Waterdog RV OR - Dayton • waterdogrv.com

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

Welcome Back RV Outlet TX - Athens • welcomebackrv.com

RV Source TN - Knoxville • rvsforless.net

Western Travel Sales WA - Lynden • westerntravelsales.com

RVs Northwest WA - Spokane • rvsnorthwest.com

Wilder RV WA - Port Angeles • wilderrvs.com

RV Value Mart PA - Lititz, Manheim • rvvaluemart.com Safford RV VA - Thornburg • saffordrv.com Sahara RV NV - Las Vegas • sahararv.com Scott Motor Coach NJ - Lakewood • scottmotorcoach.com See Grins RV CA - Gilroy, San Martin • seegrins.com Seguin RV TX - Seguin • seguinrv.com Simi RV & Off Road CA - Simi Valley • simi-rv.com Sky River RV CA - Buellton, Paso Robles, Pismo Beach skyriverrv.com Snyder’s RV VA - Virginia Beach • snydersrv.com Strickland Marine & RV SC - Seneca • stricklandmarineandrv.com Sunbelt RV Center TX - Belton • sunbeltrv.com Sundown RV Center CA - Atwater • sundownrv.com Super Deals RV Inc. GA - Temple • superdealsrv.com TAC Trailer and RV NC - Moyock • tactrailerandrv.com The Trail Center SC - North Charleston • trailcenter.com Tonies RV VA - Salem • toniesrv.com Toscano RV CA - Los Banos • toscanorv.com

Roy Robinson RV WA - Marysville • royrobinsonrv.com

TravelTime RV TX - Sulphur Springs • traveltimerv.com

Russ Dean Family RV WA - Pasco • russdeanrv.com

Vancouver RV & Park Model Center WA - Vancouver • vancouverrv.com

RV City AZ - Huachuca City • rvcity.net

Vogt RV TX - Ft. Worth • vogtrv.com

CANADA Action VR QC - Saint-Nicolas • actionvr.ca Véhicules Récréatifs JD QC - Sherbrooke • vrjdrv.ca VR Depot QC - Vaudreuil-Dorion • vrdepot.ca VR Emond Plus QC - Sainte-Nicolas • vremondplus.com VR Prestige QC - Terrebonne • vrprestige.com VR Souliere QC - Lanoraie, Lavaltrie • vrsouliere.com GO VR QC - Ange Gardien • go-vr.com Horizon Lussier QC - Maryville • horizonlussier.com JCS Entreposage QC - Trois Rivières • entreposagejcs.com Leasure Days RV ON - Ayr, Kingston, Pembroke, Smith Falls, Sudbry QC - Buckingham, Gatineau, Sherbrooke NB - Salisbury NS - Truro leisuredays.ca Le Centre du Vr Victoriaville QC - Saint-Albert • vrvictoriaville.com Roulottes AS Levesque QC - Châteauguay, Saguenay, Sainte-Hélène, Trois-Rivières roulotte.ca Roulottes Remillard QC - Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu roulottesremillard.com

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

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

CLUB JULY 2017

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

Bounders United (BUTTN)

Northwest

TT SINGLES Central California

Lewis and Clark TTN

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.

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

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

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.

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

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.

Jul. 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

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

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

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 59.

Answers – Sudoku puzzle can be found on page 43.

Keep Our Friends Safe Adopt -AManatee

JULY 2017 TRAILBLAZER

On Location SPEND YOUR

EXPLORING

From a visit to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, to Southern Maine's famed coastal towns, there is no shortage of summer fun in the state that is nicknamed "The Pine Tree State." The following campgrounds will provide a great home base as you explore all that Maine has to offer. With RV sites and cozy rental accommodations the perfect Maine vacation is just a phone call away.

Southern Maine Moody Beach – Wells, ME Pinehirst – Old Orchard Beach, ME

Bar Harbor Mt. Desert Narrows – Bar Harbor, ME Narrows Too – Trenton, ME Patten Pond – Ellsworth, ME

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

888.443.7301 RVontheGo.com

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

WHEREVER YOU TRAVEL THIS SUMMER STAY SAFE AND SAVE WITH A SKYMED MEMBERSHIP SkyMed members simply call our toll-free number and speak to a caring SkyMed representative

24 SEVEN 365. 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

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

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

www.skymed.com/thousandtrails 800-679-2020

For all your travel needs... We are here for you.