March / April TrailBlazer Magazine

MARCH / APRIL 2020 • $2.00

Happy Birthday,

Earth Day! King of the Keys How to celebrate earth day 2020

MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

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R FRIENDS U O Y E T I V IN

YOU receive a $25 VisaÂŽ Virtual Reward when your friend purchases a Thousand Trails Camping Pass!

Your referral also enters YOU into our 2020 drawing for a chance to win these great prizes:

GRAND PRIZE 7-Night Cruise or Trip to Hawaii

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

($4,000 value)

Free Dues for 2021 10 Winners Selected (Up to $599 value)

Contact Us Today!

(888) 808-8925 or visit ThousandTrails.com

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

MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

MARCH / APRIL 2020 VOL.53 • ISSUE 2

WHAT’S INSIDE

20 King of the Keys

36

Look How We Have Grown!

regulars lifestyle

Pics From The Parks 7

Member Deals 56

Crossword Puzzle 60

Sudoku Puzzle 61

Preferred RV Dealer List 62

tips & topics

RV Roof Maintenance 52

Tech Topics 54

MARCH / APRIL 2020 • $2.00

Happy Birthday,

Earth Day! King of the Keys

how to celebrate earth day 2020

4 Paws On the Road 55

5

Message from Marguerite

11 I Knew I Was a TrailBlazer

– with the Jacob Family 32 Updates and Upgrades 34 Open New Doors at myMHcommunity.com!

36 On the Road with John Schneider 45 Recipe – Tuna Steaks 46 Tips for Being WaterWise 48 Happy, Birthday Earth Day!

calendars 16 On-Site Events 20 Local Events

On The Cover: Ponderosa (CA)

64 Club Calendar MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

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ENTER TO WIN ENTER TO WIN at Lazydays.com/TrailFuel at Lazydays.com/TrailFuel

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CALL CALL866.531.6818 866.531.6818

Chehalis (WA)

MESSAGE FROM MARGUERITE Spring is fast approaching, which brings many of us a sense of renewal. We’ve nearly made it through the winter months and warmer temperatures are on the horizon! For those of you who chose to Winter Differently this year and spent the first few months of the year in Florida, Arizona, Texas, or California, I hope you’re enjoying your time soaking up the sun. The rest of us have been eagerly awaiting the return of March and April and are happy to be one step closer to the camping season.

Along with the sense of renewal, many of us take a portion of the spring season and dedicate it to a reset.

Whether you’re re-evaluating your progress on the New Year’s resolutions you set a couple of months ago, or putting together a plan for spring cleaning, new seasons serve as a fresh start. This spring, I challenge you to embrace the returning greenery around you and strive to go green. The March/April issue of TrailBlazer highlights the origination of Earth Day. Did you know 2020 is the 50th anniversary of this great holiday? Not only is it a day outdoor enthusiasts can rally behind, Earth Day serves as a reminder of the things we can do each day to go green and be kind to the great outdoors. You’ll find tips and tricks to celebrate this day on pages 48-51 in this issue of TrailBlazer.

At the start of the year, our Encore RV Resorts partnered with GlobalWaterWorks to focus on water conservation at our locations during the winter season.

The campaign, WaterWise, encouraged our staff and guests to take part in a pledge to help conserve one

of our most precious resources: water. I want to thank everyone who participated in this campaign and I look forward to hearing about the World Water Day celebrations taking place at our Encore RV Resorts on March 22.

We can’t welcome spring without getting at least a little excited about spring break. For those of us who no longer count down the school days to a spring break vacation, this time of year still serves as the perfect time for a getaway with family or friends. If you’re still planning your trip, check out the article titled King of the Keys on pages 22-31 in this issue, which highlights all the exciting things to do in Key Largo and Key West. If you’re hoping to explore all 125 miles of the Florida Keys, consider staying in a colorful cottage at Fiesta Key or one of our new tiny houses at Sunshine Key. Regardless of where you stay, you’re sure to enjoy the waterfront views and gorgeous sunsets at either location.

I hope you’re excited to welcome this new season and get one step closer to the best season of all: camping season.

Marguerite Nader President & CEO

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www.trailblazermagazine.net CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mark Slattery GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kenzie Greene MISSION STATEMENT TrailBlazer provides exclusive news and information for the members and guests of Thousand Trails Family of campgrounds and resorts.

Each issue enhances the recreational lifestyle of its readers through a lively mix of camping and travel features, campground profiles and product features.

TRAILBLAZER (ISSN 0747-2293) is published by MHC TT Memberships, LP, c/o MHC Property Management L.P., 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 tbeditor@equitylifestyle.com TrailBlazermagazine.net NEW SUBSCRIPTIONS Visit www.trailblazermagazine.net and click on the ‘Subscribe’ tab to easily subscribe online today!

Win$50

EACH Issue!

Share your adventures in 3 easy steps!

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 issue 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:

TrailBlazer Magazine Attn: TrailBlazer Editor Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800 Chicago, IL 60606

Emailed photos should be high resolution. Photos are not returnable and become the property of TrailBlazer Magazine 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 online at trailblazermagazine.net.

PRINTED IN THE USA

THOUSAND TRAILS RESERVATIONS Call: (800) 288-7245 Canada: (228) 497-3594 Mon - Fri 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CST ThousandTrails.com Remember! Thousand Trails members get preferred rates at RVontheGo.com (877) 570-2267 RVontheGo.com

▲ Lake Conroe (TX): Beautiful sunset taken at Lake Conroe.

– Bobbie Seymour

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MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

WINN

ER!

▲ Whalers Rest (OR): On our Thousand Trails migration for 2 months from Southern California to Washington.

– Craig McCluskey

▲ La Conner (WA): This photo was taken out in front of the boat launch at the Thousand Trails property in La Conner, WA. – Brandon and Kelsey Gillespie

▲ Rancho Oso (CA): Waterfall near Rancho Oso. – Clarice Treiber

MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

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WANT TO BE A

LUCKY WINNER? Our winner for MARCH /APRIL is Arnold Hageman!

From Livingston, TX, Camping at Colorado River RV Campground, in Lake Columbus, TX when he was presented with $1,000 gift card

Thousand Trails is offering members the opportunity to win a $1,000 American ExpressÂŽ Prepaid Gift Card When you pay your annual dues for 2020 in full, you will be entered into our monthly drawing for a $1,000 American ExpressÂŽ Prepaid Gift Card. There will be one drawing/one winner each month from January through December 2020. In addition, once you pay your dues in full, each time you camp at a Thousand Trails campground in 2020, 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 campground. 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 postmarked/ by December 15, 2020.

This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606.

8 beMARCH APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

Friends who camp together, stay together!

Congratulations to our

2019 Referral Winners!

GRAND PRIZE

Kandi Hulce

SECOND PRIZE

Elena L & Doreen Pascual

Covington, TX

Chula Vista, CA

THIRD PRIZE: Marjorie and Patrick Surko

Becky and Mark Gross

Michale Sousley

Felix and Evelyn Pastoriza/Mendez

Aldergrove, BC Olympia, WA

Donald and Janet Waldron

Hamelton, WI

Staten Island, NY

David Link

Bay City, OR

Rough and Ready, CA

Lisa Payton

Irina and Tony Vechirko

Desiree Maka

Brian and Janet Bailey

Arlington, TX Rio Vista, CA

Vancouver, WA Clovis, CA

MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

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Your vacation plans may be tiny… but they will be mighty.

Sunshine Key Tiny House Village Now Open!

Sunshine Key Tiny House Village s FL

Sunshine Key Tiny House Village s FL

From tiny houses to cabins and yurts to covered wagons - with Petite Retreats, your next vacation will leave a big impression.

Visit petiteretreats.com to plan your getaway, today!

Mt. Hood Tiny House t OR

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MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

Verde Valleyt AZ

I Knew I Was a

TRAILBLAZER FEATURING

The Jacob Family This issue, we are featuring the adventurous Thousand Trails family: Tommy, Summer, Thompson, and Sharlette!

TB: How long have you been camping and RVing?

Who introduced you to it?

Tell us how it all began.

J: My fascination with RVs began with myself (Summer)

as a child. My Nana had one and she would let me play “house” in it. It was a little girl’s dream. I remember getting to go on a trip with her and the excitement of spending the night somewhere new in this little house on wheels. On our second date, we talked about our dreams and traveling was at the top of our list. It was

both of our dreams to live in an RV or van and travel the country. We got married and had our two kids. We took many trips to the RV dealership over the years. In 2018, we decided to take a leap of faith and hit the road full time. We bought a 34 ft fifth wheel and traveled the country with our two small children and two cats!

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TB: How did you first hear about Thousand Trails?

J:  We went out on the road with no real knowledge of campground stays and ways to save money traveling full time. We thankfully met another full time family at our first campground stay and they shared Thousand Trails and how it can be a real help and savings, especially with full time RV life.

TB: What is one of your fondest camping memories? How about one of your fondest TT memories?

J: Our fondest memory was when we were at the Thousand Trails in Palm Springs and decided to host a full time families fire at our site. The circle just kept growing and growing. We went around introducing ourselves and talking about our stories. We played guitars, sang songs, the kids watched a movie on a projector screen at the back of the site. They later joined and were dancing to the music. It was a beautiful thing to sit back and witness other amazing like-minded families doing life in an inordinary, extraordinary way! The friends we made that night are now our forever friends!

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What is one of your fondest camping memories? How about one of your fondest TT memories?... 

"Our fondest memory was when we were at the Thousand Trails in Palm Springs and decided to host a full time families fire at our site. The circle just kept growing and growing." 

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TB: What type of camper are you/what equipment do you use? What do you prefer and why?

J: We have a Forest River Flagstaff fifth wheel mid bunk.

We did an aesthetic renovation throughout the interior to make it more “us.” We love fifth wheels the best because of the tall ceilings, ability to have a bunk room, and how comfortably they tow.

TB: Where have you gone that you wouldn’t have otherwise, if it hadn’t been for your Thousand Trails membership?

J: We’ve been able to full time RV the country thanks to TT. Our highlight was going all along the west coast from southern California in the desert and beaches, to the nation’s most iconic National Parks, up to the beautiful Pacific Northwest through Oregon and Washington.

All possible because of our membership.

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MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

TB: What is your favorite part about the outdoor lifestyle?

J: Being outside so much on this journey has created a connection with nature that’s truly changed our lives.

Whether it be a sunset in San Diego off the Pacific Ocean or a waterfall that looked like it was falling from heaven in Yosemite National Park.

These moments were God given. Our favorite part is seeing our kids thrive in the outdoors. We’ve seen them grow by the constant change and having to adapt to their new environment with each passing week. We’ve watched them push themselves through very strenuous hikes and learn about different ecosystems hands on.

TB: Can you finish this sentence? I knew I was a TrailBlazer when…

J: A memory that empowered us to be “Trailblazers” happened six months into our journey. We boondocked

in the middle of the desert near Zion National Park. It was our first time not staying at a campground, so this meant no power and only the water in our tank. It created an opportunity for no distractions and time to grow some grit.

Living in an RV with your family full time definitely brings you closer together in the best of ways (if you let it) but those days of camping off the grid brought a new bond among our family and a confidence we didn’t know we had.¾

Palm Springs (CA), Photo Courtesy of Jerome Braga

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Activities and Events – On-Site

March & April On - site C A L E N DA R OF EVENTS

2020 Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day March campers can consider themselves lucky if they are looking for a fun way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Plenty of our campgrounds plan to incorporate all things Irish into their festivities. During the weekend of March 13-15, San Benito (CA) will host a house-made corned beef hash and eggs breakfast and shamrock cookie decorating on Saturday, March 14 and then they end the weekend with an authentic corned beef and cabbage dinner on Sunday, March 15. Lake Whitney (TX) promises a weekend packed full of Irish fun from March 13-15 and Lake Conroe (TX) will have special St. Patrick’s Day festivities on March 14, Lake Minden (CA) will have a corned beef and cabbage potluck dinner and an Irish craft on Saturday, March 14 and an Ice Cream Social with chocolate chip mint sundaes on Sunday, March 15.

Lake of the Springs (CA) will also have a corned beef and cabbage dinner on Saturday, March 14, followed by a dance with DJ. Morgan Hill (CA) celebrates the weekend with St. Patty’s-themed 16

MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

San Benito (CA)

Activities and Events – On-Site games and crafts, plus Candy Bar Bingo and a movie with popcorn. Check with your favorite campground to see what they have planned for St. Patrick’s Day fun!

Dancing Fools

Wilderness Lakes (CA)

Wilderness Lakes (CA) will offer line dance instruction during their Annual Line Dance Rally week, set for March 16-21. The classes will culminate with an evening dance on the 21st. Registration is required for the line dance instruction. Lake Whitney (TX) will host a prom event entitled “To the Moon and Back,” giving guests the opportunity to revisit senior prom! Music from the decades, plus refreshments, prom photos and a King and Queen crowning all promise to be a night to remember!

Any Excuse for a Party

Orlando (FL)

Let’s face it, we like to have fun, so any reason for a party is a good one!

Three Flags (FL) will gather everyone for a Dessert and Coffee Social on March 21st and 28th. Please bring your favorite dessert to share. It’s a Farewell Party at Orlando (FL) on March 21 as a carnival by the pool, complete with games and music, is on the schedule to bid farewell to the season.

Pio Pico’s (CA) Annual Car Show and Chili Cook-Off, set for April 11, will feature vintage cars and yummy chili, plus live entertainment, food, and beverages. The weekend of April 24-26, PA Dutch (PA) will host a Meet and Greet Wine & Cheese event (BYOB) which will include a Recipe Swap.

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Activities and Events – On Site

March &April All Things Easter From egg hunts to visits with EB himself, our campgrounds have egg-cellent events planned for Easter. During the weekend of April 10-12, Lake Conroe (TX) will have an egg hunt and an Easter Potluck on April 11 and Natchez Trace (TN) will have more than 2000 eggs for hunting on April 12. Lake Whitney (TX) hosts Easter Weekend with pictures with EB, a hunt and a special glow in the dark hunt on Saturday, April 11th for adults. Circle M (PA) is on the same trail with all kinds of Easter activities planned for the weekend including an egg hunt and photo ops.

San Benito (CA) will have an egg hunt on April 12 and Forest Lake (NC) will have an egg decorating event as well as an Easter egg hunt during the weekend. PA Dutch (PA) will have an Easter Fun Weekend with a wagon ride with the Easter Bunny, a campsite decorating contest and all kinds of Easterthemed games. Russian River (CA) does Easter in your PJs with a movie for kids in the Lodge, a holiday movie on the big screen on the Lodge lawn, a scavenger hunt, Easter egg hunt, crafts and more. Check with your favorite campground to see what they have planned for Easter egg-stravaganzas.

Books and Movies and TV, Please!

Lake Minden (CA) will celebrate the birthday of beloved children’s author, Dr. Seuss, the weekend of March 1 with a variety of silly activities. Dress up like your favorite character, enjoy the Ice Cream Social, and make Dr. Seuss-themed crafts.

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MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

Circle M, PA

Lake Conroe (TX) is looking for a few good superheroes on March 28. Come dressed as your favorite superhero (real or fictional) and enjoy super crafts and super games.

Whalers Rest (OR)

It’s a whole week dedicated to Stranger Things when Whalers Rest (OR) sends spring break week (March 21-28) into the Upside Down as they pay homage to the popular Netflix series. The fun starts with a Missing Will Hunt on March 21 and spirals from there into all kinds of fun like slime making followed by a Slime Party, a reverse trickor-treat event, games including Bingo, Jenga and fun with Legos, a Thriller Dance contest and more.

Don’t miss Benny’s Bingo and Sheriff Hooper Prize Bingo on Saturday, March 28.

Spring into Spring

Forest Lake (NC)

Turtle Beach (CA) will have Bingo in the Lodge at 6:30 p.m. on March 7 to celebrate Spring and asks you to bring a snack to share. Lake Texoma (TX) will have back to back Spring Break weekends on March 14 and 21 with all kinds of crafts, plus outdoor fun such as frisbee and kite flying.

Movie nights will feature popcorn and punch.

Speaking of kites, come show off your skills at Lake Whitney (TX) on March 28 and fly a kite from the Welcome Center parking lot. Lake Minden (CA) celebrates with their Spring is in the Air weekend scheduled for April 17-19 and invites all campers to get outside and take a walk, bike around the lake or participate in jump rope, hula hoop, and frisbee contests. A Friday night potluck, where you bring your favorite spring dish is on the schedule, followed by Brown Bag Bingo.

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Activities and Events – On Site

Lake Texoma (TX)

Activities and Events – Local

2020 LOCAL CALENDAR OF

March & April Throughout April

Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival

Every Thursday evening, downtown Palm Springs hosts an arts and crafts festival with live entertainment and a farmer’s market. villagefest.org

Celebrate our Earth with a variety of events kicking off at 5 p.m. on Friday. There will be a Green Car Show, food trucks, a beer and wine garden, a Kids’ Corner and more. sbearthday.org

Village Fest

VERDE VALLEY (AZ) March 14

Sedona St. Patrick’s Parade The parade begins at 10:30 am and there is also a cultural festival. visitsedona.com April 23-26

Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival Participate in guided walks and workshops led by experienced guides. There will also be children and family events, keynote speakers, and vendors and exhibitors.. verderiver.org PALM SPRINGS (CA) April 3-5

Indian Wells Art Festival Featuring the works of more than 200 juried artists from around the world, the festival is held at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden and will also include live entertainment, an outdoor marketplace, handson demonstrations, and interactive activities for both kids and adults. indianwellsartsfestival.com 20

MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

PIO PICO (CA) March 14

San Diego St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival

ORLANDO (FL) Through March 8

Florida Strawberry Festival

Traditional Irish festival with food, music, dancing and, of course, a parade featuring over 120 entrants that kicks off at 10:30 a.m. (Fifth Avenue at Laurel Street). The Festival will be held in Balboa Park from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m stpatsparade.org

In addition to all things strawberry, this event features concerts, rides, livestock shows, and strawberry shortcake – all to celebrate the strawberry harvest festival.

April 4-6

Real Music Real Masters – Busch Gardens Tampa

San Diego Crew Classic Thousands of athletes compete in the first major regatta of the year in this competitive rowing event. There will also be a beer garden featuring craft brews and local food vendors. regattacentral.com RANCHO OSO (CA) March 13

Santa Barbara Orchid Show Beautiful orchids will be on display along with photography and other floral arrangements.

There will also be plant sales.

The 75th annual event will be held at the Earl Warren Showgrounds. sborchidshow.com April 17-19

flstrawberryfestival.com

Through March 15

This is one of Tampa’s longest running music festivals and features music from the 1950s to present day. Bringing the music to you through unique acts and tribute artists, this event is a delight for all ages.

Through April 2

Mardi Gras at Universal Studios Enjoy nightly parades, Cajun food, live music and all kinds of Mardi Gras fun at this 25th annual party at Universal Studios Orlando. This year’s float theme is Treasures of the Deep. universalorlando.com

LAKE WHITNEY (TX) March 12-14

Emerald City Comic Con

Spring at the Silos

One of the best when it comes to comic book and pop culture conventions. Event is held at the Washington State Convention Center and brings together creators, fans, and plenty of cosplay. emeraldcitycomiccon.com

This is the 4th annual Spring at the Silos event, where visitors can not only see the Magnolia Silos, but enjoy a vendor fair, evening concerts, rooftop picnics, food trucks, and all kinds of daytime entertainment. Held at the Magnolia Silos in Waco. magnolia.com

March 14-15 SEASIDE (OR) March 12-15

Savor Cannon Beach Wine & Food Festival Wonderful four-day event featuring wine tasting, winemakers, wine walks, and the Battle of the Bites food competition. sbiff.org April 24-26

Astoria Warrenton Crab, Seafood & Wine Festival 38th annual festival featuring coastal cuisine, plus arts & crafts, wine tasting and more. Three days of good eating and lots to see and do at this awardwinning event! astoriacrabfest.com MT. VERNON (WA) April 1-30

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival Drive the festival and enjoy the fields of blooming tulips. Millions and millions of tulips are bursting with color throughout the month.

There are all kinds of events and activities revolving around the festival, so check out the website to learn more about “the Coast’s Best Music and Arts Festival.” tulipfestival.org

Seattle Irish Festival Irish films, Irish dancing, and more celebrating Irish culture in western Washington. There will also be a parade, food, exhibits, shops and vendors, and contests and activities. Held at the Seattle Center Armory. seattlecenter.com BAY LANDING (TX) March 22

“Celebrate Women” Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment with a special concert by the New Texas Symphony Orchestra that will feature music written by women composers from the past and present. The event will also include a music video “A Woman’s Right,” which was written and sung by Dolly Parton.

Admission to the concert is free.

Held at the Moody Performance Hall in Dallas. Performance begins at 3 p.m. ntso.org

March 28

Sixth Annual Texas Food Truck Showdown Held in Heritage Square in downtown Waco, in addition to the food trucks, the event features a Kids Zone, a Pop Up Market with handcrafted art, including jewelry and pottery, live music and entertainment, and celebrity judging of the food truck competitors. thetexasfoodtruckshowdown.com

April 23-25

Crossroads Film & Music Festival Held at the historic Chautauqua Auditorium in Waxahachie, this four-day event celebrates the best in Texas-made film and music. In addition to the films, which this year include Temple Grandin and Pure Country, there will be panel discussions, Q&A with filmmakers, and the dedication of the Walk of Fame. crossroadsoftff.com

April 3-5

Deep Elum Arts Festival The 26th annual event features 200 decorative and visual artists, 100 original bands and singer/ songwriters on four stages, plus food, beer, wine and soda.

Admission is free. Event is billed as an “edgy adult event,” however children are welcome. deepelumartsfestival.com

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Activities and Events – Local

EVENTS

THUNDERBIRD (WA) March 12-15

Key West (FL)

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King of the Keys Key West vs. Key Largo

By Cele & Lynn Seldon

S

tretching close to 125 miles from tip to tip, the Florida Keys are a wonderland of natural beauty, underwater magic, and colorful characters. And nowhere is that more evident than in the Keys bookends of Key Largo and Key West. Whether lounging on the beach, fishing for the one that won’t get away, sipping fruity concoctions as the sun goes down, or shopping for that perfectly “Keys-ey” souvenir, the Florida Keys make for a perfect getaway.

Key Largo (FL)

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BEACHES With so much coastline, it’s not surprising that beaches abound.

Key West Smathers Beach/Higgs Beach Key West’s largest public beach at a halfmile long, Smathers Beach is typically bustling, especially during Spring Break and the holidays.

Smathers Beach Key West

Located at Mile Marker 0, Smathers is loaded with amenities, including chair and umbrella rentals, natural coconut tree shade, showers and restroom facilities, and food trucks, making it the perfect place to catch some rays (or some zzzzs). For something a bit tamer and family-friendly, head to Higgs Beach, where the landscape is tropical, the vibe is serene, and the parking is free.

Key Largo Harry Harris Park

Harry Harris Park

Harry Harris Park is located at mile marker 92.5 and is the perfect family beach getaway. The beach surrounds an ideal tidal pool for the little ones and just outside the jetty is perfect for swimming and snorkeling for the adults. There is also a boat ramp for the fishermen, grills, picnic tables and pavilions, playgrounds, showers and restrooms, a bike path, and a ballpark.

But, be sure to bring your own food and beverages, as there are no concessions.

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SNORKELING/DIVING The Florida Keys are home to the continental United States’ only living-coral barrier reef, protected by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and offers some of the world’s best diving.

Key West Dry Tortugas National Park For some of the most vibrant diving in the Florida Keys, head to Dry Tortugas National Park (nps.gov/drto/index.htm), 70 miles west of Key West. With only one percent of the park being dry land, it’s the underwater world that enchants with tons of sea life, colorful coral reefs, and dozens of shipwrecks and sunken treasure. With many of the marine attributes being in five to fifteen feet of shallow water, snorkeling is equally magical.

Key Largo John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park The first underwater park in the United States, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (pennekamppark.com) extends 25 miles long and three miles into the Atlantic Ocean and is filled with legendary marine life and coral reef systems. Don’t miss the famed Christ of the Abyss statue in about 25 feet of water (on clear days, snorkelers can often see it from the surface). For more advanced divers, the intentionally sunk artificial reef, Spiegel Grove, is an underwater treasure trove.

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Snorkeling in the Keys

WATER ACTIVITY With so much water, it isn’t surprising that there’s more to the Florida Keys than just beaches and diving.

Key West Fishing Some of the best angling in the world can be found in Key West – from backcountry fly fishing on the famed flats to light tackle fishing for permit, tarpon and bonefish to the mother lode of offshore deep-sea fishing including sailfish, blue marlin, blackfin tuna, and dolphin fish, also known as mahi-mahi.

The big one is just waiting on charter boats, party boats, or bring-your-own personal boats.

Key Largo Kayaking

Kayaking in the Keys

With so much backcountry and meandering waterways, along with vibrant wildlife including fish, birds, dolphins, crocodiles, and more, Key Largo is the perfect spot for kayaking. Bring your own, rent, or sign up for a kayaking tour – there are plenty of options for beginners and advanced paddlers throughout the island. You can even try your hand at kayak fishing.

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SUNSETS With sunsets everywhere you turn in the Keys, it’s hard to pick just one. All you need to do is open your eyes.

Key West Mallory Square For a communal sunset celebration, there is no better choice than Mallory Square (mallorysquare.com). With an enviable location at the northwestern tip of Key West, there’s no shortage of magnificent red, pink, orange, purple, and crimson wisps of clouds to pay homage to the day’s end. There’s also a colorful cast of magicians, jugglers, clowns, psychics, musicians, artists, and food vendors that make it a daily party. For something a bit more subdued, but equally stunning, head to the Afterdeck at Louie’s Backyard.

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Mallory Square at sunset

Key Largo Rowell’s Waterfront Park/Sundowners/ Snook’s Bayside Restaurant Ask ten locals and you’ll get ten answers.

For your money, head to Rowell’s Waterfront Park (monroecounty-fl.gov).

Facing northwest, the park is free, dogfriendly, and has picnic tables, benches, and unobstructed views of the sunset along the sound. If you like food or beverages with your sunset, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, including nearby Sundowner’s or Snook’s Bayside Restaurant.

WATERFRONT DINING With the ocean on the south side and the bay on the north side, waterfront dining is almost an oxymoron.

Key West Latitudes Restaurant

Latitudes Restaurant on Sunset Key Just 500 yards off Key West, award-winning Latitudes Restaurant (sunsetkeycottages.com) on the 27-acre island of Sunset Key takes waterfront dining to new heights. Accessible only by boat, with ferry service available from Margaritaville Key West, the Lunch by the Beach menu and Dine in Paradise dinner menu are filled with locally sourced seafood, daily fresh catches, tropical fruits, and luxurious island cuisine in either the Ernest Hemingway room or al fresco overlooking the Gulf of Mexico surrounded by tiki torches and twinkling stars.

Key Largo Snappers Key Largo Even though it’s all about the waterfront view at Snappers (snapperskeylargo.com), it’s also about their seafood, including lots to graze on, raw bar specialties, seafood signature entrees, and loads of fresh catch options prepared a half-dozen ways. Don’t miss their three unique waterfront bars, including the Turtle Club, the Tiki Bar, and Reef Bar offering up happy hours, live music, and special events.

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WATERING HOLES Some might say that the Florida Keys invented the concept of the watering hole.

Or, at least they have perfected it.

Key West Green Parrot Bar On the same site since 1890, the Green Parrot Bar (greenparrot.com) is a Key West institution. An iconic rough-andtumble honky-tonk that has withstood the test of time (and Key West progress), it is still what you might expect with colorful characters, live music (or a jammin’ jukebox when the stage is dark), the clackity-clack of pool balls, and the coolest beverages in town. For something a bit more upscale, check out the Sunset Pier at Ocean Key.

Green Parrot Bar

Key Largo Caribbean Club The oldest bar in the Upper Keys and where parts of the Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall film, Key Largo, was filmed, the Caribbean Club (caribbeanclubkl.com) oozes old Key Largo charm. With an extensive outdoor area – complete with sand beach, palm trees, and boat docks – the bar is steps away from the water, including spectacular waterfront views and sunsets. Stop in for live music, happy hour, or just to enjoy the Key Largo vibe.

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Caribbean Club, Photo Courtesy of Katie Schweiss

Besame Mucho

SHOPPING What’s a trip to the Florida Keys without finding that perfect souvenir?

Key West Key West Island Books, Bésame Mucho and Kino Sandals Channel your inner Hemingway at Key West Island Books (keywestislandbooks.com). New and used, the shop hosts fiction and nonfiction in its funky, beachy vibe, as well as tons of local writers to get you in the mood.

For truly unique finds from bath and body to books and baubles and candles to clothing, Bésame Mucho (besamemuhco.net) has your gift-giving covered. And don’t leave the Keys without a pair of 17 different styles of highquality and über-comfortable locally made Kino Sandals (kinosandals.com).

Key Largo Shell World and Key Lime Products No trip to Key Largo is complete without a stop at the behemoth Shell World (shellworldflkeys.com). Carrying all things shells (literally tens of thousands to pick from), nautical gifts, key chains, Christmas ornaments, tropical décor, clothes, accessories and more, Shell World runs the gamut from tacky tourist to high quality merchandise and is the epitome of one-stop shopping. For all things Key lime, head to Key Lime Products (keylimeproducts.com.)¾

V i s i t RVontheGo.com to b o o k yo u r F lo r i da K e y s A dv e n t u r e to day !

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UPDATES AND

UPGRADES What’s new at your favorite Thousand Trails property and what’s in the works.

Hidden Cove Arley, AL

Over 80 new RV sites have been added. Upgrades to the pool, bathhouse, laundry facilities, boat dock and ramp.

Orlando RV Resort Clermont, FL

New site expansion is in the works at TT Orlando. Recently upgraded amenities include a new miniature golf course, pickleball courts with lights, new pool furniture and playground equipment. The pool area has been upgraded, along with the interior of the clubhouse and store.

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Verde Valley, Cottonwood, AZ Verde Valley’s new RV site expansion boasts over 60 new premium sties. Guests will enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding valley and mountain landscape while camping on the bluff area of the resort.

Moody Beach, Wells, ME

We are excited to share that we are making progress on our new RV site expansion, sports courts and entrance.

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GO FROM THE OPEN ROAD

TO OPENING NEW DOORS We know how much RVrs love escaping winter to the sunny RV Resorts in Florida, Arizona and South Texas, but have you ever thought about making it your home? We have over 100 beautiful manufactured home communities in the sunbelt and even more across the United States! With new and pre-owned homes for sale at nearly every location, there’s a place for you to Winter Differently all year long.

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RV and Manufactured home communities have a lot in common, so it’s easier than you think to have the best of both worlds. And, many snowbirds and Winter Texans keep the home they love up north and get a vacation home to get away from the ice and snow in favor of sand, ocean and sunshine!

Open new doors to a great community lifestyle

Learn more at or Call (800) 274-7314 MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

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On the

road WITH JOHN SCHNEIDER

By Cele & Lynn Seldon This month, we chatted with actor, writer, recording artist, dancer, philanthropist and Renaissance man, John Schneider.

he’d have time to do anything else. Let alone travel in his RV.

Probably most well-known for his stint as Bo Duke on the 1979-1985 series, Dukes of Hazzard, John Schneider has much more to his credit than simply cruising around in his Dodge Charger and getting into mischief with his cousins Luke and Daisy. A musician with 19 albums (including two that came out in 2019 – Redneck Rebel and Recycling Grace), other television credits including Jim Cryer on Tyler Perry’s The Haves and the Have Nots, and Jonathan Kent on Smallville, a dancer with a stint on Dancing with the Stars, an author with his memoir, My Life, My Way, screenwriting, movie producing with his wife, Alicia Allain, and being a co-founder of the Children’s Miracle Network, you wouldn’t think

How did you get into RVing?

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We caught up with John as he and Alicia were setting out in their RV on a promotional tour.

I’ve had an RV forever. When I did Dukes, I had a Vogue motorhome. The next show I did I had a Lance Cabover Camper over a Chevy 454.

From there I went to a Coachman fifth wheel. From that I went to an Alfa See Ya. So, I’ve always RVed. My dad had an 18-foot olive green GMC and camped with my family in the good old days.

When I had the Alfa and the fifth wheel, we’d take the kids out and go camping. One of the great memories, hopefully, of their childhood.

Do you RV for work, pleasure or both?

We try to travel for fun. But we’re promoting a movie and

a new single, so it winds up being more for work. But it’s great. Currently it’s probably 90 percent work, 10 percent pleasure. We love what we do so if we’ve got an 8 or 12-hour drive, we’ll have the driver stop halfway through and we’ll go play a round of golf somewhere while he takes a nap. We also love to antique. So sadly, I say jokingly, this coach has a lot of bins underneath it. So, there is lots of room for lamps and knick-knacks you find in an antique store that you couldn’t possibly live without.

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

I don’t like hotels. I like my coffee pot, we like our pillows, our drawers, toothbrushes in the same spot. My favorite thing? Everything. You have your own bed. So, you have your own mattress, pillow and sheets. You know where your

Do you have any camping rituals?

No, I don’t yet. But the first one I want to build is when we see a golf course, we stop. And if it’s nighttime, we stop, and we sleep and then we play in the morning. Can you tell that I like golf?

What can we expect from you in 2020?

socks are. You know where your toothbrush is. You can cook in there. You also can stock it up from a nice store.

John Schneider, Credit Harrison Funk

What are your three favorite things/gadgets/ items on board your RV? The auto levelers, number one.

Love that. It has a powder room and a bathroom. We often carry someone with us like a guitar player or a harmonica player and we can all hang out in the front. But when it’s time for us to go to bed in the back, they don’t have to traipse through our world to use the restroom.

We have a great 26” or 27” outdoor screen underneath the awning where we watch westerns and old movies. And I can’t forget the fireplace.

What’s your favorite meal to make?

I’m a breakfast guy so I like to whip up omelets and cappuccino. I like to make these egg muffins made with egg and coleslaw, believe it or not, with a little cheese and a little bacon in a muffin tin. And it makes a great little snack that you can gnaw on as you go down the road.

You’ll hear me a lot. You’ll hear a lot of music. Music is the most important. We’re also doing a tribute to Smoky and the Bandit called Stand on It. We’re putting a bunch of our music in there on the soundtrack.

Your amazing Children’s Miracle Network has raised more than $7 billion dollars for medical research and awareness of children’s health issues since you co-founded it in 1983. Are you doing anything else on the philanthropic front?

We’re doing some work at different maximum-security prisons with men’s choirs. We started in Angola, Louisiana, then one in Tennessee and two in Georgia. As we were producing Recycling Grace, we had a chance to go play at a prison and I was like, “well, yeah, Johnny Cash did it, let’s do it” and we saw a world in there we really weren’t prepared to see. We saw redemption and forgiveness and apologies–nothing like what you see in the movies about what prison is like. It was very eye-opening.¾

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Look How We’ve Grown Sun shin e K e y RV R esort a n d M a ri n a welcom e ne w arri va ls!

By Joan Rykal

S

unshine Key RV Resort and Marina, Encore’s fabulous location in the Florida Keys is bursting with pride at the arrival of their five new tiny homes. The resort’s Tiny House Village welcomed five new tiny homes this past fall. Come on down and get a look at these adorable bundles of vacation joy, or as they are affectionately known at SSK, Pearl, Isla, Hemingway, Lucy, and Kai. Of course, as with any new arrival in a family, we just can’t say enough about them. Each has its own unique personality, and each is perfectly appointed with everything you need for a perfect stay.

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Tiny Houses: Lucy and Hemingway

Tiny House: Pearl

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Tiny House: Kai

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Pearl is pretty in pink and features a sleeper sofa on the first floor and a queen bed in the lofted sleeping area (accessible by stairs), as well as a full bathroom with standing shower, and a kitchen complete with refrigerator, stove top, coffeemaker, microwave, toaster, dinnerware and cookware.

Isla shines in her tropical green exterior with a fully appointed interior that includes a first-floor sleeper sofa and a lofted sleeping area with two queen-sized beds and a twin bed. The full bathroom has a tub and shower and the kitchen

is complete with stove top, refrigerator, coffeemaker, microwave, toaster and dinnerware and cookware.

Lucy is friendly with a sunny personality and an exterior color to match! Life with Lucy includes a first-floor sleeper sofa and two lofted queen beds as well as a lofted twin bed! The kitchen matches those of her counterparts and the full bathroom features both a shower and tub.

Kai gives off a water loving vibe thanks to the aqua exterior that mimics the waters of the Keys. Inside, Kai is just as easy-going with a firstfloor sleeper sofa and a lofted

Tiny House: Kai

queen bed. Kai’s kitchen has all the amenities including a refrigerator, stovetop, microwave, coffeemaker, toaster cookware and dinnerware.

Hemingway and the Keys are pretty much synonymous, so to have an authentic Keys trip, consider a stay in Hemingway, the tiny home!

The first level/basement features a full bed and the loft area, accessible by ladder, has a queen bed.

The kitchen has the same features as the other tiny homes and the full bath features a standing shower.

All the tiny homes have AC/ heat, TV with basic cable, linens, outdoor seating, and grills.

The new tinies are the perfect complement to an already fabulous resort that in addition to its great Keys location, offers guests wonderful amenities including a swimming pool, tennis and pickleball courts, and laundry facilities. The resort also offers on-site fishing opportunities, a marina and dock, and a beach area! Factor in the Gulf’s free of charge amazing sunrises and sunsets and the abundance of activities available in the Gulf’s warm waters, a visit to Sunshine Key is a must-do!

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Speaking of water activities, Keys Boat Tours, an outfitter who rents kayaks, stand up paddle boards, and bikes as well as provides snorkeling, and fishing tours, is located on-site at Sunshine Key. Keys Boat Tours has the distinction of being named a Blue Star Operator.

The Blue Star program, which was established by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, recognizes tour operators who are committed to promoting responsible and sustainable diving, snorkeling, and fishing practices to reduce the impact of these activities on the ecosystems in the Keys.

So not only do you have the opportunity to take advantage of their tours and rentals directly on-site, but you have the satisfaction in knowing that your water adventures are a sound choice for both you and the marine world you’ll explore!

Learn more at keysboattours.com If you need any more reasons to book a stay at Sunshine Key (although we think the aforementioned are plenty), take a look at what you can do in the Keys, while making SSK your home away from home for a wonderful island adventure.

Explore the land of Ernest Hemingway and visit Key West.

Just 30 miles from the resort, Key West is a world unto itself.

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The main thoroughfare, Duval Street, has shops, boutiques, galleries, eateries, cigar stores, coffee shops and architecture that highlights the area’s Spanish history. At night, Duval Street comes alive thanks to the many bars, which include Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville and Sloppy Joe’s, famous for its Hemingway look-alike contests.

For a deeper look around Key West, take the Conch Train. One of the island’s most popular attractions, the Conch Train loops Old Town Key West during an informative, and fun, 75-minute tour of the city. And to get up close and personal with Hemingway himself, tour the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum (hemingwayhome.com), where the author lived, and wrote, for 10 years. Around the grounds, as well as throughout the city, you will find an abundance of cats, which are said to all be descended from a six-toe cat gifted to Hemingway by a sea captain.

Tiny House: Pearl

Tiny House: Pearl

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There are plenty of beaches to enjoy in the Keys, with Bahia Honda State Park being one of the more popular. Another is the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park on Key Largo. A snorkeler’s dream, there is a shipwreck not far from shore. The Dry Tortugas features several features and is also home to historic Fort Jefferson, one of the nation’s largest 19th century forts.

Theater of the Seas, located on Islamorada, offers dolphin and sea lion shows and you can take a swim with both. Movie buffs might enjoy a cruise on the African Queen that offers several cruises each day, including a dinner cruise, around the waters of Key largo (africanqueenflkeys.com). Just the drive from island to island itself is an experience, as the Overseas Highway is the main way to do this. Enjoy the 11-mile ride with fabulous views from all sides.

The Keys also are known for their many festivals. Some popular festivals include the Marathon Seafood festival each March, Hemingway Days each July and the Key West Fantasy Fest, held every year in October.¾

For more info on what to see and do in the Florida Keys, visit fla-keys.com.

To reserve your stay in one of the newly arrived tiny homes, visit Tiny House: Lucy

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Petiteretreats.com

who is in the kitchen with

TRAILBLAZER? Pan Seared Tuna Steaks with A Soy Glaze Ingredients: 8 ounces tuna steaks Salt

Pepper

Green onion (chopped, for garnish) GLAZE

1/2 cup water

2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar

3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce 2 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons orange juice 1 teaspoon minced garlic

1 teaspoon ginger (grated)

1 tablespoon green onion (chopped)

Instructions: 1. In a small saucepan, combine all the ingredients for the glaze and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes or until the glaze is thick enough to coat a spoon. Take pan off stove and set aside.

2. Drizzle some oil on a large skillet and heat to medium high heat. Salt and pepper both sides of the tuna, and sear for one minute per side. Then give the edges a quick sear and place on a cutting board.

3. Cut slices on the bias and arrange on a plate. Drizzle glaze over slices and serve.

(Recipe from soupbelly.com) Check out more recipes at TrailBlazer.com!

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STAYI NG AT HO ME

By Joan Rykal Whether you’re at an Encore RV Resort for a day, the season or all year long, here are helpful water saving tips for your home, and we THANK YOU for being WaterWise!

Encore RV Resorts kicked off the new year with a campaign to save water. Partnering with GlobalWaterWorks, Encore introduced the WaterWise program to our resorts, providing the 70 resorts in the region, which includes California, Texas, and Arizona, the opportunity to show their commitment to saving water. The initiative asked the staff, residents and guests of these resorts, which have a combined 34,692 sites, to follow tips and guidelines to achieve positive effects toward water conservation. The end of the campaign, which began January 1, coincides with World Water Day which falls on March 22, 2020.

Upon arriving at the resorts, guests were greeted with WaterWise messaging and tips on how to save water. Each resort gave guests a pledge card which also entered them into a sweepstakes for monthly drawings for giveaways. The card also included a quick primer with everyday tips to save water. Those tips

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included ideas from everything to overall plumbing tips to kitchen and laundry ideas on how to conserve water.

Those handy tips were simple things to accomplish such as running only full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher, taking shorter showers, turning off the water when shaving or brushing teeth, and installing faucet aerators. From an outdoor standpoint, watering the lawn only when necessary and sweeping debris from walkways, decks, and driveways rather than hosing them down were good ideas to help conserve water.

No doubt the campaign will prove to be a success and we will provide updates on the program’s initial success as well as future plans for the WaterWise initiative. In the meantime, you don’t need a formal campaign to be wise about water – use the tips here and research other ways you can do your part to save this precious resource.¾

Tips

FOR BEING

WaterWise

Consider planting more trees, shrubs, and ground covers, which usually demand less water than grass.

Shrubs and ground covers provide greenery for much of the year and use native plants in flower beds that have adapted to rainfall conditions.

When mowing your lawn, set the mower blades to 2-3 inches high. Longer grass shades the soil improving moisture retention.

Only water the lawn when necessary. Water in the morning or late in the evening and avoid watering on windy and hot days to minimize evaporation.

Ensure your irrigation system is properly installed, programmed for the appropriate amount and rate of water, and has rain shut-off capability.

Apply mulch around shrubs and flower beds to reduce evaporation.

Use a broom to clean walkways, driveways, decks, and porches, rather than hosing off these areas.

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Happy Birthday, Earth Day!

By Joan Rykal

South Jetty (OR)

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I

n keeping with the activist environment of the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, Senator Gaylord Nelson (D-Wisconsin) had the idea to harness the concept of the popular “sitin” but instead to use it as a teaching event. After seeing the devastating effects an oil spill off the coast of Santa Barbara, California, had on the marine environment as well as the beaches and surrounding areas, Nelson came up with the idea to hold a “national teach-in on the environment.” Teaming up with Republican Congressman Pete McCloskey, Gaylord

pushed the idea of environmental protection into the minds of Americans.

The result was the first Earth Day. On April 22, 1970, 20 million Americans, from coast to coast, demonstrated for a “healthy, sustainable environment.” Interestingly, the date was chosen because it fell between spring break and final exams for most college students. Nelson was later awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and Earth Day expanded to a worldwide event recognized in more than 190 countries.

Legislative milestones accomplished, thanks in a major part to Earth Day,

included the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency, the Clean Water Act of 1972 and the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974. These are just a few of the victories that have come from the increased awareness of the importance of environmental protection.

Fast forward 50 years and Earth Day continues to be a concept of global importance, leading the charge to address global warming, air pollution, water pollution, carbon footprints and more. In fact, the message that Earth Day brings to us is something that should make us recognize Earth Day, every day. So, MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

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Rancho Oso (CA)

let’s celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the first Earth Day and look at some ways we can make efforts on a daily basis to make small changes.

Practice Home Energy Efficiency: Using less energy helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By switching from incandescent bulbs to LED bulbs, you can potentially use 75% less energy. Use programmable thermostats, which are eco-friendly.

Participate in Earth Hour 2020 – on Saturday, March 28, beginning at 8:30 p.m. local time, switch off your lights for one hour.

Recycle: Did you know the EPA has a Food Recovery Hierarchy? They most certainly do, and the purpose of the hierarchy is to address how to maximize food use and minimize food waste.

Composting is the fifth tier of that hierarchy. Benefits of 50

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composting include adding nutrients to the soil thereby reducing a need for chemical fertilizers and reducing landfill waste. Check out bhg.com for a step by step approach to composting.

Cut down or give up using plastic, wherever possible: Do you remember the 1967 movie The Graduate, when the impressionable Benjamin Braddock was told the future could be found in one word – plastics? Well, that stands true today except the goal is to eliminate plastics. Easy ways to do that include not drinking bottled water from plastic bottles, investing in sporks or other handy travel utensils to cut down on the use of plastic utensils when dining away from home, using your own reusable bags when shopping, and paying attention to the packaging of

the items you purchase.

From a camping standpoint, how do we camp in a way that recognizes the efforts of Earth Day? Keep in mind the saying “Leave only footprints, take only pictures” when camping. Simply put, leave everything the way you found it, if not better!

• Use non-toxic bug spray and sunscreen.

• Use solar lighting and lanterns.

• Use refillable water bottles and containers • Sort your trash – one for waste, one for recycling, one for composting. Pack it in, pack it out should be your motto.

• Bring washable, reusable supplies – keeping your single-use items to a minimum.¾

Chehalis (WA)

Lake Texoma (TX)

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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

ABOUT RV ROOF MAINTENANCE ORIGINAL ARTICLE CAN BE VIEWED AT

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make safety your top priority.

If your RV does not have a ladder going up to the roof, it probably is not stable enough for you to walk on. If this is the case, we recommend a properly equipped RV service center perform the rooftop inspection.

Rubber RV roofs should be cleaned at least four times a year, while fiberglass and aluminum RV roofs can be cleaned twice a year.

ROOF REPAIRS RV roof maintenance is critical not only for your comfort and safety but also the overall value of your RV. Whether it’s general wearand-tear, water damage, or an errant tree limb, your RV’s roof is a crucial component that requires regular maintenance. Check out these helpful tips and facts about RV roof maintenance from the RV service experts at Lazydays RV. WATCH OUT FOR THESE Your RV’s roof is subject to damage from all sorts of natural and unnatural elements. The most damaging element, no matter what type of roof you have, is water. If your RV roof sealant has any type of voids, you could begin to experience leaks that can damage the interior of your RV. It is recommended you check your RV rooftop and

body sealant every 3 months for signs of deterioration or damage.

Snow and ice are also risk factors, as water expands when it freezes. If you’re taking your RV to a place where the temperature drops below freezing, water in cracks and other spaces can freeze and worsen existing damage.

Trees are also an RV roof’s worst enemy. Tree branches and limbs can easily puncture the rubber membrane on a roof. Make sure to check your RV’s roof anytime you come into contact with low-hanging branches or other objects.

BASIC CARE AND UPKEEP TIPS Maintaining your RV’s roof is a very important part of general RV upkeep. When cleaning or performing any inspection on your roof,

For any type of RV roof damage, the service experts at Lazydays RV are here to help. They provide replacement and repair services for rubber and fiberglass RV roofs. Their rubber RV roof service includes luan sheeting replacement, new sealant application, and more. The RV experts at Lazydays RV can handle any damage done to fiberglass roofs that involves sanding, primer application and fiberglass replacement.

For more information on their RV roof repair services, feel free to visit a Lazydays RV service location or call (866) 531-6818 to request a service appointment.

Check out the Lazydays RV blog for their other RV maintenance videos for any other maintenance questions you may have.¾

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Tips and Topics

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

By Paul and Kerri Elders Let’s take a look at some quick and easy steps to make changing a battery simple, easy, and pain-free.

We’ll also give you some tips for caring for your auxiliary generator (genset) and help you clearly see why you need to keep your windshield clean. Ready? Let’s go!

I Can See Clearly Now: Keep your windshield clean! A dirty windshield will contribute to fatigue (especially at night), but a clean windshield makes driving a pleasure. We’ve all been behind an 18-wheeler on a wet highway and suddenly realized we had a bad set of windshield wiper blades or an empty windshield washer fluid tank. A good set of windshield wipers and a full canister of windshield washer fluid makes it easier to safely see the road. Carry some spray window cleaner and paper towels (or, better yet, old newspapers – newsprint is GREAT for cleaning windows. Seriously. Just crinkle a sheet into a loose ball, spray the window & wipe away). Then, when you get a bad case of road grime masking (film around the windshield where the wipers can’t reach), you can quickly and easily clean your windshield & outside mirrors at your next rest stop or fueling stop. It helps!

If road conditions are too bad for you to feel comfortable driving yourself and your family, stop and wait for better conditions. Don’t drive through the middle of a thunderstorm if you feel uncomfortable. Take a break and have a sandwich. This is no time to let ego overcome good judgment: the safety of your family, yourself, and your rig is certainly worth a few minutes’ wait for better conditions.

Keep your fluid levels high and your frustrations low, and you’ll always have a great trip!

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Caring for your Genset: Most motorhomes, and many fifth wheels and travel trailers, have an auxiliary power generator (genset) sized to match the load of the rig. This is usually adequate to operate most of the appliances in the RV, while traveling or dry camping. This convenient source of electrical power is designed to operate the load of the rig, but must be treated with respect and care. A working knowledge of how to load and unload the generator is essential.

First of all, always be sure the generator is properly ventilated. After starting the generator, allow it to run three to four minutes, unloaded. Then, turn on needed appliances, one at a time. After running the generator with a heavy load, be sure to turn off all of the appliances you are running (one at a time) and allow the generator to run, unloaded, for three to four minutes before shutting it down.

This allows the generator to cool down to a normal temperature and will significantly reduce wear on the generator itself.

If you are running your generator when you pull into a campground and decide to plug into shore power, be sure to turn off all appliances (the load) before turning off the generator and plugging in to shore power. If you don’t turn off all appliances first, the sudden surge of current through your transfer switch could damage your appliances and the transfer switch. It’s wise to load and unload any power source one appliance at a time.

Quick and Easy Steps to Change a Battery: Those old reliable power sources, our batteries, can and do die. If you ever have to replace one, it’s a relatively simple process. Just

exercise a little caution, and use the right procedure. First, inspect the old battery for corrosion or acid spills. If found, gently wash these away with water. If your cables aren’t color coded (they should be), then be sure to label the cables so that you will know which is what when you reconnect them. First, remove the negative cable first (usually, this is black or the connector is marked with a minus sign). This minimizes the possibility of shorting the battery when you remove the other cable.

Remove the positive cable (usually red or connector marked with a plus sign), then the battery bracket or clamp.

If corroded, replace. Take your old battery to a recycling center.

Next, make sure the battery tray and the cable connectors are clean. If not, use a wire brush (available from any auto parts store) to clean the terminals and the inside of the terminal clamps.

If any of these parts are severely corroded, do yourself a favor and replace them, since severe corrosion will significantly impair the battery’s performance. Nestle the battery into the battery tray, making sure that the negative side of the battery lines up with the negative battery cable you’ve labeled. Apply a thin coat of vaseline to the battery terminal and the terminal clamps to prevent future corrosion.

Now, just replace the hold-down bracket to secure the battery in place, and then reconnect the battery cables, first POSITIVE and then NEGATIVE (reverse order of how you disconnected them). Check the battery’s fluid level and state of charge. If necessary, fill as instructed with distilled water and recharge as required.

Check out more tips & tricks on trailblazermagazine.com

4THE ROAD

Tips and Topics

PAWS ON

By Jenn Swope Traveling and Camping with Companion Animals

Hi Jenn!

Two questions: any update on your search for the best shampoo and/or weekly spray to use on a stinky dog that’s working well for you? Also, which over the counter skunk spray deodorant do you suggest- just in case the pups get into a confrontation with one of those pesky black and white critters? We are getting ready to hit the road this summer and wish to be prepared for the unknown!

Thanks for the advice in the past and the encouragement to get out and explore the Thousand Trails System!

Travis and Hope Portland, OR Thank you for writing in and I truly appreciate you sharing with me how I have encouraged you to get out and explore! Life is too short!

Murphy’s Law tends to prevail and with such good planning, let’s hope that you won’t ever have to run into one of those stinky little buddies for a close encounter. Just in case, I have you covered with the ready to go Natures Miracle Skunk Odor Removal. This Bio-Enzymatic Formula completely eliminates skunk odors. The fast-acting formula breaks down the oils sprayed by the skunk to permanently remove all traces of odor upon application.

Apply and let sit for 5 minutes. It’s safe for use around children and pets, when used as directed, and

requires no additional powders or liquids. As for the recent update on my musty mutt I’m in love with the Skout’s Honor Daily Use Probiotic Spray, which both hydrates and deodorizes the skin and coat for a fresher, better-smelling pet in between washes. For close quarters as in an RV, it’s ideal. I’m a skeptic, so I make a point to not recommend anything that I don’t feel truly functions the way a product is described. This fine mist pump spray really does the job and leaves your pup as fresh as a spring honeysuckle!

Designed to support your pet’s natural defenses against shedding, itching, dryness, hot spots, and odor - for a naturally-balanced and healthier-looking skin and coat that’s 98.5% natural, soap/paraben & sulfate-Free. I reapply the spray every four to five days and wash once a month. Specially PH-Balanced for dogs, Skout’s Honor even helps feed animals in need with every bottle sold.

What’s not to love about that!? MSRP $12.99 for 8oz. and the coordinating shampoo works wonders.

Jenn, Over the last year, and despite the DCM madness, I’ve completely switched to grain-free and increased the amount of meat in my dog’s diet by adding more raw foods specifically formulated for pet feeding. I wanted to report and ask; the increased amount of energy my dog has in his middle age, quality of coat and less stool production is impressive. I can literally see how less filler equates to less waste as you have prompted me to explore. I’ve found a superb holistic vet and in doing so, I’ve added Omegas with Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil on a daily basis and daily CBD Liposomes from PetReleaf. All of these changes you suggested and were supported by my vet- I can’t thank you enough! I’m trying to move away from kibble all together. I’ve been using Dave’s wet canned food as a daily topper and my pup has

been itching with each formula. Any ideas of what’s causing this? I’m willing to try something else before paying for a big allergy blood test as he seemed OK before adding the canned food.

What might I use as an incentive to keep his food experience more exciting as he is a bit of a picky eater? I love the Thousand Trails location options and appreciate how pet friendly they are.

Did you have troubles finding the pet foods you needed when traveling in the RV for more than a few weeks?

Cheers, Aaron How wonderful to hear such an encouraging report of your willingness to do a ton of research, keep asking questions and being willing to question the validity of various reports.

I, too, have had excellent results with my holistic veterinarian and the CBD products from both Healthy Hemp and PetReleaf. The potato alone in the Dave’s just might be what’s causing your pet to itch. Finding products that our pets will eat and keep within a budget is possible while traveling on the road. I was a full time RVer for 8 years and sought out small businesses that carried the brands I needed. I rely on freeze dried as a healthy topper and my pets thrive on Primal Pet Foods; each variety is a complete food with zero synthetics and all organic supplementation. Perfect for travel, lightweight and packable, 3lbs. of complete food only weighs 14oz!

Email Jenn your questions and share your pics to JennSwope@gmail.com

MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

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MEMBER DEALS! Thousand Trails Members Always Save On RV Sites & Rentals at

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MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals

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Mention Early Bird

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of a Seasonal Stay

PAR A D I SE RV

$400 OFF of a Seasonal Stay

Min stay 89 nights, max stay 182 nights Valid at Paradise RV

Call To Book Valid on standard RV sites Valid 10/1/2020 - 3/31/2021. Book by 3/31/2020

Mention Early Bird Restrictions/exclusions apply.Subject to availability.

Reservations required. Rates based on standard site unless otherwise specified. Stays 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 offer 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.

of a Seasonal Stay

T H O USA N D T R A I L S STA N DA R D D I S CO UN T S :

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TT10% MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

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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!

58 58

MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER TRAILBLAZER

Get More Locations Plan Further Ahead Explore New Accommodations Travel Club

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.

MARCH MARCH / APRIL / APRIL 2020 2020 TRAILBLAZER TRAILBLAZER

59 59

C RO S SWO R D

ACROSS 1 Affirmative 5 Ancient Per. province 9 Citizen (abbr.)

12 Isle of Napoleon 13 Move (pref.)

14 Genetic letters 15 Wen (2 words) 17 Fiddler crab genus 18 Whitlow grass 19 Face 20 Blue gray 23 Eur. Economic Community (abbr.)

24 Helm position 25 U.S mountain range (abbr.)

30 Slugger’s stat 31 Auspices 32 Express disapproval 33 Form into a chain 35 Variation 36 Dutch commune 37 Pale yellow 38 Scarce 40 Elite 60

MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

43 Amer Dental Assn. (abbr.)

44 Quack 48 Boring tool 49 Line 50 Repair 51 Adjective - forming (suf.)

52 Title of Athena 53 Action (suf.)

DOWN 1 Favorable vote 2 BPOE member 3 Mother of Hezekia 4 Feel 5 Ecuador (abbr.)

6 Arm 7 Wild ox 8 Sea 9 Tribulation 10 King Atahualpa 11 S. Afr. Language 16 three (Ital.)

19 Ten (pref.)

20 Grape refuse 21 It. island

22 Repeat 23 Curved letter 25 Council for Econ. Advisors (abbr.)

26 Agent (abbr.)

27 Equal 28 “Cavallera Rusticana” heroine 29 Appear 31 Donkey (Fr.) 34 Gelderland city 35 Fleet 37 Rom. first day of the month 38 Atomic physicists 39 Mine entrance 40 Bile 9 (pref.)

41 Occasional 42 Mother of Brunhilde 44 Circuit Court of Appeals (abbr.)

45 Brown 46 Trajectory 47 Compass direction

S U D O KU

Answers can be found on page 65.

Find The Evergreen Tree

An evergreen tree is hidden somewhere in this issue.

Send us a postcard telling us where you found it, and if your card is drawn you’ll win a $25 American Express® Prepaid Gift Card.

David and Gail Gruis Apache Junction, AZ

Found the tree on Page 47 of the January / February Issue.

Did you find the tree in this issue?

Send your entry (postcards only) to: TrailBlazer Evergreen Tree Two North Riverside Plaza Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606.

Postmark deadline is April, 29, 2020 and remember – the tree could be a different color and size.

Terms and Conditions for 2020 Referral Promotion from page 2.

For each Eligible Referral (as defined) through December 31, 2020, you will receive a $25 Virtual Visa® Reward Card. In addition, for each Eligible Referral through December 31, 2020, 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 round trip 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 round trip 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 2021, not to exceed $599 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, 2021. 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, 2020 and December 31, 2020 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 Virtual Visa® Reward Card and you will not receive a $125 Virtual Visa® Reward Card for purchases made by residents of AZ or PA. We reserve the right to extend, modify, suspend, or terminate this promotion at any time for any reason; however, any rewards earned prior to the suspension or termination of this promotion will be honored.

Employees of MHC Property Management, L.P. 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.

MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

61

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, Columbia alrvsales.com A Great Outdoor RV Center TX - Canton • agorv.com Affinity RV AZ - Dewey, Prescott, Prescott Valley affinityrv.com Al’s Trailer Sales OR - Salem • alstrailers.com All Valley RV Center CA - Acton • allvalleyrvcenter.com Alpin Haus NY - Amsterdam, Port Jervis, Saratoga alpinhaus.com American Family RV VA - Chesapeake, VA - Salem americanfamilyrv.com Appleton Camping Center WI - Appleton • appletoncamping.com B&B RV CA - Anderson • bbrv.me Bama RV AL - Dothan • bamarv.com Baydo’s RV of Chehalis WA - Chehalis • baydosrvs.com Big Country RV OR - Bend, Redmond • bigcrv.com Blade Chevrolet RV WA - Mt. Vernon • bladerv.com Blue Dog RV CA - Redding ID - Coeur D’Alene ID - Post Falls NV - Las Vegas OR - Bend OR - Gresham OR - Medford OR - Redmond WA - Fife WA - Kennewick WA - Pasco WA - Spokane Valley bluedogrv.com Boat-N-RV NY - West Coxsackie SC - Ridgeland PA - Hamburg boatnrv.com

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MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

Braun’s Fun Time Campers IN - Indianapolis • funtimecampers.com Browns RV SC - McBee • brownsrvsuperstore.com Burlington RV Superstore WI - Sturtevant • burlingtonrv.com Camperland Trailer Sales TX - Conroe CT - Union FL - Leesburg, Jacksonville, Ocala FL - Saint Augustine IN - Clarksville SC - Myrtle Beach NC - Kings Mountain, Mocksville, Raleigh NH - Kingston, Merrimack PA - Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, MA - Raynham VA - Fredericksburg GA - Macon, Atlanta camperland.net Campers Inn FL - North Jacksonville Fl - Jacksonville GA- Richmond Hill campersinn.com Candy’s Family RV TN - Murfreesboro KY - Scottsville candyscampers.com Canopy Country RV Center WA - Ellensburg, Union Gap canopycountry.com Charlie Obaugh RV VA - Staunton • charlieobaughrv.com Chesaco RV MD - Joppa, Frederick, Gambrills PA - Shoemakersville • chesacorv.com Clear Creek RV WA - Silverdale, Puyallup clearcreekrvcenter.com Cleveland RV GA - Cleveland • clevelandrvsales.com Coastal RV VA - Carrolton • coastalrv.com Colerain Family RV IN - Indianapolis OH - Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus colerainrv.com Conejo Wholesale Auto and RV CA - Thousand Oaks conejowholesaleauto.com

Country Camping Corner NC - Kings Mountain • countrycamping.com Crossroads Trailers NJ - Newfield • crossroadstrailers.com Cunningham Campers, Inc. IN - Jeffersonville • cunninghamcampers.com Dunlap Family RV TN - Knoxville, Chatanooga, Nashville KY - Bowling Green dunlapfamilyrv.com Economy RVs MD - Mechanicsville • economyrvs.com Ellis Travel Trailers GA - Statesboro • ellistraveltrailers.com ET Quality RV CA - Two locations in Yuba City etqualityrv.com FIFE RV Center WA - Fife • fifervcenter.com Floyd’s RV OK - Norman • floydsrvs.com Freedom RV WA - Liberty Lake • freedomrvusa.com Funtime RV OR - Tualatin • funtimervinc.com Gerzeny’s RV World FL - Nokomis• gerzenysrvworld.com Gibs RV Superstore OR - Coos Bay • gibsrvsuperstore.com Gloucester RV Sales & Service VA - Hayes • gloucesterrv.net Grand View Trailers Sales VA - Bedford • grandviewtrailersales.com Halterman’s RV WA - Arlington, Burlington • haltermansrv.com Hayden’s RVs VA - Richmond • haydensrvs.net Haylett RV MI - Coldwater • haylettautoandrv.com Hitch RV DE - Milford NJ - Berlin • hitchrv.com Indian Valley Camper Center PA - Souderton • ivccrv.com Jeff’s Couch’s RV Nation OH - Hamilton • couchsrvnation.com Johnson RV OR - Sandy WA - Fife • johnsonrv.com Keystone RV Center PA - Greencastle • keystonervcenter.com La Mesa RV AZ - W. Phoenix CA - Sacramento, San Diego FL - Ft. Myers, Orlando, Port St. Lucie lamesarv.com Lakeside RV Sales SC - Anderson • lakesidervsales.com

Lazydays RV AZ - Tucson CO - Denver CO - Loveland FL - Tampa FL - Ocala MN - Minneapolis TN - Knoxville lazydays.com Marjon RV CA - Moreno Valley • marjonrvs.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 Mount Comfort RV IN - Greenfield • mountcomfortrv.com Northside Family RV KY- Lexington • northsidervs.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 Phillips RV Center MI - Mount Morris • phillipsrv.com PPL Motorhomes TX - Cleburne, Houston, New Braunfels pplmotorhomes.com Princess Craft RV TX - Round Rock • princesscraft.com Recreation Plantation RV Sales IL - Lynwood recreationplantationrvsales.com Roadhouse Camper & RV PA - Lake Ariel, Scranton roadhousecamper.com Roy Robinson RV WA - Marysville • royrobinsonrv.com Russ Dean Family RV WA - Pasco • russdeanrv.com RV City AZ - Huachuca City • rvcity.net RV Country AZ - Bullhead City, Flagstaff, Mesa, Showlow CA - Fresno NV - Laughlin NV - Sparks OR - Coburg WA - Buckley, Fife, Mt. Vernon, Bonney Lake rvcountry.com

RV General Store OK - Newcastle • rvgeneralstore.com RV’s For Less TN - Knoxville • rvforless.net RV Source TX - Bryan • rvsource.com RVs Northwest WA - Spokane • rvsnorthwest.com RV Value Mart PA - Lititz, Manheim, Willow rvvaluemart.com Safford RV VA - Thornburg • saffordrv.com Sahara RV NV - Las Vegas • sahararv.com San Angelo RV TX - San Angelo • sanangelorvs.com Scott Motor Coach RV Center NJ - Lakewood • scottmotorcoach.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 Stoltzfus RV’s & Marine PA - West Chester • stoltzfus-rec.com Sunbelt RV Center TX - Belton • sunbeltrv.com Sundown RV Center CA - Atwater • sundownrv.com Super Deals RV Inc. GA - Temple • superdealsrv.com TAC RV NC - Moyock • tactrailerandrv.com The RV Factory Luxe Fifth Wheel IN - Elkhart • luxefifthwheel.com The Trail Center SC - North Charleston • trailcenter.com Tonie’s RV VA - Salem • toniesrv.com Toscano RV CA - Los Banos • toscanorv.com TravelTime RV TX - Sulphur Springs • traveltimerv.com Vancouver RV & Park Model Center WA - Vancouver • vancouverrv.com Vogt RV TX - Airstream of Dallas Fourth Worth Two other D.F.W Vogt locations vogtrv.com Waterdog RV OR - Dayton • waterdogrv.com Welcome Back RV Outlet TX - Athens • welcomebackrv.com

CANADA Wilder RV WA - Port Angeles • wilderrvs.com Action VR QC - Saint-Nicolas • actionvr.ca Camp Out RV ON - Stratford • campoutrv.com Canadream AB - Calgary BC - Vancouver ON - Toronto NS - Halifax QC - Montreal YT - Whitehorse canadream.com GO VR QC - Ange-Gardien • go-vr.com Horizon Lussier QC - Maryville • horizonlussier.com JCS Entreposage QC - Trois Rivières • entreposagejcs.com Kustom Koach RV Centre BC - Aldergrove • kustomkoachrv.com Lardner’s Trailer Sales SK - Saskatoon • lardners.com Le Centre du Vr Victoriaville QC - Saint-Albert • vrvictoriaville.com Leisure Days RV ON - Aylmer, Kingston, Pembroke, Smiths Falls, Sudbury QC - Buckingham, Gatineau, Sherbrooke NB - Salisbury NS - Truro leisuredays.ca Leisure Trailer Sales ON - Tecumseh • leisuretrailers.com O’Connor RV BC - Chilliwack • oconnorrv.com Ottawa Camping Trailers ON - Ottawa • ottawacamping.ca Roulottes AS Levesque QC - Châteauguay, Saguenay, Sainte-Hélène, Trois-Rivières roulotte.ca Roulottes Remillard QC - Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu roulottesremillard.com 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

MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

63

It’s Rally Time!

Club Calendar 2020 RVers seeking RVers? Rally clubs from coast to coast love to meet at our destinations. Join in on the fun!

TTN Central CA

Come join us! We are weekday campers and we like Lake of the Springs, Ponderosa, & Snowflower, but are open to other locations.

Please check out our Facebook page: RV/CampersofCentralCA(TTN).

Email us at ccttnRVgroup@gmail.com

Lewis and Clark TTN

Mike May: President Lewis and Clark TTN chapter of FMCA. Contact person, Mike May (360) 581-5512 or mmay914@comcast.net.

Bounders United (BUTTN)

BUTTN’s are members who own or have owned a Bounder motorhome and belong to Bounders United & Thousand Trails. Please make your own reservations at the RV Resort.

Member # 1 (800) 388-7788; Non-Member # 1 (877) 570-2267.

(No-Host Outing) If you are interested in attending, please contact: Yvonne Codde at (209) 207-8184.

TT of Texas/FMCA

July 13-17..Thunderbird-Monroe, WA

New members must be a member of TTN and FMCA. All motorhomes, trailer owners, and fifth-wheels are welcome. Contact Connie Farrar at (817) 454-4612 or email to ttnfmcachapter@gmail.com.

Website: ttnoftexasfmca.com.

Sept. 14-18...........Seaside, OR

May 1-3.....................Lake Texoma

April 13-17...........Seaside, OR

May 11-15............Crescent Bar, WA June 18-22...........Whalers Rest, OR June 24-27...........Roseburg, OR Aug 10-14............Paradise, WA

March 13-16..............Colorado River

Oct. 5-9................Whalers Rest, OR

November 13-15.......Medina Lake

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MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

TT Travelers Southern California

We usually meet on the first Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of each month. In the morning we have coffee, snacks, socialize, and play games. In the evening we have more fun with a potluck and card games. We are looking for more new members.

Come visit us. For information, contact Cecil Schoolcraft, Wagonmaster, (619) 997-9787, or email him at cecilanddonna@aol.com.

Groups & Rallies Your One Stop Group & Rally Headquarters!

rvonthego.com/group-reservations or call (877) 570-2267

Answers – Crossword puzzle can be found on page 60.

Branching Out...

Seeking a Safer Tomorrow

Help the Manatees, Adopt One Today!

Are you a Photographer or an aspiring Photographer?

Submit your high quality photos about your stay at one of our Thousand Trails Properties for a chance to be featured in TrailBlazer and our Social Media Pages!

Submit your work to tbeditor@equitylifestyle.com Please submit photos with a short description about your stay. Must be a Thousand Trails Member in order to be considered to be featured.

savethemanatee.org Photo Š Wayne Hartley

MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

65

HDTV TVThat That Travels Travels HD WithYou You With DISHOutdoors Outdoors In In 33 Easy Easy Steps Steps DISH Call 1-877-894-6220 Call 1-877-894-6220

USECODE CODE“TRAILS19” “TRAILS19” USE FOR 50 OFF A SATELLITE ANTENNA BUNDLE* $

FOR 50 OFF A SATELLITE ANTENNA BUNDLE* $

Visit DISHForMyRV.com/Trails or call 1-877-894-6220 Visit DISHForMyRV.com/Trails or call 1-877-894-6220 *With the purchase of a DISH Solo HD receiver and DISH-compatible antenna. Offer limit one per customer. Must mention coupon code at time of order.

Notthe valid on previous purchases.

Minimum requirement may apply. *With purchase of a DISH Solo HD receiverprogramming and DISH-compatible antenna.

Offer limit one per customer. Must mention coupon code at time of order.

NotView validpackages on previous purchases.

Minimum programming requirement may apply. for complete details.

For Pay-As-You-Go service, all charges, including monthly programming, pay-per-view and equipment upgrades, 66 MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER must be paid in advance; failure to pay by due date will lead to service disconnection within 24 hours. All prices, packages, programming, features, View packages for complete details. For Pay-As-You-Go service, all charges, including monthly programming, pay-per-view and equipment upgrades, functionality and offers subject to change without notice.

State reimbursement charges may apply.

Additional restrictions apply. must be paid in advance; failure to pay by due date will lead to service disconnection within 24 hours. All prices, packages, programming, features,

Wherever your travels take you enjoy lifes’ delights with passion and

LIVE

All without worry, because if something happens and you need medical evacuation home then

LAUGH & Use your SkyMed membership card to pay the bill and

LOVE IT. ®

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MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER

WWW.SKYMED.COM

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LOVE USA

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MARCH / APRIL 2020 TRAILBLAZER