TrailBlazer Magazine - May 2016

MAY 2016

BAR BAR Harbor

Harbor Maine’s coastal gem

Maine’s coastal gem

■

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Incredible value is a beautiful thing.

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Miles ahead.™

©2015 Winnebago Industries, Inc.

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MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

VOL. 38

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WHAT’S INSIDE

ISSUE 4 /// MAY 2016

lifestyle

24

5

Message from Marguerite

9

Tech Topics

16 National Park Service Continental Divide Trail 20 I Knew I Was A TrailBlazer 22 Out N’ About Portland, OR 46 Who’s in the Kitchen with TrailBlazer?

features

34

24 Maine’s Coastal Gem: Bar Harbor & Beyond

59 4 Paws on the Road

calendars

When it comes to the coast of Maine, it’s hard to beat Mt. Desert Island’s Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park for sheer beauty, varied outdoor activities, quaint small town life, fresh seafood, shopping, and so much more. It’s truly a Maine coastal gem.

10 On-Site Events 14 Local Events 62 Club Calendar

spotlight

regulars 6

34 Antique Road Show

Pics From The Parks

50 Member Deals

Antique shows, flea markets, retro fairs, and collectibles and memorabilia auctions are popular road trip destinations among the young and old alike.

58 Crossword Puzzle 60 Preferred RV Dealer List 63 Sudoku Puzzle

40 Dawn Wilson Dawn Wilson left her corporate marketing career to pursue her hobby – and dream job – of full-time wildlife photographer and travel writer in 2013. And she hasn’t looked back…

48 Ask RV Bill

40 MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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U R O Y L E O R VE A H S of

YOU receive a $25 VisaÂŽ PrePaid Card when your referral 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.

▲ Pacific City (OR)

MESSAGE from MARGUERITE Summer vacation! I am sure those two words trigger memories of fun-filled road trips with the family.

The summer season officially kicks off Memorial Day weekend and we can’t wait to see you.

What a great combination for a memorable summer vacation: a stay at your favorite Thousand Trails campground and a visit to some of the country’s most sought after vacation destinations!

Once again this year we will be distributing our #100DaysofCamping rally towels for you to share photos all season long. Last year over 1,000 images were shared through this promotion and it was so inspiring to see how everyone took full advantage of each and every day. This campaign runs through Labor Day weekend, highlighting 100 days of summer fun!

Perhaps you prefer to stay put and enjoy the activities and events being held at our properties.

We have the perfect guide for planning your stay.

Enclosed with our May issue, our Theme Weekend Guide is a great way to be sure you do not miss a minute of summer fun.

When you begin researching that perfect summer road trip, you may be surprised to learn that many of the top recommendations are destinations near our locations including, Santa Barbara, California, the Oregon Coast, San Juan Islands in Washington, the Hill Country of Texas, and Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, to name a few.

Look forward to seeing you around the campfire this season.

So, what are you waiting for? Summer is here, activities are planned; the only thing missing is you!

Marguerite Nader President & CEO

MAY 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!

PRINTED IN THE USA

THOUSAND TRAILS RESERVATIONS Call: 800-288-7245

Win $50

EACH Issue!

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

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

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

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

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

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

TrailBlazer_photos@equitylifestyle.com or mail to:

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

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

One winner will be selected EACH month from submissions received.

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

Canada: 228-497-3594 April 1 to August 31 Mon. - Fri. 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CST September 1 to March 31 Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST

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

ENCORE RESERVATIONS 877-570-2267

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

▲ Lake Minden (CA): Mockingbird – Norman Froggatt

PICS FROM THE PARKS

▲ Whalers Rest (OR): Adjacent to Whaler’s Rest, Lost Creek State Park at low tide.

– Stephen O’Hare

▲ Sunshine Key (FL): Tropical sunset.

– Jeffrey & Gladys Reynolds

▲ Orlando (FL): Early hot air balloon over park.

– Elizabeth Schuchert MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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LUCKY WINNER?

WANT TO BE A

Lucky winner,

Clarence Hunter from Indianapolis, IN

was camping at Diamond Caverns, KY when he was presented with a $1,000 gift card!

Left to right: Penny Lynn Harper, Clarence Hunter, Lana Riddle

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 a few trailer towing tips and give you some super simple tips for improving fuel mileage.

Ready? Let’s go have some fun!

Getting Better Fuel Mileage Everybody wants to improve their gas mileage and lower their fuel costs, even when fuel is cheap.

Less money poured into the gas tank means more money to spend on the real fun of travel. The good news is that a few simple tips & driving techniques can help. One of the easiest ways to improve fuel economy is this: just keep your tires inflated to their proper pressures.

Next, always drive your RV within its ideal power range; this means that if it runs better at 60 mph, you should drive 60 mph (in appropriately designated areas, of course). The old story about driving your RV like you have an egg on the accelerator is also excellent advice when it comes to increasing mileage. Just by gently bringing your RV up to its cruising speed and avoiding harsh stops and starts, you’ll save fuel and wear and tear on your vehicle.

Excessive down-shifting and upshifting makes your RV a gas guzzler; the same holds true when you “floorboard it” to get up to speed, just to have to hit the brakes because you’re going too fast for surrounding traffic. The extra fuel required to make these fast starts and quick stops is wasted fuel, which equals wasted money. The best advice is simple advice: just take your time, select the right gear, keep the engine’s RPM in its ideal power range, and don’t drive “wide open” and then slam on the brakes.

Easy does it; your wallet and your blood pressure will thank you!

One more quick tip, pay attention to crosswinds and drive accordingly, slowing down in heavy or gusting winds. Strong crosswinds cost fuel mileage and have the potential to make handling more difficult, particularly if your RV is overloaded.

If you must drive in very windy conditions, be sure to reduce your speed so you have enough time to react to any lateral wind pressure and can easily avoid lane weaving.

If the wind’s too strong, just take a break and wait for the storm to pass.

Adjustable Hitches A great option for RVers who pull tag-along trailers is an adjustable hitch. A wide variety of styles are offered by companies like Curt Manufacturing, Reese, Andersen Manufacturing, Trimax, and others.

These multi-ball hitch adapters insert into standard hitch receivers and can give you easy access to a variety of ball sizes and hitch heights with a quick adjustment.

This type of customizable-on-the-fly setup lets you easily pull your travel trailer, boat, utility trailer, ATV trailer, etc. without having to have separate dedicated trailer hitch mounts for each.

Several different designs are available; some use a simple rotating receiver with different sized balls mounted on it; when you want to change sizes, just rotate & clip in place. Other designs use a locking channel design; the ball assembly is inserted into a heavy duty lock and groove mechanism. Ball height is easily adjusted by sliding the ball assembly within the channel to the desired height and locking in place.

Designs vary, depending on the manufacturer. See more at your local RV Service Center or online at merchants like Amazon.com.

Always properly accommodate the load of your trailer; generally speaking, you want to use a hitch height that permits a level hookup, while transferring about 60% of the weight load forward of the tow vehicle’s rear axle. If you overload your tow vehicle by putting too much weight on the hitch with a too-low hitch height, you’ll make handling more difficult (especially on curves and when cornering) and you’ll significantly increase your stopping distances and the weight on the tow vehicle’s rear wheels.

On the other hand, if you don’t shift enough weight onto the tow vehicle, your towed trailer will be harder to handle and more prone to whipping and swaying. Balance is the key to a safe and easy ride. Carefully review all hitch and loading instructions you receive with your trailer and any hitches and always use safety chains.

Mirror, Mirror Whenever you tow a travel trailer, set your exterior mirrors so that you can see the trailer in the first inch of the mirror, with the rest of the mirror being reserved for your view backwards and to both sides. For every ten feet of combined truck/ trailer length, allow an extra inch of diameter for your outside spot mirror. In other words, a 30-foot combined length would require a 3-inch convex spot mirror. A forty-foot combined length would require a 4-inch convex spot mirror, and a fifty-foot combined length would require a 5-inch spot mirror. Don’t rely on convex mirrors for judging distance when backing; there’s just enough distortion in the convex mirror to make accurately judging distances a problem. It’s best to rely on a travel partner or a rearview camera for backing that trailer, instead. Take your time, do it right & enjoy your trip. Happy trails!

MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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ACTIVITIES

AND

Activities and Events – On-Site

MAY events Here at Thousand Trails, we are really looking forward to hanging out with you all summer long! Whether it’s spending Memorial Day weekend at a BBQ potluck, participating in tournaments at our campgrounds, or just relaxing and spending time with your fellow campers, we can’t wait to spend 100 days of camping with you! We’ve rounded up some of the awesome activities happening all month at our locations across the country.

For a complete listing of events at the preserves, please visit www.thousandtrails.com or check out the 2016 Theme Weekends supplement mailed to all subscribers this month or online at www.trailblazermagazine.net.

Celebrate Mother’s Day Memorial Day Weekend Join the folks at Bear Cave (MI) to honor of all the hard working men and women that have served our country. Enjoy cake and coffee at Member Appreciation on Saturday. At Timothy Lake North & South (PA), come shake off the cold winter blues with crafts, face painting, and a bounce house. There will be a BBQ potluck and a Member Appreciation event. Dance to the live music at North in the evening!

This weekend will be the Annual Hog Roast at Natchez Trace (TN)!

Featuring live entertainment, golf cart parades, and movies! Enjoy a relaxing holiday weekend at The Oaks at Point South (SC) exploring nearby historic sites! A list of recommendations is available at the office. Member Appreciation cake and coffee will be served Saturday afternoon. Join the folks at Sea Pines (NJ) for a patriotic weekend where family fun is scheduled all weekend with a pie eating contest, root beer chug, candy bar bingo, and patriotic crafts. Come to the lake at Hidden Cove (AL) where the Giant Slip n Slide gets bigger and better each season! Have some fun with games, tournaments, contests, and prizes!

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MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

Join us at Carolina Landing (SC) for a great Mother’s Day weekend and enjoy a dinner and special prizes on Saturday. Spend this special weekend with loved ones to honor Mom. There will be crafts, including a special gift for Mom, games, and lots of mother and children activities at Lake Gaston (NC). Bring Mom to breakfast, we’ve got a special treat for her, pancakes on us! At Pine Country (IL) we celebrate with a craft made for Mom, chair massages, hay rides, and Dutch Oven Diva cooking class! Show Mom how much you love her!

At Gateway to Cape Cod (MA), we honor all Moms and mothers to be this weekend with our annual tea party, Saturday afternoon.

Kids get to make a special gift for Mom too!

All events, times and dates are subject to change.

Activities and Events – On-Site

Summertime Tournaments

Air & Sea Weekends

The weekend of May 13, “Get Your Sport On” at Green Mountain (NC) for Team Organization weekend! Get your team organized for intramurals. Sports will include volleyball, horseshoes, cornhole and many others. Tournaments will be played all season long. It’s a “Free For All” Games Weekend at Medina Lake (TX) on May 14, Alice is on vacation so come and play all her games! (She will not know!) The following weekend on May 20 - 22 at Chesapeake Bay (VA) is Kooky Kamp Games weekend featuring family-friendly field and camp games with a crazy twist! The First Annual Summer Olympics takes place on May 22 at Lake Whitney (TX).

Games include frisbee toss, relay races, long jumps, jump rope, tug-a-war, and many more games to compete in!

The 3rd Annual Summer Olympics Weekend at Lake Conroe (TX) with Frisbee toss, relay races, long jumps, basketball free throws, and many more games to compete in.

It’s Boating/Watercraft Safety Weekend at Chesapeake Bay (VA) from May 13-15. USCG auxiliary will be here to answer questions and perform safety checks on your boats/water craft to ensure a safe summer on the RIVAH. For your convenience, they are also offering the VA Boaters Safety Class on location!

Dolphins, Fish and Sharks…oh my! Explore the fascinating world under the sea at Circle M (PA) for Under the Sea Weekend – May 13-15. We will get creative with ocean arts and crafts and a family game of sand volleyball. Bring your kite to the ballpark at Lake Tawakoni (TX) on May 16 for a high flying time!

Some kites will be available to purchase in the recreation office. Let’s see how many kites we can fly in the sky at Pine Country (IL) during our great kite fly, May 20-22! Build your own kite craft & hay rides. Let’s hope it’s a windy weekend! It’s opening of fishing season on Little Diamond (WA) fishing lake.

Armed Forces Day Firemen, armed services, and police officers are the special guests at Yukon Trails (WI) the weekend of May 20-22. Our special guests receive buy one night get the second night free for tent or water & electric sites. Many other specials will apply, including free train rides and food specials for our special guests! All Service personnel eat free at the All You Can Eat Buffet! We thank the people of the Armed forces at PA Dutch Country (PA) May 20-22 with free lunch! Activities for kids too, with a special craft and a chocolate scavenger hunt. This weekend at Rondout Valley (NY), we will be making cards to send to our veterans in nursing homes and to our servicemen and women serving around the world. We salute all of you who have served, or are serving, in the military at Las Vegas (NV)!

So, join us for a social hour on Saturday as we show our appreciation for your dedication and service to our country.

Some events may require a participation fee.

MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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Activities and Events – On-Site

Dance The Night Away Let’s honor our Mothers, Grandmothers, and Moms-to-be the weekend of May 7. On Saturday night there will be dancing at our annual Mother’s Day Dance at Lake Whitney (TX)! Enjoy a three night weekend and celebrate our veterans by decorating your bikes, golf carts, and strollers in red, white, and blue and join us in our annual parade, May 27-30, at Plymouth Rock (WI). Friday night DJ and Saturday night live music by Dave Steffen! Join our All-American weekend festivities at Kenisee Lake (OH) from May 28-30 with the Flag raising Ceremony, parade, & DJ Rabbit’s dance. The same weekend, Diamond Caverns (KY) relax, sing and play! Enjoy Member Appreciation with a movie and popcorn, karaoke, games by the pool, and some live music you’ll want to dance to, all weekend!

The folks at Horseshoe Lakes (IN) are throwing it back to the 50s the weekend of May 13-15 for music, dancing and fun. Dress up in your favorite 50’s outfit and enter our best throwback look contest!

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MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

Tasty Times at Thousand Trails Mom’s will be treated to tacos at the Walking Taco Luncheon at Yukon Trails (WI) on Sunday, May 7. Plus don’t forget the fish fry the day before on Friday May 6. It’s Chocolate Lover’s Weekend at Tranquil Timbers (WI) May 20-22. If you are a chocolate lover, this is the weekend for you! Play Chocolate Bar Bingo on Saturday and join us for a chocolate party where everyone can bring their favorite dessert! Join us at Virginia Landing (VA) for Friday, May 27 for hot dogs and s’mores, family fun and games, hayrides and Ice Cream Social. New members, veteran members and prospective members join us for our appreciation of You. Free cupcakes for all Moms and the Ice Cream Social at Wilderness Lakes (CA) during Mother’s Day weekend!

Let’s kick off summer on Memorial Day Weekend at Soledad Canyon (CA) with the opening of the pool and splash pad. There will be a BBQ potluck and cake to show our appreciation to veterans and members that weekend too.

Wine & Cheese Socials Come on out for what is sure to be a fun weekend May 20-22, for Wine and Painting Weekend at Moody Beach (ME)! Painting activities for the kids on Saturday morning; Saturday evening Wine and Painting for those over 21. Kick back and relax at Sturbridge (MA) the weekend of May 13-15 for Wine and Cheese Saturday night, 5pm. You bring the wine! Bring a bottle of your favorite wine and your favorite glass, and we’ll supply the hors d’oeuvres at Forest Lake (NC) for the women-only Wine and Cheese Social in the Adult Lodge the weekend of May 5. Then dance the night away with Mom at the Family Lodge Patio.

All events, times and dates are subject to change.

Activities and Events – On-Site

Member Appreciation Events Memorial Day weekend is also Member Appreciation at Gettysburg Farm (PA) May 27-30. The pool will open plus, enjoy hayrides, a live band Saturday evening and a DJ dance Sunday evening. The wait is over at Lake & Shore (NJ)! Come shake off the cold winter blues and jump into the pool, lake, and water park!

Enjoy our pool party on Saturday with DJ Sonja and come on out for our Member Appreciation Event. We’ll have games, contests, and crafts on the list this weekend so don’t miss it! There will be a golf cart parade, horseshoes and cornhole tournaments, plus live entertainment at Green Mountain (NC) to celebrate member appreciation and the holiday weekend! The folks at Peace River (FL) will show members and veterans how much they appreciate them with a special dessert at the annual picnic during Memorial Day Weekend!

Off to the Races Weekends Watch the race with us at PA Dutch Country (PA) May 6-8 and we will have a race of our own. There will be a free Mother’s Day brunch because Moms are the best! May 6-8 bring a hat and let’s decorate it for the derby or Mom for Mother’s Day Green Mountain (NC) from May 6-8. The more creative the better so that you can be the belle of the derby. We will also have coffee and treats for the Moms. And They’re Off! Celebrate the Kentucky Derby in style this year at Twin Mills (IN) from May 13-15. It’s all about the big hats, the horses and the excitement of Churchill Downs! We will be making Crazy Big Hats. Watch the race on the Big Screen and more! Join the folks at Lake Minden (CA) from May 13-15 for the always exhilarating Hydroplane Boat Races Join us for the always exhilarating Hydroplane Boat Races. The weekend after will be the RC Boat Races, also at Lake Minden (CA). Come join in the fun at Paradise (WA) May 21 for the rubber duck racing. Race your duck from one pond to the other just to see who’s is faster.

Some events may require a participation fee.

MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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Activities and Events – Local

LOCAL

OF

CALENDAR events

PONDEROSA (CA)

LAKE OF THE SPRINGS (CA)

LONG BEACH (WA)

May 15 Hangtown Car Show Only 10 miles from park, come see a wonderful display of classic cars!

Enjoy food, music, shopping with local merchants and a 50/50 drawing!

Admission and parking is free. If you’re interested in entering your classic car in the display, call Mike at (530) 622-1731 for the 2016 show! placerville-downtown.org

May 6-7 Grass Valley Old West Antique Show Witherell’s proudly presents this unique antique show that attracts billionaire collectors from all over the world. Discover one of the richest collections of antiques and artifacts from the historic American West.You’ll find museum quality antique firearms, gold rush memorabilia, rare images and paintings, jewelry, much more. witherells.com

Saturdays in May Saturday Market at the Port of Ilwaco Explore more than 70 vendors along the pedestrian-only Waterfront Way that overlooks the Port of Ilwaco marina and Baker Bay. Regional produce, baked goods, local plans, and homemade crafts on display. portofilwaco.com/events

OAKZANITA SPRINGS (CA) May 5-7 Julian Wildflower Show This year’s theme is “Smarty Plants?”

Visitors of this historical flower show will learn about the 855 species of plants that grow within just 25 miles of town. Wildflowers from the surrounding mountains, desert and plains will be on display with information regarding plant intelligence, medicinal uses, and which plants are invasive or noxious. julianwomensclub.org

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MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

May 7 Chocolate Festival Spend the Saturday before Mother’s Day at San Diego Botanic Garden’s famous Chocolate Festival. Enjoy dozens of delectable chocolate tastings, demonstrations, a chocolate fountain, and more. sdbgarden.org/chocolate.htm May 15 Amgen Tour of California A Tour de France-style cycling road race, the Amgen Tour of California kicks off in San Diego, where the world’s top professional cycling teams will depart for a race covering hundreds of miles along the state’s coastline and highways. amgentourofcalifornia.com

May 27-30 World’s Longest Garage Sale Miles and miles of bargain-hunting fun to explore for four days at The World’s Longest Garage Sale!

Garage sales dot Peninsula streets from Ilwaco to Oysterville. funbeach.com/event/worlds-longestgarage-sale-peninsula-wide

LITTLE DIAMOND (WA) May 21 78th Torchlight Parade and Lilac Festival Fun events all day ending with the evening torchlight Parade in downtown Spokane. This year’s theme is “Lilacs in Wonderland.”

Registration required for some events. Check website for location and time information. spokanelilacfestival.org

All events, times and dates are subject to change.

May 13-15 Maifest In Leavenworth there’s only one way to celebrate spring! The sun is out, the apple and pear blossoms are springing to life, and the wildflowers are bursting at the buds! It’s time for our very Bavarian celebration of spring – Maifest! leavenworth.org/Maifest-2016

May 29-30 4th Annual Memorial Day Barrel Race The 4th Annual Memorial Day Barrel Race is a surefire way to start your summer off with a bang! The Arcadia Rodeo hosts a number of barrel racing, bull riding, and shoot out events for rodeo fans of all ages and draws top cowboy and cowgirl athletes from around the nation. arcadiarodeo.com

May 19-22 14th Annual Leavenworth Spring Bird Fest Join the folks at the Wenatchee River Institute for the 14th Annual Leavenworth Spring Bird Fest and enjoy a variety of educational and recreational activities focusing on the birds and wildlife and their north central Washington environments. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars, dress in layers, and wear your best hiking boots. leavenworthspringbirdfest.com

May 28-30 I Madonnari Festival The Mission Plaza will be transformed

by Madonnari, or street painters, to create 150 large scale images. This festival is the sister festival to the Grazie di Curtatone, Italy and benefits the Children’s Creative Project, a nonprofit arts education program of the Santa Barbara County Education Office. imadonnarifestival.com

ORLANDO (FL)

MEDINA LAKE (TX)

May 7 Magnolia Park Bluegrass and Folk Music Festival Bring your lawn chairs and hang out at the Magnolia Park Bluegrass & Folk Music Festival in Apopka!

Listen to bluegrass and folk music, plus children’s activities, a wildlife exhibit and food vendors. $4 for adults, free for children 12 and under. orangecountyparks.net

» Local Highlight May 20-22 The Florida Boat Show, Daytona Enthusiastic boaters flock to the Florida Boat Show, a three-day event featuring live seminars, live music, and hundreds of boats of all styles displayed and available for sale. Power boats, sail boats, yachts, kayaks and marine accessories including in the selection. www.thefloridaboatshow.com

RANCHO OSO (CA)

May-August Fiesta Noche Del Rio A San Antonio tradition, this performance features songs and dances of Mexico, Spain, Argentina and Texas and occurs Friday and Saturday evenings at the River Walk’s historic Arneson River Theatre. visitsanantonio.com May 19-21 Culinaria – A Wine & Culinary Arts Festival The Culinaria Wine & Culinary Arts Festival celebrates San Antonio as a premier wine and food destination and an important culinary and cultural gateway to Mexico and Latin America. 5K Wine & Beer Run, Be sure to visit the website to purchase tickets for special wine tastings, sit-down dinners, and classes. culinariasa.org/san-antonio/events

Some events may require a participation fee.

Activities and Events – Local

LEAVENWORTH (WA)

CHEROKEE LANDING (TN) Now through May 28 Memphis in May International Festival Features the Memphis Italian Festival, Beale Street Music Festival, World Championship Barbecue Competition, and the International Salute to Canada. Be sure to check the website for more details on locations, activities, and events.

Memphisinmay.org

YOSEMITE LAKES (CA) May 16 6th Annual John Muir Festival Celebrate John Muir’s historic walk to Yosemite in 1868 & 1869 in Coulterville, CA for the 6th Annual John Muir Festival. Multiple venues within the Main Street area of Coulterville will open their doors for the event including the John Muir Geotourism Center, Coulter Café, and in Coulterville Park. Live music, silent auction, historic home garden tours, and many more activities to take place! Check the website for more information. johnmuir.us/6th-annual-john-muirfestival-may-16-2015 May 31 Women’s Health and Wellness Event Located at The Grill at Pine Mountain Lake with wine & cheese, live entertainment and door prizes.

There will be doctors, healthcare professionals, firemen and local businesses on site with skincare and wellness tips. www.facebook.com/The-Grill-at-PineMountain-Lake

TIMOTHY LAKE (PA) May 16-21

Stockcar Racing Experience Experience the thrill of NASCAR racecar driving for yourself! Guests are welcome to come and watch at no additional charge.

877stockcar.com/stock-car-ride-drive

MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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TrailMix

CONTINENTAL DIVIDE TRAIL The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) completes the “triple crown� of national scenic trails, the other two are the more famous Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and the Appalachian Trail (AT).

Unlike the well-marked trail of the Appalachian Trail, the Continental Divide Trail has a suggested route and thru-hikers often take alternative routes in order to avoid obstacles.

Only about 150 hikers complete a thru-hike of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail every year.

by Annie Berman

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MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

The Continental Divide Trail traverses five states – Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico – and spans from Mexico to Canada (or Canada to Mexico, depending upon where you start) and essentially follows the path of the Rocky Mountains.

MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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T

he difference between the Continental Divide Trail and the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDNST) is that the Scenic Trail is the route designated by the National Park Service. Because only about 70% of this trail has been completed, thru-hikers have typically taken the Continental Divide Trail because it offers more alternative routes in. With the help of GPS services, advanced maps, and additional trail markings, there are more thru-hikers attempting the Scenic Trail. The National Park Service has valuable and important information on their website regarding the CDNST’s high altitude, lightning danger during afternoon thunderstorms, and the nine months of winter which can make some areas extremely hazardous to travel through. The combination of high elevations and lightning danger that accompanies afternoon storms signals that inexperienced hikers would not fare well until they’ve done at least one other major thruhike like the AT or the PCT. ▲ Jackson Lake in Grand Teton National Park

If you’re interested in checking out any of the Continental Divide Trail or Scenic Trail, we recommend a day trip where you can easily access from your car and to head out in the morning to avoid getting caught in those afternoon storms while at high altitudes.

Also, the entire CDT is at elevations higher than 5,000 feet,

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therefore, if you have issues with elevation like altitude sickness, you might want to skip these.

Here are some fun and easy ways to experience the CDNST on a day trip. To plan out your own adventure, check out the interactive map on the CDTC website on continentaldividetrail.org. ▲ Old Faithful Geyser in Yellowstone

Grand Teton National Park

Yellowstone National Park

The Grand Teton range has a rich history, dating back to when the first hunter-gatherers were living in this region. It is situated in the northwestern region of Wyoming, north of the town of Jackson and South of Yellowstone National Park. The Grand Teton National Park was established in 1929 and is named for the Grand Teton, the highest mountain peak in the range. Aside from its deep history and being a part of the CDNST, Grand Teton National Park is a popular destination for hiking, backcountry camping, fishing, mountaineering and its abundant wildlife, especially elk, moose, and bald eagle populations. Visitors can reach Grand Teton National Park via US-191. In this national park, it is wise to bring bear spray with you, make noise while hiking, and travel in groups of three.

Just north of Grand Teton National Park is arguably one of the most famous national parks, Yellowstone National Park.

Even if you’ve been to this park a number of times, there is always something else to explore.

Consider taking the short and easy hike around Trout Lake.

This well marked, trail that can be found in the northeast corner of the park, is only a .9-mile loop and offers great fishing and opportunities to see wildlife.

With an elevation gain of only 200 feet, this hike is popular with visitors of the park. Another easy hike option in this park is Harlequin Lake. This trail is a gentle path through new growth forest reachiong the southern edge of the lake, which provides spectacular views of the forest and the lake. The return trip provides views of Three Brothers Mountains, which you can see above the tops of the dense pine forest.

Hidden Falls to Inspiration Point is one of the most popular hikes at Grand Teton National Park.

This moderate, out and back 5-mile hike takes you around Jenny Lake, and then up to Hidden Falls – a majestic 80 foot cascading waterfall. Take the ferry for $9 across the lake, if you prefer to skip Hidden Falls…but why would you skip a waterfall?

Continue on the trail towards Inspiration Point but take your time, the last mile before turning around is a steep incline, narrow at points, and is often busy with other hikers.

You may also be interested in the String Lake Loop trail. The trail originates at the south end of String Lake, circling you around the lake and allowing you to also access the Paintbrush Canyon Trail and Leigh Lake Trail.

▼ Majestic canyon in Yellowstone

▲ Aspen trees in the Mt. Zirkel Wilderness

Mt. Zirkel Wilderness If you are in Colorado this spring and are curious to do a hike that takes you to the Continental Divide Trail, consider taking the North Lake to Buffalo Pass Trail in the Mt. Zirkel Wilderness, located in Routt National Forest, which can be accessed from US-40 North.

The Mt. Zirkel Wilderness was one of the original areas to be protected under the Wilderness Act of 1964 and contains over 150 miles of trails to explore.

For a family-friendly route of the trail from Buffalo Pass Trailhead, head north towards North Lake on the CDT. This will take you three miles on the CDT, where you can also veer off on the Newcomb Creek Trail, or the beautiful Round Mountain Lake, all adding up to a 7 mile round trip. The popular trail from North Lake to Buffalo Pass may still have snow until mid-July, so make sure to check with the park ranger office before heading out.

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I KNEW I WAS A

TrailBlazer

▲ Jenna & Guillaume in Arctic Circle in Alaska

This month, TrailBlazer would like to introduce you to a different type of RVer: tiny house RVers! Jenna Spesard and Guillaume Dutilh have been traveling the country in their tiny house RV since September of 2014 and have no intention of stopping now! You can keep up with their adventures at TinyHouseGiantJourney.com.

TB: How long have you been camping and RVing?

Who introduced you to it?

Tell us how it all began!

JS: It all started back in early 2013, when both Guillaume and I were working full time jobs that we weren’t passionate about. We both wanted to pursue our dreams of becoming travel journalists; Guillaume is a professional photographer and I am a writer.

We learned about tiny houses and thought, “this is exactly what we needed!” A unique way to travel that allowed us to live comfortably on the road, year round, in all

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climates. We also loved the idea that we could customize and personalize the tiny house to fit our lifestyle. We built the tiny house from 2013-2014 and hit the road September 2, 2014. We’ve now gone over 22,000 miles in the last year and a half, towing our tiny abode as far south as Key West and as far north as the Arctic Circle in Alaska!

TB: How did you first hear about the tiny lifestyle?

JS: Guillaume stumbled upon the tiny house movement one day while surfing the internet.

It captivated him! We attended

a Tumbleweed Tiny House build workshop, purchased plans, and a trailer. Then, we began building in Guillaume’s uncle’s backyard in Los Angeles!

TB: What is one of your fondest tiny house RV memories?

Do you have any memories you can share with us from one of our locations?

JS: One of our favorite parking spots was Yosemite Lakes RV Resort, which is located right next to Yosemite National Park. Our campsite was spacious, shaded and located right next to a running stream. It was beautiful and the

location was very convenient for accessing day trips to the park.

What could be better than an afternoon hike in Yosemite and a grill out dinner in the comforts of home (or in our case a tiny home)? That’s our idea of a perfect summer getaway!

TB: Any funny stories from your tiny house giant journey adventure?

JS: One time when we were camping in rural Alaska, our front door jammed and we were locked out of our tiny home! Luckily, we were able to crawl in through a window that had been left open. We must have looked pretty ridiculous to our neighbor campers – two people crawling in and out through a window in a tiny house…oh, and passing their 40 pound dog through the threshold, as well!

But, we’re pretty used to looking different from everyone else.

▲ Tiny House Giant Journey interior

▲ Haines Highway, Alaska

TB: Tell us about your tiny house RV! What made you choose this over a standard RV? JS: We are often asked why we chose a tiny house over a standard RV. We did this for several reasons:

1. Uniqueness. We love that

our tiny house is one of a

kind. It’s just cute!

2.

Cabin features, insulation, and aesthetic. The tiny house is actually more like a cabin than an RV. It’s built with 2x4s, quality materials and 3.5” foam insulation, which allows us to live comfortably, even during winter in the Rocky Mountains. It has a pitched roof, double- paned windows, skylights, and a solid front door. It simply feels and looks more like a tiny cabin than an RV.

3.

Ability to build and customize it ourselves.

We learned a lot building our tiny house and that experience is invaluable. We were also able to easily customize our tiny house design to fit our lifestyle.

TB: Where have you gone that you wouldn’t have otherwise, if it hadn’t been for your tiny house? ▲ Tiny House Giant Journey bed loft

JS: If we didn’t have the tiny house, I’m not sure we would have

ever spent the winter parked near a ski resort in the Rocky Mountains.

Our tiny house insulation and wood stove kept us toasty, even when the temperatures dropped below zero, and having the tiny house allowed us to park near the gondola! As a whole, I’m not sure we ever would have explored as much of the United States and Canada as we have in the last year without our tiny house. It has opened many doors for us, including getting us jobs at Tumbleweed Tiny Homes (we now teach the workshops)! So many members of the tiny house movement have supported us on our travels and offered to show us around their cities. I doubt we would have met so many interesting people or seen so many amazing places otherwise.

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

JS: I love the freedom and flexibility.

No day is ever the same. I think Guillaume and I have become more attune with nature through full time traveling. We’ve realized that there’s so much beauty outdoors, and we get giddy every time we discover a new destination. It feels like we’ve only just begun.

TB: Can you finish this sentence?

I knew I was a TrailBlazer when…

JS: …we were willing to drop everything and build a new life for ourselves, to see the world.

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Out n’ About

KEEP PORTLAND WEIRD

P

Portland, Oregon, the big “little” city on the west coast whose motto is to “Keep Portland Weird.” Portland is a haven for foodies, outdoor enthusiasts, dog lovers, beer brewers, musicians, coffee connoisseurs, and tiny house builders and enthusiasts. It is a fantastic place to come for a day trip, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself spending a few days in the City of Roses. Portland is a place where the counterculture is the mainstream and its citizen’s work hard to keep it “weird.”

We’ve rounded up just a few essential places, restaurants, and activities that anyone visiting Portland can enjoy!

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by Annie Berman

Start your excursion off by grabbing a coffee at one of Portland’s many independently owned coffee shops. Portlanders take their coffee very seriously and the people who work in this industry are experts in their craft. Ever wonder what “Chemex” means? Or what the “steampunk method” is? Or the best way to make a perfect pot of French press? The Third Wave Coffee Tours is a great way to get introduced to the thriving artisan coffee scene. Their walking tours bring guests to four or five different coffee shops within one neighborhood of Portland. Snacks are provided

along the way and guests sip on excellent samples of coffee while learning all about how different shops roast and serve their coffee. To make a tour reservation, visit thirdwavecoffeetours.com.

If you’re in the mood to just enjoy a cup and bask in the coffee-shop dwelling tradition here, then we recommend checking out The Albina Coffee Press for an excellent cup of french press coffee on Hawthorne Blvd or Fresh Pot, which has a location at the Powell’s Bookstore on Hawthorne Blvd and a location on historic Mississippi Avenue.

▲ Mt. Hood RV Resort tiny houses

▲ Portalnd cable car

▲ Performer at Hawthorn Street Fair

After you’ve got a caffeine boost, head out to one of Portland’s many lush parks. On the Southeast side is Mt. Tabor Park. A now dormant volcano, Mt. Tabor is one of the finest parks in the city for it’s beautiful summit views of Mt. Hood on one side and Mt. Saint Helen’s on the other.

Enter the park at the 60th street entrance off of Hawthorne Blvd or on the other side at Harrison and 72nd Street. Or, head out to the northwest side of the city, where the largest urban forest in the United States, Forest Park, is situated. At 5,157 acres, there are a plethora of trails to explore.

We recommend taking BPA Road, a gentle 2 mile round trip path that enters at NW Skyline Blvd.

Along the path, you’ll have views of the Willamette River below and vista views of Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Rainier out in front of you.

famous and largest food cart pod in the city. This pod has a number of well-loved food carts from almost every kind of cuisine. Even your gluten-free/ vegan/paleo/other friends will enjoy the large number of options here. We suggest checking out Nong’s Khao Man Gai, still one of the most popular carts, which serves up a traditional Thai chicken and rice dish that is out of this world tasty! Other notable food cart pods include “TidBits” on SE Division Street, which has a beer garden and outdoor heaters for all-weather outdoor dining, or the Carts on Foster on SE Foster, which has carts for everything from pastries, to egg sandwiches, to fried fish, and even a 24 hour hair salon that runs out of an RV.

Take a stroll through this intricate and beautiful garden and stop into the onsite traditional Chinese tea house or view the traditional Chinese water colors, some of which are for sale. Also in the Chinatown area, is the Red Robe Tea House. The menu has a variety of tasty dumplings, noodles, and a wide variety of Chinese teas to sample.

On your way back to the city, head to one of the many food cart pods. Located on SW 10th and Alder Streets are the Alder Street Food Carts, the most

Not too far from Alder Street on NW Everett Street in Chinatown is the Lan Su Chinese Garden.

Walk through this traditional Chinese garden that is a zen paradise sitting in the middle of the heart of downtown Portland.

If planning a stay in the Portland area be sure to check out Mt. Hood Village RV Resort, located just outside of Portland.

Mt. Hood offers accommodations in yurts, park models, camping, and RVs. And, for those wondering what it might be like to stay in a tiny home, the new Tiny House Village at Mt. Hood is available beginning Memorial Day Weekend. Make your reservations today at MtHoodTinyHouse.com or visit RVontheGo.com for more information on Mt. Hood Village RV Resort.

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BAR

Harbor

by Lynn & Cele Seldon

Beginning in the mid-1800s and continuing through the 1930s, Bar Harbor was known as a summer haven for the very rich and famous, including the Astors, Fords, Morgans, Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, and Carnegies. Grand-scale hotels and mansions – ironically known locally as “summer cottages”– were built during that time. Today, and luckily for travelers, Bar Harbor and the rest of Mt. Desert Island welcomes visitors with open arms and an endless variety of sights, attractions, and activities.

Situated on Mt. Desert Island and in close proximity to renowned Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is the island’s largest town. Joining Bar Harbor are the picturesque villages of Southwest Harbor, Tremont & Northwest Harbor.

There’s also Cadillac Mountain, the highest mountain on the east coast north of Rio de Janeiro. From atop Cadillac Mountain’s 1,532 feet, visitors are the first to watch the sun rise each day in the United States.

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Maine’s coastal gem

When it comes to the coast of Maine, it’s hard to beat Mt. Desert Island’s Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park for sheer beauty, varied outdoor activities, quaint small town life, fresh seafood, shopping, and so much more.

It’s truly a Maine coastal gem.

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“

“

While glaciers created the upside-down claw-like shape of the Mt. Desert Island, its shape is not the only thing that makes it unique. The third-largest island on the east coast of the United States, Mt. Desert is home to the only natural fjord on the coast.

Bar Harbor is a world-renowned artist community and lots of area art galleries feature something for all tastes.

T

he area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts who want to bike, hike, rock climb, paddle, sail, paddle board, play golf, and more. For those who enjoy getting out on the water, there’s sailing on a historic schooner, taking a lobster boat cruise to see how Maine’s iconic crustaceans are harvested, searching for whales off the coast, or looking for seals, puffins, birds and other wildlife that hug the coastline.

Visitors in search of quieter pursuits and sightseeing will find spectacular gardens, serene coves just waiting to be explored, rustic lobster eateries with waterfront picnic tables, unique museums, festivals, and plenty of other attractions.

Those who like discovering new places on foot will find that downtown Bar Harbor is well worth a stroll. The village contains an incredible assortment of streets, alleys, squares, and piers.

In addition to unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, there is a shore path that begins downtown and takes visitors past the front yards of many of the town’s beloved summer cottages.

Back in the 1800s, “rusticators” (tourists) started coming to the island to experience the beauty they had heard of in Henry David Thoreau’s writings and seen in paintings of Maine’s landscapes by renowned artists. Today, the area is still sought out for the beautiful scenes, adventure, culture, art, and heritage.

Bar Harbor is a world-renowned artist community and lots of area art galleries feature something for all tastes. The town has several art galleries, art shows, improvisational comedy theater and two celebrated music festivals.

Founded in 1946, the Bar Harbor Historical Society oversees collections and exhibits that include photographs, paintings, and clothing from the Gilded Age. Here, visitors are able to immerse themselves in the rich and engaging history and heritage of Mt. Desert Island.

Back in downtown proper, there’s St. Saviour’s Church on Mt. Desert Street, which features stunning Tiffany windows. The church was built in 1877 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1995. And while on Mt. Desert Street, don’t miss a visit to the Abbe Museum, which celebrates the heritage, culture, history, and archeology of Maine’s Native Americans with changing exhibitions and educational programs for all age groups.

Culture lovers will find also themselves at home in every nook and cranny of Bar Harbor. The area is full of rich history and heritage that locals are proud to share with visitors. Bar Harbor is a lively arts community and it was with the help of art that Bar Harbor became a well-known travel destination.

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The Mount Desert Oceanarium features the Maine Lobster Museum, marsh tours, and a one-of-a-kind lobster hatchery. Within the College of the Atlantic, visitors can find the George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History. This museum is entirely designed and produced by the students at the college and focuses on the natural world of Maine.

region and several other towns are drafting ordinances. The Acadia Night Sky Festival each September is an opportunity to join astronomers for stunning, unadulterated views of the Milky Way, and more.

This destination is also a doggy paradise. There are 100 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads in Acadia National Park where pets are permitted. Mount Desert Island Ice Cream even has a special line specifically for canines.

RV- or car-free travel is something you don’t necessarily think of when you think of Maine. However, getting around Bar Harbor and beyond is as easy as a breeze. Or, leave the driving to the Island Explorer bus system – it’s free!

Still fully operational, Bass Harbor Head Light guards the southern entrance of Blue Hill Bay. This lighthouse is still operated by the US Coast Guard and is on the National Historic Register. Visitors can tour the lighthouse grounds but because it is operational, they cannot go into the lighthouse itself.

There are five other lighthouses nearby and they can be viewed on one of the scenic cruises leaving from downtown Bar Harbor.

Downtown Bar Harbor is also home to many unique boutiques filled with gifts that will not be found elsewhere. Visitors will discover Maine specialty food products, personalized holiday ornaments, one of a kind art work, home décor, pet treats, handmade jewelry from local artisans and crafters, clothing, and more. Three Mount Desert Island towns (Bar Harbor, Tremont, and Mount Desert), have passed lighting ordinances to protect the quality of the night skies in the

Outdoor Recreation and the Acadia National Park

Of course, one of the biggest draws on Mt. Desert Island is magnificent Acadia National Park. Acadia is truly one of the country’s most spectacular destinations. The 47,000-acre preserve is stunning in every way – from its unusual flora and fauna to its rugged coastline to its breathtaking views and its man-made carriage trails, Acadia National Park is an unforgettable experience.

Coinciding with the National Park Service’s 100-year anniversary, Acadia National Park is celebrating its centennial this year, making 2016 an extraordinary year to visit.

Events are happening all year long, but the official “birthday” is on July 8, 2016. Acadia National Park is the first national park created entirely by private donations of land and is composed of 47,000 acres.

The park and surrounding areas are full of outdoor activities for those of all abilities and interests.

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▲

Forest at Acadia National Park

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Things to see and do in Acadia can include: the Ocean Path (a moderate, four-mile hike with plenty ocean views); scenic Park Loop Road (a 27-mile drive leading visitors to views and different attractions); stunning Cadillac Mountain (the park’s highest peak in Acadia National Park); varied carriage roads (45-plus miles of trails perfect for walking, hiking, biking, and horseback riding); horse-drawn carriage rides around Day Mountain; Thunder Hole (a naturally-caved inlet that the tide dramatically explodes into); Otter Cliff (a pretty high coastal headland); Jordan Pond House (a perfect spot to stop for fresh, warm popovers and tea); Sieur de Monts Spring (walking trails, the Nature Center, and the Wild Gardens of Acadia); The Precipice (the most challenging hike in Acadia National Park); Sand Beach (a cozy beach for sandcastle building, swimming, and picnics); the George B. Dorr Museum of 30

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Natural History (exhibits designed and produced by students at the College of the Atlantic); Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park; hiking (125-plus miles of trails, including the Beehive Loop, Great Head Trail, Cadillac Mountain, and more); swimming (including learning how Bar Harbor got its name – a large sand bar that connects downtown Bar Harbor and Bar Island); golf (including Kebo Valley Golf Club, the eighth oldest golf club in the nation, where President William Howard Taft once played); saltwater and freshwater fishing for a variety of species, like brook trout, lake trout, landlocked salmon, and smallmouth bass; sea kayaking; canoeing; and more.

MORE FUN IN Mt. Desert Island

Other options on Mt. Desert Island might include: A Lobster Boat Ride Join Captain John Nicolai aboard the Lulu lobster boat ride, the only lobster boat tour that is hosted on a traditional Downeaststyle lobster boat. Sailing directly out of Bar Harbor, Captain John has an engaging, entertaining, and educational style. Passengers learn about how lobster traps are hauled, how the lobsters find their way into a trap, and fun lobster facts.

Sailing Sail on the 151-foot Margaret Todd, the first four-masted Maine windjammer to work in New England waters in over half a century. Relax on board as you see Bar Harbor and Mt. Desert Island from a new perspective, Frenchman’s Bay.

Birdwatching Tours Spot bald eagles, ospreys, peregrine falcons, great blue herons, woodpeckers, warblers, and shorebirds on a beginning birdwatcher’s tour.

Carriage Ride See Bar Harbor in a classic, open carriage drawn by Shire draft horses from Wild Iris Farm. Clop along downtown Bar Harbor and Northeast Harbor or visit the farm.

Whale Watching Tour A whale clearing its blowhole is only one of the amazing sights to enjoy on a summer whale watching tour. Off the coast of Bar Harbor, migratory animals and whales travel to Maine’s cooler waters to feed for the summer and then they return to warmer climates to mate and give birth. You’re almost sure to spot a shark, dolphin, seals or puffins, too.

Airplane Ride Soar above the island and take in the sights from a biplane, featuring an open cockpit, a glider, or a scenic flight.

Cruise on the Coastline Hop aboard a catamaran or windjammer to cruise around Frenchmen’s Bay and see Maine’s rocky coastline spotted with wildlife and natural wonders.

On Wheels See Mt. Desert Island and the Schoodic Peninsula on a smallgroup guided bicycle tour or rent a scooter.

With all the activities, hunger and subsequent sustenance plays a leading role in a Bar Harbor and Mt. Desert Island experience.

Dining options range from lobster shacks to fine dining restaurants.

Many options include incredible views served with a meal. While seafood may be the draw (more than five million lobsters are served in Bar Harbor every year),

area restaurants are also known for sourcing farm-fresh products locally. Bar Harbor also has a booming craft beer scene. Atlantic Brewing Co. offers tours and free tastings. Taste regionally brewed beer at many of the restaurants, as well.

For something truly unique, Jordan Pond House has been serving popovers and tea since the 1890s. It’s a signature experience while in Acadia National Park.

Bar Harbor is easily accessible.

From Boston (268 miles), follow Interstate I-95 through to Bangor (exit 182A - 395), then pick-up Route 1A to Ellsworth, and follow Route 3 to Bar Harbor. Another route would be to take I-95 to Augusta, take Route 3 to Belfast over to Route 1 to Ellsworth, then back to Route 3 into Bar Harbor.

For detailed information on Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, visit www.barharborinfo.com.

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Fun Facts Mount Desert Island is one of the largest islands on the U.S. Atlantic seaboard, measuring 28 miles across east to west, with a total area of 108 square miles.

Bar Harbor was originally named Eden, until it was renamed in 1918.

Three MT. Desert Island towns, Bar Harbor, Tremont and MT. Desert, have passed lighting ordinances to protect the quality of the night skies in the region.

At 1,532 feet, Cadillac MT. in Acadia National Park is the highest coastal point on the east coast of the United States.

Somes Sound is the only fjord in the northeastern UNITED STATES.

Notable and influential rusticators included the Astors, Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, Carnegies, and Morgans.

The Great Fire of 1947 destroyed nearly half the eastern side of Mount Desert Island, including 67 of 222 palatial summer houses.

Five historic grand hotels were destroyed, in addition to 170 of 650-plus year-round homes. More than 10,000 acres of Acadia National Park were destroyed.

Fortunately, the town’s business district was spared, including Mount Desert Street.

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Don’t GO Hungry!

SHOP ‘til YOU DROP

Here are 9 tasty options in or near Bar Harbor:

Visitors will love strolling through Bar Harbor’s quaint streets, lined with mom and pop boutiques and shops for the perfect souvenirs, specialty food products to bring home, gifts and treats for pets, unique jewelry, home décor, and Maine-made gifts. The options include:

JORDAN POND HOUSE Located right in Acadia National Park and a part of many returning visitors’ traditions. This unique restaurant has been serving popovers and tea since the 1890s.

Stop in for afternoon tea and fresh popovers, for a lunch to take on the trail or up Cadillac Mountain or for a mouthwatering sit-down meal. Be sure to make a reservation if planning to visit between 11:30am and 4pm.

BEAL’S LOBSTER PIER Dine on a working lobster pier eating some of the freshest lobster available.

GEDDY’S A Bar Harbor landmark decorated with license plates. It features a fun gift shop just below the restaurant.

WEST STREET CAFÉ A popular family restaurant specializing in fresh lobster and other local seafood, with early-bird specials available.

LA BELLA VITA RISTORANTE Offering small tapas-style dishes and Italian entrées, the restaurant features views of Frenchman’s Bay in an elegant setting.

THRIVE JUICE BAR AND KITCHEN A local favorite that offers housemade grab-and-go healthy food options, smoothies, and juices.

ROUTE 66 RESTAURANT A fun 50s nostalgia restaurant featuring traditional Maine lobster dinners and fresh homemade bread.

ASTICOU RESTAURANT Upscale New England cuisine served on the decks overlooking the water of Northeast Harbor.

MOUNT DESERT ISLAND ICE CREAM This popular shop features unique flavors like Blueberry Basil and even has a special line for canines.

COOL AS A MOOSE The cool place to shop for Maine, Acadia National Park, and Bar Harbor apparel and gifts.

THE NATURALIST’S NOTEBOOK This shop combines science, nature, arts, and fun with engaging installations and activities.

BARK HARBOR Dogs love Bar Harbor, so here is a special shop just for them.

BAR HARBOR CELLARS Fresh-cut flowers and produce, as well as locally made wine.

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT SHOP Featuring personalized, nautical ornaments and much more.

SAGEGRASS GALLERY This gallery showcases artisans and handcrafted products.

BAR HARBOR TEA COMPANY Unique fine teas.

BAR HARBOR POPCORN Don’t miss the blueberry popcorn!

Where To Stay If you are planning a trip to Bar Harbor, be sure to stay at one of Encore’s three Bar Harbor RV resorts and campgrounds.

Mt. Desert Narrows, Narrows Too and Patten Pond provide a variety of accommodations, including waterfront RV sites, cabins, cottages and park models.

Make your summer vacation plans today, visit us online at BarHarborCampingResorts.com.

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[Antique roadshow]

by Joan Rykal

Antique, retro, vintage, or just plain quirky. These words set millions of Americans in motion each year combing the countryside seeking, searching, uncovering and unearthing.

Antique shows, flea markets, retro fairs, and collectibles and memorabilia auctions are popular road trip destinations among the young and old alike.

To the serious collector, there are specific definitions. For example, the word “antique” applies to objects that are 100 years old or more, while “retro” means “imitative of a style, fashion or design from the recent past.”

So whether you collect Civil War Memorabilia, have a passion for Bakelite jewelry, are looking to add that perfect piece to your Depression glass collection or just plain love to look, there’s a road trip in your future. We’ve listed some of the biggest and best shows throughout the country. You can also find many more at www.antiquetrader.com.

Before you go, there are a few things you should note:

u Be prepared to haggle. v Bring cash. w Dress comfortably and

don’t forget the sunscreen.

x Don’t forget a tape measure, extra bags to carry your treasures, and a cart if you’re serious about buying the big stuff!

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Brimfield Antiques Show Brimfield, Massachusetts Considered the largest antique show in the country, the Brimfield Antiques Show has been around since the 1950s and draws both dealers and shoppers from around the world.

It runs along Route 20 in this quaint New England town and boasts approximately 20,000 dealers showing their wares in barns and fields along the highway. Dates for the 2016 shows are May 10-15, July 12-17 and September 6-11. Thousand Trails’ Sturbridge Campground is less than 10 miles away.

For specific information visit www.brimfieldshow.com.

Renninger’s Mt. Dora, Florida In Lake County, Florida, you will find two exciting opportunities in one location. The Renninger’s location in Mt. Dora, Florida (near to all the Thousand Trails and Encore RV resorts of Clerbrook, Orlando and Southern Palms) has both a Vintage Antique Center and a Farmer’s and Flea Market that are a mix of indoor and outdoor shopping. The Farmer’s and Flea Market is open Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the Antique Center is open Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Here you can find vintage clothing, high end antiques and nice of mix of oddities and one of a kind items. But the big event is scheduled for November 18-20 when they host the Antique and Collector’s Extravaganza.

America’s Largest Antique and Collectible Show Portland, Oregon

▲ Brimfield Antique Show Photo courtesy of RebeccaL1 36

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Portland’s Expo Antique and Collectibles Show is one of the largest in the country, with over 1,000 booths displayed items dating from the mid-1880s to the 1970s. Mark your calendars for July 16-17 of this year if you want to join show-goers from around the world who attend this gargantuan event.

Mt. Hood Village is a great place to stay while attending. Check out our new Tiny House Village at mthoodtinyhouse.com.

Allegan Antiques Market Allegan, Michigan A little over an hour’s drive northeast of Thousand Trails’ Bear Cave Campground, you’ll find the town of Allegan, which plays host to “one of the ten best shows in America,” according to Antiques Magazine. Held the last Sunday of the month from April through September, the show has over 400 exhibitors that sell a wide variety of items from glass, pottery and china to vintage jewelry, sport and fishing items and vintage advertising.

The show is spread over the Allegan County Fairgrounds and runs rain or shine.

For more information visit www.alleganantiques.com.

Country Living Fair Rhinebeck, New York Presented by Country Living magazine, this event features artists and artisans, antiques and more. This year’s show will be held June 3-5. Rhinebeck is less than 30 miles from Thousand Trails’ Rondout Valley Campground. More than 200 vendors gather in this scenic Hudson Valley location at this great event that features seminars, how-tos and cooking demos, in addition to all the treasures on display.

For more information visit www.stellashows. com/event/country-living-fair -rhinebeck.

Renninger’s Antique and Collector’s Extravaganza Kutztown, Pennsylvania If you’re planning to spend anytime visiting the Thousand Trails and Encore RV resorts and campgrounds in and around the Pennsylvania Dutch countryside, you might want to schedule the trip so that it coincides with the Renninger’s Antique and Collector’s Extravaganza events scheduled in June and September. Exhibitors set up shop in outdoor tents as well as on two large pavilions. There is also an Indoor Antique Market and Farmers’ Market that runs during the event. The 2016 dates are June 23-25 and September 22-24.

▲ Country Living Fair Photo courtesy of Unskinny Boppy MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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Rose Bowl Flea Market Pasadena, California One of the best shows on the West Coast with over 2,500 vendors, this event is held the second Sunday of every month. In addition to the potential for celebrity sightings, visitors to the market can find furniture, jewelry, clothing, and home décor. People say they love it not only for the variety, but also the people-watching that can’t be beat.

Marburger Farm Antique Show Round Top, Texas This show is so popular, they run both a spring and fall show. And while you may have missed the spring show held in late April, you can still attend the fall event, scheduled for September 27 to October 1.

Just about a half-hour’s drive from Thousand Trails’ Colorado River campground, this show features both domestic and international dealers. The unique setting on 43 acres encompasses exhibit tents as well as historic buildings. The wares on display include antiques, Americana, furniture, fine art, silver, jewelry, and textiles.

For more information visit www.roundtop-marburger.com.

Fremont Sunday Market Seattle, Washington Open Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Fremont Sunday Market in Seattle is one of the city’s longest running markets. You can find old and new treasures alike among the selections that include collections, crafts, antique, vintage items and furniture. Modeled after European outdoor markets, expect to find just about everything here. It’s also pet friendly so your pooch can help you make the big decisions! The market is open year-round but visitors should note that they are closed the weekend of June 17-19, 2016. ▲ Rose Bowl Flea Market Photo courtesy of Eli Duke 38

MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

For answers to FAQs and other information, visit www.fremontmarket.com.

Country Living Fair Columbus, Ohio Whether you plan to visit Thousand Trails’ Wilmington or Kenisee Lake Campgrounds, you’ll find this show to be a little over an hour’s drive from either location putting you in the perfect to spot to enjoy a day of treasure hunting. Similar to the Rhineback, New York show, Country Living will host an antique fair in Columbus, Ohio on September 16-18. Set among the grounds of Ohio Village, a living history museum, vendors and exhibitors will display antiques, vintage items and hand-crafted goods as well.

WORLD’S LONGEST YARD SALE August 4-7 Four days long.

Throughout 6 states.

For information visit www.stellashows.com/ event/country-living-fair -ohio.

Shipshewana Antique Market Shipshewana, Indiana There’s not just one event for antique-lovers in this Midwest location, there are several!

Plus, there’s the Shipshewana Trading Place Antique Mall that is open Monday through Saturday April through October that features more than 100 dealers in 31,000 square feet of space chock full of toys, books, glassware, quilts and furniture. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

May through September and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

October through April.

Then, on June 4, there is the Shipshewana Antique Market that hosts approximately 50 vendors set up in the outdoor space around the Antique Mall. Quality antiques, furniture and more will be on display at this show that’s also free admission. If you miss the June event, they do it all again on September 3.

Encore’s Twin Mills is the closest campground to all this action.

For more information on Shipshewana, visit www.shipshewana.com.

The mother of all road trips traveling through six states, including Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama, see what treasures you can find at the “World Longest Yard Sale.”

Held annually, this really may be the longest yard sale in the world stretching 690 miles from Michigan south along Highway 127.

The concept behind the event is really just a giant garage sale that has residents that live along the route cleaning house and selling what they no longer want to the scads of people who drive from all over the US to experience this unique event. The scenic drive is worth it as well.

And while you might not unearth a Civil War uniform button or an original copy of Little Women, it just might be worth the trip to see what’s for sale. After all, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure!

For more information on this one of a kind event, visit www.127sale.com.

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On The Road

DAWN WILSON Wildlife Photographer

Whether you spend life on the road for pleasure or work, it’s nice to have the comforts of home as you travel the highways and byways.

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

This month, we chatted with professional wildlife photographer, Dawn Wilson.

With a communications degree and an MBA in hand, Dawn Wilson left her corporate marketing career to pursue her hobby – and dream job – of full-time wildlife photographer and travel writer in 2013.

And she hasn’t looked back…other than in the rear-view mirror of her RV as she embarked on a solo excursion around the United States in her 24’ Thor Chateau in the fall of 2015 – accompanied only by her two dogs and two cats.

by Lynn & Cele Seldon

All photos courtesy of Dawn Wilson 40

MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

▲ Bison in front of Denver skyline at Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

A

fter growing up and going to school in the Northeast, Dawn found herself in Colorado working the rat race in corporate marketing and account management. And although she was putting her education to work, she wasn’t satisfied. After a difficult couple of years of family illnesses and the death of her boyfriend and her father, she realized that life was short and she wanted to make the most of it. So she started focusing more on her passions of photography and writing to help center herself. They became her outlets to understanding the world around her. Within a few months, Dawn gave her notice and decided to pursue her passions full-time.

She took a year to focus completely on travel and building a photo inventory, including two trips to the Arctic, plus exploring much of Colorado and the Rocky Mountains region. She also started finding success selling her photos and stories. But she still had a house and a menagerie of pets that kept bringing her back home. So in early 2014, Dawn came up with a list of all the places that she wanted to go and developed a plan for her “year in an RV.” Even though she had never set foot in one, Dawn put her house on the market and made the leap to living in an RV.

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What prompted you to take to the road in an RV? The biggest thing is that I wanted to be mobile. I want to be able to say, “I want to go there. And then I want to go to this place. And then that place.” Without having to go there and then go home and then that place and go home.

Being in an RV allows me to get to a place and really be there.

My pets are with me and I have everything I need. And I don’t have to worry about getting home to mow the lawn. It’s so much more accessible for what I want to do and the places I want to access to photograph and write about. The more that I looked at the various options of RVs and conversion vans and 5th wheels, the more I felt like an RV was the right way to get around. I found a used 2012 24’ Thor Chateau with 8,500 miles on it. I put the house on the market the following week.

I’ve been downsizing and I’ve been on the road since September 2015.

Did you every go camping or RVing as a family vacation?

When we spoke with her, Dawn had been living in her RV full-time for more than six months, while specializing in wildlife photography of the high latitudes of Alaska and the high altitudes of the Rocky Mountains. She has published a compilation photo book and an e-guidebook and has been published in numerous magazines, books, and calendars.

Her award-winning work is also regularly exhibited in galleries and collections throughout North America.

No. My family wasn’t into the outdoors at all. It was always one of the things that attracted me to my boyfriend. He grew up camping and hiking so he exposed me to backpacking and car camping. We had never rented an RV, but had talked about it.

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

That I don’t have to move everything around. It’s so nice to just pull in some place and your food is right there, you can take a nap, your bathroom is right there.

And being a single woman traveling alone, it actually feels safer that way.

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You travel with two dogs and two cats. What do they like about life in the RV? The older dog likes to sit on the bed or the sofa and watch out the windows. The other dog sits on the front seat and does the same thing. The cats really seem to enjoy it. They like to play with their toys. I like to think that they like being around me all the time.

Do you take the highways or the scenic routes?

Where have you been and what’s on your bucket list?

What are your three favorite things onboard?

I’ve been to quite a few places in Colorado and Wyoming due to the familiarity. I went up to Rocky Mountain National Park and Mount Evans, which is one of my favorite places in Colorado.

I went up to Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, Grand Teton National Park, and Devils Tower National Monument. Then I went out to California. I went to Escondido down by San Diego, the Salton Sea to photograph birds, Malibu to photograph sea lions, Port Reyes National Seashore to photograph Tule elk, Pinnacles National Park, and Yosemite, and then to Utah to photograph Zion National Park.

I haven’t had a gas stove in years and I really like that in the RV. And I like that it’s such a tiny space and it’s convenient. I like the fact that I have a window at the head of the bed and the side of the bed. A lot of times when I’m lying in the bed – which is really comfortable – I’ll pull the shades open and I can actually watch the sun rise or see what kind of critters are running around outside. The third thing would definitely be storage. Because I’m working out of there, I use half the space in the mother’s attic over the cab for my cats and half for my gear. And I like the space underneath for my snowshoes, cross-country skis, and for my photo blind. That was one of the things that I was most worried about. How am I going to have the space for all the things that I need to have with me because I’m working? I have a printer, and maps, and all kinds of guidebooks.

I have plans to do some bird photography in Florida and Texas in the spring. I’m actually trying to figure out how to get to all the places I want to see. Glacier National Park would be wonderful.

Yellowstone – a lot of wildlife photographers go there in May and June because of all the babies that are running around. And then I’m headed up to Alaska in June where I will be teaching a bear photo workshop. If I can swing it, I’d like to spend the summer in Alaska.

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Other than photography, what else do you do when you are on road?

I don’t watch TV. I do have a TV but I don’t have satellite. I don’t miss it. I like watching nature episodes on my iPad. Otherwise everything is purely about work.

I will edit photos, I will write, I will do research. I do a lot of reading about where I’m going to go.

I’ll go out and hike.

My preference is the scenic route if I can afford the time.

What’s the most unusual thing that has happened to you in a campground since you’ve been on the road?

In California, tarantulas walk across the road all the time and you have to dodge them. Which is hard in a big RV with a tow car.

I’ve been charged by an elk, bison, and a moose. But for the most part, I’m very respectful of my distance and not being obtrusive. Once in Yosemite, I saw a coyote in the road and I stopped to photograph him.

He was just sauntering down the road and, all of a sudden, he just stopped. His ears perked up, he was looking past me, and he kind of freaked out. So I wondered what he saw in the trees behind me that totally changed his behavior. He came back towards me and walked right past me.

After he passed me, I looked up to see what was in the trees. And there was a bobcat hunting rabbits. I actually saw the cat catch a rabbit. You don’t get to see bobcats too often. So, that was pretty interesting.

To follow Dawn’s travels and learn more about her photography, visit DawnWilsonPhotography.com.

Who’s in the kitchen with

TrailBlazer?

Cooking with

Lesley Tennessen

We have lots of opportunities to have fun, but fun in cooking? Always! It’s about the adventure of finding foods and vegetables at the local markets or about finding the perfect cakes or desserts or the beach, or your secret place! My fun place is around my black pot, creating fabulous food for my friends!

Let’s have a couple of recipes that kids might want to prepare. These recipes are tested and approved by hordes of kids of all ages. I think you’ll agree, that these will hit the spot, and not be too much trouble to make!

Apple Rollups (beginner) Ingredients • 1 granny smith apple • 1 or 2 tube of crescent rolls • Cinnamon • Sugar

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

1. Peel and core the apple.

2. Slice it into 8 pieces if you have 1 roll of crescents, 16 pieces if 2 tubes.

3. Roll each apple slice in the cinnamon sugar. Then roll up from the wide end of the crescent.

Roll that in cinnamon sugar.

4. Place into the bottom of the oven.

Put the lid on and put on 1½ rings to make a 350-375° oven. Cook for about 15 minutes until the apple is soft and the crescent is browned.

These will be very hot, so let them cool slightly before eating.

5. Optionally, you could put in banana, or mini hot dogs. Let your imagination guide you!

Banana Foldups – aka “Smaco’s” Ingredients

Directions

• Flour tortillas • 8 oz. cream cheese • ¼ c. brown sugar • Bananas • Chocolate bits • Mini marshmallows

1. Mix cream cheese and brown sugar together.

4. Cut up in to wedges. Serve… be careful it could be very hot!

2. Spread a little on ½ of the tortilla, Place sliced banana on top of spread.

Fold over the tortilla.

5. Optional: chocolate bits and mini marshmallows on tortilla. Cook as above or make mini pizza, quesadillas or customize each foldup! Use that imagination to have fun!

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3. Fry on the heated lid of a dutch oven for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Flip over. Cook the other side.

Lemon Custard Pie (10 in dutch oven, 350° oven, 1 ring plus 3 on lid, and loose ring under oven)

A unique crust made with saltine crackers, melted butter, and light corn syrup sets this pie apart from the competition. We use both lemon zest and juice in the custard filling for a bright pop of citrus flavor.

Ingredients

Directions

Crust: • 6 oz. saltines (53 or 1½ sleeves) • ⅛ tsp. salt • 10 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted • ¼ c. light corn syrup

For the Crust:

For the Filling:

1. Make enough coals for a 350°, approx. 20. Combine saltines and salt in food processor and pulse to coarse crumbs, about 15 pulses or crush up by hand. Add melted butter and corn syrup and pulse until crumbs are broken down into oatmeal-size pieces, about 15 pulses or stir till all combined.

1. Whisk condensed milk, egg yolks, cream, lemon zest, and salt in bowl until fully combined. Whisk in lemon juice until fully incorporated.

Filling: • 1 (14oz.) can sweetened condensed milk • 4 large egg yolks • ¼ c. heavy cream • 1 tbsp. grated lemon zest plus ½ c. juice (3 lemons) • ⅛ tsp. salt Topping: • ½ c. heavy cream, chilled • 2 tsp. sugar • ½ tsp. vanilla extract

2. Transfer saltine mixture to a parchment lined oven. Use 2 ‘straps’ of parchment to make an X. Cut a disk of parchment to place over the X. Using bottom of dry measuring cup, press crumbs into even layer on bottom and sides of plate, using your hand to keep crumbs pretty much even along the top edge of the crust.

Bake until light golden brown and fragrant, 10-12 minutes.

2. With oven still on heat, pour filling into crust (crust doesn’t need to be cool). Bake pie until edges are beginning to set but center still jiggles when shaken, 15 to 17 minutes.

Remove from heat, take the lid off and let cool completely. Refrigerate pie until fully chilled, about 4 hours.

For the Topping: 1. Using stand mixer fitted with whisk, whip cream, sugar, and vanilla on medium-low speed until foamy, about 1 minute. Increase speed to high and whip until stiff peaks form, 1 to 3 minutes. Spread whipped cream over top of pie. Serve.

MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

47

ASK

RVBILL

YOUR TECH QUESTIONS ANSWERED!

Anode Rods

Q

Bill, I have a 64 dollar question. Last week I flushed my Atwood water heater with the help of a friend. My buddy noticed that the drain did not have an anode rod. Looking online, I found the anode for my model water heater. Wondering why my model did not have an anode I started some checking with mixed results. Can you tell me the definitive answer?

Josh

Old Refrigerator

Q

Hi Bill, I have a 1995 fifth wheel with a 2 door Norcold refrigerator. Lately while in the propane mode of the refrigerator has begun shutting down for two seconds and then back on. I can hear some clicking noises and then two seconds later the gas reignites. This keeps repeating itself until I turn the refrigerator off or switch to the electric mode. The electric mode works fine and the refrigerator cools as it should.

Bob

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MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

A

Hello! This is a great question Josh, and one that I often receive. Atwood has an aluminum inner tank rather than a glass lined steel tank. The anode rod is the sacrificial material to prevent corrosion within the steel tank.

Aluminum tanks aren’t subject to this corrosion. In fact, installed in an Atwood water heater, the rod will do more harm than good.

I’ve seen anode rods that have welded themselves into the tank preventing removal for cleaning and draining the tank. Keep your Atwood clean and flushed for

A

Bob, A refrigerator that is roughly 20 years old you can have a myriad of problems. Here are a few things for you to check or have checked. First, I would do an LP pressure test, as a refrigerator needs at least 11 inches of water column to function properly.

Next, have the burner, orifice and the flue serviced. Check to make sure that the spark probe assembly in the flame is at least an eighth of an inch tall. If the spark probe assembly does not glow red, it may not be far enough into the flame. The spark probe assembly tells the circuit board that the flame is lit and tells it to keep the gas on. The issue might

maximum durability. Suburban water heaters have anodes rods and need to be changed and the tank flushed on a regular schedule. The rule of thumb is to replace the anode when it about 50% deteriorated. Remove the anode every 6 months and flush the tank, write the date on the plate on the front of the water.

This will give you a rough length of time you will need between changes. Keep in mind water Quality will have an effect on the anode and flushing the tank.

The more calcium and minerals the water contains the faster the process accelerates. Be well!

even be originating from the circuit board. If you do end up needing to replace a circuit board make sure that you replace it with a Dinosaur Board as they are the most bulletproof circuit boards that I’ve ever installed.

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

Brake Control

Q

Hi Bill, I have a question about the built-in brake control in my 2007 Ford F350.

It’s been erratic for quite some time now no matter how I adjust it. I replaced all 4 brake magnets. I ran new wire is to the brakes and soldered every wire connection to no avail.

Would it be better if I simply installed an aftermarket brake control, if so which brands do you recommend?

Cheers, John

A

John, Erratic brake control operation on the first and second year factory installed brake controls in Ford trucks was not uncommon.

In fact, some of them never worked well at all. If you have access to an amp meter, check to make sure that you have roughly 2.5-3 amps per magnet when the brake control is activated. Start checking the amperage at the back of the brake control, then at the seven way connector at the back of the truck and last but not least at each magnet at the back of the brake assembly. My suggestion would be to install an aftermarket brake control such as the Tekonsha Prodigy. One of their best models is the P-3.

This brake control will work with either electric brakes or electric over hydraulic. Thanks for the question.

Buying a Campervan

Q

Hi Bill, My family and I are looking at purchasing a campervan as a second vehicle when my husband’s wagon dies. We are open to buying used but wanted to know your thoughts on the Toyota Sienna pop top conversion from GTRV. We need something that can sleep at least 4 adults as we have 3 kiddos.

Thanks for the guidance, Janine

A

Janine, No matter what you end up with I know you and family will have fun.

The Sienna would be a good bet if you can find a used one. Try www.rvtrader.com that is nation wide. There are lots of class B motorhomes out there to choose from. Another option would be a bumper pull trailer.

Look at models with beds that slide out, even the short models sleep 6-8 people.

Broken Blinds

Q

Hey, Bill, One of the strings broke on a day/night Shade the last time we were out on a trip in our 2000 Winnebago motorhome. I realize that they are 15 years old but it’s kind of a nuisance when they break in the middle of a camping trip, as they do not stay in any position. Should I replace the whole blind? Or, can they be sent somewhere and repaired?

Sincerely, John

A

Hi John, replacing the blinds can be quite expensive, not to mention matching the existing color would be nearly impossible.

With a 15-year-old motorhome more of the blind strings are likely to follow. Restringing the blinds are actually quite simple.

Go on the Internet and look up www.fixmyblinds.com. This informative site not only has all of the tools and the string to restring the blinds, they have videos to show you how to complete the task and tips for doing so like a pro. Removing the valances to gain access to remove all of the blinds can be a little bit tricky. Most likely you can find a video on YouTube for removing the valances. I assure you that once you’ve done the first one or two the rest will be simple. Good luck.

MAY 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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MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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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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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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MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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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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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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MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals ▲ Venture In 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.

MAY 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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MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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57

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Answers can be found on page 63.

Answers – Sudoku puzzle can be found on page 63.

58

MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

ACROSS 1 White matter of the brain 5 Tactical Air Command (abbr.)

8 Semitic deity 12 Outbreak 13 Harem room 14 High (pref.)

15 Tidy 16 Entangle 17 Broad structural basin 18 Again 20 Regard 22 Never (Ger.) 23 Red deer 24 Reef (2 words) 28 Arrow poison 32 Kwa language 33 Goddess (Lat.) 35 John, Gaelic 36 Tanzania island 39 Military formation 42 Legendary celt 44 Computer aided manufacturing (abbr.)

45 Last section 48 Husband/ brother of Isis 52 Down with (Fr., 2 words) 53 Central processing unit (abbr.)

55 Take on cargo 56 Ignoble 57 Brown 58 Key 59 Tennyson character 60 Eight (pref.)

61 Attentiongetting sound

DOWN 1 Wild buffalo 2 Willingly 3 Swine 4 Be present 5 Blonde 6 “Fables in Slang” author 7 Pole in Gaelic games 8 Ram 9 Wings 10 Tamarisk salt tree 11 Loess 19 Family relative 21 Old Fr. coin 24 Small drink 25 Presidential nickname 26 Name (Fr.) 27 Caddoan Indian 29 Trouble 30 Indo-Chin. language 31 Roadhouse 34 Report 37 Oblique 38 Atlantic (abbr.)

40 Laughter sounds 41 Wife of lago 43 Hundred (pref.)

45 Gooseberry 46 Dayak people 47 Heb. patriarch’s title 49 Skin eruption 50 Inactive 51 Appear 54 Lumberman’s boot

4

paws ROAD ON THE

Traveling and Camping with Companion Animals

Q + A

Jenn, My 6 month old dog, Scout and 1 year old dog, Jessie are primarily harness trained. I love taking them to puppy classes, hiking each day and we have recently started agility courses.

I feel the harnesses are best to avoid placing excess pressure on their little tracheas, as they are Boston’s like you have. I know this is a sensitive area in such breed dogs and I wish to protect their windpipes and long-term health.

Jessie, is a bit better on the collar as she was mainly collar trained before I got her. I do not like how hard my dogs pull sometimes when they are on the harnesses. The more I pull on them, the harder they pull back in return. For dogs that are well under 12 pounds, they sure are powerful. These Boston’s are the sunshine of my day and we can’t wait to meet up with you and your family again this summer in Washington!

Thoughts? Lori Davis JENN I commend your diligence in training, socializing and caring for Jessie and Scout. I agree it is important that we don’t apply too much pressure on our dogs’ necks/throats. This should be our motivation for proper training. No matter what, it’s critical that our dogs get accustomed to being handled 100% on collars. If your dogs are ever at the vet, a collar and leash will be used. If they were to become lost and need to be handled by a stranger, more than likely a leash would be

by Jenn Gehr used. Our dogs need to be totally collar trained first and foremost. If a harness must be used in addition with a collar, I recommend the Easy Walker Harness ($17-$20 on Amazon or Chewy.com) it attaches to the front of the dogs chest and makes it very difficult for a dog to “sled dog pull”. Both of your dogs are intelligent and require us to be clearer about boundaries with body language and using far less words rather than verbal commands to accomplish behavior modification. It’s totally possible if we are aware of what needs to be done and commit to making it happen.

I am adopting a 2 year old, 25 lb Puggle rescue dog named Flint in July from a family that has been caring for him for the last year. I have been visiting several times a week and have seen some of the challenges I am going to be faced with. Flint is currently potty/crate trained but scratches at the cage a lot then bolts out when the door is opened.

Also, he gobbles up his food and stands on his hind legs to beg for a treat or attention. He always wants to be in my face and demands to be touched by anyone in sight. I don’t like how demanding he is and can see how this power play can lead to other issues.

Can you give me a few quick tips?

Thanks, Kristin Barros JENN Thanks for your willingness to take on this dog in need and give him a more balanced life. I hope these ideas will be of good use.

When crated, allow Flint to settle with a chew toy (always rawhide free!) or plush and avoid eye contact with him.

Once he is still and quiet, softly tell him, “good quiet”, don’t look at him as you softly praise. Don’t play into

his hand of when he scratches or whines. Be sure he has been taken out to go potty before you crate him.

Teach him to “wait” by holding up your hand and using the word “wait” to physically stop him in his tracks from bolting out. He will learn that when he rushes out, he will be stopped. Don’t use a treat each time to praise, just be quick, calm and matter of fact about the correction and when he listens, softly tell him, “good wait”.

This word is a critical command that I use on a daily basis for all sorts of applications.

Jumping up to beg and food inhaling.

You may want to get those “slow feeder/interactive” bowls that make the dogs slow down when they are eating to avoid bloat or ravenous eating behaviors. Try to feed twice a day at somewhat regular times, but don’t be too stringent about it. When Flint is up begging and on those bad legs in the house, stop looking at him and walk away. Don’t engage her at all because what she’s after is attention that might lead to a treat or touch.

Dogs happily accept any attention as much as positive praise. As time goes on, He will learn that you are his safe, constant, pack leader who gives care, guidance and calm, reassuring love.

Work on having Flint follow your body and simple commands without the hassle and complication of leashes and harness all the time is a critical step in overall leadership control and proper pack development. Example; “let’s go outside” & you get up and go to the door, Flint should get up and follow you out the door. Use the word, “wait” again to keep him from rushing out and in doing so, you will train him to listen to your commands and seek your guidance. Dog live to please!

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

MAY 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

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

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

Scott Motor Coach NJ - Lakewood www.scottmotorcoach.com

McKay’s RV & Marine Center ME - Holden • www.mckaysrv.com Media Camping PA - Media • www.mediacamping.com Mike Thompson RV Superstores CA - Cathedral City, Colton, Fountain Valley, Santa Fe Springs www.mikethompson.com

Safford RV VA - Thornburg • www.saffordrv.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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Horizon Lussier QC - Maryville • www.horizonlussier.com

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

JCS Entreposage QC - Trois Rivières www.entreposagejcs.com

Paul Evert’s RV Country AZ - Bullhead City, Flagstaff CA - Fresno; NV - Laughlin OR - Coburg; WA - Fife, Milton, Mt. Vernon www.rvcountry.com Phillips RV Center MI - Mount Morris • www.phillipsrv.com PPL Motorhomes TX - Cleburne, Houston, New Braunfels www.pplmotorhomes.com Princesscraft RV TX - Round Rock • www.princesscraft.com R.B.Taylor & Sons VA - Lynchburg www.rbtaylorandsons.com Recreation Plantation RV Sales IL - Lynwood www.recreationplantationrvsales.com 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 RV Source TN - Knoxville • www.rvsforless.net

Sundown RV Center CA - Atwater • www.sundownrv.com Super Deals RV Inc. GA - Douglasville, Temple www.superdealsrv.com TAC Trailer and RV NC - Moyock • www.tactrailerandrv.com The Trail Center SC - North Charleston www.trailcenter.com

VR Souliere QC - Lanoraie, Lavaltrie www.vrsouliere.com GO VR QC - Ange Gardien • www.go-vr.com

Leasure Days RV ON - Ayr, Kingston, Pembroke, Smith Falls, Sudbry QC - Buckingham, Gatineau, Sherbrooke NB - Salisbury NS - Truro www.leisuredays.ca Le Centre du Vr Victoriaville QC - Saint-Albert • www.vrvictoriaville.com

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

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

TravelTime RV TX - Sulphur Springs www.traveltimerv.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 MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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y l l a It’s R Time!

Calendar

CLUB MAY 2016 Bounders United (BUTTN)

May 18-21...........................Menifee, CA Joint Campout with BUTTN’s and Vagabounders in Wilderness Lakes!

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

May 27-30...................... San Benito, CA 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 jeff@nocciola.com.

62

MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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

Northwest

TTN So Cal Weekenders

Lewis and Clark TTN

TT East Trail Buddies

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.

May 17-21.........................Paradise, WA 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

May 6-8 �����������������������Lake Texoma, TX New members must be a member of TTN and FMCA. Contact Connie Farrar at (817) 454-4612 or email to ttnfmcachapter@gmail.com. Our website is: ttnoftexasfmca.com.

We also have a blog site: ttfmcaralliesandmore.blogspot.com.

May 6-8 ��������������������������� Oakzanita, CA 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.

May 11-15..................... Chesapeake,VA 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

May 12-15 ���������������������� Ponderosa, CA 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 58.

Trail

Blaze

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!

▲ Tree

Sandy Emond of Charlton, MA

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VA TB: Whe ▲ Kirk’s big catch you woulre have you in Arly, it hadn dn’t have gone that AL Trails ’t been for otherwise, your mem bership?

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Natur e my wh is ite picket fence!

found the tree on Page 25 of the March 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 May 31, 2016 and remember –the tree could be a different color and size.

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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.

MAY 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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MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

MAY 2016 TRAILBLAZER

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#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!

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Get out and camp!

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Take pictures on your camping trip

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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

GREAT COVERAGE

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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

NO ONE DOES IT BETTER

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

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

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

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

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www.skymed.com/thousandtrails

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