TrailBlazer Magazine - June 2016

JUNE 2016

Mid-Atlantic WhiteWater Rafting Mild to Wild River Adventures

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V I S IT L A Z Y DAYS .CO M

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

C A L L 8 6 6 . 53 1 . 6 8 1 8

VOL. 38

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WHAT’S INSIDE

ISSUE 5 /// JUNE 2016

lifestyle

24

5

Message from Marguerite

9

Tech Topics

16 National Park Service Ice Age Scenic Trail 20 I Knew I Was A TrailBlazer 34 Keep Calm & Camp in a Yurt 44 Who’s in the Kitchen with TrailBlazer?

features

46 Ask RV Bill

36

24 Mid-Atlantic Whitewater Rafting: Mild to Wild River Adventures

59 4 Paws on the Road 66 100DaysofCamping!

calendars

From mild to wet and wild, whitewater rafting in the Mid-Atlantic region is better than ever, thanks to a number of top-notch outfitters who offer lots of rafting trips on varied rivers – as well as many other adventures.

10 On-Site Events 14 Local Events 62 Club Calendar

spotlight

regulars 6

36 A Travel Guide for Land Lovers

Pics From The Parks

48 Member Deals

In case you’re traveling with a whitewater rafter and you prefer to stay a bit dryer, we’ve got a few non-water highlights in some of the areas featured in this month’s Mid-Atlantic Whitewater Rafting.

58 Crossword Puzzle 60 Preferred RV Dealer List 63 Sudoku Puzzle

40 T. Graham Brown Born in Arabi, Georgia in the mid-50s, T. Graham Brown is a Grammy nominated country/soul/gospel music singer and songwriter.

40 JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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

YOU receive a $25 Visa® 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 2016 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 2017 10 Winners Selected ($4,000 value)

Contact Us Today!

(888) 808-8925

or visit THOUSANDTRAILS.COM *Details and qualifications for participation in this promotion may apply and are set forth on page 63 of this magazine.

▲ Yukon Trails (WI)

MESSAGE from MARGUERITE This month TrailBlazer highlights National Trails Day®, Wet and Wild adventures, Land Lover favorites and a new, well…really an old way to enjoy the great outdoors.

If you are planning a summer vacation that the whole family will enjoy, we’ve done our best to provide some great options that will surely please. For those of you who prefer water adventures, we have put together a list of some of the best rafting outfitters that will surely appeal to beginners as well as those of you who prefer more of an adrenaline rush. It would be a mistake if I did not mention our own Ponderosa RV Campground located on the banks of the American River, a summer rafting favorite.

Did you know that a number of Thousand Trails locations feature some of the best walking and hiking trails around? On June 4, we will be celebrating National Trails Day® across the country. Mark your calendars and plan to participate in our Walk the Trails program.

So what’s a Yurt you ask? Well this unique accommodation may be just the perfect fit for your family’s next outdoor vacation. Try one out, the kids will love it! To learn more about yurts and to see where you can stay in one at a Thousand Trails or Encore campground please see page 34 of the magazine.

By now a number of you should have received your #100DaysofCamping rally towel, distributed on Memorial Day weekend. I am looking forward to seeing all the great photos shared again this summer!

So don’t let another day slip away – Make your summer vacation plans today and be sure one of your favorite Thousand Trails campgrounds is on your list.

Get Out and Camp!

Marguerite Nader President & CEO JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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Share your adventures in 3 easy steps!

www.trailblazermagazine.net CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mark Slattery EDITOR tbeditor@equitylifestyle.com GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mellissa Brosius 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!

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1. Capture a photo of your trip at one of our parks.

2. Share with us at TrailBlazer_photos@equitylifestyle.com.

3. Check out next month to see if you’re a winner.

Winners will receive a $50 Visa® Gift Card. Each issue we will select ONE “winning” photo from the submissions received (all submissions must be received by midnight on the last day of the month).

The winning photo will be posted on the TrailBlazer website as well as in the magazine.

Photo submissions should include a brief description, including location of your photo, your name, city and state and sent to:

TrailBlazer_photos@equitylifestyle.com or mail to:

Equity LifeStyle Properties Attn: TrailBlazer Photos Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800 Chicago, IL 60606

Emailed photos should be high resolution. Photos are not returnable and become the property of Equity LifeStyle Properties and may be used for publication on company websites and promotional purposes.

One winner will be selected EACH month from submissions received.

The winner will be announced in a future TrailBlazer issue and on www.trailblazermagazine.net.

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VISIT WWW.THOUSANDTRAILS.COM STARS AUTOMATED RESERVATIONS 800-859-STAR (7827)

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VISIT WWW.RVONTHEGO.COM Remember! Thousand Trails members get preferred rates at Encore RV resorts.

▲ Medina Lake (TX): Close encounter with a doe.

– Rachel Crane

PICS FROM THE PARKS

▲ Orlando (FL): Artistic sunrise over the dock.

– David Good

▲ Whalers Rest (OR): Yaquine Head Lighthouse – Nan Clute

▲ Mt. Vernon (WA): Mountains in the distant.

– Brian Day JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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LUCKY WINNER?

WANT TO BE A

Lucky winners,

Ken and Linda Lewis from Sioux Falls, SD

were camping at Wilmington, OH when they were presented with a $1,000 gift card!

Left to right: Linda Lewis, Ken Lewis, and staff Amy Henke

Thousand Trails is offering members the opportunity to win a

$1,000 Visa® Prepaid Gift Card

To earn entries into our monthly drawing, simply pay your 2016 dues on time and camp at your favorite TT Preserve.

When you pay your annual dues for 2016 in full, you will be entered into our monthly drawing for a $1,000 Visa® Prepaid gift card. There will be one drawing/one winner each month from January through December 2016. In addition, once you pay your dues in full, each time you camp at a Thousand Trails Preserve in 2016, 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, 2016. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606.

TECH

TOP CS

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

by Paul and Kerri Elders This month, we’ll take a look at some common sense tips for avoiding road raging drivers.

We’ll also give you some great, simple advice on making backing into your favorite camping spot just a little bit easier.

Backing Tips One of the hardest skills for newbie – to master is learning to back an RV into a little camping spot, especially when pulling a trailer. Some simple tips help make that little task a cinch. Practice makes perfect!

The easiest way to back into a spot, of course, is to use a backup camera. But not all rigs have backup cameras, so some tried & true old school tricks can help you learn to back like a pro. Backing into any parking spot is much easier if you “back to the driver’s side.” Line yourself up so you can use your driver’s side mirrors and can easily glance over your shoulder through the driver’s side window to clearly see the back end of the rig. Ideally, you want to position your RV at a starting point that lets you back up in a more or less straight line, making small corrections as you go.

It’s best to avoid spots that require you to start with a sharp 90 degree turn, unless you have a very skilled and trusted “helper” to back you into place, preferably equipped with a walkie-talkie (2-way radio).

Swing wide and pull into the space across the road (if there’s room).

Pull well up ahead to get a straighter backward shot into your space.

When preparing to back up, just position your right hand on the bottom of the steering wheel (the “6 o’clock” position). Now, it’s a simple matter of moving that hand in the direction you want the rear of the trailer to go. If you want to back to the left, move your hand

to the left. Using this very simple trick all but eliminates ever turning the wheels the wrong way when backing.

Not all spots are perfect spots; you’ll occasionally run into a challenge, like a tight turn when backing or one that makes you back to the passenger side, which is harder to see. Just work with what you’ve got and take your time.

If necessary, put on the brake, get out, and look over the situation to decide your best approach. If you find you’ve turned the trailer too tightly (jackknife), just stop, pull forward a few feet and then resume your backing procedure. Easy does it! Take your time and make adjustments and corrections gradually.

Always pay close attention to the surroundings and the “lay of the land,” like culverts, ditches, trees, branches, mailboxes, etc. Lower obstacles are easy to overlook from your cab; if you have a Spotter, make sure they fully understand they need to help you watch the position of the tow vehicle as well as the trailer.

You’ll quickly learn the “feel” for backing and it won’t be long at all till you’re an “old pro.”

Skip The Road Rage Have you ever been happily driving along the highway, enjoying the scenery and indulging in a little friendly conversation with your travel-mates, only to hear a constantly honking, and then blaring horn? When you glance in your sideview mirror, you see a fistshaking, screaming, yelling person in a tiny compact car or gigantic SUV, gesturing wildly and speeding to overtake you. Congratulations.

You’ve just been road raged.

Unfortunately, road rage is a sad fact of modern life, especially in and around our crowded big cities at rush hour. Way too many drivers let their rage take charge whenever they’re behind the wheel, and, unfortunately, too many happy-golucky RVers are the target of this rage.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that almost two-thirds of all traffic fatalities are caused by behaviors classified as “aggressive driving.”

The NHTSA gives several specific examples of aggressive driving; how many of these have you seen this week? Screaming or making obscene gestures, aggressive tailgating, headlight flashing, swerving, “revenge braking,” excessive horn honking, passing vehicles on the right side, or speeding through intersections to run red lights. You name it, Road Ragers do it. And then they blame YOU. Most experts advise that if you encounter an enraged driver, it’s best to try to ignore him or her – don’t even establish eye contact.

In the concrete jungle, the laws of the jungle apply, and making eye contact can be seen by the bullying driver as a “challenge.” Avoid competing with him or her; don’t match bad behavior with bad behavior of your own. Let your travel partner discreetly use your mobile phone to report aggressive driving to authorities if you feel threatened or if the behavior you see results in an accident further down the road. Remember that your original objective is to enjoy your trip, so be smart and don’t allow somebody else’s road rage interfere with your joy of the open road. Have fun, stay safe, and don’t let the turkeys get you down!

Happy trails!

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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ACTIVITIES

AND

Activities and Events – On-Site

JUNE events Theme Weekends are special weekend-only events put on by the activities staff at your Thousand Trails campgrounds!

Be sure to grab a copy of the 2016 Theme Weekends booklet and see all sorts of fun stuff happening at your campground this weekend!

For a complete listing of events at the preserves, please visit thousandtrails.com.

National Trails Day® & Club Blazer Weekend Celebrate National Trails Day® at Thousand Trails! Whether you’re hiking the mountain trails in the Pacific Northwest or boating down a river in the Northeast, there are lots of fun and educational activities planned for National Trails Day®.

Get outdoors and explore at Forest Lake (NC) and also learn info about health, hiking and nature! Spend the day at Bay Landing (TX) fishing, canoeing or hang out with Club Blazer at South Jetty (OR). At Leavenworth (WA) this weekend is all about the Leavenworth Express where the weekend will be about hiking trails and model trains!

It’s Au Natural National Trails Day® at Verde Valley (AZ) featuring nature walks, crafts, talks, scavenger hunts and hikes! At Las Vegas (NV), they will be celebrating by visiting the amazing trails all around the campground including Lake Meade, Red Rock National Park, The Valley of Fire, and Death Valley National Park.

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JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

Scavenger Hunts Everyone loves a scavenger hunt! Whether it’s a competition, GeoCaching, or just for fun, scavenger hunts are exciting and something you can have fun doing all year! See where there are scavenger hunts taking place in June at Thousand Trails.

Yarr! It’s a Pirate Party at Natchez Trace (TN) which features a treasure hunt and a scavenger hunt, plus a pirate party and showing of “Pirates of the Caribbean” the weekend of June 10-12. How many items can you find at Kenisee Lake (OH)? Participate in the Scavenger Hunt and the Chili Cook Off. At PA Dutch Country (PA), they will be doing a scavenger hunt the weekend of June 3-5 as part of the National Trails Day® activities.

All events, times and dates are subject to change.

Activities and Events – On-Site

Kick off to Summer School is finally out! Is there really a better way to spend the start of summer than to camp at Thousand Trails? Nah! Don’t think so!

Kick off the summer with the folks at Pacific City (OR) from June 10-12 with a Friday night movie on the big screen.

Whether you get into a water balloon war, treat yourself to popsicles and ice cream, or enjoy Musical Noodles, summer starts at Seaside (OR) the weekend of June 24-26. Get out your swimsuits and join the folks at Whaler’s Rest (OR) the weekend of June 24 for the Wet & Wild Beach Bash. What’s more old school than a real picnic? It’s an Old Fashioned Summer Fun weekend at Birch Bay (WA) and there will be three-legged races, water balloon toss, horseshoes, and more!

Say “buh-bye” to school and “hello!” to summer fun at Gateway to Cape Cod (MA) from June 24-26!

Father’s Day Weekend At Thousand Trails, we know that Dads like vintage cars, BBQ, and hanging out with their family on Father’s Day weekend!

Seaside’s Muscle and chrome Car Show is on Father’s Day Weekend this year at Seaside (OR) featuring a BBQ and live music right on the property! At Soledad Canyon (CA) there is also a Father’s Day Car Show, hosted by True Memories Car Club. The folks at Hershey (PA) are calling all car buffs. The first 50 to register your cars for the car show receive a dash plaque (Rain date: June 24-26). It’s a Fabulous Father’s Weekend at Whaler’s Rest (WA) and features Mr. Bill’s Family Trivia Show! Fathers get FREE cinnamon rolls on Saturday and Sunday morning this weekend at Birch Bay (WA). Show all of the dads at Bear Cave (MI) how much we love them! Hayride, fishing contests, craft, and more.

Bring Your Favorite Dish!

Potlucks are one of our favorite activities at Thousand Trails.

Sometimes, there’s nothing better than bringing your favorite dish to share with your whole family! Here are some potlucks happening in June…

Head to Lake Minden (CA) on June 10 to the Wild and Wacky Pot Luck where guests will bring their favorite “oddly delicious” covered dish, and don’t forget to bring a silly surprise concealed in a brown paper bag for Friday Night Brown Bag Bingo! Bring your favorite cold salad dish on a hot summer day to Peace River (FL) the weekend of June 18 for the Summer Salad Smorgasbord! Macaroni, potato, taco, or tomato…it’s your choice! The folks at Three Flags (FL) will get together on June 18 for a potluck as part of their Father’s Day Celebration…come join!

Some events may require a participation fee.

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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Activities and Events – On-Site

Race/Tournaments/Contests It’s not summertime without some healthy competition. There are all kinds of tournaments, Olympic games, contests, and races at Thousand Trails. Show off your competitive side at these June events…

We have a jam-packed weekend of pool parties, games, crafts, and more, but the main event at Lake & Shore (NJ) is the 4th Annual Campground Chopped Competition! Come compete in this crazy grilling event that’s known for it’s crazy taste combinations. Teens have a chance to compete in the dessert round! From June 25-July 5 it’s the Annual Horseshoe Tournament at Bend-Sunriver (OR).

There will also be special games just for kids. Enjoy a lively dance contest on Saturday, June 11 at Green Mountain (NC) at the Oldies but Goodies dance! Dress to impress and enjoy malts, classic BLTs, and a movie or dance the night away doing the Twist, Mashed Potato and many more “blast from the past” dance moves. And try your luck at catching the biggest fish for a prize at the Harbor View (VA) Father’s Day Fishing Tournament on June 18.

Wild Wild West Experience a slice of American history at Thousand Trails campgrounds who are remembering the American migration out to the west. Cowboys, gold rush, wild horses…you’ll really feel like you’re stepping into a time, long ago, that was filled with discovery and excitement in the Wild, Wild West!

Help the folks at Snowflower (CA) build a covered wagon and take some “Thousand Trails Mix” on your walk to find the Donner Trail Marker for National Trails Day® The weekend of June 10 is Western Daze Weekend at South Jetty (OR) and it’s a whole weekend of wild west fun with everything from cowboy crafts to horseshoes to root beer floats. There’s a new sheriff in town at Idyllwild (CA) the same weekend.

Also compete in the Annual Chili Cook off and later that evening, join us at the amphitheatre for s’mores and an Idyllwild favorite, Cowboy Jack. It’s a Gold Rush at Ponderosa (CA) on June 11. The resort is a mile away from where gold was first discovered, the event that touched off the California gold rush.

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JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

All events, times and dates are subject to change.

Activities and Events – On-Site

Chocolate Chocolate lovers rejoice! An entire weekend dedicated to chocolate…what could be better? Perhaps, chocolate on top of chocolate? Find out at these chocolate-centric events happening at Thousand Trails.

It’s a “Death by Chocolate” weekend at Circle M (PA) and Gettysburg Farm (PA) the weekend of June 10-13. This is THE weekend for all who have a sweet tooth for chocolate!

There will be a chocolate slip n’ slide at Circle M (PA) and at Gettysburg Farm (PA) there will be tons of chocolate sundaes. You could also head to Twin Mills (IN) the same weekend where there will be Chocolate Candy Bar bingo, slip n’ slide, name that Candy Bar, and crafts! The Taste of the Dells will be the weekend of June 10-12 at Arrowhead (WI) and features edible crafts, a sundae bar, chocolate syrup slip n’ slide, movie in the theater and an adults only Wisconsin wine tasting.

The Great Outdoors It’s no secret that our favorite activity here at Thousand Trails is to explore the Great Outdoors! There’s always something new to discover, a new story to tell around the campfire, and new tips for staying safe on the trails. See how campers are immersing themselves in the Great Outdoors this June.

On the weekend of June 11, the folks at Mount Vernon (WA) will be enjoying the great outdoors with an outdoor movie and a campfire with s’mores and other treats! The weekend of June 25, be sure to also join them for the “Bear Necessities of Camping,” as Smokey the Bear teaches kids how to be a good camper on Saturday evening.

How many different types of s’mores can be made? Come find out at Paradise (WA) the weekend of June 10 for s’mores desserts at the campfire. There will be a family dance in honor of Father’s Day weekend at Lake of the Springs (CA) with a performance by John Carter at the Family Campfire. Kids will want to bring an adult partner to the Rec Center at Bend-Sunriver (OR) for a sand sculpture building competition, followed by an evening campfire with hot dogs and marshmallows.

*

Some events may require a participation fee.

We regret to inform our valued members and guests that our indoor waterparks at our Circle M and Timothy Lake North campgrounds in Pennsylvania will remain closed. We will continue to provide our members and guests with other options for family fun this summer.

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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CALENDAR events

TIMOTHY LAKE (PA)

MOUNT VERNON (WA)

June 3-6 We Paint Winners 400 Race A weekend of NASCAR events leading up to the race on Sunday at 1pm. Ticket prices vary depending upon event type and seating. poconoraceway.com

June 11-12 Deming Log Show Experience the annual Deming Logging Show featuring events and exhibitions to display the skills, tools, and technology used in the logging industry. Reservations for tickets and camping passes are available online now. demingloggingshow.com

June 24-26 Milford Music Festival A weekend full of festivities celebrating music of all varieties. milfordmusicfest.org

WILMINGTON (OH) June 10-11 Banana Split Festival Enjoy free concerts, continuous entertainment, a cruise-in of classic cars, crafts and collectibles, games, rides, unique food and of course Banana Splits! bananasplitfestival.com June 18-19 Summer Solstice Lavender Fest Experience the overwhelming beauty of acres of organic lavender in full bloom. Lavender food, yoga in the field, massage therapy, children's activities, and much more. peacefulacreslavenderfarm.com 14

▼ San Diego Festival of the Arts Photo courtesy of E3 Photography

OF

Activities and Events – Local

LOCAL

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

June 17-19 Berry Dairy Days Kick off the summer with one of Washington’s oldest and sweetest festivals – Berry Dairy Days! Started in 1937, this celebration of the start of summertime features a parade, fresh local strawberry shortcake, fireworks, live music, salmon BBQ, antique car show, and more! burlington-chamber.com

June 17-19 Slide Out West – Reining Show The Fraser Valley Reining Club’s “premier” show! The show also features both reining and reined cow horse classes. Be sure to check the website or the Fraser Valley Reining Club Facebook page for more information. fvrc.ca

LAKE WHITNEY (TX)

CULTUS LAKE (BC)

June 4-5 Texas Pirate Festival Adventure, music, and merriment deep in the heart of Texas. Set in a 21 acre re-creations of an authentic 17th century English village, family friendly festival features food, vendors, and entertainment. In the village, you can visit the Pirate Ship, Pirate’s Alley, the Bizarre, and the Jack Tar Tavern. middlefest.com

June 10-12 BC Miniature Horse Club – Spring Show Come see miniature horses in action at the 37th Annual AMHA Show and 5th Annual AMHR Show.

A great event for the entire family! bcminiaturehorseclubs.com

June 25 Meyer Observatory Open House Monthly educational open house event hosted by the Central Texas Astronomical Society. Share your passion for the night sky with other Observatory members. centexastronomy.org

All events, times and dates are subject to change.

PIO PICO (CA)

June 3-5 Ocean City Flower Show See beautiful flower displays from commercial businesses and amateur florists at the Music Pier, Moorlyn Terrace & Boardwalk.

Ocnj.us

June 3-4 San Diego County Fair The annual county fair features outlandish foods, garden shows, livestock tents and a midway complete with carnival rides and concerts, held at the beautiful Del Mar Fairgrounds.

Sdfair.com

June 25 Antique Auto Show View over 300 vintage vehicles. Don’t miss the boardwalk parade at 2pm. oceancityvacation.com/details/1994antique-auto-show.html

OCEANA (WA) June 4 Festival of Colors Bring your kite and enjoy a relaxing day, or watch the professionals amaze with their stunts. The Northwest Sport Kite League will be giving lessons on Saturday. Sport Kite Competitions to be held on Sunday. Keep in mind – all events are weather dependent and may not start at exact times. oceanshoreskites.com June 24-26 Saws and Shores Masterpieces cut from logs over the course of three days. Quick carve will be auctioned off daily.

Come smell the sawdust and see the camaraderie between the competitors, at the convention center. oceanshores.org

CHESTNUT LAKE (NJ) June 11 Spring Flight GM Thing Visit boardwalkcorvettes.com to register your GM or GM powered vehicles. Trophies awarded for each class, best club participation, and best in show. boardwalkcorvettes.com

» Local Highlight June 11-12 San Diego Festival of the Arts This charitable event includes award-winning artists, gourmet cuisine, contemporary music and entertainment. This is the festival’s 30th anniversary. Ticket sales benefit adaptive sports programs for San Diegans with disabilities. lajollaartfestival.org

GATEWAY TO CAPE COD (MA) June 12-13

Activities and Events – Local

LAKE & SHORE (NJ)

American Girl Overnight at Battleship Cove Join Battleship Cove for a special edition of the popular Nautical Nights camping program. Girls and their dolls spend a night on the battleship and learn about life on the World War II home front through Molly, an American Girl. battleshipcove.org

June 13 New Bedford JazzFest New Bedford JazzFest (NBJF) is a showcase of local musicians, artists, and food vendors at Pier 3 on the waterfront. The festival also features displays from local craft and fine artists, local beer, and New Bedford-based food trucks. newbedfordjazzfest.com

LYNCHBURG (VA) LAKE GASTON (NC) June 17-18 & 24-25 Twelve Angry Jurors Set in the 1950’s, this drama demonstrates that times may change, but human nature doesn't. In this play the audience is in the jury room as they deliberate the guilt or innocence of a young man accused of murdering his father. lakelandtheatrenc.org June 18-19 Halifax Revolutionary War Days Historic Halifax is excited to announce a new special event, Halifax Muster Days, focusing on Halifax's military heritage during the 18th and early 19th centuries. lajollaartfestival.org

LITTLE DIAMOND (WA) June 24-25 PWRA Rodeo and Parade Great local northwest cowboys compete in all the rodeo events including the exciting bull riding competition.

Newportrodeo.weebly.com

Some events may require a participation fee.

June 11 The James River Wine and Music Festival The James River Wine & Music Festival returns to its roots ‘down by the river’ in downtown Lynchburg at Riverfront Park. There will be musical entertainment throughout the day, noted artists exhibiting and selling their work, a wine garden and a VIP tent. Food truck will be selling a variety of dishes. vawinelover.com June 18 Evergreen Lavender Festival Festival held every year on the Evergreen Lavender Farm celebrating lavender, food, friends and music! Enjoy delicious North Carolina BBQ from The Drug Store Grill. Pick your own lavender for just $8 a bunch! Music by Lobo Marino, The McKenzie’s, and Farm Use String Band. evergreenmusicfestival.com

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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TrailMix

THE ICE AGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL

by Annie Berman About 15,000 years ago, mammoths, saber tooth cats and cave lions roamed the earth, the Ice Age Trail, which traces part of the edge of the glacier that covered much of North America, began to form. Now, the Ice Age Trail stretches nearly 1,200 through Wisconsin and has walking, hiking, backpacking, or snowshoeing opportunities. There is also evidence for this glacier throughout the many lakes, river valleys, rolling hills and ridges throughout the state of Wisconsin.

Photo courtesy of Joshua Mayer 16

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

NATIONAL TRAILS DAY

T

his year, the National Park Service turns 100 years old and to celebrate, Trailblazer magazine takes a look at the history and stories behind the great American National Trails and as a bonus this month, we zoom in on National Trails Day®.

American Hiking Society’s National Trails Day®, is a celebration of America’s Trail System, and occurs every first Saturday in June.

National Trails Day® activities are designed to “promote and celebrate the importance of trails in the United States,” as well as encourage everyone to make excuses to get outside and enjoy the wonderful natural playground Mother Nature has to offer.

With hundreds of registered events taking place all around the country in all 50 states, including Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, you’ll be hard pressed not to find an outdoor adventure that suits you! Be sure to visit the American Hiking Society’s website at americanhiking.org.

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▼ Baraboo Hills Photo courtesy of Joshua Mayer

▲ Bee on Thistle Photo courtesy of Joshua Mayer The Ice Age National Scenic Trail was established as a part of the National Trails System Act of 1968. Along with other national trails like the Appalachian and Pacific Crest National Scenic Trails, the Ice Age Trail was established to “promote the preservation of access to the outdoor recreation opportunities and historic resources of the nation” and is designated a National Scenic Trail, specifically because of its recreation opportunities and conservation and enjoyment of significant scenic, historic, natural or cultural qualities.

Last year the Ice Age Trail Alliance, an organization that promotes use of the trail as well as maintains it, ran number of a large-scale volunteer events that resulted in 3 new miles of sustainable trails and improvements on an additional 5 miles of trails.

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▲ Devil’s Lake Photo courtesy of Mark Slattery Elevated boardwalks, bridges and numerous rock retaining walls were built to protect fragile resources and by about 275 volunteers who contributed approximately 5,000 hours and who want to help preserve the Ice Age Trail. To see more about this initiative, go online and visit americanhiking.org.

Thinking about heading out to see the Ice Age Trail? Some of the most spectacular hiking is at the Devil’s Lake State Park, where the view from the top of the hike offers a lookout point that is a huge payoff for the moderate hike. You can reach the trailhead for Devil’s Lake State Park by driving south about 25 minutes from Encore Arrowhead RV Campground (WI). Visit iceagetrail.org for plenty of other ideas, tips, and history about the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. ▲ Emmonds Creek Barrens Photo courtesy of Joshua Mayer

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I KNEW I WAS A

TrailBlazer

▲ Beautiful day for a hike

This month, TrailBlazer would like to introduce you to Margaret and David Clubb, two members who began camping together with a hilarious backpacking mishap. Today, they consider themselves upside down snowbirds as they stay north for outdoor winter activities!

TB: How long have you been camping and RVing?

Who introduced you to it?

Tell us how it all began!

MDC: We’ve been camping since the early ‘80s. Our first camping adventure was backpacking. We bought some used equipment and backpacks and headed to Wilderness Lakes outside Klamath Falls, Oregon. It was a five mile hike to the lake. Since it was our first camp out and backpacking, we really didn’t know what we were doing! We over packed our packs (over packed = packing canned goods!

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What was I thinking??) and by the time we got to the lake, we could hardly walk any further. We set up camp, got out our fishing gear but the mosquitoes were so bad that we became mosquito bait!

So, we crawled in our tents and just laid around and talked until we finally fell asleep. The next morning we decided to hike back out and go home because we were tired of being mosquito bait!

It’s been so long ago we forgot who actually told us about the Wilderness Lakes, but they told us it was so beautiful up there and the fishing was great. So, that’s how it all began.

TB: How did you first hear about Thousand Trails?

MDC: I heard about Thousand Trails years ago when Roy Rogers and Dale Evans were the spokes people for Thousand Trails. I thought that someday that might be a good organization to join after we retired. When we were younger, we always watched the Roy Rogers and Dale Evans movies and TV shows and thought if they were promoting it, it must be a great organization.

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

MDC: Some of our fondest memories of camping is when we used to have our family reunions at National Parks, Yellowstone, Glacier, and the Grand Tetons.

The family would meet at one of these places every three to four years and we would have a great camp out. Some of the family would be in tents, some in campers, some in motor homes, and some in cabins, but we all had a great time getting together.

Our fondest Thousand Trails camping memory was when my youngest daughter and her husband met up with us at the Thousand Trails Resort at Sunriver, out of Bend. We went skiing at Mount Bachelor, one of the best skiing resorts in Oregon.

We also toured the High Desert museum which was great! We didn’t realize how big the museum was and how much history and detail of Central Oregon there would be. On our next vacation to Sunriver, we plan on going snowmobiling and doing other winter activities.

TB: Any funny camping/RVing stories?

DC: Our trip to Mount Rushmore was 1,250 miles on motorcycles, and was probably the most exciting camping trip that we’ve ever been on. Since we both rode motorcycles, my wife rode a Honda Silverwing and I rode a Kawasaki 1300 and I towed a trailer with all the camping gear in it. My mother-in-law rode behind me. We camped out every night and when we got closer to the Plain States, it begin raining, the weather was very bad. When we got into Jackson Hole, Wyoming, it was really pouring rain. We tried to find a motel but nothing was available, so we went to the local campground and set up our tents in the rain. The next day we dried out all of our camping equipment since the sun was finally shining. We took off again toward Mount Rushmore but later in the afternoon it started lightning and there were thunderstorms! Can you imagine how it felt to be out on the Plains on a motorcycle with lightning and thunder all around? It was a very scary event. But we kept riding toward our final destination

and when we got to Mount Rushmore it had been raining there and it looked like all of the presidents faces were crying. We were hoping that was a sign that they were crying for us for our ordeal over the last few days.

Made it to destination and back home safe and sound.

▲ Multnomah Falls, OR

▲ The view from Saddle Mountain JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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“ ▲ Hiking at Saddle Mountain State Park

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

What do you prefer and why? (ex: fifth wheel, RV, tent, cabins, etc.)

MDC: We’ve camped with tents, trailers, and cabins to motor homes. We prefer the motor home to all other types of camping. It has all of the luxuries of home and can be parked almost anywhere so you can also enjoy the outdoors and all of the beautiful scenery it has to offer and activities. So the RV gives you the best of both worlds, camping in luxury.

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

MDC: Lake Tawakoni, in Point, Texas. We spent a couple of weeks there on our way to see

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one of our daughters and her family in Tyler. The time we spent there was great. Most of the campsites were very well shaded which was a real plus since we were there in June and July. The park had lots of activities for us to do and we went sightseeing around the area. We just love watermelon and we were in watermelon heaven! Around Point, Texas, there are watermelon vendors alongside the road almost everywhere.

Best watermelon we ever ate!

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

DC: Being close to the things we love to do; skiing, hiking, kayaking, snowshoeing, bicycling, and fishing are some activities we love doing (although I must admit, my wife does not care for skiing and kayaking! She stays in

Our home is where we park it…away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

- David Clubb

”

the motor home and quilts!).

Because our “home is where we park it”, we can park it close to all of the activities. So therefore, it’s always just a short drive to do the things we love to do. And we’re away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

TB: Can you finish this sentence?

I knew I was a TrailBlazer when...

MDC: I knew I was a TrailBlazer when we used to go camping with my parents at Green Peter

▲ Margaret snowshoeing on Mt. Hood

▲ Hike to Punch Bowl Falls, OR

▲ David snowboarding on Mt. Hood

find the big nugget, but of course we never did!

about 9 months out of the year. A lot of our friends say that we have the “snowbird” thing upside down because they travel south for the winter and we travel to Mount Hood Village to play in the snow!

This is a great park that we use as a home base when doing the winter activities. All of the people here are great and the park is also.

One day we all we might get the “snowbird” thing right and head south for the winter, but not yet!

▲ David kayaking on Trillium Lake

Reservoir out of Sweet Home, OR. My parents had a motor home and we borrowed a camp trailer from my brother. The Santiam River feeds into the reservoir at Green Peter and we used to go digging for gold on the banks of the Santiam! We did that for several years and it was so much fun with the family working together and there were good swimming holes.

It was wonderful to be out and about in nature. There was always the excitement that we just might

TB: Feel free to share any other camping/RVing stories here.

MDC: We have been Thousand Trails members for about four years. We purchased our Elite membership at Mount Hood Village at Welches, Oregon. It is a great Encore park that is part of the Thousand Trails system. We have spent several winters here in the park since we live in our RV

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Mid-Atlantic WhiteWater Rafting Mild to Wild River Adventures

by Lynn & Cele Seldon

â–² Rafting on the Chattooga River Photo courtesy of Wildwater 24

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From mild to wet and wild, whitewater rafting in the Mid-Atlantic region is better than ever, thanks to a number of top-notch outfitters who offer lots of rafting trips on varied rivers – as well as many other adventures. In the last decade or so, rafting outfitters in the region and across the nation have added a wide variety of rafting adventures and a laundry list of other mild to wild pursuits.

Whether you are a beginner or veteran rafter, traveling alone, as a couple, or with extended family, or you’re looking for an adrenaline-producing challenge, whitewater rafting has something for everyone. Depending on the river and the outfitter, you generally get to choose the length of trip (half-day to full-day options, plus some overnight possibilities), as well as the intensity of the whitewater action from easy to exhilarating to extreme.

Outfitters provide everything you need, which includes transportation to the river and back, all rafting equipment, instruction, trained guides, and riverside lunches or dinners, depending on which rafting adventure you choose.

The Mid-Atlantic whitewater “season” is generally from spring to fall, with spring and fall typically bringing more water (and rapids) to the region’s rivers. Several rivers (like West Virginia’s Gauley) are dam-controlled, meaning outfitters can plan for and schedule “big water” runs at certain times of the year.

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There are six levels of whitewater rapid classifications. Class I, II, and III rapids are typically considered mild, medium, and moderate whitewater, with increasing waves and more difficult passages, respectively. They’re generally suitable for everyone with little or no experience. Class IV rapids are considered difficult and feature long rapids with powerful and irregular waves, dangerous rocks, requiring precise maneuvering and an experienced guide. Previous experience is helpful, but not always necessary.

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Class V rapids are extremely difficult, with long rapids, obstructed paths, big drops, and violent currents.

Paddlers who pursue Class V rapids should have prior Class IV or better whitewater experience, as well as experienced guides who are familiar with the river. Lastly, Class VI rapids are more like waterfalls and are generally “unrunable” commercially.

Here’s an overview of six top-notch Mid-Atlantic outfitters, lots of rivers, and much more.

Wilderness Voyageurs ohiopyle, pa • wilderness-voyageurs.com Established more than 50 years ago as the first whitewater outfitter on Pennsylvania’s Youghiogheny River and on the east coast, Wilderness Voyageurs has grown into a popular company that still offers lots of mild to wild trips on the “Yough” – and much more. But, it all begins with the Yough, with Wilderness Voyageurs located at the heart of the river just an hour south of Pittsburgh and three hours west of Washington, DC. There are basically three different whitewater rafting options on the Yough, with three degrees of intensity that are ideal for different experience levels and ages. These are the Lower Yough, the Middle Yough, and the Upper Yough.

Lower Yough Available to run every day from April 1 to October 31 (thanks to continuous releases from Yough Lake), the guided Lower Yough

trip continues to be the most popular trip at Wilderness Voyageurs for good reason.

This section typically has fun waves and fast paddling action, but is also punctuated by meandering sections.

Middle Yough The mild Middle Yough trip features a relaxing float trip without guides, where Wilderness Voyageurs offers instruction, shuttles, and a large assortment of rental boats, including rafts, canoes, two-person highlymaneuverable “shredders,” “duckies”, and SUP boards.

Upper Yough In contrast, the Upper Yough trip is most definitely wild. It’s high intensity whitewater and generally requires previous technical whitewater experience.

Wilderness Voyageurs also features rafting trips on two other

rivers in the area. Located down in Western Maryland, the relatively unknown Savage River features five miles of continuous Class III and IV whitewater, but with limited dam releases each year. West Virginia’s Cheat River is another great option. It spans 11 miles through Cheat Canyon and offers lots of appropriately named Class III to V rapids, including Maze, Fish, and Even Nastier.

More Water Activities Like many Mid-Atlantic outfitters, Wilderness Voyageurs also offers a wide range of other adventures and activities. The possibilities include: kayaking (including instruction); stand-up paddleboarding (SUP); fly fishing; rock climbing (instruction and guided climbs); and varied bike tours (rails-to-trails, road biking, mountain biking, and inn-to-inn tours in 13 states), plus varied accommodation options.

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RIVER RIDERS HARPERS FERRY, WV • riverriders.com Just an hour from both Baltimore and Washington, DC, and with varied rafting options on the nearby Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, River Riders offers guided raft trips for beginners and veteran paddlers where the whitewater depends on the river, the season, and water levels.

For experienced paddlers, they also offer the opportunity to put together your own (unguided) trip on the Potomac.

Potomac & Shenandoah Trips The raft trips on both rivers are typically four- to seven-mile excursions and feature Class I-III rapids through breathtaking scenery. They both provide a great introduction to Mid-Atlantic whitewater paddling. Early-spring and late-fall generally provide wilder rides on the rivers, while summer trips are typically more mild and suit an array of

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experience levels, ability, and ages. Quite simply River Riders has a rafting trip for almost everyone interested in paddling the Potomac or Shenandoah – or both!

Both the Potomac and Shenandoah run through stunning countryside and distant mountains. Most paddlers return from trips with River Riders amazed that these rivers and wilderness can be found so close to the big cities in the area. This makes River Riders a great place to head for a daytrip on one of the rivers, but many paddlers often end up staying or returning to paddle the other river and to pursue many other opportunities with River Riders and in the area in general.

More Water Activities Other water activities offered by River Rivers include kayaking, canoeing, tubing, and SUP. Landbased possibilities with River Riders include: ziplining (featuring the area’s only Superman MegaZipline); an aerial adventure park; a rock climbing wall; geocaching; orienteering; biking; dining and post-rafting beverages at the Front Porch Café; and more (including dog kennels for your pet to enjoy while you play).

Located near historic downtown Harpers Ferry, River Riders also offers waterfront cabins and tent and RV camping, plus their own adjacent hotel and nearby historic vacation rental homes. Well-known for its history and small town charm, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and more are easy add-ons to the mild to wild offerings from River Riders.

RIVERSIDE OUTFITTERS RICHMOND, VA • riversideoutfitters.com Featuring the only Class II to Class IV whitewater rapids running right through a major U.S. city, Richmond’s Riverside Outfitters offers a variety of mild to wild river trips on the James River and so much more. Their convenient shop right downtown is more like a turn-of-the-century farmhouse, where cold beverages, porch sitting, and souvenir T-shirts await river runners post-paddle.

"Falls of the James" Trip The ‘signature’ trip at Riverside Outfitters is called “Falls of the James” for good reason.

Depending on water levels, the three- to five-hour trip features aforementioned Class II to Class IV rapids, a gourmet lunch on one of many quiet river islands, lots of wildlife, and a mixture of secluded forest and downtown skyline views. Part of the James River Park System, this trip typically

stars at the Pony Pasture put-in and ends at the 14th Street whitewater takeout at the bottom of historic Shockoe Slip (a great place to eat!). There are age, weight, and swimming requirements for this outing.

"Lower River" Trip There’s also a shorter two- to three-hour “Lower River” rafting trip that still hits the major rapids after a put-in further downstream at the Reedy Creek section of the park. Finally, with a lower age and weight requirement, the “Upper River” trip explore the section between Pony Pasture and Reed Creek, with a few mild rapids and lots of time for swimming breaks.

It’s a great choice for kids, parents, and grandparents.

More Water Activities Riverside Outfitters also features guided kayaking and canoeing

trips, downriver stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), SUP Yoga and Eco Tours (at their popular Riverside Outpost on Brown’s Island), varied equipment rentals, and rock climbing options. All of these activities are essentially available right in the heart of downtown Richmond, making Riverside Outfitters a one-stopshopping destination for mild to wild outdoor activities on and off the James River.

Of course, Virginia’s capital city also has much more to offer, including history, museums, and a dining, and beer/wine scene that has captured a hungry and thirsty nation’s attention (particularly after rafting the James). Known for the tagline, “Virginia is for Lovers,” the Old Dominion in general and Richmond in particular is most definitely for lovers of the great outdoors and so much more.

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US NATIONAL WHITEWATER CENTER CHARLOTTE, NC • usnwc.org Situated on and around the Catawba River less than 15 miles from downtown Charlotte and open since 2006, the U.S. National Whitewater Center (USNWC) promotes access to the whitewater paddling and many other outdoor adventures for all levels of participants through its all-day pass programs, instruction, leadership school, as well as festivals, races and other outdoor events.

USNWC Manmade Facility The USNWC’s sprawling 1,100-acre facility offers a wide variety of outdoor activities for all ages and skill levels. With more than 30 different water- and land-based activities, mild to wild adventureseekers can enjoy whitewater rafting and kayaking, flatwater kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, rock climbing, ziplines, ropes courses, a canopy tour, and mountain biking on a 35-plus mile trail system.

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Whitewater adventures take place on the world’s largest manmade recirculating river (12 million gallons). Seven pumps can push 560,000 gallons of water per minute at maximum capacity – enough to fill an Olympic-sized pool in a minute!

There’s a wilderness channel that’s primarily made up of challenging Class II and III rapids.

There’s also a competition channel that features Class IV rapids. Given the challenging rapids, it’s no surprise that the USNWC is an Official Olympic Training Site for canoe/kayak slalom.

Throughout the year, the Whitewater Race Series challenges participants through various competitions in different sports, including trail running, kayaking, mountain biking, triathlons, ultra-marathons, and more.

Outdoor Festivals and Music For those looking to kick back, live music and outdoor festivals create

a unique atmosphere of relaxation and fun. The River Jam concert series takes place every Thursday and Saturday evening throughout the summer months, in addition to nine other unique festivals held throughout the year. The River’s Edge Bar & Grill, Pump House Biergarten, and other dining options feature various menu items and more than 100 taps offering numerous craft beer options.

The USNWC also utilizes various adventure sports and natural environments onsite and throughout the region to develop leadership and communication skills. Skill development programs include specialized instruction and certification, summer camps for children and teenagers, and customizable team development courses for groups and schools, testing the mental and physical limits of participants in the wilderness. Learning opportunities are available to individuals, families, and groups of all ages and skill levels.

ADVENTURES ON THE GORGE LANSING, WV • adventuresonthegorge.com Over in West Virginia, the possibilities at Adventures on the Gorge are even more numerous and diverse on and off the river.

Their legendary river trips include the historic New River and the famed Gauley River.

Upper New and Lower New Trips The Upper New is great for families and first-timers, while the Lower New features big whitewater. Nearby, the Gauley River is dam-controlled and the fall releases create worldrenowned whitewater – while spring and summer can also mean great Gauley River runs, depending on water levels. Lots of different river trip options, including overnight camping and much more can make trips on both of these fabled rivers even more memorable.

More Water Activities Like lots of whitewater rafting outfitters profiled here, Adventures on the Gorge offers many other

possibilities. The laundry list of fun pursuits can include: all-levels and types of paddling instruction; lots of popular ziplining options; canopy tours; world-class rock climbing; ATV adventures; varied biking and hiking; bridge walk tours high over the New River Gorge; fishing; lake adventures; paintball; team building; horseback riding; caving; scenic dining on and off the rivers; overnight paddling trips on both rivers; and accommodations.

All-inclusive Trips Thanks to some unique “choose your adventures” all-inclusive offerings, Adventures on the Gorge is sometimes compared to a cruise ship-like adventure resort. In fact, a cruise ship is a great analogy for a land-based adventure resort like Adventures on the Gorge. Like a cruise, an adventure resort means you can book accommodations, dining, adventures, and more all at once.

However, all-inclusive packaging and pricing available at forwardthinking resorts like Adventures on the Gorge tops that are found with most cruise lines. That’s because “shore excursions” are typically extra (and sometimes darned expensive) on a cruise.

Except for a few adventures that carry surcharges, they’re generally part of the all-inclusive “choose your adventures” packages at Adventures on the Gorge.

“We started out as a whitewater paddling company on West Virginia’s wonderful rivers,” says company co-founder Dave Arnold.

“We still offer a wide variety of whitewater adventures, but now there's so much more to pursue as well while here.” With a popular pool complex, multiple dining options, and much more, now sprawling Adventures on the Gorge is situated right on the deep New River Gorge and overlooks the dramatic New River Gorge Bridge.

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WiILDWATER NORTH CAROLINA, SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TENNESSEE • wildwaterrafting.com With varied operations and offerings in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, Wildwater definitely features wild water – and so much more. This long-time whitewater rafting and adventure operator was founded way back in 1971, the year “Deliverance” (based on James Dickey’s novel of the same name) was being filmed on the Chattooga River between Georgia and South Carolina. The company still offers various rafting trips on the famed Chattooga (a National Wild & Scenic River), but they now feature so much more on and off several Mid-Atlantic rivers.

“Family owned and operated by the Greiners since 1971, Wildwater remains dedicated to helping thousands of guests enjoy the rivers, forests, and lakes of the spectacular Southern Appalachians and Smoky Mountains,” says Wildwater vice president, Jeff Greiner. “Guests visiting Wildwater have often asked the question, ‘What else is there to do?' says 32

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Greiner. “They have looked to Wildwater to help them plan a more complete adventure escape and typically want their favorite guides to lead them. From those requests, Wildwater began searching for ways to provide the all-around adventure. They were all a natural fit.”

Chattooga, Nantahala, Ocoee, and Pigeon Rivers With Wildwater Adventure Center locations in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, Wildwater features mild to wild paddling adventures on the Chattooga, Nantahala, Ocoee, and Pigeon Rivers. Each river has its own appeal (and required age, weight, and experience levels) and many Wildwater veterans have paddled them all several times. The beauty of Wildwater is the ability to paddle so many rivers and pursue other mild to wild adventures at multiple locations within one relatively convenient region.

More Water Activities Along with the convenient rivers, Wildwater features many other mild to wild adventures, including: Aerial Adventures at each Wildwater location, plus an Asheville outpost, (The Adventure Center of Asheville, with canopy tours, an adventure park, and KidZip just for kids); the new KidZip at their Nantahala location; “Raft & Rail” river and railroad adventure trips; Jeep tours; rope courses; climbing walls; paddling instruction (kayaking and canoeing); lake kayaking; SUP tours; tasty dining on and off their rivers; overnight river trips; and even varied lodging options (from camping to cabins to popular yurts).

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In the last decade or so, new buzz words have popped up in camping jargon. Glamping and yurts are two of the words that have gained traction in the past few years and that may well be because those words open up the concept of camping to a whole new subset of outdoor enthusiasts.

by Joan Rykal

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Y

ou might be hard-pressed to find someone who wouldn’t enjoy sleeping under the night sky of twinkling stars in theory, but unless they’re an avid camper whose gear includes everything needed to be ready for any kind of weather, they might find the idea appealing but loaded with reasons why they can’t. “We don’t have the right equipment.” “I’ve never been successful with tent camping.”

“My wife/kids/parents/cats/dogs/ hamster just does not/do not like sleeping on the ground.” “While I love the outdoors, close quarters aren’t my thing.” “I’d love to RV camp but that’s on the bucket list.”

The list goes on…

Those are the people that might find the concept of camping in a yurt very appealing. Most yurt accommodations can sleep 5-6 comfortably with plenty of room for table and chairs. Did we mention that most yurts offer bunk beds and/or futons when it comes to sleeping arrangements?

Oh, and don’t forget the electrical outlets – thanks to the structural design of the yurt.

So, just what is a yurt and how long have they been around?

These circular domed tents may have become quite trendy in the past few years but their history goes way back. Way, way back to 5th century Mongolia. The word “yurt” roughly translates to mean “home” in many languages but has come to be associated with the easily transportable dwelling.

Originally constructed of wood and covered with felted mats made of sheep’s wool, it was used by nomadic tribes of central Asia.

Yurts in America are largely due to Dr. William Coperthwaite, a Maine-born; Harvard educated professor who took an interest in yurts in the early 1960s as a simpler living space. By the 1990s, several companies had begun to craft yurts and in 1993, Oregon became the first state to offer yurts in a recreational setting in their state parks. In January 1994, two yurts, manufactured by the Pacific Yurts, were installed in Oregon’s Lookout State Park. Once skeptics and campers alike saw how they withstood the Oregon winter weather, there was no turning back. The Oregon State Park system went on to order 50 more yurts.

Fast forward to the present day, and yurts have come to be associated with the trend of

yurts can be found at the following THOUSAND TRAILS AND ENCORE campgroundS

glamping although many campgrounds have had them for years as an alternative accommodation to a tent.

One reason for that is due to the spaciousness of the yurt as well as the amenities it can provide.

They are also made of high-tech materials and can withstand the elements much better.

Thousand Trails and Encore campgrounds offer yurt accommodations at eight locations. These yurts typically feature either two double futons and one set of bunk beds or one double futon and two sets of bunk beds. There are primitive yurts that have no bathrooms or you may prefer the more deluxe accommodations, that have a functional kitchenette with a stovetop and microwave (no oven), upright refrigerator with small freezer, and a dining table.

Kitchen amenities include an electric coffeepot, a toaster, pots and pans as well as dishes, glasses and utensils. The piece de resistance? A private restroom with shower! They also feature satellite television, a propane fireplace and gas barbeque on the outdoor deck. Now, that’s living!

Home Sweet Home or should we say Yurt, Sweet, Yurt!

Mt. Vernon – Bow, WA Long Beach – Seaview, WA Bend/Sunriver – Bend, OR Mt. Hood (Encore) – Welches, OR South Jetty – Florence, OR

Yosemite Lakes – Groveland, CA Lake of the Springs – Oregon House, CA

Camper reviews of the yurts have included words such as spacious, lovely and peaceful.

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for

by Joan Rykal

The Laurel Highlands (Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania)

In case you’re traveling with a whitewater rafter and you find you’d rather stay on terra firma, we’ve got a few non-water highlights of some of the areas featured in this month’s Mid-Atlantic Whitewater Rafting story on P24.

Visiting these places will still offer you plenty of fun, and possibly thrills and chills, but you’ll stay a bit dryer than your water-bound companions.

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To start, there’s the 68-mile Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway – a perfect mix of natural, as well as man-made wonders. There’s something for everyone along this picturesque drive where you’ll see rolling farmlands, covered bridges and rushing waterfalls.

Speaking of waterfalls, this area is home to not just one, but three Frank Lloyd Wright designed homes, including Fallingwater, considered one of the architectural triumphs of the 20th century. The lesser known Kentuck Knob, also known the Hagen House, can be found in Chalk Hill. After seeing ▲ Fallingwater by Frank Lloyd Wright Photo courtesy of Jonathan Lin

the masterpiece that was Fallingwater, the Hagans commissioned Wright, who was 86 at the time, to build them a home on 80 acres they had purchased in the mountains above Uniontown. The result was a stunning example of a Usonian home, Wright’s signature style. There is also the Duncan House in Polymath Park, another example of Wright’s Usonian design which actually offers overnight stays!

To learn about tours of these splendid architectural gems visit fallingwater.org, kentuckknob.com or polymathpark.com.

The Covered Bridge Scenic Tour is a roughly 16 mile scenic bike tour that begins in Osterburg and takes you through several covered bridges in the area as well as through the rolling farmlands.

If you’d rather relax while touring these century-old man-made bridges that have stood the test of time, there’s also a Covered Bridge Driving Tour of the bridges of Bedford County. For the bike tour, go to thealleghenies.com and check out the land activities link which also has information on bird watching and hiking in this gorgeous countryside.

What goes better than beer and football? Check out the town of Latrobe where Rolling Rock beer is brewed and the Pittsburgh Steelers host their training camp each summer at Saint Vincent College.

Unfortunately, you won’t be able to visit the camp (unless you made your visit request before June 1) but it’s still fun to know all that football talent is in the same town you are (unless you’re not a Steelers fan!).

▲ Charlotte's Discovery Place Science Museum Photo courtesy of M Fletcher

On the beer side of this equation, there’s the Latrobe Brewing Company – Rolling Rock Gift Shop and Visitors Center. The beer in the green bottle with its mysterious number 33 is now brewed in Newark, New Jersey, but you can learn all about the history of Rolling Rock, the beer that was brewed right in Latrobe from 1939 until the summer of 2006 with a visit here.

The lush landscape of the area makes it a fertile region for grape growing and there are more than seven wineries in the area. Explore them all on the Southwest Passage Wine Trail.

If you’re up for a cave exploration, don’t miss Laurel Caverns, Pennsylvania’s largest cave, where you can choose to go spelunking or rappelling.

There’s also Kavernputt, a 10,000 square foot 18-hole miniature golf course inside a simulated cave. For more information about Laurel Caverns, visit laurelcaverns.com.

Charlotte, NC For the whitewater rafter, the jewel of Charlotte is of course, the U.S. National Whitewater Center (USNWC), but there are plenty of gems to discover if land-loving is your thing.

Everyone will find something of interest at Discovery Place, a science museum that makes science fun for everyone with “interactive exhibits and explosive experiments.” For children seven and under, there’s KidScience featuring hands-on fun with water tables, wind tunnels, blocks, gears and air tubes. Project Build targets your inner architect urging you to create building sketches and floor plans while World Alive explores the earth’s biodiversity with an aquarium, a rainforest and learning labs.

Don’t miss the museum’s latest IMAX feature movie, National Parks Adventures. To mark the 100-year anniversary of the national parks, world-class

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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mountaineer Conrad Anker teams up with adventure photographer Max Lowe and artist Rachel Pohl to hike, climb and explore their way across America’s national parks.

For more information visit discoveryplace.org.

A city founded in 1768 has to have a ghost or two. Hear about them all during a Haunted Walking Tour of Historic Charlotte. By guided lantern, you’ll walk the streets of Charlotte’s Uptown and learn about spirits that are said to inhabit the area and why they won’t leave!

The Green, a one and half-acre park in Uptown features sculptures and fountains and is a perfect place to picnic.

Pay close attention to the art installations as the park has an overall theme based on world literature. You’ll find quotes by famous writers as well as other fun literary related art.

More than your average farmers market, the 7th Street Public Market hawks homegrown produce as well as local favorites like coffee and pizza and is open daily from 8:30am to 7:30pm and 10am to 5pm on weekends. From crepes and confections to artisanal breads and beer soap (yes, it’s made with beer), the 7th Street Public Market is a must-see when in Charlotte.

The NASCAR Hall of Fame is a 150,000 square foot museum honoring the drivers from this thrilling sport. With interactive exhibits, artifacts and a stateof-the-art theater, the museum is a thrill for race fans of all ages as they learn about the history of the sport as well as the drivers who fly around the track at average speeds of 210 miles per hour. For details

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about the museum’s hours and exhibits, visit nascarhall.com.

Speaking of flying, the Carolina Raptor Center is a zoo-like setting that features more than 20 species you can learn along the three-quarter mile outdoor trail. The Center’s Summer Flight Show showcases native and exotic birds in free flight.

For Center information and Summer Flight show times, visit carolinaraptorcenter.org.

▲ NASCAR Hall of Fame Photo courtesy of David Berkowitz

▲ Virginia Capital Square Photo courtesy of Bill Dickinson

Richmond, VA Designed by Thomas Jefferson, the Virginia Capitol is 226 years old this year. The Virginia General Assembly held its first session there in 1788 which gives the building the distinction of housing the oldest legislative body in the Western Hemisphere. It was modeled on Maison Carree, an ancient Roman temple in Nimes, France.

A visit to Maymont, a 100-acre Victorian estate, includes such highlights as exquisite Japanese and Italian gardens and an arboretum, a carriage collection with more than 20 vehicles, as well as tour of the mansion where you can view life as it was upstairs, as well as below stairs where the domestic staff worked.

Maymont is also home to animals, including black bears and bald eagles and also has a children’s farm and nature center. For more information visit maymont.org.

Where can you find Robert E. Lee, Jefferson Davis, Stonewall Jackson and Arthur Ashe all in one place? On Monument Avenue – a residential boulevard featuring monuments of the aforementioned men.

There are more statues to be seen in Capitol Square including those of George Washington and Edgar Allen Poe. The Executive Mansion can also be found in Capitol Square. Tours of this National Historic Landmark are available Tuesday through Thursday. You can also see the Bell Tower, which was completed in 1825 and still tolls its bell to call the General Assembly into session.

If you’re in Richmond on June 25 and toting a carload of kids, don’t miss MessFest – the Science Museum of Virginia’s fun, but messy, event that features slingshot painting, erupting volcanoes, a Slime Zone, and geyser eruptions.

The event will run from noon to 5pm at the museum. The museum also features exhibits about space, health, electricity and Earth. For more information, and to learn more about the Science Museum, visit smv.org.

▲ Shenandoah National Park Trail Photo courtesy of Bahahamelly

▲ Harpers Ferry Historical Park Photo courtesy of Payton Chung

Harpers Ferry, WV

West Lansing, WV

Made famous by John Brown’s Raid during the Civil War, today the quaint, historic town of Harpers Ferry is home to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Headquarters as well as the John Brown Wax Museum and the Civil War Living History Museum.

Harpers Ferry Historical Park is considered one of the best walking parks offering views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Potomac and the Shenandoah Valley over roughly 20 miles of hiking trails.

It really is all about the white water rafting here, but you can start your day, whether you hit the water or stay shore side, with a visit to Tudor’s Biscuit World for an out-of-this-world biscuit breakfast. Or try Vandal’s Kitchen for what people are saying are the best chicken and waffles you’ll ever eat. Gumbo’s served up authentic Cajun, while the Cathedral Café has sweet potato pancakes and offers a unique setting, plus a gift shop that features the work of local artisans. All restaurants are in nearby Fayetteville.

▲ Cathedral Café Photo courtesy of Asrai

So, no matter the whitewater destination your companions choose, you can find something to keep you busy while they ride the rapids – and you can hold their wallets!

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On The Road

T. Graham Brown Singer • Songwriter • Entertainer hether you spend life on the road for pleasure or work, it's nice to have the comforts of home as you travel the highways and byways.

TRAILBLAZER checks in with folks who spend a fair amount of time on the road to see just what makes their home away from home.

W

This month, we chatted with singer, songwriter, and jingle extraordinaire, T. Graham Brown.

Born Anthony Graham Brown in Arabi, Georgia in the mid-50s, T. Graham Brown is a Grammy nominated country/soul/gospel music singer and songwriter.

But he might be more well-known for the long list of national radio and television jingles he performed throughout the 80s for such well-known companies as McDonald’s, Almond Joy, Coca-Cola, Dodge Truck, Hardee’s, Ford, and the Taco Bell “Run for the Border” campaign.

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These legendary jingles and his early soulful talents as the front man for T. Graham Brown & Reo Diamond and T. Graham Brown & the Mighty Rack of Spam led him to a songwriter deal with EMI, one of the largest music publishers in the world, and, later, a recording deal with Capitol records. Since then, Brown has had multiple #1 hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, ten Top 10 Country singles, and released 14 albums – including his first Grammynominated album in 2015 for Forever Changed.

Often called the R&B version of George Jones or the country version of Otis Redding, Brown has successfully carved out a musical career in country, soul, and gospel – and still performs more than 80 concerts a year at festivals, fairs, and, his personal favorites, restored theaters.

by Lynn & Cele Seldon

Photo courtesy of Webster Public Relations

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▲ 45’ T. Graham Brown Bus Photo courtesy of Webster Public Relations

Tell us about your bus.

I’ve got a 45’ Prevost. Now ain’t this funny. I own this bus but I don’t have any idea what it is.

I’ve owned a couple and I’ve leased a couple. I used to own a Silver Eagle back in the day. We carry a band so it’s like a working bus. It’s got a front lounge, it’s got all the electronics, a little kitchen, a bathroom. Then there’s a hallway in the middle of it that’s got 12 bunks. Then in the back, there’s another lounge. I sleep in the bunks. I love the bunks.

What’s your favorite thing about staying on your bus versus a hotel?

It’s kind of like a little cocoon. It’s got all my stuff there. There are a lot of times where we’ll get hotel rooms but I’ll just stay on the bus because I like having all my stuff.

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What are your three favorite things onboard?

What else do you do when you are on road?

DirectTV. I have it at home so it’s just like being at home. I can watch my favorite shows. I like to watch the History Channel and the Discovery Channel.

Sometimes we watch DVDs. All the bunks have TVs in them.

It’s a good way to travel.

Since we roll at night, we usually just listen to music or watch TV. Then we roll right into the bunks

Do you cook onboard?

We’ve got a microwave. We’ve got some guys that are pretty good cooks and they’ll bring some huge casseroles. Some good home cooking and we’ll heat it up in microwave. We have a frig, a sink, coffee maker, and the microwave.

We really don’t do cooking – just heating stuff up.

Do you listen to music on the road?

Sometimes. I like classic rock and old classic country. I’m 60 years old so I’m old school.

Did you ever go camping as a kid or as a family vacation?

I was a boy scout when I was a kid and I camped out a lot. But now we have friends that have places at the beach, or the mountains, or at the lake. So we usually stay there.

What are a few favorite destinations?

We’ve been everywhere. Literally everywhere. There are a lot of places I like. I love Hoover Dam, San Francisco, New York City.

Try to get a bus down the road in New York City. It’s an adventure.

Congratulations on your Grammy nomination for Forever Changed.

What’s next?

Thanks. The album is doing really well. Cracker Barrel put it in all their stores, which is great.

I wrote this single in 1998 called “Wine Into Water” which is about getting sober. It kind of became an underground recovery song.

I wanted to get it back out there so we re-released it on that album.

I asked lots of friends to be on the album, like Vince Gill, Leon Russell, and the Oak Ridge Boys. And there are lots of gospel stars on it like Jason Crabb, Sonya Issacs, the Booth Brothers, and Jimmy Fortune. It’s filled with songs of hope. We’re probably going to do another country album next. I’ve got a jazz album that I want to do.

Shoot – I’ve got a lot of things I want to do.

▲ 2015 Bauska Country Festival Photo courtesy of Mareks Matisons

One of your bands was named T. Graham Brown’s Rack of Spam because of your love of the meat treat.

How did that get started?

Any favorite spam recipes?

I named that band in 1978 and I don’t know what I was doing.

I may have been in an altered state. So, I don’t know where that name came from. People think I eat it, but I really don’t. People give it to me all the time on the road. It’s like an inside joke. I did a cooking show with Florence Henderson a long time ago and we made a Cheesy Spam Bake. The people that own Spam, Hormel, sent me all kinds of Spam stuff.

Where do you like to eat on the road?

We eat at Cracker Barrel or truck stops. When we do shows, they often provide food for us. We eat a lot of fried chicken. If I never see another deli tray it would be good.

▲ Inside his Prevost RV Photo courtesy of Webster Public Relations

We understand you are a huge Andy Griffith Show fan. Have you ever been to Mt. Airy, NC, Andy Griffith’s hometown and the fictional home of Mayberry?

Who doesn’t like Andy Griffith?

I was just there last month. I’ve been there a lot of times. Last time I was there, I had a picnic with a tourism guy who worked for the city. After we got home, a concrete statue of Andy Griffith showed up at my house.

Highways or scenic routes?

We roll on the interstates during the night.

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Who’s in the kitchen with

TrailBlazer?

Cooking with

Lesley Tennessen

Sweet and Summer Fun. What a good way to open our season of camping, campfires, family gatherings and cooking! Yes, good summer cooking!

What's more fun than a campfire breakfast. Here are a couple of good recipes. One is a Ham, Cheese and Biscuit bake that is easy to put together, and cook with your dutch oven over the coals. The other is made with some of the traditional favorites. I chose a French Toast made special with strawberry preserves!

Here we go! Light the campfire, get some coals going and Let's Get Cooking.

(12” skillet, 15-20 under the lid or more for longer cook times)

Ingredients • 2 slices of bread/per serving (12 slices total) • 1 jar of strawberry preserves • 1 container of whipped cream cheese (spreads easier) • 3-4 eggs • Milk, cinnamon, and butter • Maple Syrup

Lesley Tennessen, Dutch Oven Diva www.dutchovendiva.com or visit my blog at dutchovendiva.wordpress.com

Stuffed French Toast

Directions 1. You will be cooking this just like you would french toast!

2. Heat a small amount of butter in your skillet or on lid.

Smores Bars

3. Put a smear of cream cheese on one slice of bread. Put a smear of peach preserves on the other piece, not too much because it will ooze on out when warm.

4. Put the two slices together like a sandwich.

5. Combine the eggs, milk, cinnamon together. Dip the sandwich into the egg until coated but not soggy.

5. Lay the sandwich down onto the heated butter. Cook like french toast until warm and brown. Flip over and cook the other side.

5. Remove to a warm plate, pour a little maple syrup over and enjoy!

Credited to BunnysWarmOven (10” dutch oven, 350° oven, 1 ring and 3 coals on lid, 8 under the lid)

Ingredients

Directions

• ½ c. butter, softened • ¾ c. of sugar • 1 egg • 1 tsp. vanilla extract • 1⅓ c. of flour • ¾ c. graham cracker crumbs • 1 tsp. baking powder • ¼ tsp. salt • 4 milk chocolate candy bars (1¾ oz.)

• 3 c. miniature marshmallows

1. Heat oven to 350ºF. Grease an 10" dutch oven or line with parchment.

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2. Beat butter and sugar together until well blended in a large bowl. Add egg and vanilla; beat well.

3. In another bowl stir together flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt. Add to butter mixture, beating until blended.

4. Press half the dough into the prepared pan. Bake 15 minutes.

5. Unwrap chocolate bars; arrange over baked layer. They may not quite all fit, you may be forced to eat a couple pieces. Sprinkle with marshmallows. Scatter remaining dough over the marshmallows, forming a top layer.

6. Cook for about 20-25 minutes until the eggs are all set and the biscuits are done.

Pizza Rollups » (12” dutch oven, 375° oven, 1 ring plus 4 on lid, and 9 under oven)

Ingredients

• 1 Crescent sheet or 1 refrigerated pizza dough tube • ½ c. marinara sauce • 4 oz. sliced pepperoni • 2 c. shred mozzarella or Italian blend cheese (8 oz) • 1 tbsp. parmesan cheese • Basil (optional) • Cooking spray

Directions 1. Preheat your dutch oven by putting the coals under and on lid for about 5 minutes.

2. Unroll the dough sheets. Stretch or roll it out to get a 8x12 rectangle on lightly floured surface.

3. Spread the marinara on the dough all the way to the edge; top with the pepperoni and 1¾ cups mozzarella/ Italian blend cheese. Starting with long side, tightly roll up the dough, slightly stretching as you go to form a 14” log.

4. Put down parchment in the bottom of the dutch oven so you can lift these out easily. Lightly spray the parchment.

5. Cut the log crosswise into 9 rounds.

Arrange cut side up in the dutch oven, touching slightly.

6. Bake the rolls covered, until the cheese begins to melt and the rolls are puffy, about 10-15 minutes.

7. Uncover and look…are they puffy?

Yes, put the remaining cheese on and close up the oven.

8. Take the oven off the heat but leave the lid on for 5 more minutes. The heat of the cast iron will continue to cook these rolls.

9. Read the directions on the tube for further times and adjust as needed.

Ham, Cheese, & Biscuit Bake (10” dutch oven, 375° oven, 1 ring plus 3 on lid, and 1 ring under oven)

Ingredients • 1 tube of buttermilk rolls (12 oz) • 1 c. of cheese • 1 c. cubed ham or crumbled bacon • 5 eggs • 1 c. milk

Directions 1. Light the coals so they are ready when you have the dish put together.

2. Grease the dutch oven with pan spray or butter, or use a parchment liner.

3. Cut each biscuit in fourths and put to side.

4. Beat the eggs gently until scrambled. Mix in milk, then cheese and biscuit pieces. Gently stir and pour into the dutch oven.

5. Set up the coals for baking. Put the oven onto the loose ring of coals. Top with coals on the lid.

6. Cook for about 20-25 minutes until the eggs are all set and the biscuits are done.

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

45

ASK

RVBILL

YOUR TECH QUESTIONS ANSWERED!

Extra Batteries

Q

My Class C motorhome only has a single group 24 battery for the coach side of the motorhome. With limited use of the lights, water pump and furnace while boon docking, it does not take long for the battery to become depleted.

Due to the fact that the battery is under the hood on the opposite side of the starting battery there is no room for a second auxiliary to be installed. Is there anyway to install extra batteries in one of the compartments or inside the motorhome?

Thank You, Lonnie and Sue

Dead Battery

Q

My 2004 Winnebago Motorhome start battery goes dead after two or three weeks in storage.

I am plugged and two electric so the coach batteries are OK, when my battery boost switch stopped working it was kind of a pain in the you know what.

Is there anyway to charge the start battery when I’m plugged into shore power besides a automotive battery charger?

I appreciate your help, Gary

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JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

A

Installing extra batteries in a nearby baggage compartment can be done. Checking the water when servicing the batteries tends to be a little bit of a problem because they’re difficult to get to. You could install a maintenance-free battery such as an AGM (absorbed glass matt).

These types of batteries can be installed on their side, on the edge or anywhere because they do not contain an electrolyte. You don’t even need to put them in a battery box as they do not leak or spill. AGM batteries are not cheap but they lasts an average of 7-8 years, so in the long run they’re worth the money. These batteries

A

Yes, there are a couple of companies making devices to alleviate this problem. Keep in mind it is not a quick charge but a trickle charge.

Xantrex Echo-Charge is one option. This unit detects when the house batteries are being charged and directs a portion of the charge current to the start battery. This unit is limited to 15 A with an auto on and off.

The part number is 82-0123-01.

Another option would be TrikL-Charge The same automatic system with a smaller charge at 5 AMPS. This unit automatically

can even be installed inside the coach, as they do not emit gas.

When running the positive wire from the original battery under the hood to the added batteries, be sure to install a proper sized circuit breaker at both batteries to protect the positive cable running from battery to battery in case of a short that can cause a melt down. Never install lead acid batteries inside the coach unless they are in a sealed box that is vented to the outside.

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

maintains the start battery when plugged into AC while the house batteries are charging. This unit even works with solar systems.

For larger battery banks Trik-LCharge has a big brother. AmpL-Start, and has a maximum of 15 A of charging, this is designed for much larger battery banks that are typically used in diesel pushers. Both are easy to install simply connect wires between both the house batteries and the start batteries. I would recommend a larger 15-amp charger for either small battery banks are large battery banks.

You never know when you need a little extra power.

New Tires

Q

Bill, I am looking at replacing the tires on my 35 foot travel trailer. It currently has load range E tires and I would like to upgrade to a load range G. What sort of recommendations do you have, do I want LT or ST. What make tire do you recommend for a load range E or G? My second question is how often should the wheel bearings be serviced? I’ve read that they should go 3 to 5 years without any problem. I believe that my owner’s manual says they should be serviced every year.

Ken & Susan

Wheel Chalks

Q

I’m new to RVing and I look around the campground and notice that most people put a brace of some sort between their trailer tires. What is name of the wheel chalks you recommend I purchase to replace my yellow, plastic tire blocks. I know it’s important that I have a safer system in place.

This is a very helpful column for me and I have watched many of your YouTube videos as well.

See you on the road, Sam

A

The very first thing that you will need to know is will the wheels support tire psi needed of a G rated tire. For instance, E rated tires have a maximum of 80 psi and G rated tires have a maximum pressure rating of 110 psi. Most likely your E rated tires are mounted on an E rated rim that will not support a G rated tires higher air pressure. As far as tire manufacture recommendation, I would recommend Maxxis ST or the Goodyear G614. Both are excellent tires.

Wheel bearings should be serviced annually, not necessarily to make sure they have plenty of grease, but the most important

A

Welcome to the fun of RV life! The wheel chalks you want to purchase are called “X-Chock” Wheel Stabilizer made by BAL RV Products Group MSRP $70-$100 for a pair. You will find more info on the company’s website and they can help you decide what size X-chock is best for your RV tires. Unlike plastic, these are high quality, zinc plated steel and will last you for many, many years to come. As a full time RVer, I use them everyday and wouldn’t be without them! Great question, Sam, and thanks for writing in.

part of servicing the bearings will be inspecting brake shoes, brake magnets and springs. I suppose you could remove the hubs and drums and just inspects the parts once a year but while you’re in there clean inspect and re-grease the bearings. If there is a problem beginning with one of the wheel bearings, you will catch it. Always replace the grease seals when servicing the bearings.

Gar Props Support Kit

Q

Bill, I remember reading an article and Trailer Life Magazine a few years ago about aftermarket baggage door gas prop support kits. We have a new RV and I’m getting tired of the doors dropping on my head every time I move the wrong way. Can you give me the name of the product?

Thanks, Jack

A

I would be happy to give you the name of the product as I use them personally on my own RV. The name of the company is Hatchlift.

Go to their website, hatchlift.com and you will find what you need to order the correct size gas props for your particular size baggage doors.

They also make a fantastic bed lift that allows you to be able to safely and securely raise the bed platform up to gain storage underneath the bed without having to carry around a piece of wood to hold the bed up.

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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Member Deals

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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.

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Member Deals ▲ Alpine Lakes RV Resort (NY)

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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.

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Member Deals â–˛ Fiesta Key RV Resort (FL)

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**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.

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Member Deals â–˛ Tropic Winds RV Resort (TX)

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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.

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

51

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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.

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Member Deals ▲ Fiesta Grande RV Resort (AZ)

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**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.

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Member Deals ▲ Mesa Spirit RV Resort (AZ)

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▲ Desert Paradise

RV Resort (AZ)

Use Promo Code: TT50AZ Valid 6/1/16 - 8/31/16

$999 3 Month Special Venture In Use Promo Code: TT999VI Valid 6/1/16 - 10/31/16.

▲ Verde Val

ley RV & Cam

ping Resort

(AZ)

*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.

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JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals ▲ Venture In RV Resort (AZ)

Arizona

30% Off

Monthly Rates ▲ Monte

Vista RV R

esort (AZ)

Venture In Use Promo Code: TT30MVI Valid for the month of 6/1/16 - 10/31/16

30% Off

Weekly Rates Venture In ▲ ViewPoint RV & Golf Resort (AZ)

Use Promo Code: TT30WVI Valid for the month of 6/1/16 - 10/31/16 *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.

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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

– David & Ruth, Whittier, CA

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57

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Answers can be found on page 63.

Get in

Gear!

ThousandTrailsGear.com

e and mor

!

• Hats • Sweatshirts • T-Shirts • Koozies

58

ACROSS 1 Kind of buoy 5 Diagonal 9 Lumberman’s boot 12 Sound 13 Catholic book of feasts 14 Estuary 15 Nipa palm 16 Sora (2 words) 18 Grain 20 New Mexico art colony 21 Spume 24 Chemical salt 27 Abuse 31 Queensland hemp plant 32 Camel hair cloth 33 Parcae 35 Shipshaped clock 36 Recent (suf.)

40 Sp. hero (2 words) 42 Assam hills 43 Camelot lady 45 Boys’ author 49 Depute

53 “Last Days of Pompeii” character 54 Or best offer (abbr.)

55 Adjective-forming (suf.)

56 Night (pref.)

57 Dance company (abbr.)

58 Sesame 59 Fencing sword DOWN 1 Fabian Society member 2 Route 3 Wings 4 Meal 5 Polish general 6 Irish Republican Army (abbr.)

7 Mine entrance 8 Sea goose 9 Primeval 10 Demeanor 11 Computer assisted design (abbr.)

17 19 22 23 25 26 27 28 29 30 34 37 39 41 44 46 47 48 49

Woods (Fr.) Sod Unwilling to listen Silk fabric Land west of Nod Float Nutmeg husk Brother of Seth Friend of King Arthur Web Scand. legend A (Ger.) Net fabric Toe Carplike fish Slimy stuff Noun-forming (suf.)

Plexus Dead on arrival (abbr.)

50 Move back 51 To (Scot.)

52 Building wing

4

paws ROAD ON THE

Traveling and Camping with Companion Animals

Jenn, I have a very food motivated dog that is uber sweet and willing to learn but hard to refocus once she’s wound up. Food is the only way to get her to sit and pay attention. She crawls into my lap and begs for attention by pawing at me when I’m on the computer. I worry that her level of demand will lead to other issues down the road. I know I need to make exercise more of a priority in the morning on a daily basis and once again when I’m getting home from work to help make the pm hours better overall. Lizzy is a spayed, 19 mo. old 14lb Jack Russell mix.

Thanks! Kerri JENN Hi, Kerri, I applaud you for seeing the issues that need your attention and being willing to own the fact that some of them have been put into play due to your habits. The good news is that with patience and consistency, healthier patterns can be made. Let’s get right to! Personal space/less treats for doing good work- Use a simple praise “good” and less treats, if any, to praise. I’m not saying never treat, but use them at random. Don’t treat with food if the dog is expecting it. If the food makes her crazy excited, don’t use it. The simple act of obedience and receiving praise from you should be reward enough and you may need to get back to the basics of establishing your relationship by not using treats when

by Jenn Gehr training her. Wait for Lizzy to be in a calm submissive state for several minutes before setting a treat down for her to enjoy. This is come after a long work out where she’s physically tired but, do it when she’s not looking or place it in a location where she has to find it herself and where the treat isn’t associated with praise or a gift from you. If hand feeding her causes her to get excited again, you know hand feeding her treats won’t work into your new pattern. You’re spot on that if a dog is constantly demanding lap space and crawls up to see who’s going to give it and demand when they get it, the behavior needs to be stopped! I too, suggest against encouraging such behavior as this may lead to other issues, plus, it’s rude if you can’t control it. Dogs deserve their space and so us humans. It is our responsibility as the leader of the household to set clear boundaries.

You may physically – firm and gentle without any emotion or eye contacthave to guide her away from your face several times before she is content with settling down at peace and being satisfied with a kind rubbing and soft praise. Watch that you don’t over praise as to get her going again. Take note the tone of your voice – are you adding to Lizzy’s excitement or helping keep her neutral with your calm, steady presence? Dogs do NOT need to be on your lap and in your space 75% of the time, let alone 100% of the time. Get her a soft, outdoor pad and teach the command to get “on your spot”. This will be her happy place beside you where you both can rest and have your own area. Teaching and training our dogs to be calm and submissive is a critical step in having a well-behaved dog.

Jenn, My three Pugs are always dealing with crusty build up in their folds and chaffing irritation behind their elbows.

They love to lick off anything I apply topically. Is there an organic product that you might suggest that would help treat these skin troublesome & stinky disorders? I hate to use chemicals when not needed and I want to help my crew get better and stay better.

Thanks for the help, Melinda JENN My go-to shop for such ailments is Texas based! All natural, vegan, organic and made with love, www. naturaldogcompany.com has just what you need to get your Pugs more comfortable. Check out their all new, soothing and scent free Wrinkle Balm ($5.55 for .25 oz tin). This magical formula is ideal for treating skin fold dermatitis, yeasts, bacteria, redness, sores, hair loss and crusty build up.

Thanks for inquiring on a natural remedy to help your dogs feel and smell the best they can! I love this balm for my cuticles and dry elbows, too!

Reader’s Tip I have a young black lab named “Charlie” who is a chowhound and my beloved “Grandpup”! She eats so fast I worry that she might bloat. Her owners, Brittany and Pat, have a super solution that I wanted to share for others who may be in the same boat with their dog. Use a cupcake tin – a mini muffin size is really great – to simply put kibble into tiny portions and make the dog work for the meal. It’s fun to watch her work at it and it’s a safe way to slow her down and eat.

Thoughtfully submitted by JoAnne.

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

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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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 www.alrvsales.com A Great Outdoor RV Center TX - Canton • www.agorv.com Affinity RV AZ - Dewey, Prescott, Prescott Valley www.affinityrv.com Alpin Haus NY - Amsterdam, Port Jervis, Saratoga www.alpinhaus.com

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

Economy RVs MD - Mechanicsville www.economyrvs.com Ellis Travel Trailers GA - Statesboro www.ellistraveltrailers.com ET Quality RV CA - Two locations in Yuba City www.etqualityrv.com Floyd’s RV OK - Norman • www.floydsrvs.com

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

Freedom RV WA - Liberty Lake www.freedomrvusa.com

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

Funtime RV OR - Tualalin • www.funtimervinc.com

Appleton Camping Center WI - Appleton • www.appletoncamping.com

Chesaco RV MD - Joppa • www.chesacorv.com

B&B RV CA - Anderson • www.bbrv.me

Clear Creek RV WA - Silverdale www.clearcreekrvcenter.com

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

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

Gibs RV Superstore OR - Coos Bay www.gibsrvsuperstore.com

Country Camping Corner NC - Kings Mountain, Matthews www.countrycamping.com

Hayden’s RVs VA - Richmond • www.haydensrvs.net

Al’s Trailer Sales OR - Salem • www.alstrailers.com American Family RV VA - Chesapeake www.americanfamilyrv.com

Bama RV AL - Dothan • www.bamarv.com Baydo’s RV of Chehalis WA - Chehalis • www.baydosrvs.com Big Country RV OR - Bend, Redmond • www.bigcrv.com Blade Chevrolet RV WA - Mt. Vernon • www.bladerv.com Boat-N-RV NY - West Coxsackie; SC - Ridgeland PA - Hamburg • www.boatnrv.com Braun’s Fun Time Campers IN - Indianapolis www.funtimecampers.com Browns RV SC - McBee www.brownsrvsuperstore.com 60

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

Crossroads Trailers NJ - Newfield www.crossroadstrailers.com Cunningham Campers, Inc. IN- Jeffersonville www.cunninghamcampers.com Curtis Trailer Center MI - Schoolcraft www.curtistrailercenter.com

Haylett RV MI - Coldwater www.haylettautoandrv.com Jeff’s Couch’s RV Nation OH - Hamilton • www.couchsrvnation.com J&M Camper & Marine ME - Augusta • www.jmcamper.com Keystone RV Center PA - Greencastle www.keystonervcenter.com Lakeside RV Sales SC - Anderson • www.lakesidervsales.com

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

RV Source TN - Knoxville • www.rvsforless.net

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

Safford RV VA - Thornburg • www.saffordrv.com

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

Scott Motor Coach NJ - Lakewood www.scottmotorcoach.com

Media Camping PA - Media • www.mediacamping.com Mike Thompson RV Superstores CA - Cathedral City, Colton, Fountain Valley, Santa Fe Springs www.mikethompson.com Opelika RV Center AL - Opelika • www.opelikarv.com

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

See Grins RV CA - Gilroy, San Martin • www.seegrins.com Seguin RV TX - Seguin • www.seguinrv.com Simi RV & Off Road CA - Simi Valley • www.simi-rv.com

CANADA Action VR QC - Saint-Nicolas • www.actionvr.ca Véhicules Récréatifs JD QC - Sherbrooke • www.vrjdrv.ca VR Depot QC - Vaudreuil-Dorion • www.vrdepot.ca VR Emond Plus QC - Sainte-Nicolas www.vremondplus.com VR Prestige QC - Terrebonne • www.vrprestige.com VR Souliere QC - Lanoraie, Lavaltrie www.vrsouliere.com

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

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

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

Snyder’s RV VA - Virginia Beach • www.snydersrv.com

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

Strickland Marine & RV SC - Seneca www.stricklandmarineandrv.com

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

Sundown RV Center CA - Atwater • www.sundownrv.com

PPL Motorhomes TX - Cleburne, Houston, New Braunfels www.pplmotorhomes.com

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

Princesscraft RV TX - Round Rock • www.princesscraft.com

Leasure Days RV ON - Ayr, Kingston, Pembroke, Smith Falls, Sudbry QC - Buckingham, Gatineau, Sherbrooke NB - Salisbury NS - Truro www.leisuredays.ca

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

R.B.Taylor & Sons VA - Lynchburg www.rbtaylorandsons.com

Le Centre du Vr Victoriaville QC - Saint-Albert • www.vrvictoriaville.com

The Trail Center SC - North Charleston www.trailcenter.com

Recreation Plantation RV Sales IL - Lynwood www.recreationplantationrvsales.com

Toscano RV CA - Los Banos • www.toscanorv.com

Roulottes AS Levesque QC - Châteauguay, Saguenay, Sainte-Hélène, Trois-Rivières www.roulotte.ca

Roadhouse Camper & RV PA - Lake Ariel (Scranton) www.roadhousecamper.com Roy Robinson RV WA - Marysville • www.royrobinsonrv.com Russ Dean Family RV WA - Pasco • www.russdeanrv.com RV City AZ - Huachuca City • www.rvcity.net RV General Store OK - Newcastle • www.rvgeneralstore.com RV’s For Less TX - Bryan • www.rvsource.com

Sunbelt RV Center TX - Belton • www.sunbeltrv.com

TravelTime RV TX - Sulphur Springs www.traveltimerv.com

GO VR QC - Ange Gardien • www.go-vr.com Horizon Lussier QC - Maryville • www.horizonlussier.com JCS Entreposage QC - Trois Rivières www.entreposagejcs.com

Roulottes Remillard QC - Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu www.roulottesremillard.com

Vancouver RV & Park Model Center Wa - Vancouver • www.vancouverrv.com Vogt RV TX - Ft. Worth • www.vogtrv.com Welcome Back RV Outlet TX - Athens • www.welcomebackrv.com Western Travel Sales WA - Lynden www.westerntravelsales.com Wilder RV WA - Port Angeles • www.wilderrvs.com

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

61

y l l a It’s R Time!

Calendar

CLUB JUNE 2016 Bounders United (BUTTN)

If you are interested in attending please e-mail or call the Schneider’s, BettyAron.Schneider@verizon.net, (951) 676-5588 or (951) 533-8764.

You will need to make your own reservations through the Thousand Trails system.

TT SINGLES Central California

Jun. 24-26....................Morgan Hill, CA Jul. 22-24..................... Snowflower, CA Aug. 26-28................... Snowflower, CA Contact Jane Davis at (209) 986-1088 or email to janedjd@pacbell.net; Becky Staffeld at (408) 253-6995 or email to bstaffeld@att.net.

TT Travelers Southern California

We meet Mon, Tues, Weds, mornings for coffee and those evenings for potluck and games. For more information, contact Wagon Master Donna Schoolcraft (619) 933-9787 or cecilanddonna@aol.com

62

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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

Northwest

Jun. 24-26............................... Bend, OR Aug. 26-28....................Mt. Vernon, WA Sept. 23-25....................Cultus Lake, BC Oct. 28-30........................... Seaside, OR We also have new contact people and email, phone numbers: WagonMaster Daphne Bailey (Oregon) (503) 590-8566, daphnebailey07@ comcast.net. Secretary Dottie Michel (Washington) (360) 941-3126, ttnw_sec@yahoo.com.

Lewis and Clark TTN

Jun. 16-20.................Whaler’s Rest, OR Jun. 23-26............................ Albany, OR Jul. 18-22....................... La Conner, WA Aug. 18-22.................... South Jetty, 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

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.

TTN So Cal Weekenders

Jun. 3-5 �������������������������������Pio Pico, CA Aug. 5-7 ����������������������������� 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 website: http://home.earthlink. net/~ttnweekenders.

TT East Trail Buddies

We are an FMCA chapter exclusively for TT Members. We have three rallies each year at TT preserves on the East Coast. For more information, please contact Club Secretary Peter Kamenik at (410) 287-8440 or email to trailbuddiestteast@gmail.com.

TTWest/FMCA

Jul. 15-17 ��������������������� Snowflower, CA Sept. 8-11 ���������Lake of the Springs, CA Nov. 18-20 ���������������������� San Bentio, 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.

Answers – Crossword puzzle can be found on page 58

Find The Evergreen Tree

Answers can be found on page 65.

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

Julia Turner of Bakersfield, CA

found the tree on Page 13 of the April 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 June 30, 2016 and remember –the tree could be a different color and size.

Terms and Conditions for 2016 Referral Promotion from page 4.

For each Eligible Referral (as defined) through December 31, 2016, you will receive a $25 Visa® Prepaid Card. In addition, for each Eligible Referral through December 31, 2016, 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 2017, 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, 2017. 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, 2016 and December 31, 2016 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 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.

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

63

Terms and Conditions for The Big Outdoor Adventure Giveaway Sweepstakes from page 45.

OFFICIAL RULES AND REGULATIONS

NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT OF ANY KIND IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. PURCHASE DOES NOT IMPROVE ODDS OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. SPONSORS: Dominion Web Solutions, LLC, dba CycleTrader, RV Trader, and ATV Trader; Keystone RV and MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership.

SWEEPSTAKES DATES. The Big Outdoor Adventure Giveaway Sweepstakes (the “Promotion”) begins at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time (“ET”) on April 1, 2016, and ends at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (“ET”) on June 30, 2016 (the “Promotion Period”). Entries received after June 30, 2016 will be disqualified. One (1) winner(s) will be selected by random drawing on or around July 14, 2016.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS. The Promotion is open to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who are age eighteen (18) years old or older (or the age of majority in their state or residence) as of the date the contest begins. This offer is void wherever prohibited or restricted and subject to all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Residents of the states of Arizona, Florida, Nevada, New York, and Rhode Island are not eligible to win. Employees and their immediate family (parent, child, sibling and spouse of each) and individuals residing in the same household (whether or not related) of Keystone RV, Equity LifeStyle Properties, Inc., Dominion Enterprises, Landmark Media Enterprises, LLC and any of their affiliates, subsidiaries, advertising and promotion agencies, and all other entities or individuals associated with the development, administration, or fulfillment of the Promotion are not eligible to participate or win. All applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations apply. The winner is responsible for federal, state and local taxes on the prize(s).

This Promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

AGREEMENT TO OFFICIAL RULES. By participating in the Promotion, the participant (“Entrant”) fully and unconditionally agrees to and accepts these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsors and/or Administrators, which are final and binding in all matters related to the Promotion. The award of a prize is contingent upon Entrant’s complying with all conditions and fulfilling all requirements set forth herein.

HOW TO ENTER. Entry forms can be found at http://www.BigOutdoorGiveaway.com or can be requested from Katie Berger, Dominion Enterprises, 150 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510, or Katie. berger@dominionenterprises.com. The only requirement for entering the Promotion is the submission of Entrant’s name and contact information. Limit one (1) entry per person. Sponsors will not be responsible or liable for lost, late, illegible, damaged, misdirected, incomplete, or garbled entries. All Entries become the property of the Sponsors.

WINNER SELECTION. At the conclusion of the Promotion Period, Sponsors will select the name(s) of the potential winner(s) from all eligible entries received during the Promotion Period by random drawing. The drawing will take place at 150 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23510. The odds of being selected as a potential winner depend on the number of eligible entries received during the Promotion.

Potential winners will be notified via contact information supplied on their Entry Form and will be asked to provide their full name, age and mailing address within a specified time period. If a potential winner does not respond within the timeframe stated in the notification, the Sponsors may select an alternate potential winner in his/her place. Winner(s) will be required to complete, sign, and return an Affidavit of Eligibility, relevant and mandated Internal Revenue Service forms and, where lawful, a Liability/Publicity Release within ten (10) business days of receipt of notice of such winning status in order to accept and receive the prize. If the required forms are not signed and returned by the time indicated on the documents, or if a Prize Winner does not meet the eligibility criteria, declines the prize, cannot be contacted within the time frames set forth herein, or is otherwise unwilling or unable to comply with these Official Rules, an alternate Prize Winner may be selected at and in a manner to be determined in Sponsors’ sole and absolute discretion.

PRIZES. ONE (1) GRAND PRIZE: One (1) winner will receive a 2016 Keystone Fuzion Impact VaporLite 26V Recreational Vehicle provided by Keystone RV and valued at approximately $40,000, and a Trails Camping Pass provided by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership that will entitle the winner to one (1) year of camping in his/her recreational vehicle at any one of the Thousand Trails RV resorts in the United States, valued at $2,995. Total Approximate Retail Value (“ARV”) for all components of the Grand Prize: $42,995.00. The winner may not elect to take a monetary award instead of the Grand Prize.

RIGHTS IN THE ENTRY. Each Entrant, as a condition of participation in the Promotion, hereby grants Sponsors the exclusive, perpetual, worldwide right to edit, adapt, modify, reproduce, publish, distribute, and otherwise use (unless prohibited by applicable law) the Entry (including all material embodied therein) in any way or in any media now or hereafter known for trade, advertising, promotional, or other purposes as Sponsors determine, in their sole and absolute discretion, without further notice or compensation to the Entrant or any other third parties. Nothing herein shall be construed to require Sponsors to publish, distribute or in any way use the Entry (or any of the material embodied therein) should Sponsors in their sole discretion decline to do so.

PRIVACY AND PUBLICITY. Sponsors will collect personal data from Entrants, and this information may be used for the purposes of administering the Promotion, publicizing the Promotion, and other promotional purposes that benefit the Sponsors. Entrants are providing their information to Sponsors and not to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest. Unless prohibited by law, participation in the Promotion constitutes each Entrant’s consent for Sponsors to use the Entrant’s name (or username), age, hometown, and state of residence for Promotion or promotional purposes in any media now known or later developed, without payment or consideration to the Entrant. Information collected from Entrants is subject to Sponsors’ Privacy Policies available at http://www.dominionenterprises.com/ privacy, https://www.thousandtrails.com/privacy-and-legal and http://www.keystonerv.com/privacy-policy. If you do not wish to receive future offers, notices or other mailings from Sponsors, please complete the forms located at http://www.dominionenterprises.com/privacy/de-email-opt-out-form/, or opt out at remove-me@keystonerv.com, or opt-out@equitylifestyle.com. Be sure to provide your name, email and specific information about the website or subscription(s) that you no longer wish to receive. Please allow a few days for your request to be processed. If you “opt out” of receiving further promotional materials or notices, the only communications you will receive from Sponsors will be about transactions that you initiate. By opting-out, residual information may nonetheless remain in Sponsors’ databases and other records, which may not be permanently deleted.

GENERAL RELEASE AND WAIVER OF CLAIMS. By entering the Promotion and/or accepting a prize, each Entrant (for himself/herself and his/her heirs) hereby releases and indemnifies Sponsors, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest and all of their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, advertising and promotion agencies, and all of their respective shareholders, members, partners, directors, officers, employees, and agents (collectively, the “Releasees”) from any and all liability, loss, harm, damage, cost, expense, or claims including, but not limited to, third party claims based on: (i) publicity and/or privacy rights, defamation, and intellectual property associated with the Entrant or winner’s participation in the Promotion, redemption of any prize in connection with the Promotion, and/or use or misuse of any prize in connection with the Promotion, including, but not limited to, all reasonable counsel fees and court costs incurred, property damage, personal injury, and/or death; (ii) anything related to the production, promotion, or execution of the Promotion (or participation therein), including preemption, cancellation, or rescheduling; and (iii) anything that may occur in connection with acceptance and/or use of the prizes or while participating in the Promotion, even if caused or contributed to by the negligence of Releasees.

LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY. Neither Sponsors nor any other Releasee shall be responsible for non-conforming, lost, late, stolen, misdirected, illegible, or incomplete entries. Neither Sponsors nor any other Releasee shall be responsible for any incorrect or inaccurate information, whether caused by Sponsors, Releasees, Entrants, tampering, or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Promotion, and neither Sponsors nor any Releasee shall assume responsibility for any error, omission, defect, theft, destruction, or unauthorized access to the materials related to the Promotion, or for any damage to the Entrant’s computer related to or resulting from participating in the Promotion. Sponsors reserve the right, in their sole and absolute discretion, to disqualify any individual found to be tampering with the entry process or the operation of the Promotion; to be acting in violation of these Official Rules; or to be acting in a non-sportsmanlike or disruptive manner; or with intent or apparent intent to annoy, abuse, threaten, embarrass, harm, or harass, in any way, any other person. If for any reason the Promotion is not capable of running as planned by reason of, but not limited to, business or market circumstances, force majeure, public health concerns, tampering, unauthorized intervention, actions by entrants, fraud, or any other causes which, Sponsors in their sole and absolute discretion, deem could corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity, or proper conduct of the Promotion, Sponsors reserve the right, in their sole and absolute discretion, to cancel, terminate, modify, or suspend the Promotion or any portion thereof by posting a notice on their websites and Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest. If the Promotion or any portion of the Promotion is terminated before the end of the Promotion Period, Sponsors will select a winner from all eligible entries received as of the termination date of the Promotion.

Entrant agrees that Sponsors and their agencies, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest and each party’s respective affiliates, officers, directors, agents, and employees (collectively, the “Indemnitees”) will have no liability or responsibility for any claim arising in connection with participation in the Promotion or the awarding of prizes. Winners hereby release and hold harmless Indemnitees from any and all claims, damages, expenses, costs (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) and liabilities (including settlements), brought or asserted against any of the Indemnitees due to or arising out acceptance or use of any prize, or use of Entrant’s name, likeness or photograph. Without limiting the foregoing, all prizes are provided “as is” without warranty of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. Some jurisdictions may not allow the limitations or exclusion of liability for incidental or consequential damages or exclusion of implied warranties, so some of the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. Check your local laws for any restrictions or limitations regarding these limitations or exclusions. Any attempt by a participant or any other individual to deliberately undermine the legitimate operation of the Promotion is in violation of criminal and civil laws, and should any such attempt be made, Sponsors reserve the right to seek damages from any such person to the fullest extent permitted by law.

MISCELLANEOUS. This Promotion will be administered in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and by participating, all Entrants hereby agree that the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia will exclusively apply to the Promotion and that any dispute with respect to this Promotion will be resolved in either the federal or state courts located in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

To receive the Thousand Trails National Camping Pass, the winner must execute a National Camping Pass Agreement in the form provided by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership and agree to comply the related rules for using the Thousand Trails RV resorts.

The winner must provide his/her own tow vehicle for the Keystone trailer and must accept delivery of the trailer at a Keystone RV dealership within ninety (90) days after the end of the Promotion Period.

DISCLOSURE OF WINNER(S). To receive a list of winners, Email: Katie.berger@dominionenterprises.com and/or send self addressed stamped envelope marked “Big Outdoor Adventure Giveaway” on the back of the envelope to 150 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510.

SPONSORS: Dominion Web Solutions, LLC, dba CycleTrader, RV Trader, and ATV Trader, 150 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510. Keystone RV Company, 2642 Hackberry Drive, PO Box 2000, Goshen, IN 46527-2000. MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606.

ADMINISTRATOR: Dominion Web Solutions, LLC © April 2015 Dominion Enterprises, All Rights Reserved

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JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

Naturally Charming Gift for Dad

Adopt-A-Manatee this Father’s Day

®

Call 1-800-432-5646 (JOIN) savethemanatee.org

Photo © David Schrichte

Answers – Sudoku puzzle can be found on page 63.

JUNE 2016 TRAILBLAZER

65

#100DaysofCamping Summer is almost here!

Look for this year’s #100DaysofCamping rally towel at your favorite Thousand Trails location Memorial Day Weekend!

Easily share all the adventures you have planned with us!

1

Get out and camp!

3

2

Take pictures on your camping trip

4

Share your photos on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram using #100Daysof Camping Repeat steps 1-3 every time you camp this summer!

Join in on the fun!

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

844.289.6231 ThousandTrails.com

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PROTECT YOUR PEACE OF MIND Thousand Trails Members Qualify For Association Discounts Attend A SkyMed Meeting For Details

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

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For Every Mile of your Journey When the road opens up and you’ve got nothing but adventure on your mind, you’ll have one less thing to worry about with us on your side.

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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. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2016. © 2016 GEICO