trailblazer magazine - nov/dec 2013

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013 n $2.00www.trailblazermagazine.net

Spotlight:Adventures in the Keys

A True TrailBlazer:Global Noble

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OVERSEAS HIGHWAYThe

A Trip Through the Florida Keys

Conch If You Love Key West& Its Characters

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013 | TRAILBLAZER 2 CIRCLE NO. 124 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013 | TRAILBLAZER 3

VOL. 35 n ISSUE 10

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER2013CONTENTS

Message from Marguerite 5 Tech Topics 9

Who’s in the Kitchen with TrailBlazer 10

TrailMix 12

Activities & Events 16

ELS Events Calendar 20

Updates & Upgrades 26

I Knew I Was a TrailBlazer 28

Spotlight: Adventures in the Keys 30

A True TrailBlazer: Global Noble 32

Features:The Overseas Highway: 34A Trip Through the Florida Keys Conch If You Love Key West 40and Its Characters

Member Deals 44

Advertiser Index 50

Crossword Puzzle 50

On the Market: Gift Guide 53

Club Calendar 60

Sudoku Puzzle 62

Classified Advertising 63

On Location 66

With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other, a trip on the 127-mile Overseas Highway promises beautiful sunrises, sunsets and amazing vistas all around. Explore this engineering wonder as you discover the Florida Keys.

Key West is literally the end of the line when it comes to exploring the Florida Keys. Just 9 miles from Cuba, Key West is designated the Southernmost Point in the US. Come visit and see what the draw is for yourself.

Cover photo: Seven mile bridge. Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau

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THE OVERSEASHIGHWAY

CONCH IF YOU LOVEKEY WEST

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Receive a $25 $50 American Express Gift Cardwhen your referral purchases a Zone Camping Pass!

Your referral also enters you into our 2013 drawingfor a chance to win these great prizes.

Details and qualifi cations for participation in this promotion may applyand are set forth on our website at www.ZoneCampingPass.com/referthezone.

Contact Us Today!1-888-808-8925

www.zonecampingpass.com/referthezone

Camping is Better with Friends!

and are set forth on our website at www.ZoneCampingPass.com/referthezone.

Grand Prize7 Night Cruise or

Trip to Hawaii(a $4,000 value)

Second Prize4 Nights in either Las Vegas, San Francisco

or Orlando(a $2,000 value)

Third PrizeFREE DUES for 2014

(10 winners selected)(up to $525 value)

Limited Time, Double the FunDouble Your Reward!

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As we go to print, news of our US Government’s shutdown is everywhere. There is a whole laundry list for the reasons this occurred, but

at the core it may very well relate to the quote above.

Peter Drucker, a pioneer in business management, believed that listening to the customer and understanding what they want was the core to successful business. In essence, aren’t we all the customers of the government? And yet, someone stopped listening along the way and this is the result.

You may recall that during the first week of the government shutdown when National Parks and Monuments were closing, we sent out several emails letting you all know that we were open for business. We’re still here! And while there is a huge difference between us and the US Government, we believe that we are listening to what you’re saying.

Luckily, over the past several years, technology and the advent of social media make it easier for us to find out what you’re thinking. Regular mini-surveys launched from our own Facebook page as well as the feedback we receive through other forms, give a true insight to what it is our customer wants. And we are not going to stop listening (and asking, for that matter)!

For example, the request for more 50-amp service sites popped up in many places, from social media forums

to customer surveys at the property and more. So, to that end, over 1,000 50-amp site upgrades are either in the works or have been completed.

In regards to upgrades and updates, we regularly feature these in TrailBlazer and these are a result of hearing what you have to say. Check out Page 26 and see what’s going on at Soledad Canyon. Over $1 million in renovations are underway – again, we heard your comments and we are making changes.

I will note it is important to understand that major renovations and upgrades are a lengthy process, beginning with the concept, running through budget and capital expenditure procedures, hiring crews and bringing the project to completion.

If you have a question about upgrades and updates, or a suggestion or comment about changes you’d like to see, please drop us a line. We have several avenues for you to communicate with us and we encourage you to use them.

We’re still here and we are definitely still listening.

Marguerite NaderPresident & CEO

MESSAGE FROM MARGUERITE

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“Most of the successful people I’ve known are the ones who do more listening than talking.”~ Bernard Baruch


EDITORJoan DeAno Rykal

[email protected]

GRAPHIC DESIGNERHeather Anderson

ADVERTISING SALES 877-252-9320

[email protected]

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.

MISSION STATEMENTTrailBlazer provides exclusive news and information for the members and guests of Equity LifeStyle Properties 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.

www.trailblazermagazine.net

TrailBlazer MagazineTwo North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800

Chicago, IL 60606www.trailblazermagazine.net

Address Changesfor TrailBlazer

can be sent via email toTrailBlazerAddressChanges@

EquityLifestyle.com

NEW Subscriptions1-877-252-9320

TTN & LTR Reservation Services(From United States and Canada)1-800-288-7245 • 228-497-3594

April 1 to August 31Mon. - Fri. 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. September 1 to March 31Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Central Time24-hr. STAR Line: 1-800-859-7827

228-497-3594Member Services1-800-388-7788

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PRINTED IN THE USA

Now Win $50 EACH Issue!Pics from the Parks Photo SubmissionsDo you have a winning photo from your visits to our preserves and resorts? We’d love for you to share it with us and what’s more, your submission will now be entered into our photo contest. Winners will receive a $50 American Express 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.) 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: [email protected] mail to:Equity LifeStyle Properties, Attn: TrailBlazer PhotosTwo North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800Chicago, 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 the website.

Snowflower: While we were at Snowflower in August, Louisa had fun scrambling over not-too-small nor not-too-big boulders among the tall trees.- Jim & Janet Hansen, Castro Valley, CA


PICS FROM THE PARKS

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Yosemite: My “Rock climbing Pug” at Tenaya Lake in Yosemite National Park. She loveshaving her picture taken, and, can’t pass up a rock that can be climbed on!

- Sharon Thompson, Alta Loma, CA

Chehalis: Barb Knudson presenting a “Quilt of Valor” to her Uncle George Swift(with wife Marge) in thanks for his service to our country in WWII.

- Andy and Barb Knudson, Anderson Island, WA


WANT TO BE ALUCKYWINNER?

When you pay your annual dues for 2013 in full, you will be entered into our monthly drawing for a $1,000 American Express gift card. There will be one drawing/one winner each month from January through December 2013. In addition, once you pay your dues in full, each time you camp at a Thousand Trails Preserve in 2013, 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, 2013. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limtied Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606.

Get Out andGet Out andGet Out andCampGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andCGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andGet Out andCGet Out andCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaammmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmppppppppppppppppppppppppppppCamp

Thousand Trails is offering members the opportunity to win a

$1,000 American Express Gift Card

To earn entries into our monthly drawing simply pay your 2013 dues on time and camp at your favorite TT Preserve.

This month’s winner, Eric Weber from Cameron Park, CAwas camping at Ponderosa when he was presented with his $1,000 gift card.

Will you be pictured here next month?Eric is pictured here with Ponderosa Resort Manager, Dominic Pugliese.

2013_GetOut_ad_NovDec.indd 1 10/7/13 4:00 PM


Give Me a Brake Whether your RV is a diesel pusher, a 35-foot fifth wheel, or a pop-up trailer, brakes are an extremely important component. And they are a most decidedly under-appreciated component. Under-appreciated, that is, until your fully-loaded RV is rolling down the western side of the Rocky Mountains at 40 miles per hour. That’s when you learn, firsthand, how to truly appreciate the immense value of a good set of well-maintained brakes.

Brakes are one RV system you don’t take chances with--ALWAYS know if your brakes are in good condition before leaving on any trip. It can be difficult to visually inspect your brakes yourself. It’s even challenging to be completely aware of their condition at all times strictly by “feel.” A clue that you might have a brake issue is a rig that pulls to one side when you brake. Another clue is brakes that squeal or squeak. Perhaps you’ve noticed your brake pedal is becoming spongy with too much “play.” Or you find your brake pedal suddenly offers resistance and becomes hard to press. Be on the safe side. Make it a practice to have your brakes inspected by a qualified mechanic every 10,000 miles. Replace them if you have any doubt about their dependability. When brakes become hard, soft, noisy, or if you feel unsure, it’s time to have them checked.

You also need to know how to prevent “brake fade,” particularly if you tow a trailer. Brake fade happens when the brake pedal “gives” and brakes barely respond rather than braking normally. It’s usually caused by overheated brakes from prolonged use on downgrades, but it can also happen if the brakes are out of alignment. To help avoid brake fade on downgrades, always use lower gears when traveling downhill, allowing the engine itself to help slow the vehicle.

Self-Adjusting BrakesIf your vehicle is equipped with self-adjusting rear drum brakes, you can try the following simple adjustment method. This technique is best used for tow vehicles or toads only; we DO NOT recommend it for a fully packed motorhome or trailer.

First, make sure you’re in a flat, safe area that meets all three of these conditions: 1) Adequate room to back up; 2) A clear and completely unobstructed view; and 3) You are CERTAIN there are no pets, no foot traffic, and no vehicle traffic in this area. If you meet all three conditions, you can attempt to adjust/tighten your brakes by driving your vehicle in reverse for a few feet, not too fast. Brake quickly. Repeat backing and braking about three to five times, or as advised in your Owner’s Manual. The ratchet action of the rear shoes should adjust the brakes for normal wear and should improve performance. Never rely solely on this method. See a mechanic as needed!

Brake ControllersIf you pull a trailer behind a pickup truck or other tow vehicle, you know the importance of a dash-mounted brake controller. A controller should be matched to both your load and your tow vehicle. Brake controllers come in a variety of “flavors;” some are hydraulically operated, some are pendulum (inertia)-types, some are air-actuated and still others are electronic. And they’re designed for controlling single, double, or triple axles. Don’t cheat on size! You need a controller that will adequately brake your trailer under a variety of real-world driving conditions.

Test your trailer brakes and your brake controller before you leave on any trip. Simply move slowly forward and manually operate the controller after hooking up. You should feel a definite braking effect. All brake controllers have a sensitivity adjustment; adjust yours to your own specifications so you get a smooth, safe stop.

Tech Topics by Paul and Kerri Elders

Continued on page 62

This month, we’ll take a basic look at RV braking systems. We’ll start with the vehicle brakes. How can you tell when your RV’s brakes need adjusting? We’ll give you some quick and easy tips. We’ll also take a look at brake controllers, safety breakaway systems for trailers, and take a quick peek at the emergency brake.

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Come along with me to the Florida Keys. These recipes provide a really wonderful profile of the flavors of the Keys with fruit, limes, fish and coconut!

Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Lime Jalapeño Slaw (adapted from FloridaKeysMadness.com)

Set-up:10-inch Dutch oven12-15 coals on the bottom

Ingredients:1 pound fresh Florida Keys shrimp, peeled and deveined3/4 cup shredded cabbage1 jalapeno, shredded2 tablespoons cilantro, coarsely choppedJuice from 1 Key lime6 corn tortillas2 tablespoons olive oil1 avocado1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning1 teaspoon freshly ground chili powder

Directions:For the Slaw: Combine cabbage, jalapeño, cilantro and lime in a mixing bowl. Refrigerate until ready to use.

For the shrimp filling: Season the cleaned shrimp with 1 teaspoon olive oil, Cajun and chili powder. Put the Dutch oven onto the coals to create medium heat to sauté the shrimp. Use the remaining olive oil in the Dutch oven and saute about 3-5 minutes or until cooked through and pink. Set aside. Take the lid from the Dutch oven and invert it over a lid stand. The same coals that you used for sauté will be good to warm the tortillas. Distribute shrimp to warmed corn tortillas, topped with cabbage, jalapeño slaw mixture. Serve and enjoy!

Coconut Crusted Fish with Mango Salsa (adapted from FloridaKeysMadness.com)

Set-up:10-in Dutch oven12 lit coals

Fish Ingredients:7 ounces coconut, shredded 3⁄4 cup rice flour, divided 2 eggs 1⁄2 cup water 8 ounces Gulf Mahi-Mahi or Cod fillets, about 1 inch thick1⁄4 cup olive oil

WHO’S IN THE KITCHENwith TrailBlazer?

KEYS COOKINGby Lesley Tennessen

www.dutchovendiva.com

florida


Key Lime Pie (from AuthenticFlorida.com with taste buds that keep thanking me!)

You can use Key limes (found in most grocery stores, one bag will do) or any kind of limes (6-8) to create a Key lime pie. Make sure you use the zest of the fruit you use before squeezing the fruit.

Set-up:10-inch Dutch oven7 coals for the bottom, 13 for lid to make 350 degrees

Ingredients for Crust:1/3 of a 1-pound box of graham crackers5 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter1/3 cup of sugar

Ingredients for Filling:4 egg yolks2 teaspoons of zest - be sure to zest before you squeeze the juice!1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk2/3 cup of freshly squeezed Key lime juice (Use a hand squeezer as opposed to a juicer)

Ingredients for Meringue Topping:4 egg whites¼ teaspoon, cream of tartar¼ cup of sugar

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Fish Directions:In a small bowl, mix the coconut and 1/2 cup of rice flour. In another bowl, make an egg wash with eggs and water. Coat fillets in the remaining 1/4 cup of rice flour; dip fillets into egg wash and finish breading with coconut/flour mixture. Place the Dutch oven over the bed of coals. Sauté fillets in oil over medium-high heat until fork tender, browning both sides. If the coconut seems to be burning, remove the coals from under the Dutch oven. You can also add more oil in as you go. Garnish with Mango Salsa on top of the cooked fillet.

Mango SalsaIngredients:1 mango, peeled and diced 1/2 cup peeled, diced cucumber 1 tablespoon finely chopped jalapeño 1/3 cup diced red onion 1 tablespoon lime juice 1/3 cup roughly chopped cilantro leaves Salt and pepper

Mango Salsa Directions:Combine the mango, cucumber, jalapeño, red onion, lime juice and cilantro leaves and mix well. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours to develop flavor.

Directions for Crust:Break up the graham crackers; place in a food processor and process the crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, place the crackers in a large plastic bag; seal and crush the crackers with a rolling pin. Add the melted butter and sugar and pulse or stir until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom and side of a pie pan, forming a neat border around the edge.

Make a ring of the coals and set the oven onto the ring. Bake the crust until set and golden, 8 minutes. Take the oven off the heat.

For the filling:Meanwhile, in an electric mixer with the wire whisk attachment or a hand mixer, beat the egg yolks and lime zest at high speed until very fluffy, about 5 minutes. Gradually add the condensed milk and continue to beat until thick, 3 or 4 minutes longer. Slowly add the lime juice, mixing just until combined, no longer. Pour the mixture into the crust. Set the oven back onto the ring of coals. Make sure that you have good hot coals. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the filling has just set. Take off the heat and cool down.



Any travel agent will tell you that visiting the Florida Keys is definitely a tropical experience. And it’s not just because of the palm trees – the

Keys are located just 70 miles north of the Tropic of Cancer, which is the demarcation line for “the tropics”, so you can’t get much closer to tropical and still be in the US. And this month’s TrailBlazer provides you with details on how to get the most out of your vacation in the Florida Keys.

Thanks to the location, the area experiences some pretty amazing temperatures, with summertime averages of 80-90 and even better, winter temperatures that range between 72 and 84. You can’t beat that when your friends up north are shivering!

A trip to the Keys is a sure-fire way to tackle a whole boatload (excuse the pun) of items on a “Must See and Do” list. Do you want to swim with dolphins? Explore shipwrecks and coral reefs while scuba-diving? Glimpse a key deer, an endangered species that can only be found in the Keys? Or simply, blend in with the locals and enjoy sun and sand?

If you’re planning a trip to the Florida Keys this winter, you’re in luck because Encore RV Resorts offers two great locations while you visit and explore this 120-mile long island chain.

Sunshine Key RV Resort & MarinaThis unique resort, with adjoining marina, offers the RV adventurer ideal access to the island experience. Located on the 75-acre island of Ohio Key, near Big Pine Key in the lower Florida Keys, Sunshine Key provides the perfect gateway for ocean activities, or just relaxing at the water’s edge.

Visit the National Key Deer Refuge, which is less than 10 miles from the resort, and see the endangered white-tailed Key deer in this fourteen square mile natural habitat.

Bahia Honda State Park is another must see. This award-winning beach offers some of the best beachcombing around. Plus, photographers will love the opportunity to snap shots of the historic Bahia Honda Rail Bridge. Don’t miss it at sunset!

If you want to simply soak up the sun and catch some rays, and a few fish, that’s the beauty of Sunshine Key. With the marina and dock right on site, there is plenty of opportunity to cast a line and sit by the water’s edge.

The Strait Story:Encore Offers the Key(s) To Your Winter Getaway


Sunshine Key RV Resort & MarinaBig Pine Key – Lower Keys


Fiesta Key RV Resort Long Key – Middle Keys


Book now and spend the winterwith us in the Florida Keys.Visit www.RVontheGo.com

See page 44 for great deals offered to Thousand Trails members

Fiesta Key RV Resort

Our newest location is the perfect location in the heart of the Florida Keys. Encore’s Fiesta Key RV

Resort is so lush, you’ll swear you’re in the tropics! Situated on 28 acres, the views of the Gulf of Mexico that surround the resort are incredible. And, while it may be tough to leave these gorgeous surroundings, there’s so much to do nearby.

Choose from the Dolphin Dip or Dolphin Encounter to experience these friendly, intelligent mammals at the Dolphin Research Center, which is about a ten minute drive from the resort. Other programs include Trainer for the Day and Researcher for the Day. Whatever you choose, this is dolphin watching at its best.

Take a drive to Long Key State Park and take your pick of hiking, canoeing, kayaking, or fishing – the Park is said to have some of the best bonefishing in the Keys.

Back at the resort, take a dip in the pool, grab a bite to eat at the restaurant or beach bar and enjoy the beautiful sunsets.

When you visit Fiesta Key this season, make sure to book for Winter 2015 as major renovations are planned for the off-season.


BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADACultus LakeDecember 14: Annual Christmas party and potluck luncheon. Festivities begin at 1 p.m. You bring the goodies and we will supply the ham. Please call the preserve to let them know you’ll be attending - stay for the day or the weekend! Throughout December, activities will be member-generated. Family Centre hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily

CALIFORNIALake MindenNovember 1-3: Crafters Holiday: Join us for a weekend of crafting. We’ll have tables set up for Jewelry Making (various projects), Beaded Ornaments, Scrapbooking, Holiday Tags and a variety of Holiday Craft Projects. Sign up early for specific projects. Don’t forget the Friday Night Potluck Social, Brown Bag and Saturday Candy Bar Bingo and Ice Cream Social. November 8-10: A Salute to Veterans: Join us for a Veterans Day Pie Social. Veterans are encouraged to bring photos for our Salute to Veterans Board and memories to share with other veterans and members. Join us as we make holiday cards to send to our men and woman in Veterans Hospital. Don’t forget the Friday Night Potluck Social, Brown Bag Bingo and Saturday Candy Bar Bingo and Ice Cream Social. November 15-17: It’s All About Family: Bring your favorite photos and memories and we’ll do some scrapbooking with journal entries. We’ll also make a variety of mini scrapbooks that are great for holiday gifts. Bring the family for the Friday Night Potluck Social. Saturday morning we’ll play family board games and do family crafts. Later bring the whole family to Candy Bar Bingo and stay for the Ice Cream Social. November 22-24: Lake Minden Thanksgiving: This is Lake Minden’s most popular social. Join us Saturday for a traditional Thanksgiving meal of turkey and dressing at our Annual Thanksgiving Potluck. Enjoy a scrumptious meal while you catch up with old friends and make new ones. Then take a relaxing walk around the lake. Join us for Karaoke or make Christmas cards and mini tree ornaments. November 29-December 1: Crafters Holiday: Join us for a weekend of crafting. We’ll have tables set up for Jewelry Making (various projects), Beaded Ornaments, Scrapbooking, Cards and Holiday Tags. Sign up early for specific projects. Don’t forget the Friday Night Potluck Social, Brown Bag Bingo and Saturday Candy Bar Bingo and Ice Cream Social.

December 6-8: Deck the Halls: This week we’ll be making a variety of holiday ornaments in the children’s and adult craft sessions. We’ll also be decorating a hat, sock and mitten/glove tree during the month of December. Bring your donations to the Adult Lodge and help us share the holiday spirit with the less fortunate. Don’t forget the Friday Night Potluck Social, Brown Bag Bingo and Saturday Candy Bar Bingo and Ice Cream Social. December 13-15: Tis the Season: Join us for our Friday night Potluck Social followed by Christmas Brown Bag Bingo. Get in the spirit with holiday caroling around the Christmas tree. We’ll keep warm with hot chocolate and popcorn. It’s not too late to bead a pair of Christmas earrings in a Holiday Bead Class. Saturday join us for Candy Bar Bingo and the Ice Cream Social. December 20-21: Christmas Dinner Social: Join us for our Annual Christmas Potluck Dinner Social on the 21st. Not quite finished with your Christmas shopping? Take a Beading Class and make a bracelet or pair of earrings. You can also craft a Christmas ornament. Don’t forget the Friday Night Potluck Social, Brown Bag Bingo and Saturday Candy Bar Bingo and Ice Cream Social. December 27-29: Happy New Year: Friday

Night join us for a potluck dinner and Brown Bag Bingo as we say goodbye to 2013. On Saturday we will have Bingo and the last Ice Cream Social of the year. December 31: New Year’s Eve: Join us for a Finger Food Potluck Social followed by a variety of card and board games, plus Brown Big Bingo and Karaoke as we ring in the New Year.

Lake of the SpringsNovember 28: Thanksgiving Potluck Dinner - we supply the turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy, plus coffee and iced tea. Cost is $6.75 per person, ages three and up. Members are asked to bring a dish for their family, plus eight (vegetables, salads, rolls or desserts). Sign up at the Trading Post or get advance tickets. For more information call (530) 692-1042 or (530) 692-3215. We will have one seating at 2 p.m. December 14: Tree Trimming event - join us for tree trimming with good friends, hot chocolate and holiday music. December 31: New Year’s Eve Dinner and Dance: Join us for dinner and stay for the dance featuring The James Slack Band. For more information, or to sign up, call (530) 692-3215 or (530) 692-1612.

Palm SpringsNovember 21: What’s better than spending Thanksgiving in Palm Springs? Spending Thanksgiving with your family of friends right here on the preserve. Thanksgiving morning watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in the Family Lodge. Bring a cup of coffee and a friend and enjoy the parade.

December 7: Do you have an award-winning chili recipe? Cook up your favorite recipe and enter the Thousand Trails Palm Springs Chili Cook-Off. December 24: Merry Christmas! Join the Recreation Staff for caroling, drinking hot chocolate and savoring Christmas cookies. After the caroling, we will have our Christmas Decorating Contest awards ceremony. Decorate your rig, site or both. Santa and his elves will be watching. December 31: Celebrate the New Year with good friends, good food and good music. Can’t stay up until midnight PST, no problem - we will do a countdown at 9 p.m. (EST) and another countdown at midnight (PST). Seating is limited. Tickets go on sale December 15.

Calendar - Nov/Dec 2013

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November 14Christmas StrollThis is a great annual community event featuring the Mayor and Santa lighting the Christmas tree at the water tower on Plumas Street, just 20 miles from the preserve. There will be free entertainment, food and craft vendors, pictures with Santa and more. There will also be an expanded kid zone. Event hours are 2 to 9 p.m. For information call (530) 755 1620.

November 22-24McCormick’s Classic Car Show and AuctionHundreds of classic, sports, antique and special interest autos are sold across the auction block during the three days. Come to browse or to buy. Event is held at the Spa Resort Casino in Palm Springs, just 10 miles from the preserve. Event hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. For information call (760) 320-3290.


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Pio PicoNovember 1: Casino Night. November 2: “Bark in the Park” Doggie Social and Dance. November 9: “Veterans Tribute” Veterans Friends and Movie Night. November 16: “Everything Chocolate.” November 21: Thanksgiving Dinner. November 23: “Pow Wow” Sycuans Tribe is hosting a Pow Wow.

December 6: “Christmas in the Park” Casino Night. December 7: “Christmas in the Park” Raffle/Benefit and Movie Night. December 14: “Christmas in the Park” Recipe/Cookie exchange, Decorate your RV and Christmas Karaoke. December 20: “Christmas in the Park” Caroling, Cider/Cookie Social with Santa, RV Viewing. December 21: “Christmas in the Park” Judging announcement and Movie Night. December 28: “Bringing in the New Year” New Year’s Resolution wall. December 31: “Bringing in the New Year” New Year’s Party! Live band.

Ponderosa

Rancho OsoThroughout the Season: Guided trail rides are available daily for ages eight and over and fun hand-led rides for ages seven and under. Please call ahead for reservations. Don’t forget to visit our ranch animals at the stables. Saturday and Sunday activities are subject to change. Breakfast at Stone Lodge will be served 8:30 to 10 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. Our Saturdays will be filled with fun including wagon rides, Candy Bar Bingo, Ice Cream Socials, scavenger hunts, wine tasting and BBQ Dinners! The Country Store will be open for DVDs, snacks, drinks, etc. Please note the heated pool will close December 1 and will reopen in March.

November 28: Thanksgiving Dinner: Traditional Thanksgiving dinner provided, including turkey, stuffing, gravy, potatoes, cranberry sauce, salad, vegetables, rolls and beverage. Dessert potluck: please bring enough dessert to share with your party, plus four. Please RSVP to (805) 683-5686 or [email protected] by November 14 with your email address, telephone number, and number of adults and youths in your party. Adult price is $15, plus tax, children 12 and under are $7, plus tax. Also, breakfast will be served Friday, November 29 and Saturday, November 30 from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the Stone Lodge. We will serve a BBQ Chicken Dinner on Saturdays, through November 23, at 5:30 p.m. at the Stone Lodge. Please sign up and pay at the Country Store by 3 p.m. on Saturday.

December 31: New Year’s Eve Party at the Stone Lodge: Dance to DJ Dominic and ring in 2014 with snacks and goodies provided by Rancho Oso. Party runs from 8 p.m. to midnight.

December 7-8Indio International Tamale FestivalThis festival features savory tamales from hundreds of vendors from across the Southwest. Get there early for the best selection, including tamales that incorporate sweet dates and others that make use of savory salmon, along with traditional tastes. Event runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Fantasy Springs Casino, just five miles from the preserve. For information call (760) 391-4175.

November 242013 Mother Goose ParadeOne of California’s largest public parades, “Mother Goose” originated in 1947 as a gift to the children of East County from local businessmen. Upwards of 400,000 spectators line Magnolia, Main and Second Streets for this annual kick-off to the holidays. Event is just 17 miles from the preserve.

December 8Gaslamp Holiday Pet ParadeHeld at the Gaslamp Hilton Park, this is San Diego’s furriest festive parade. Event runs from 1 to 5 p.m. and is just 25 miles from the preserve.

November 29Placerville Festival of Lights The old-fashioned festivities will close Historic Main Street and begin around 5:30 p.m. at various locations up and down Main Street with music, entertainment, visits with Santa, stagecoach rides (4 to 6 p.m.) and the tree lighting at 6 p.m. at the Courthouse. Held in downtown Placerville, just 12 miles from the preserve.

December 14-15Christmas in Coloma The annual old-fashioned Christmas Celebration features period crafts, music, strolling musicians, historic trade demonstrations, 19th-century children’s games, wreath making, and vendors featuring hand made crafts and foods for sale. A visit from Santa Claus is a colorful highlight of the day. Snow pile, if weather permits. The park’s historic buildings will also be open for visitors’ enjoyment. Held at Marshall Gold Discovery State Park, just 1 mile from the preserve. Events hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

December 7Los Olivos Olde-Fashioned Christmas Celebration Celebrate in Los Olivos, just 23 miles from the preserve, as the streets are adorned with luminaries and the smell of popcorn and roasted walnuts drifts through the air! Local merchants will welcome guests during this romantic return to small town holiday celebration. Experience musical performances and a tree lighting ceremony by the “Little Angel.” Event runs from 4:30 to 7 p.m. For more information visit www.losolivosca.com.


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Wilderness LakesNovember 9: Casino Night. Come play Blackjack for FREE. Play with Wilderness money and get rich. Tickets given and drawing for prizes at the end of the evening. Must be 21 to play. November 10: Happy Veterans Day. FREE cake for all Veterans at the Ice Cream Social. November 16: Movie Night with FREE popcorn. November 23: Coyote Country DJ plays any type of music you could imagine. Just bring the whole family and enjoy quality time together. Clap your hands and stomp your feet or just listen. November 29: Movie Night with FREE popcorn. November 30: The clowns, Twinkles and Sunny Sunshine will be here to do face painting and make balloon figures. Dominic’s Karaoke for the whole family. Who knows you might be discovered for American Idol.

December 7: Casino Night. Come play Blackjack for FREE. Play with Wilderness money and get rich. Tickets given and drawing for prizes at the end of the evening. Must be 21 to play. December 8: Kathy Blanchette’s Gospel Concert. December 14: Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will visit us during kids craft. Get your picture with Santa and then make your own picture frame to put place it in. Movie Night with FREE popcorn. December 21: Dominic’s Karaoke for the whole family. Who knows you might be discovered for American Idol. December 28: Ron Ebell plays any type of music you could imagine. Just bring the whole family out to enjoy quality time together. You can dance, clap your hands, stomp your feet or just listen. December 31: Recreation Office will be open from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

FLORIDAOrlando

Three FlagsNovember 2: Ice Cream Social. November 3-9: Thursday Donut Social and Saturday Ice Cream Social and Craft Show. November 10-16: Tuesday and Friday Bingo, Wednesday Birthday Cake, Thursday Donut Social and Saturday Ice Cream Social and Craft Show. November 17-23: Tuesday and Friday Bingo, Thursday Donut Social, and Ice Cream Social and Craft Show, Saturday Night entertainment by Bill and Jennifer Smith. November 24-30: Tuesday and Friday Bingo. Thursday is our Thanksgiving Dinner - we provide

the turkey, gravy, and potatoes and you bring the sides or dessert. Saturday is our Ice Cream Social and Craft Show.

December 1-7: Monday night football, Tuesday and Friday Bingo, Wednesday Potluck, Thursday Donut Social and Saturday Ice Cream Social and Craft Show. December 8-14: Monday night football, Tuesday and Friday Bingo, Wednesday Potluck, Thursday entertainment by Dave and Lorraine Bird, and Saturday Ice Cream Social and Craft show. December 15-21: Monday night football, Tuesday and Friday Bingo, Wednesday Potluck, Thursday Donut Social and Saturday Ice Cream Social and Craft Show. December 22-30: Monday night football, Tuesday Christmas Carolling around the park, Wednesday is our Christmas Dinner - we provide the ham and you bring the sides or dessert. Friday Bingo and Saturday Ice Cream Social and Craft Show.

NEW YORKRondout ValleyNovember 23: Thanksgiving Dinner with our friends at Rondout Valley. Turkey provided by the staff at Rondout, Guests bring your favorite Thanksgiving potluck item to complete the feast. More information to follow.

OREGONPacific CityNovember 2: Come decorate the Family Lodge for the Thanksgiving holiday. November 23: Thanksgiving potluck dinner. Turkey, gravy, cranberry sauce, rolls and beverages $5 per person. You bring the complimenting sides to serve your party, plus 8. If the first letter of your last name begins with A-M bring salads, potatoes, stuffing or dessert; if it begins with N-Z bring vegetables, fruit, cheese platter or any hot side dish. Contact (503) 965-6200 to make a reservation and sign up your dish.

December 7: Come decorate the Family Lodge for Christmas. Holiday music, snacks and beverages provided.

Whalers RestThroughout November and December: Super Candy Bar Bingo on Saturdays at 1 p.m. November 28: Thanksgiving Potluck: We supply the turkey, ham, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy and attendees supply the side dishes and desserts for only $3 per person. Dinner is served at 3 p.m. November 30: Turkey Bingo in the North Clubhouse at 6 p.m. Prizes for winners!

December 21: Celebrate Christmas with our holiday-themed party at 2 p.m. in the South Clubhouse. December 31: Ring in the New Year and enjoy a night of family fun and prizes at our Casino Bash. Fun starts at 7 p.m. in the South Clubhouse.

PENNSYLVANIA ScotrunNovember 28-December 1: Thanksgiving: Enjoy a four-day weekend to celebrate the holiday! Shop the Black Friday sales at The Crossings and take advantage of the 20% off special items in the Trading Post. It’s the time to purchase that item you’ve been wanting. December 26-January 5: Perfect time to use the holiday break to enjoy skiing and other winter sports of the Poconos. For the shoppers, watch for those after Christmas great deals at The Crossings. Ring in the New Year at one of the local nighteries.

December 11Parade of LightsHeld at Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara, bring your camera for a photo op with Santa and friends. Santa arrives at 3 p.m. escorted by Harbor Patrol and his elves. Santa’s Village has become a cherished holiday activity for children of all ages and is open from 3 to 5 p.m. Located on the City Pier in the Harbor (below Brophy’s), Santa’s Village will feature 12 tons of snow from the North Pole, holiday carolers and special treats from Santa Barbara Maritime Museum. Santa Barbara Boat Parade runs from 5:30 to 7:15 p.m. For information call (805) 897-1962.

November 16-17Osceola Fall Art FestivalHeld in historic downtown Kissimmee, event features artists from throughout the US showcasing paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography and more. For more information visit www.ocfta.com.


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Timothy Lake North & SouthNovember 29-December 1: Tom the Turkey & Little Saint Nick Weekend Join us for a joint holiday weekend of family fun! Our traditional dinner of Turkey and Ham Potluck will be served. Bring your kids down Friday evening for our tree decorating and lighting. Santa will be visiting Saturday morning for pictures and parents can bring a gift not to exceed $15 for Santa to give to your child. Want to get a little more festive? We will have our site decorating contest and festive hayride around the resort. DJ Mike will be spinning some of your favorite holiday songs and, of course, anything else you would like to hear.

December 31: Timothy Lake’s Rock n New Year’s Eve Party: What better way than to enjoy ringing in the New Year with great friends and within walking distance of your RV! Our New Year’s Eve Party for all ages with DJ Mike includes party favors, main course, appetizers and, if weather permits, our Tubing Hill will be open.

SOUTH CAROLINACarolina LandingNovember 2: Annual Thanksgiving celebration and canned food drive. December 7: Christmas Celebration and toy drive (tentative).

TEXASBay LandingNovember 16: Member Appreciation Day included Chili Cook-Off and Weenie Roast Lunch. November 23: Thanksgiving Day Potluck.

December 7: Potato Bake. December 21: Member Appreciation Day - Christmas Potluck.

Holiday Potluck Dinners for Thanksgiving and Christmas - we supply the meat, dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy. We ask that you bring a covered dish to serve six people. Please call the preserve for details - a sign-up sheet will be in the Adult Center and Clubhouse.

Lake ConroeNovember 2: Chili Cook-Off Weekend: Come test your skills against our last

year’s winner. Our cook-off is a great time to get to know your neighbors and taste some of the best chili in Texas. November 9: Veterans Day Weekend: Veterans Day celebration - come join us for a Veterans Day parade and Golf Cart Games. November 16: Throwback Weekend: Come join us for a trip back in time to the 1980s when our park was first opened. You can meet Buddy Bear and have a free hot dog or hamburger. November 23: Thanksgiving Weekend: Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful, and we are very thankful for all members and staff that make Lake Conroe so special. So this weekend will be a weekend of giving thanks. November 30: Trim the Tree Weekend: So Christmas is almost here and what can I say except it is a magical time of year. We will be decorating our park and trimming the tree at the activity center. Come join us for a very magical time. December 7: Cookie & Dessert Weekend: Do you have a special recipe you want to show off? If so, join us for a great dessert bake-off. December 14: Snowman Weekend: It is going to be a weekend to remember as we celebrate a snowy white time. December 21: Christmas Weekend: What a magical time of year, Santa will be visiting and our second annual caroling on hayrides, come join us for a hayride through our park singing traditional Christmas songs. Afterwards we will be enjoying some hot chocolate in front of the tree. December 28: New Year’s Eve Weekend: Come join us in ending a fantastic year and ringing in a great New Year. We will enjoying the works of The Under Over Brotha’s Band on New Year’s Eve.

Lake WhitneyNovember 1-2: Birthday/Anniversary cake and ice cream at 1 p.m., Candy Bingo at 2 p.m., Decorating for Thanksgiving at 4 p.m. - everyone is invited to help decorate the Family Center for Thanksgiving! Sign up or call if you will be with us for Thanksgiving Lunch-please let us know what dish you will be sharing. November 11: Veterans Day: We will be having a flag ceremony with a new flag presented by Boy/Girl Scouts that will be visiting our park. November 27: At 10 a.m., we will start preparing for Thanksgiving Feast. Everyone is invited to help make our TT Family Thanksgiving a memorable time. November 28: Thanksgiving Day! Traditional Thanksgiving feast begins at 12 p.m. with all of our TT family. Afterwards gather at the Family Center and watch the Cowboys play Oakland! Game starts at 3:30 p.m. Bring your favorite football watching snacks to share! November 30: Come join the fun decorating for Christmas at 3 p.m.! Sign up or call to let us know if you will be joining us for Christmas lunch! Please lets us know what dish you will be sharing.

December 21: Get your picture with Santa Claus at 4 p.m. December 23: Employee Christmas Party at 6 p.m. December 24: We begin preparing for Christmas Lunch.

Medina Lake

November 8-107th Annual Classic R&B WeekendMany music lovers worldwide consider this the best classic R&B music weekend. Returning to the Poconos, this weekend offers a musically filled time in a resort setting. Events include VIP concerts, musical workshops, meet and greets, dance parties, comedy shows and line dancing lessons. A great weekend full of activities. Held at the Fernwood Hotel an Convention Center, just 35 minutes from the preserve. For information call (886) 210-8009.

December 825th Annual Tree Lighting CelebrationThe Stroudsmoor Country Inn invites guests from the community and across the nation as they celebrate the lighting of Stroudsmoor Mountain. Events include an art show, holiday craft boutique, and elaborate gingerbread village, carriage rides, petting zoo, live Nativity and fabulous fireworks. All free to enjoy. For information call (800) 955-8663.

November 29Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting CeremonyFor over 30 years, this spectacular one hour parade along the San Antonio River Walk has featured illuminated floats with celebrities, bands and lavishly costumed participants. The parade goes on rain or shine. For tickets call (210) 227-4262.



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BUCCANEER ESTATESNorth Fort Myers, FLFeb 26, 2014 ........................... 2014 Expo BilliardsFeb 27, 2014 ........ 2014 Expo Sock Hop/Car Show

CLERBROOK GOLF & RV RESORTClermont, FLJan 27, 2014 .........................ELS Golf TournamentFeb 7, 2014 .............................Diva Legends ShowFeb 14, 2014 ............................. Valentine’s DanceFeb 18, 2014 ............................... Spaghetti DinnerFeb 28, 2014 .................................... Variety ShowMar 6, 2014 ...........................................BreakfastMar 10, 2014 ........................ELS Golf TournamentMar 13, 2014 ...........Chris Michaels Comedy ShowMar 17, 2014 .................... St. Patrick’s Day Dance

COLONY COVEEllenton, FLJan 23, 2014 ............................Annual Health FairMar 14, 2013 ..................................... Mardi Gras

COQUINA CROSSINGElkton, FLJan 1, 2014 ............................... Polar Bear PlungeJan 18, 2014 ................................. Winter ConcertJan 23, 2014 .............................Casino Cruise TripFeb 2, 2014 ............... Championship Football PartyFeb 12, 2014 ...............................Taste of CoquinaFeb 14, 2014 ............................. Valentine’s DanceFeb 25, 2014 .........................Health & Leisure FairMar 8, 2014 ............................................. ConcertMar 17, 2014 ...............................St. Patrick’s DayMar 22, 2014 ................... Spring Golf TournamentMar 29, 2014 ..................... Spring Chorus ConcertApr 12, 2014 .................................. Concert/ShowApr 11-12, 2014................... Resident Garage SaleApr 25-26, 2014 .................... Spring Theatre ShowMay 5, 2014 .................................Cinco de MayoMay 12, 2014 ...................... Mother’s Day Brunch

GULF VIEW RV RESORTPunta Gorda, FLJan 11, 2014 ......................Bobby Holloway DanceJan 17, 2014 .....................Southern Express DanceFeb 14, 2014 ............................. Valentine’s Dance

- Just Duet BandFeb 28, 2014 ..........................Jerry Breeden ShowMar 7, 2014 .....................Southern Express DanceMar 9, 2014 ............ Branson - Deb & Gordie ShowMar 15, 2014 .................... St. Patrick’s Day Dance

- Anything Goes Band

HARBOR LAKES RV RESORTPort Charlotte, FLNov 9, 2013 ........................Hot Dog Night w/CDsNov 2 & 16, 2013 ......................Pancake BreakfastNov 16, 2013 ............................ Ice Cream Social/

KaraokeNov 23, 2013 ........................................Pool PartyNov 28, 2013 ......................... Thanksgiving DinnerNov 30, 2013 .................................... Dance NightDec 7, 2013 ............................... People Who Care

Charity EventDec 14, 2013 .............................Pancake BreakfastDec 14, 2013 .................... Christmas Musical ShowDec 21, 2013 .............................Golf Cart Parade/

Christmas CarolsDec 24, 2013 ............ Christmas Eve Dinner/DanceDec 25, 2013 .......................Christmas Day DinnerDec 28, 2013 ................Ice Cream Social/KaraokeDec 31, 2013 ......................New Year’s Eve DanceJan 4, 2014 ...................Ice Cream Social/KaraokeJan 7, 2014 .................................... Swim Suit SaleJan 11, 2014 .......................... Welcome Back PartyJan 18, 2014 ................................Chinese AuctionJan 18, 2014 ...................................... Stage Show

- Music & ComedyJan 25, 2014 ..................Valentine’s Dinner/DanceFeb 1, 2014 ..........................................50s DanceFeb 8, 2014 ........................................ Stage Show

- Music & ComedyFeb 15, 2014 ..................Valentine’s Dinner/Dance

Equity LifeStyle Properties (ELS)Events Calendar 2013-14


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WINDMILL VILLAGENorth Fort Myers, FLFeb 25, 2014 ...................... 2014 Expo Men’s Day

Feb 26, 2014 ............... 2014 Expo Chair Volleyball

Feb 27, 2014 ....................2014 Expo Shuffleboard

HARBOR LAKES RV RESORT (continued) Feb 21, 2014 .................................Dance NightFeb 23, 2014 ............ Ice Cream Social/KaraokeFeb 26, 2014 ................... 2014 Expo Pickle BallFeb 28, 2014 .............................Pickleball ExpoMar 1, 2014 .........................Mardi Gras DanceMar 7-8, 2014 .........Resort Follies (Talent Show)Mar 15, 2014 .... St. Patrick’s Day Dinner/DanceMar 22, 2014 .................................. Lawn PartyMar 29, 2014 ........Volunteer Appreciation PartyApr 5, 2014 .................................... Last DanceApr 20, 2014 .............................. Easter Potluck

THE HERITAGENorth Fort Myers, FLFeb 25, 2014 .............. 2014 Expo Glamour DayFeb 27, 2014 ..................2014 Expo Horseshoes

ISLAND VISTANorth Fort Myers, FLFeb 28, 2014 ......................2014 Expo Carnival

LAKE FAIRWAYSNorth Fort Myers, FLFeb 24, 2014 ............ 2014 Expo Welcome PartyFeb 28, 2014 ..........2014 Expo Golf Tournament

PINE LAKESNorth Fort Myers, FLFeb 24, 2014 ...................... 2014 Expo Red Hat

Ladies LuncheonFeb 28, 2014 ..........2014 Expo Golf Tournament

PIONEER VILLAGE RV RESORTNorth Fort Myers, FLFeb 26, 2014 .................2014 Expo Talent ShowFeb 28, 2014 ............... 2014 Expo Casino Night

SUNSHINE HOLIDAY DAYTONAOrmond Beach, FLMar 7-16, 2014 .....................Bike Week Bands,

Breakfasts, DinnersMar 28-31, 2014 ......... End of the Year Carnival

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COUNTRYSIDE RV RESORTApache Junction, AZOct 31, 2013 .................Welcome Back/HalloweenNov 28, 2013 ................. Thanksgiving Day PotluckDec 7, 2013 .............Dance Featuring The VaritonesDec 14, 2013 .............Dance Featuring Eight TracksDec 15, 2013 ........................ Christmas Craft ShowDec 17, 2013 ..Tuesday Entertainment-Jan SandwichDec 21, 2013 ...... Dance Featuring Reign-N-CountryDec 24, 2013 .............. Christmas Golf Cart ParadeDec 24, 2013 ....... Christmas Eve Program w/SantaDec 25, 2013 ............................. Christmas PotluckDec 28, 2013 ..........Country Western Line DancingDec 31, 2013 ......................New Year’s Eve Dance

Mid Night ConfessionsJan 7, 2014 .......Tuesday Maker Music Jam SessionJan 11, 2014 ....... Dance Featuring Erv Reuzel BandJan 18, 2014 ........Dance Featuring Midnight MoonJan 25, 2014 ............................... Dance Featuring

The Bob Doszak BandJan 26, 2014 ........... Shuffleboard Spaghetti DinnerJan 28, 2014 ................. Tuesday Night Entertainer

Maggie MaeFeb 1, 2014 ............. Dance Featuring Road RunnerFeb 2, 2014 ............... Football Championship PartyFeb 4, 2014 .................. Fun Night and Talent Show

COUNTRYSIDE RV RESORT (continued)

Feb 8, 2014 .... Dance Featuring Sam Pecorelli BandFeb 8-9, 2014 .... Saturday and Sunday Vegas DaysFeb 11, 2014 .....Concert Featuring Gentleman Jack Feb 15, 2014 ............................... Dance Featuring

Judy Anne and the GuysFeb 22, 2014 ..... Dance Featuring Erv Reutzel BandMar 1, 2014 .... Dance Featuring Come Back BuddyMar 4, 2014 .....................................Gospel ShowMar 8, 2014 ......................Dance Featuring HilleryMar 15, 2014 ... Concert Featuring Reign-N-CountryMar 17, 2014 ....St. Patrick’s Day Parade and PartyMar 22, 2014 .............................. Dance Featuring

Julie Lee White Rose DuoMar 25, 2014 ...... Concert Featuring Ron KendricksMar 29, 2014 ..............Dance Featuring Judy Anne

GOLDEN SUN RV RESORTApache Junction, AZOct 31, 2013 ............................... Halloween PartyNov 11, 2013 ........... Welcome Back Dinner-Tribute

to our Veterans with Uptown Angels USO ShowNov 21, 2013 ...................... Highland High School

Strolling Strings/Starlight SerenadeDec 8, 2013 ................................Ice Cream Social

and Karaoke by the poolDec 18, 2013 ................................. Christmas Train

and Golf Cart Parade and CarolingDec 24, 2013 ..................Christmas Eve with SantaJan 1, 2014 ...................Polka Dance with Julie LeeJan 16, 2014 ............Chamber of Commerce MixerJan 19, 2014 ......... Karaoke with Merv by the poolJan 25, 2014 .......Annual AJ Community FundraiserJan 30, 2014 ........................................The TokensFeb 2, 2014 ............... Football Championship PartyFeb 7, 2014 ......................The Nashville RoadshowFeb 8, 2014 ........... Boots, Buckles and Brew DanceFeb 9, 2014 ........... Karaoke with Merv by the poolFeb 10, 2014 ...................................The Calhoun’sFeb 14, 2014 ............Valentine’s Dinner and Dance

with the 8 TracksFeb 16, 2014 ........................... Daytona 500 PartyFeb 20, 2014 .....................The Gold Wing ExpressFeb 24, 2014 ..........................The Kid’s Next DoorFeb 27, 2014 ............ Volunteer Appreciation LunchFeb 28 & Mar 1, 2014 ........................... Fun DAZEMar 5, 2014 .......................... Ball Team FundraiserMar 8, 2014 ....... A Tribute to Simon and GarfunkelMar 24, 2014 ........Going Home Dinner and Dance


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MONTE VISTAMesa, AZOct 31, 2013 ...................................... Sip and Dip

Season Kickoff Happy HourNov 2, 2013 ..............................Pancake BreakfastNov 3, 2013 ............................. NFL Sunday Ticket

Come cheer on your teamNov 4, 2013 ..................Western Nat’l Open Team

Shuffleboard TournamentNov 4, 2013 ...........Village College - Peggy NelsonNov 6, 2013 .......................Showtime Kenny MillerNov 7, 2013 ................Happy Hour - David GrimesNov 9, 2013 .........................................Patio SalesNov 11, 2013 ........... Village College - Bill HarrisonNov 12, 2013 ....................................... Chef Louie

(every Tuesday & Thursday)Nov 12, 2013 .......................Karaoke Happy Hour

(every other Tuesday)Nov 13, 2013 ...............................Activities CoffeeNov 14, 2013 ................Happy Hour - Ron E. CashNov 15, 2013 ........................Friday Night BINGO

(every Friday night)Nov 16, 2013 ............................Pancake BreakfastNov 17, 2013 .........................................Steak FryNov 18, 2013 ...... Village College - Martha MurrayNov 19, 2013 ..................Flu and Pneumonia ShotsNov 20, 2013 .........................................Showtime

- Coldshott & the Hurricane HornsNov 21, 2013 ................Happy Hour - Hungry FiveNov 24, 2013 .......................Lighting of the Village

annual eventNov 25, 2013 ................Village College - Erik BergNov 26, 2013 .......................Karaoke Happy HourNov 28, 2013 ......................... Thanksgiving Dinner

(Sign up required)Nov 29, 2013 .............Salvation Army’s Angel Tree

- Pick an Angel TagDec 2, 2013 ............... Village College - Larry ClineDec 4, 2013 .................Art in the Studio Courtyard

- Monte Vista ArtisansDec 4, 2013 .............. Showtime - The Rice BrothersDec 5, 2013 ............ Happy Hour - Guilty PleasuresDec 7, 2013 ...............................Pancake BreakfastDec 7, 2013 .................... Annual Christmas Bazaar

and Bake SaleDec 7, 2013 .......................................Tennis Club’s

Christmas Dinner and DanceDec 9, 2013 ............Village College - Greg HansenDec 10, 2013........................Karaoke Happy Hour

Dec 11, 2013 ................................Activities CoffeeDec 11, 2013 ..........Showtime - Monte Vista ChorusDec 12, 2013 .................Happy Hour - Phil JohnsonDec 15, 2013 ..........................................Steak FryDec 16, 2013 ............. Holiday Bonfire and Hayride

with s’moresDec 18, 2013 ................... Showtime - TreblemakersDec 19, 2013 ................Happy Hour - Rich ManciniDec 21, 2013 .............................Pancake BreakfastDec 23, 2013 ............................. Kids at Christmas

- Bring your GrandchildrenDec 24, 2013 .................Christmas Eve Candlelight

Chapel ServiceDec 25, 2013 ..............................Christmas Dinner

(Sign up required)Dec 27, 2013 .................... Dessert & Entertainment

by Center StageDec 31, 2013 .............. New Year’s Eve Celebration

- Putting on the RitzJan 2, 2014 ........................ Happy Hour - JazzonaJan 4, 2014 ...............................Pancake BreakfastJan 6, 2014 .............. Village College - Bill HarrisonJan 7, 2014 .................The Best of the 50s and 60s

2014 ConcertJan 8, 2014 ............ Community Dinner - Roast PorkJan 9, 2014 ................. Happy Hour - Jeff StephensJan 13, 2014 ..............Village College - Mike KinneJan 14, 2014 ............ Healthy Living Lectures SeriesJan 14, 2014 ........................Karaoke Happy HourJan 15, 2014 ................................Activities CoffeeJan 15, 2014 ............ Showtime - The Jerry Breeden

Ventriloquist ShowJan 16, 2014 ................... Happy Hour - Ricky RicciJan 18, 2014 .............................Activity Fair at the

Pancake BreakfastJan 18, 2014 .............................Pancake BreakfastJan 19, 2014 ................................. Vista Steak FryJan 20, 2014 ..... Village College - Dr. Jeremy RoweJan 21, 2014 ....................... United Blood Services

- Donate BloodJan 22, 2014 ............................................ Concert

- Revisiting the Roy Orbison YearsJan 23, 2014 ...............Happy Hour - Richi ManichiJan 24, 2014 .................... Dessert & EntertainmentJan 25, 2014 ......... Monte Vista Baked Potato Feed

- MV SoftballJan 27, 2014 .......... Village College - Jack WhitmerJan 28, 2014 ....................... Healthy Living LectureJan 28, 2014 ........................Karaoke Happy Hour


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MONTE VISTA (continued) Jan 29, 2014 ...................... Concert - I am WomanJan 30, 2014 ........ Happy Hour - Kristy (Dee) SwanFeb 1, 2014 ...............................Pancake BreakfastFeb 1, 2014 .........................................MV Annual

50th Anniversary CelebrationFeb 3, 2014 ...........Village College - Rich (Dick) ElyFeb 4, 2014 ............... Right Path Health ScreeningsFeb 5, 2014 ..................................Activities CoffeeFeb 5, 2014 ........................Showtime - Kenny HessFeb 6, 2014 ...............Happy Hour - Doug ReynoldsFeb 8, 2014 ............... Woodshop Annual Brat Bash

and AuctionFeb 10, 2014 .................Village College - Erik BergFeb 11, 2014 ....................... Healthy Living LectureFeb 11, 2014 ........................Karaoke Happy HourFeb 11, 2014 ........................ Concert - Sam Krane,

The EntertainerFeb 12, 2014 ....................Pasta Community DinnerFeb 13, 2014 ...............Happy Hour - Richi ManichiFeb 15, 2014 .............................Pancake BreakfastFeb 15, 2014 ............Tennis Club’s Valentine DanceFeb 16, 2014 ..........................................Steak FryFeb 17, 2014 .................................Village College

- LuAnn Dahlman, NOAAFeb 18, 2014 ......... New Image Fashion - ShoppingFeb 19, 2014 ......Showtime - Gene Lowry & FriendsFeb 20, 2014 ........... Happy Hour - Guilty PleasuresFeb 24, 2014 ............Village College - Danny FoleyFeb 25, 2014 ....................... Healthy Living LectureFeb 25, 2014 ........................Karaoke Happy HourFeb 26, 2014 ..................... Concert - December 63Feb 27, 2014 ..................................... Happy HourMar 1, 2014 Firemen’s Breakfast w/Auctioned PiesMar 3, 2014 ............. Village College - Jeff HopkinsMar 5, 2014 .................... Showtime - Mc6AcapellaMar 6, 2014 .............Happy Hour - Harry MathewsMar 8, 2014 .........................................Patio SalesMar 9, 2014 .........................Monte Vista’s Annual

Memorial ServiceMar 10, 2014 ............Village College - Mike EverittMar 11, 2014 ...................... Healthy Living LectureMar 11, 2014 Concert - The Ultimate Eagles TributeMar 12, 2014 ...............................Activities CoffeeMar 13, 2014 ............Happy Hour - Doug ReynoldsMar 14, 2014 ............ 2015 Concert Series PreviewMar 15, 2014 ............................Pancake BreakfastMar 17, 2014 .......................... Get Up, Get Active

- St. Patty’s Day 5k

Mar 17, 2014 ...............................St. Patrick’s Day Corn Beef and Cabbage Dinner

Mar 17, 2014 ............... Village College - Joe CobbMar 18, 2014 ................. The Dixie Swim Club PlayMar 19, 2014 .........................................Showtime

- Highland HS Strolling StringsMar 20, 2014 ................Happy Hour - Ron E. CashMar 22, 2014 .............. Spring Expo and Bake SaleMar 24, 2014 ........... Village College - Bill HarrisonMar 25, 2014 ...................... Healthy Living LectureMar 26, 2014 ........................................... Concert

- The Great American Song BookMar 27, 2014 ................ Happy Hour - Sip and Dip

- The LaRaDosMar 28, 2014 ................... Dessert & EntertainmentMar 31, 2014 ...........Village College - Danny FoleyApr 5, 2014 ..............................Pancake BreakfastApr 8, 2014 .........................Karaoke Happy HourApr 18, 2014 .................................. Easter for Kids

- Bring your GrandchildrenApr 19, 2014 .............................Pancake BreakfastApr 20, 2014 ..............................Easter Ham Bake

Community CenterMay 10, 2014 ...................... Mother’s Day Brunch

PARADISE RV RESORTSun City, AZJan 3, 2014 ................New Year’s Dinner & DanceJan 8, 2014 ....................Marcello DiNicholantonioJan 9, 2014 ............................. DJ Dance with KortJan 11, 2014 ............................. Shoppers ParadiseJan 13, 2014 ............... Superstar of Country MusicJan 20, 2014 ........................Maggie Mae ConcertJan 22, 2014 ................................ Patrick McNallyJan 25, 2014 .......................... Roy Orbison TributeJan 29, 2014 ...... Take it to the Limit - Eagles TributeJan 31, 2014 ....................... Cabaret with Mary JoFeb 3, 2014 ...... Honky Tonk Rebel - Mario CarboniFeb 8, 2014 .............................. Shoppers ParadiseFeb 10, 2014 .........................................Sam KaneFeb 14, 2014 .......................... Valentine’s Day TeaFeb 14, 2014 ........................ Paradise Talent ShowFeb 17, 2014 .............................Goldwing ExpressFeb 21, 2014 ........................... DJ Dance with KortFeb 24, 2014 ...............................Karen CarpenterFeb 28, 2014 .............................................. DanceMar 6, 2014 .........The Journeyman Gospel QuartetMar 8, 2014 ............................ Shopper’s ParadiseMar 10, 2014 ......... Cabaret with Tommy Halloway


Bay Indies

Bay Indies

Bay Indies

Bay Indies



Colony Cove

Colony Cove

Coquina Crossing

Coquina Crossing



Gulf View RV Resort




Colony Cove


Golden Sun

Countryside RV







Pioneer Village
















Southern Comfort





Fun-N-Sun RV Resort





Paradise RV Resort


















Countryside RV





Southern Comfort

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K


TEXAS

Mar 12, 2014 ....December ‘63 - Frankie Valli StoryMar 15, 2014 ..........Paradise Arts and Crafts ShowMar 17, 2014 ..St. Patrick’s Day Parade and DinnerMar 18, 2014 .......................... Paradise PlayhouseMar 22, 2014 .............................. Big Band TheoryMar 29, 2014 .......................... DJ Dance with KortApr 3, 2014 .................The West Valley Pops bandApr 26, 2014 .......................... DJ Dance with Kort

YUMA ART CENTERYuma, AZJan 10-14, 2014 .... The Superstars of Country MusicJan 24, 2014 ...............Revisiting the Orbison YearsFeb 7, 2014 ...........................................Sam KaneFeb 21, 2014 ...................................December ‘63Mar 7, 2014 ................... The Simon and Garfunkel

RetrospectiveMar 21, 2014 ........................ The Big Band Theory

COUNTRY SUNSHINE RV RESORTWeslaco, TXJan 11, 2014 ....................Dance with Randy WebbJan 19, 2014 .............................Goldwing ExpressJan 23, 2014 .....Encore: the Best of the Beach BoysJan 25, 2014 ...........................Dance with Rio TrioFeb 1, 2014 ....................... Dance with Greg JonesFeb 8, 2014 .....................Dance with Randy WebbFeb 9, 2014 ...................................... Jerry BennettFeb 15, 2014 ....................... Dance with JC BullockFeb 22, 2014 ...........................Dance with Rio TrioMar 1, 2014 ......Golden Oldies with Susan CarmenMar 6, 2014 .......................... Encore: Frankie Villa

and the Jersey BoysMar 8, 2014 ............Dance with Country Line Band

FUN-N-SUN RV RESORTSan Benito, TXNov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 2013 ..............Texas CountryNov 18, 2013 ................................... Vance GreekNov 24, 2013 .................................Coleman SmithDec 1, 2013 .................................... Leslie BlessingDec 6, 13, 20, 27, 2013 ...................Texas CountryDec 8, 2013 .....................................Ruthie HedgeDec 15, 2013 ..............................Clarence HaydenDec 21, 2013 ......................................... The CoinsDec 22, 2013 .................................Dan HarrymanDec 31, 2013 ....................................Noe CisnerosJan 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 2014 ..............Texas Country

Jan 5, 2014 ..........................................SpanhanksJan 12, 2014 ...................................... Betty RydellJan 13, 2014 ..................................... Toni JacksonJan 18, 2014 ...........................Beatles/Beach BoysJan 19, 2014 .................................Jackson HenleyJan 20, 2014 .................................... Bernie & RedJan 26, 2014 .............................................. TuckerJan 28, 2014 .....................................Pans of SteelFeb 3, 2014 ............................................ 12 StringFeb 7, 14, 21, 28, 2014 ....................Texas CountryFeb 8, 2014 .......................................Cross StringsFeb 9, 2014 ..........................................Bill ChastillFeb 15, 2014 ........................................The EaglesFeb 16, 2014 .................................. The KenastoneFeb 17, 2014 ......................................The CruisersFeb 23, 2014 ..................................The CastawaysMar 2, 2014 ....................................Paul’s JourneyMar 4, 2014 ....................................... Mardi GrasMar 7, 14, 21, 28, 2014 ...................Texas CountryMar 16, 2014 .................................. Dale & GayleMar 23, 2014 ......................................Kenny Hess

VICTORIA PALMSDonna, TXDec 6, 2013 .......................................Walter PlantDec 10, 2013..................................Rolando Reyes

(continued on page 52)


UPDATESUPGRADES

&Check here each month to see what’s

new at the preserves andwhat’s in the works.

ACCENT GARDENSThemed planting will be installed

that relates to the surrounding environment creating a

compatible landscape of color texture. Visitors are encouraged

to wander and discover the different spaces.

WELCOME CENTERThe Welcome Center will set the precedent for

what visitors can expect from Soledad Canyon, creating a strong identity that will be carried throughout the preserve. The design will take

clues from the surrounding environment such as meandering trails, natural vegetation, Parker

Mountain and the Santa Clara River.


Have you visited lately? We think you will like what you see.

Major upgrades are nearing completion. We invested more than $1 million on the improvements that include the following areas:

The Welcome Center received interior and exterior upgrades. Exterior upgrades include landscaping, parking lot lighting and paving and masonry updates. The fully-renovated interior will feature new furniture, a new 65” LED television, a new check-in area and an awesome stone wall design.

The Family Lodge has new lighting and fixtures, new BBQ grills, and new benches and picnic tables. The Family Lodge project also includes renovations to the dance hall and restrooms.

The Adult Lodge will have new furniture and fixtures, pool tables, and new LED televisions to enjoy. The new design, along with the new furniture and seating, will provide plenty of space for gathering with friends.

Sport Courts upgrades included resurfacing of the tennis, volleyball and basketball courts.

The pool area has been expanded to include a new playground and splash pad for children, new picnic tables, new benches and new grills, as well as lighting and additional seating. The pool restrooms have been upgraded as well with a refreshed interior, new lighting and new fixtures.

Additionally, restrooms were remodeled throughout the preserve, over 65 sites were upgraded from 30 to 50-amp, and a new access control security system, including cameras, was installed.

THOUSAND TRAILSSOLEDAD CANYONActon, CA

SPLASH PADThe expanded and renovated

pool and surrounding area will include the installation of a splash

pad for added aquatic fun!

Note: Project scope is subject to change.


I Knew I Was a

TrailBlazerThis month, TrailBlazer would like to introduce

you to George and Jane Dodge, a couple that has logged nearly 50,000 miles together camping

and RVing across the country since their retirement in 2010! While they have been camping together since the 1980s, retirement truly let them pursue their dreams of travelling full time.

TB: How long have you been camping and RVing? Who introduced you to it? Tell us how it all began!GD: I began camping very young, with my parents, going to lakes and campgrounds not far from Spokane, Washington. We had a big old wall tent with pipe framing and no floor which my dad set up for our weekend excursions/fishing trips to the campground at Marshall Lake, near Newport, Washington. We started camping as a family in the early 1950s. Primitive camping, but we had a lot of fun during those times.

JD: My family didn’t camp, but we drove from Nevada to Oklahoma every summer to visit family. I think that’s where I developed my love for road trips. The part I like best is getting there--and with an RV you’re always arriving somewhere.

TB: How did you first hear about Thousand Trails?GD: We received an invitation in the mail to attend an introductory meeting at the La Conner Preserve during the late 1980s. We had begun planning for our future adventures and the TTN membership seemed like a terrific investment. Although we didn’t use the membership all that much to begin with, as time went by we were able to do a few weekend or week-long camping trips to La Conner. We also continued to camp at Marshall Lake Resort occasionally. Our jobs took up more of our time than they should have for years so we didn’t use the TTN membership all that often to begin with.

JD: I’m with George.

TB: What is one of your fondest camping memories? How about one of your fondest TT memories? GD: Some of the fondest memories we have are of the friendships we have built with campers, like ourselves, during the three years we have been full-timers travelling around the USA. We share our adventures with others and sometimes things just “click” and we have lasting friendships with other full-timers and young couples and families just beginning to experiment with the RV life style.

The Dodges at Yellowstone Checking in


My family, my daughters, began camping when they were toddlers in 1969-1970, using an Apache tent trailer. We spent summer vacations in state campgrounds, at Marshall Lake and other “private” campgrounds. The girls came to love the outdoors/fishing/hiking and camping as we do.

JD: My daughter Laura met us in Anaconda, MT, last year and came with us to Yellowstone. That was pretty cool. I’m hoping we can do something like that with the other kids sometime. It might be easier for them if we went to visit, but they’re busy with work and kids, so we really don’t get to see much of them when we do. We go to interesting places, and the focus is more vacation than just making a little time for the parents so it ends being more fun for everyone. When we were at Rancho Oso, we watched a cattle dog demonstration and rodeo bull training session. That was a lot of fun!

TB: Any funny camping/RVing stories?GD: On our honeymoon trip, in July of 1990, we packed the car with our camping gear, bought a new tent and gear since we didn’t want to tow the Ideal on a month long trip through the desert southwest. At Bryce Canyon National Park we couldn’t get into the NP campground when we got there so backtracked to Kings Lake BLM campground and set up camp at a little over 10,000 feet elevation. During the day temperatures were in the 80s and 90s but that night the temperature got down to 28. I couldn’t find Jane that morning when I got up until I discovered frost on the ground and a big bump in the bottom of the sleeping bag (a very good zip together sleeping bag with an excellent cold rating), where my new wife was curled into a tidy little ball as far away from the “cold draft” at the top of the sleeping bag as she could get. A few days later we arrived at the east entrance of the Grand Canyon, after dark, to find the campgrounds full, so we joined dozens of others camping out in the desert east of the park. We woke with the rising sun the next morning and found we had inadvertently pitched the tent over a mouse tunnel and it voiced its opinion on our decision when it discovered our intrusion at its front door.

JD: Morning came really early in Arizona, partly because they don’t observe daylight savings time and partly because when the sun shines on a nylon tent, it gets really hot--even at 5 a.m.!

GD: One of the funniest memories would be Medina Lake, Texas, where the campground is teeming with deer...very hungry deer. Our first day there one of my neighbors came outside his fifth wheel and took a bag of something out of the front compartment and gave it a good, noisy shake. He started a stampede with deer coming from everywhere to get to the feed corn he had in the bag. Later that evening, we were seated outside eating fresh vegetables and a group of deer joined us. Before long a young two-point buck was trying to take carrot sticks out of Jane’s mouth as she was trying to eat them. One little doe had a particular taste for

Turkeys at Morgan Hill

Out of carrots at Medina Lake

Cattle dog demo at Rancho Oso



The time has come to begin the shift to the southern states in order to avoid the cooler temps of the north. Snowbirds flock to the sunshine filled

paradise of their choice and bask in all the area has to offer. From beaches and warm breezes to gorgeous views and crystal clear water, it’s no wonder the Florida Keys stands as one of the top spots to be during the winter months. The area offers so much to do, so long as you come prepared and eager for an adventure.

Boating, fishing, dolphin encounters, diving and snorkeling, sightseeing and water sports galore are all awaiting your arrival in the Keys. Take the time to learn before you go and check out some of the tips below to ensure that your time there is all you wanted it to be and more!

Boating and FishingFew feelings are as wonderful as boating in an area with water as clear as it is in the Florida Keys. The water surrounding the Keys is protected by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, which helps to reduce user conflict and encourages the area’s natural and cultural resources. The result is a beautiful environment that is perfect for all water activities. Should you choose to spend the day fishing, keep in mind that Florida law requires a fishing license. Additionally, fishermen are urged to learn the size and catch limits for the area, as well as release any fish they cannot eat. The area offers a plethora of different type of fishing, including flats/backcountry, light tackle fishing, deep sea, party boats, wreck fishing, reef, harbor and bridge fishing. Truly, fishermen of all strokes are encouraged to enjoy the sport while in the area.

In order to preserve the natural reef, be sure to anchor in sandy areas, away from coral and seagrasses. This prevents anchors getting caught and destroying the

natural environment. Similar to camping, boaters are asked to leave nothing but “footprints” while boating through the Keys.

Diving and SnorkelingA trip to the Keys is not complete without an exploration of the underwater ecosystem. In fact, Key Largo has even been named the diving capital of the world! Divers are able to see the Statue of Christ of the Abyss (a bronze statue 25 feet below the surface), Spiegel Grove (a 510-foot Navy port ship), Molasses Reef, Benwood Wreck (World War II), The Elbow (home to numerous shipwrecks and marine life) and Bibb and Duane (twin 327-foot US Coast Guard cutters). Additionally, the area is home to the only living coral-barrier reef in the continental United States. If you feel more comfortable on the surface of the water, a snorkeling trip throughout the reefs is the perfect aquatic adventure for you. The act of snorkeling only requires an individual’s head and nose to be underwater and a breathing device is provided. Should you feel more comfortable exploring the depths of the Keys, take some time to do a full-fledged dive. Here, the diver’s entire head and body are completely submerged in the water. If you’re new to diving, worry not. Newbies are able to take certification classes in the Keys but are advised to allow three to five days for training. Classes are offered year-round and are often conducted in small groups to ensure that all students receive the necessary amount of attention from the instructors.

Galleries, Art and CultureFrom dance and theater to galleries, film and literature, the Keys also hold their own when it comes to art and culture. If you’re visiting the Keys during the holiday season, be sure to catch the “Nutcracker Key West,” an island twist on the holiday classic. Dancers from across the country have flocked to the island to join the

Spotlight | Adventures in the Keys

A diver explores the coral reef in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary off Key Largo, Fla. The reef system in the Keys is the only contiguous coral barrier reef in North America. Photo by Bob Care/Florida Keys News Bureau


company and the performance isn’t one to be missed. If film is your niche, be sure to take a moment to visit the Tropic Cinema, the only nonprofit, independent film multiplex in South Florida. A diverse repertoire of films are played here, in digital and 35mm film format.

While visiting the Keys, why not bring home a special piece of art to remember the trip? Islamorada offers the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, which features regular showings and gatherings to help locals and visitors alike find the perfect piece of one of a kind art. The work of visual artists can be found from one end of the Keys to the other. Numerous art displays pepper the islands in outdoor and public spaces. Sculpture Key West, an annual exhibition, stands as one of the most prominent outdoor contemporary sculpture events by using the beautiful backdrop of the Keys as the gallery.

National Park: Dry Tortugas National ParkWhile spending some time amongst beautiful views, be sure to explore the area’s Dry Tortugas National Park. The 100-square mile park is largely open water with seven small islands and is accessible by sea plane and boat. It is primarily known for housing Fort Jefferson, an unfinished fortress that surrounds one of the islands. If you’re interested in visiting the Dry Tortugas National Park, it is important to check which islands are open during your visit, as well as which islands do not welcome visitors. The park is open year-round; however, Bush Key is open to visitors October 15 to January 15 and Middle and East Keys are open to visitors October 16 to March 31, sunrise to sunset.

Garden Key remains open all year, 24 hours a day. Also, be sure to note that Hospital Key and Long Key are closed all year, and visitors are told to stay 100 feet away from the shorelines. Additionally, because the parks and islands are remote, it is important to bring everything you need for your visit. Once you’ve arrived, don’t miss out on the snorkeling, bird watching, fishing or just simply taking in the views during your visit to the islands.

So whatever your choice for adventure, you’ll be sure to find it in the Keys, and with a little bit of pre-planning, the adventure will be that much better! ■

by Annie Colletti

For more information, call (800) FLA-KEYS (352-5397) or visit www.fla-keys.com. To see Encore Resort locations in the Keys, go to page 12.


GLOBAL NOBLE

It was October 1959. It was the dry season. And Dean and Noble were exiting South Africa at the town of Mafeking.

“Dean and I were destined to cross the major desserts of the world in our five-ton Jeep, which had a 12-gallon water tank for daily cooking purposes in our van. We also carried three, three-gallon wet water canvas bags outside. We were prepared for no water along our route,“ said Noble. “We had already crossed the upper Sonoran Desert of Southern California, Arizona and Mexico, the super dry Atacama Desert of Northern Chile and we were about to enter Bechuanaland which is the Kalahari Desert.”

This is a flat land of many rivers with seasonal amounts of water, the world famous Okavango Delta Country. “It was the end of the dry season. The zebras all looked healthy, but the wildebeest population looked ragged and rundown, and were noticeably slower than those in South Africa, probably from lack of water,” said Noble.

Bechuanaland is a little smaller than Texas and a little bigger than California, at 224,000 square miles and is now known as Botswana. “It was a British Protectorate when we entered in 1959,” said Noble. “It was a land with only two stretches of highways which were paved for one mile each; otherwise the gravel roads were good by our South American standards.”

The front axle cracked again and the team conducted a number of repairs in Francistown. “In 103 degree heat, at an elevation of 4120 feet, Dean painted the roof top silver to reflect the sun while I negotiated a weld job for the axle,” said Noble. “A Mr. Alex Cohen gave us a much-appreciated free weld job and at the Caltex gas station I changed the oil in the generator (which was mounted on the top of the van and contributed to the excess weight on the front end that resulted in axle problems).

“In this high plateau country of Southern Africa, you find wild plains game like many antelope species, a great number of elephants in the bush and crocodiles in the many rivers and streams flowing through the country,” said Noble. “Buawayo, or place of blood, Southern Rhodesia was the most modern town of about 40,000 white settlers and about 100,000 natives. The town got its name from a major battle fought by the Lobengula, King of the Ndebele tribe.”

In Buawayo, they enjoyed a rare tub bath at the railroad station.

“While my plan was to visit the grave of Cecil Rhodes in the boulder filled hills of Matopos, Dean had three hours to look for birds,” said Noble. “We then drove 135 miles towards Livingstone picking up a young native Zulu and his bicycle with flat tire and depositing him where he could fix his flat. He was in Rhodesia training to become a railroad guard. He made it clear to us he was a Zulu, the tribe which subdued the other natives tribes under Shaka Zulu.

“We created a new word in Rhodesia, ‘TIRAT’ which stands for ‘Things I Remember About Today,’ said Noble. “I remember the roads in Rhodesia were good, not totally paved, but paved with strips of tar enabling you to drive in the rain without getting stuck. I also remember Wankie, the best game reserve we had been in yet. On our first day in Wankie we saw more and different kinds of game than in our four days in Kruger National Park. We spotted 12 kudu, 215 wildebeest, 23 sable antelope, 52 giraffes, 37 zebra, 4 steenbok, 4 warthogs, 110 water buffalo, 49 elephants, one eland and one ostrich.”

“We also met many individuals who led us to believe that their geography teachings were different than ours as they considered the world to have only five continents because in Rhodesia they lumped North and South America as one continent – ‘the Americas’.”

Next month the team visits Victoria Falls and Noble has his first mountain climb where he becomes trapped unexpectedly and ill-equipped to spend the night alone on top of Rhodesia’s highest mountain. ■

32

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013 | TRAILBLAZER 3333CIRCLE NO. 160 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50


OVERSEAS HIGHWAYThe

A Trip Through the Florida KeysBy Lynn & Cele Seldon


When famed United States writer John Dos Passos rode a train down through the Florida Keys to fabled Key West in the 1920s, he described

the trip to his friend Ernest Hemingway as “one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life.” A trip down through the Florida Keys can do that to today’s travelers as well.

Though it’s only 45 minutes by airplane from Miami to Key West, visitors who fly miss one of America’s great motor odysseys. The Overseas Highway, often called “The Highway that Goes to Sea,” is a modern engineering wonder. It carries vehicles from Florida’s mainland across countless coral and limestone islets all the way to Key West.

The Keys are the “Caribbean” islands of the Sunshine State and one of the nation’s premier destinations for those in search of sun—and a classic drive. Activities in the Keys range from scuba diving or snorkeling on living coral reefs to spying rare bird species that rest on remote islands or kayaking in serene backwaters and hiking among divergent tropical flora within dense hammocks. And, that’s before one even arrives in Key West.

A Long HistoryThe Overseas Highway, the southernmost leg of U.S. Highway 1, follows a trail originally blazed in 1912 when Standard Oil millionaire Henry Flagler completed the extension of his Florida East Coast Railroad from Miami to Key West. Construction of the highway began after the groundbreaking railroad, called the Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad, ceased operation following a 1935 hurricane.

Just as Flagler’s railroad was a marvel in its day, the Overseas Highway was rightfully designated an All-American Road, the highest recognition possible under the National Scenic Byways program, which was established by the United States Congress in 1991. The designation recognizes a roadway’s archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic qualities, and its characteristics of national significance and features that make it a visitor destination in itself.

The highway’s foundation incorporated some of the original railway spans, as well as the coral bedrock of individual keys and specially constructed columns. Its completion in 1938 marked the beginning of an incredible adventure for drivers that still seems as adventurous today.

Above: A unique view of the Florida Keys’ Overseas Highway as it bisects the Atlantic Ocean, on left, and the Gulf of Mexico on the right in the Lower Keys near Big Pine Key, Fla. Photo by Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau

Left: A vintage illustration shows the Henry Flagler’s Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad train on the Long Key Viaduct. Photo courtesy of the Monroe County Public Library


Like the iconic railroad, the Overseas Highway represents an extraordinary engineering feat: 127 miles of roadway and 42 bridges leapfrogging across the water from key to key in a series of giant arches of concrete and steel. One of the bridges, the well-known Seven Mile Bridge at Marathon, stretches 6.79 miles across sparkling open water.

The Atlantic Ocean lies on one side of the road, with Florida Bay and the Gulf of Mexico on the other side. It provides drivers and their passengers with breathtaking vistas of open water and sky.

In 1982, 37 original bridges—including the Seven Mile Bridge—were replaced with wider spans. While most of the new bridges were two-lane, like their predecessors, they all featured 12-foot travel lanes and six- to 10-foot-wide safety lanes on each side. Many of the old bridges can be seen running alongside the new ones and some have become popular fishing piers. The Old Seven Mile Bridge, which parallels the new one, is now a well-known walking trail. The bridge’s center span was removed to facilitate boat traffic. In September 2011, after nearly seven years of construction, a new $330 million road connecting the South Florida mainland with the Florida Keys was completed. The new “18-Mile Stretch,” a segment of U.S. Highway 1 between Florida City and Key Largo, features numerous safety, environmental, and aesthetic enhancements for those heading to the Overseas Highway and the Florida Keys proper. The project’s most iconic element, the 1.25-mile, 65-foot-high Jewfish Creek Bridge, was completed in May, 2008, and has created an even more impressive visual driving approach to the Florida Keys.

The highway also is the foundation of the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, which currently is being created. The trail is defined as a multiuse bicycle and pedestrian facility planned to extend 106 miles from Key Largo to Key West, serving as a route for alternative transportation between island communities and a recreational greenway for hiking, running, bicycling, in-line skating, fishing, and kayaking.

Today, drivers can leave Miami and travel the full length of the Overseas Highway—through all the Keys to Key West—in less than four hours. However, travelers should allow time to experience the natural beauty of the ever-changing land- and sea-scape bordering the roadway, as well as the sunrises and sunsets that can be viewed from the road.

Above: Stephen Bogart, left, son of Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, chats with movie critic Leonard Maltin while riding the 100-year-old African Queen Friday, May 3, 2013, in Key Largo, FL. The two men are participating in the inaugural Humphrey Bogart Film Festival and features Bogart film screenings, a memorabilia exhibit and a Casablana-themed Bogart ball. Photo by Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau/HO

Snorkelers over the “Christ of the Abyss” statue, an underwater icon for John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, off Key Largo, FL. Named after a former Miami newspaper editor, Pennekamp is the nation’s first underwater preserve. Photo by Stephen Frink/Florida Keys News Bureau


Key Largo: Longest Island of the KeysThe jumping-off point to the Florida Keys is Key Largo (MM 107)—42 miles south-southwest of Miami. The longest island of the Keys chain, Key Largo is the site where Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall battled both Edward G. Robinson and a hurricane in the movie of the same name. Bogie’s Key Largo connection can be seen at the African Queen, the actual boat that Bogart skippered in the movie of the same name (located behind the Holiday Inn).

As the first underwater preserve in the United States, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park offers 55 varieties of delicate corals and almost 500 different species of fish for divers and snorkelers. The land-based part of the park also features excellent hiking.

Other possibilities in the Key Largo area include the underwater hotel and marine park of Jules’ Undersea Lodge and Key Largo Undersea Park and the fascinating Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center. Further west, vistas of the Keys are dominated by emerald-green lagoons, deep-blue seas, nodding palms, rustling pines, and olive-green mangroves. White herons, roseate spoonbills, pelicans, sea gulls, ospreys and other creatures share this paradise with visitors.

Key West

EvergladesNational Park

Gulf of Mexico

AtlanticOcean

Key Largo

Miami

Islamorada

Fiesta KeyRV ResortFiesta KeyRV Resort

Sunshine KeyRV Resort& Marina

Sunshine KeyRV Resort& Marina

Marathon

The LowerKeys

Seven MileBridge

1

Visitors on the Spirit of Pennekamp tour boat peer through viewing ports above the coral reef off Key Largo, FL. Photo by Bob Care/Florida Keys News Bureau


Marathon: In the Middle of It AllMarathon (MM 59) is the heart of the Florida Keys and is home to Crane Point Hammock, a 63.5-acre tract that is one of the most important historical and archaeological sites in the Keys. The area contains evidence of pre-Columbian and prehistoric Bahamian artifacts and was once the site of an entire Indian Village. The tropical palm forest is home to rare and unusual trees, plants, and animals and the freshwater pond features neo-tropical migratory bird species. There are also two hiking trails, a Museum of Natural History and the Adderley Village Black Historical Site.

The Marathon area is also the home of Dolphin Research Center, a non-profit education and research facility, which houses a family of dolphins in natural saltwater lagoons. Here, dolphins of all ages share their lives

with visitors and people who have dedicated themselves to maintaining the best possible environment for them and all marine mammals.

Other Marathon area eco-attractions include hiking and boating at Long Key State Park and the legendary Turtle Hospital (located at Hidden Harbor Motel).

Islamorada Is Pretty in PurpleIslamorada (MM 91) is known as the sport fishing capital of the world. It is heralded for its angling diversity and features the Keys’ largest fleet of offshore charter boats and shallow water backcountry boats. Other possibilities include the plant-packed Lignumvitae Key State Botanical Site and uninhabited Indian Key State Historic Site.

Left: The angler and crew members aboard the Class Action display the fish caught off Islamorada. The fish was subsequently released alive to fight again another day. Photo by Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau

Fort Jefferson, a six-sided fort situated in the Dry Tortugas National Park. Photo by Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau

Left: Visitors to the Florida Keys can tour the world’s only state-certified veterinary hospital for sea turtles located in Marathon, Fla. Photo by Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau


The Lower KeysThe sheer sweep of the Straits of Florida and the Gulf of Mexico is readily seen from Bahia Honda Channel Bridge (MM 38). Bahia Honda State Park features one of the top beaches in the country. Like Pennekamp and Long Key, this state park also features hiking, diving, snorkeling and boating.

Big Pine Key (MM 30) is noted for the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary and serves as a national refuge for the endangered miniature Key deer, tropical forests, and even a few alligators. There is a wide variety of backcountry hiking and boating opportunities here. Big Pine Key is the home of Seacamp, a marine-oriented environmental organization that concentrates on youth educational programs, but has an expanding list of adult programs.

Key West--The End of the RoadKey West lies at the end of the Overseas Highway. Of course, Key West features an endless array of historical attractions, quaint accommodations, creative dining and…colorful characters (see “Conch If You Love Key West & Its Characters” beginning on page 40). But Ernest Hemingway’s town also offers excellent scuba diving, kayak touring and other water-oriented options just offshore, which can all show a completely different side of Key West.

Even further afield, Fort Jefferson National Monument in the Dry Tortugas offers one of America’s most unique outdoors outings. This former 19th century fort, reached only by boat or seaplane, is now a protected park that features great bird watching, diving, snorkeling, and even more Florida Keys nature in abundance.

For more information, call (800) FLA-KEYS (352-5397) or visit www.fla-keys.com. ■

To see Encore Resort locations in the Keys, go to page 12.

Right: A little girl gets a chance of a lifetime, shaking the flippers of a dolphin at the Dolphin Research Center on Grassy Key near Marathon, Fla. Photo by Bob Krist/Florida Keys News Bureau

OVERSEAS HIGHWAY MILE MARKERSTravelers along the Overseas Highway will see mile markers, also called mileposts, on the right shoulder. These green markers bear white numbers and descend in order from 127 at Florida City to 0 at the corner of Fleming and Whitehead streets in Key West.

Awareness of these markers is useful, since Keys residents refer to them regularly when giving addresses. Visitors asking for directions shouldn’t be surprised to hear that the spot they’re seeking is located at, just before or just beyond a certain mile marker number.

Angler Doug Easter and his guide are ecstatic with a permit caught and released on fly tackle

while fishing off Sugarloaf Key in the lower Florida Keys.Photo by Steve Bly/ Florida Keys

News Bureau


F ew U.S. cities can rival Florida’s Key West for character ... make that characters.

This colorful, quirky island--the southernmost point in the continental United States--has been home, sweet home to a passel of colorful, quirky characters who call themselves Conchs after the colorful mollusks that thrive in the waters here.

Ernest Hemingway, for example, left such a mark on Key West that exploring his old stomping grounds is reason enough to visit the island town. “Papa” moved to Key West in 1928 with his second wife, Pauline, and purchased a house at 907 Whitehead Street. Standing at the typewriter—he had a bad back—Hemingway created parts or all of For Whom the Bell Tolls, The Green Hills of

Africa, A Farewell to Arms, and Death in the Afternoon.

Hemingway is definitely one of the world’s most famous authors and a Key West icon. The Hemingway home, now a registered national historic landmark, was built in Spanish Colonial style of native rock hewn from the area. They furnished the house with rugs, tiles, chandeliers, and furniture brought from all over the world. Though the Hemingway family sold the home after his death in the early 1960s, the house and its furnishings have been kept intact, as if Hemingway were about to return from an afternoon of fishing or drinking.

Besides his simple study, left as he liked it for writing, two other things demonstrate that the home and Key West still belong

to Papa. One is the shrubbery that the nature-loving writer planted; the other is the multitude of six-toed cats which roam the place--descendants of Hemingway’s own cats and a living link between the man and the island.

A visit to the H e m i n g w a y h o u s e i s obligatory for tourists. But if

you want to meet live Key West characters, head for Mallory Square. If there is a single Key West attraction that sums up the entire island experience, it’s the daily “Sunset Celebration.” Every evening, as the glowing orange ball sinks beneath the horizon, Key West’s colorful characters turn out to celebrate the colorful event.

Legend has it that playwright Tennessee Williams started the tradition--gin and tonic in hand--when he lived in Key West. But Key West’s spectacular sunsets have been drawing gasps of admiration for centuries.

Artist and naturalist John James Audubon wrote glowingly of Key West’s spectacular sunsets in the early 1800s. After he arrived here to study and draw birds and plants in their natural habitats, Audubon stayed at the 205 Whitehead Street home of Captain John H. Geiger, a salvager and harbor pilot. Each day, Audubon explored the mangroves in search of native birds and plants, sometimes starting at 3 a.m. and working into the following night.

The house and gardens have been completely restored and now comprise a public museum called the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens. The home features original hinges, hardware, and wood, as well as period furnishings and numerous engravings by Audubon, including many from his famous “Birds of America”

Conch If You Love Key West & Its CharactersBy Lynn & Cele Seldon


folio. It is believed that Audubon sighted and drew 19 new species while visiting the Keys and the Dry Tortugas.

We have no reason to believe that the Key West sunset was any

less spectacular in Audubon’s day. But now the Key West sunset is much more than a natural phenomenon. It has its own nonprofit organization, the Key West Cultural Preservation Society, and a cast of quirky

characters who give it....character. On any given evening you’ll meet up with arts and crafts exhibitors, street performers, food sellers, and even psychics. It’s a multi-cultural mélange that has to be experienced to be believed.

A bit more subdued, but just as entertaining, is a visit to the Key West Cemetery, which is filled with island characters. Situated on

21 prime acres in the heart of the historic district, the cemetery boasts tombstones inscribed with all sorts of odd, and often witty, comments. “I Told You I was Sick” bemoans one cemetery resident. Key West Conchs seem to have a penchant for nicknames. Sharp-eyed cemetery snoops will find tombstones bearing monikers such as Bunny, Shorty, and The Tailor.You’ll also uncover some colorful tales

at the Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Society Museum. Typical of Key West characters, the late Mel Fisher was the stuff of tall tales, a fortune hunter who prowled the world in search of treasures buried under the waves.

The museum displays many of his finds, including part of more than $400 million in gold and silver from the Nuestra Senora de Atocha,

a 17th century Spanish galleon that sunk just 35 miles southwest of Key West.

After all that exploring, it may be time for a margarita. Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville on Duval Street will fit the bill. It will probably be filled with colorful Conchs like Jimmy, whose songs, poems, and stories have come to symbolize the Florida Keys lifestyle. Of course, bars with Hemingway connections like Sloppy Joe’s and Captain Tony’s are also great places to meet Key West characters over a cold one.

With so much going for Key West, it’s not surprising that the island has captured the hearts of many who have visited, including President Harry Truman, whose 2.27-acre estate has come to be called the Little White House.

After he discovered Key West in 1946, Truman became so enamored of the island that he returned every few months during his presidency. In a letter to his wife, Bess, Truman wrote: “I’ve a notion to move the capital to Key West and just stay.”

Key West as the capital of a country? We’re applying for residency! ■

Florida Keys Road TripThe two-CD Florida Keys Road Trip (www.thefloridakeysroadtrip.com; $20, plus shipping and handling) is a great travelling companion for the Overseas Highway. Covering the fabled road between Miami and Key West by mile markers, this great CD set features history, geology, weather, attractions, music, and much more.


TexasThe Rio Grande Valley of Texas is just bursting with Encore opportunities with 10 great resorts to choose from. If you haven’t been to the Rio Grande Valley, or The Valley as locals call it, make plans to visit this winter. A popular spot for “Winter Texans,” the area offers moderate, warm temperatures, big, blue sunny skies and plenty to keep you busy when you’re not relaxing.

Did you know square dancing is good for the body and soul? If you’ve never tried it, don’t fear, it’s easy to learn. And there’s no better place to try your hand, or should we say feet, than at Fun-N-Sun RV Resort in San Benito. Weekly square dance activities, including beginner classes are offered. There are also line dance, swing dance and ballroom dance activities and plenty of musical entertainment scheduled for this winter season. Fun-N-Sun is conveniently located in the heart of the Rio Grande Valley and offers park model and cottage rentals. Additionally, Fun-N-Sun has a brand new fitness center and their Billiards Room is host to many tournaments throughout the season.

Over in Donna, Texas, Victoria Palms RV Resort is all about the amenities. The pool is simply amazing and the spacious dance hall is the scene of dances, concerts and live entertainment. And then there’s the crafty side

of this resort – try your hand at stained glass, ceramics, wood carving or wood crafting. That fabulous pool is known to host co-ed water aerobics classes and water volleyball events. For the court lovers – there’s shuffleboard, bocce and tennis.

Visit this sprawling resort and enjoy a fully-furnished cottage or pull your own rig into the concrete pull-through and back-in sites, all with full hookup. There’s even the Victoria Palms Inn and Suites that offers 20 hotel rooms and 100 suites.

Whether you’re a tried and true snowbird or someone just looking to take a break from winter and head for the sun, you’ll definitely be looking for areas known for warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine that offer a variety of ways to while away the

winter. Encore RV Resorts and Thousand Trails offer destinations in three of the most popular, and sunny, winter weather choices – Arizona, Florida and Texas.

Victoria PalmsDonna, TX

Why Winter With Us


Again, the beautiful weather of the Rio Grande Valley ensures a good visit. And thanks to that beautiful weather there are plenty of outdoor activities to take part of while visiting. Sunshine RV Resort in Harlingen is the perfect spot to stay while “doing The Valley.” Harlingen is known for its bird watching and fishing opportunities.Sunshine RV is known for its non-stop activities calendar and friendly staff. From fish fries to Happy Hours, variety shows and craft shows, the resort is always bustling with fun. Southern hospitality reigns at this resort.

ArizonaThe weather and the landscape of Arizona make it a pretty spectacular place to visit no matter what part of the state you choose. Encore has more than 20 locations – near metropolitan Phoenix, in historic Yuma. Pick almost any day, and Tucson will be loaded with sunshine because they average 350 days per year of sun!

Take advantage of that sunny clime and plan a stay with us at the Voyager RV Resort and Hotel. This resorts offers championship tennis courts, a newly-renovated restaurant and plenty more high-end amenities you expect from a resort that received Woodall’s 5W Top Rating in 2012. The vast amount of amenities and activities is what makes Voyager one of the most unique resorts in the Tucson area.

In addition to the beauty of the five mountain ranges that surround the city, Tucson is home to a variety of museums, including the Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum, the Pima Air and Space Museum, the Tucson Botanical Gardens and the Tucson Museum of Art.

And while Tucson may boast 350 days of sunshine, the Guinness Book of World’s Records named Yuma as the sunniest place on earth. Seven Encore resorts call Yuma home so the choice is yours.

All of the resorts feature activities calendars that will have you busy from sun up to sundown, not to mention special events planned in coordination with the Yuma Art Center, an historic, 650-seat theater in downtown Yuma.

In the Phoenix-Mesa area, there are plenty of Encore choices, including Viewpoint RV, Golf and Tennis Resort which has a 2014 entertainment schedule that rivals some of the biggest venues around. Not to mention the golf and tennis courts that host several tournaments during the winter season.

And, if you’re into baseball, don’t forget this area is so close to several of Major League Baseball’s spring training camps that you could possibly catch a game a day.

Voyager RV ResortTucson, AZ

Mesa Verde, Yuma, AZ

ViewPoint RV & Golf Resort Mesa, AZ



MEMBERS ALWAYS SAVE20% OFF DAILY RATES

10% OFF MONTHLY RATESALL ENCORE RV RESORTS NATIONWIDE

ALL THE TIME!

Subject to availability. Reservations required. Rates based on a standard site. Stays of 30 days or less are subject to $3 per day resort fee. Electric not included for stays of 30 days or longer. Rates do not include taxes. Amenities vary by resort. Cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. Rates exclusively for members of Thousand Trails, NACO, Mid-Atlantic, Leisure Time and Outdoor World. Offer not valid on holidays and special events; certain restrictions may apply. Two week maximum stay per resort at discounted rate.

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Subject to availability. Reservations required. Rates based on a standard site. Stays of 30 days or less are subject to $3 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. Available to members that currently have access to Thousand Trails Verde Valley Preserve, excluding Zone Camping Pass holders. Certain restrictions may apply and offer is subject to change.

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Reader ServiceFree Product InformationFor product information, complete the Fast Facts card circling no more than 25 numbers, and drop in the mail. You can also visit our website www.trailblazermagazine.net for links to our advertisers’ websites.FF# Advertiser Page

116 Carefree RV Resorts ...............................................................61

106 DirectSat TV ...........................................................................64

104 Equity LifeStyle ................................................................ 44-49

160 FirstStreet/Walk-In Tub ..........................................................33

132 GEICO ....................................................................................67

108 Safe Step Walk-In Tub ............................................................55

128 SkyMed ...................................................................................68

109 STEADYfast ...........................................................................63

153 SwiftHitch ...............................................................................54

124 Winnebago ................................................................................2

Answers on page 64

ACROSS 1 Greek Letter 4 Eastern bishop’s title 8 Indian music12 Handle13 City on the Rhine14 Stench15 Camel hair cloth16 Trave18 Olive color20 Ger. dive bomber21 Witless chatter23 Boys’ author27 Elide (2 words)32 Killer whale33 Buddhist column34 Nape36 Atl. Coast Conference (abbr.)37 Anatomy (abbr.)39 Channel islands41 Bless: Yidd.43 Central nervous system (abbr.)44 Enamel (Fr.)48 Abstract being51 Lamia (2 words)55 Brown56 Card57 Norse epic58 Vanity59 Circular motion60 Thoroughfare61 Cut DOWN 1 Interpret 2 Jap. pit viper 3 Monkey 4 Amer. Kennel Club (abbr.) 5 Round Table knight 6 Stigma 7 Korean apricot 8 Tropical fish 9 “Fables in Slang” author10 Port. colony in India11 Limb17 Jamaican dance music19 Lug22 Kidney bean24 Culm (2 words)25 Lo (Lat.)26 Blue27 Thick slice28 Bowling alley29 Geode30 Medieval shield31 Fluidity unit35 Amer. Red Cross (abbr.)38 Sleeping sickness fly40 Compass direction42 Her Majesty’s Ship (abbr.)45 Mime46 Iodine (pref.)47 Wife of Tyndareus49 Farinaceous food50 Enough (Scot.)51 Cask52 Noun-forming (suf.)53 Aura54 Angry

CROSSWORD PUZZLE


Thousand Trails has partnered with a number of popular brands to provide you with exclusive members-only savings. Below you will find our latest special offers available to you. Please log into the member section of the Thousand Trails website at www.ThousandTrails.com to take advantage of these great deals!

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Coach Supply Direct - 5% off at Coach Supply Direct! We are your premier source of RV, Marine and Utility Vehicle Furniture and Accessories at the lowest prices. Everything we offer is priced as close to wholesale as we can get it! Now we are offering a savings of 5% more to Thousand Trail Members, RV On The Go and Encore Parks Customers! We would be happy to serve you with all your interior needs. Please go to: www.coachsupplydirect.com to see everything that we offer! If you have any questions, you can call us at 1-800-589-7251 or email us at [email protected]. We look forward to serving you! Mention TRAILBLAZER5 for your exclusive discount!

Exclusive Hertz Program - Visit the member section of the Thousand Trails website for special deal.

Exclusive iDine Savings - Simply register any credit or debit card and dine at a restaurant on the program. Afterwards, complete a quick dining review about your experience within 30 days. The more you dine, the higher the percentage you can earn, up to 15%! Visit: www.idine.com/trailblazer for details and to enroll.

NationalPetPharmacy.com - Trusted by veterinarians and pet lovers alike, NationalPetPharmacy.com is fully licensed and Vet-VIPPS certified for safety as well as quality. Our FDA/EPA approved pet meds are the same ones you get from your vet – but conveniently delivered to your door. Thousand Trails members save $5 on a $20 order with Discount Code: BLAZER5

PetFoodDirect.com - 15% off your order of $49 or more. Get all your pet’s food and supplies delivered to your door with PetFoodDirect.com’s Auto Ship program. This coupon is valid on everything in our store, except: vet diet foods, prescription and free shipping items, and gift certificates. One time use per customer. Only one promotion code can be applied per order. Not for use with any loyalty or other reward websites. Discount Code: BLAZER15

Rand McNally Visit www.randmcnally.com/ELS for special GPS discount for TT members.

Terms and Conditions for 2013 Referral PromotionTerms and Conditions: For each Eligible Referral (as defined), you will receive a $50 American Express gift card through December 31, 2013. In addition, for each Eligible Referral, 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, includes roundtrip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Hawaii or Florida, and hotel/cruise accommodations 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 hotel accommodations for 4 nights and (iii) ten (10) Third Prizes waiving payment of the winners’ annual dues for 2014, not to exceed $525 each. The trips do not include taxes, meals, beverages, transfers, gratuities, activities and other personal expenses. The drawing will be held at our corporate offices on January 7, 2014. The winners will be notified by telephone. The odds of winning the drawing 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 Park Pass from us between January 1, 2013 and December 14, 2013, 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, residents of AZ, FL, NV, NY, PA and TN 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, NV, PA or TN. 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 $600.00 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.


Make your reservations now!First come, first served (53 seats available)

For more information, please call:(951) 672-7804

Take a fabulous day trip to Pasadena forthe 125th Annual Tournament of Roses Parade.

19th Annual TourWed,January 1,2014

only $140 per person

Our package includes:Continental Breakfast • Grandstand SeatsRound-Trip Fare on a Deluxe Charter Bus

VICTORIA PALMS (continued from page 23) Dec 13, 2013 ................. Ron O’Neil

Dec 15, 2013 .............. Lindley Creek

Dec 17, 2013 ......................... Diego

Dec 22, 2013 ...............Walter Plant

Jan 3, 2014 ....................... Jeff Hunt

Jan 10, 2014 ............Sheldon Tucker

Jan 12, 2014 ..............Wade Landry

Jan 14, 2014 .......... Dave & Daphne

Jan 17, 2014 ...... Beach Boys/Beatles

- Paperback Writer

Jan 19, 2014 ................. Greg Jones

Jan 22, 2014 ............Punches Family

Jan 24, 2014 .......... Senior Moments

Jan 27, 2014 ..........Freddie & Sheila

Jan 31, 2014 ................ Jeff Gordon

Feb 4, 2014 ....................Bill Chrastil

Feb 7, 2014 ................... J.C. Bullock

Feb 9, 2014 ...... Prowell Family Band

Feb 14, 2014 ........................ Eagles

- Take it to the Limit

Feb 15, 2014 .................County Line

Feb 16, 2014 ............. Amber Waves

Feb 19, 2014 ...............Jerry Bennett

Feb 21, 2014 .Susan Hudson Carman

Feb 25, 2014 .... Gary Crain Comedy

Feb 28, 2014 ............ Jackson Haney

Mar 4, 2014 .................. Kenny Hess

Mar 7, 2014 ................ Frankie Valle

- December ‘63

Mar 8, 2014 .................Walter Plant

Mar 12, 2014 ........................ Diego

Mar 17, 2014 ................County Line

ELS events calendarcontinued


Thousand Trails members will receive 25% off the Coleman® Roadtrip Grill LXE now through the holidays.Use promo code TWRTG25 on the cart page.Only available on www.coleman.comGround shipping only on this offer.Cannot be combined with any other promotion, offer or discount.

Coleman® Roadtrip Grill LXE Grill

Why are STRONGBACK Chairs the best camping chair? All STRONGBACK Chairs are made for comfort, health, and quality. Whether you are watching the kids play sports, enjoying a festival, tailgating, or simply communing with nature, STRONGBACK Chairs will finally allow you to enjoy your outdoor experience in long-lasting ergonomic seated comfort.

No more squirming around in your chair, standing around, sitting on the ground, or waking up with a sore back the next morning after using standard travel chairs. The STRONGBACK Chair provides the best back support and comfort available in a travel chair - we guarantee it or your money back.

Check out www.strongbackchair.com and find out which chair is best for you! Use promo code: TTmemberOffer valid through 12/31/13

Looking for a great gift for your favorite camper or RVer? Check out these deals from Coleman and STRONGBACK Chair - exclusively for Thousand Trails members.

Holiday Deals

STRONGBACK ChairThousand Trails members will receive 15% off


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For the topping:With a mixer, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in the sugar until stiff. Spread over filling; seal to edge of crust. Take the coals out from underneath the oven because the crust is really cooked by now. Put those extra coals on the lid because you are going to simulate a broiler to brown the meringue. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until meringue is golden brown. If you prefer to use whipped cream rather than meringue, either make your own using heavy whipping cream or you can purchase it at the grocery. ■

Continued from page 11


Seaside

Wild ponies

Lake Gaston

over-ripe bananas, probably because they were really sweet. We joined the party and bought feed corn by the 50-pound bag.

JD & GD: We spent our first Thanksgiving as full-timers at TT Morgan Hill. When I opened the blinds that morning, there was a flock of wild turkeys right outside the back window. I think I heard them laughing.

TB: What type of camper are you/what equipment do you use? What do you prefer and why? (ex: fifth wheel, RV, tent, cabins, etc.)GD: We began with a 23-foot Ideal in the 1980s and towed that behind a Blazer for several years in Washington and Oregon. We didn’t own another RV until we purchased the ‘97 Prowler, 27-foot with single slide fifth wheel towed behind a 1993 Chevy 2500HD gas-powered pickup. We kept and maintained the Prowler, planning our retirement based on this fifth wheel and the weekend and vacation jaunts we had made with it. After many years of planning (we actually started with the trip planner before we got married in 1990) and counseling with a retirement planner early in 2010, we reached the decision to fully retire and began the adventure on November 2, 2010. Jane retired October 29 and three days later we were beginning the journey. We settled on the fifth wheel because we feel it gives us more flexibility and the ability to go where we wish to go and is more cost efficient. We purchased a new 2004 Chevy 2500HD pickup (ordered equipped as we wanted it) with 6.6 Duramax Diesel/Allison transmission. The Prowler proved to be a little too confining and in January of 2011, while we were at TT Las Vegas, we upgraded to a 2009 34-foot triple-slide Big Country 3250TS by Heartland. Having a home to come back to at the end of the day and familiar surroundings, is a huge plus.

JD: George is 6’6” and wears size 15 shoes. He likes that he doesn’t bump his head in the Big Country, and I like that there’s enough room I don’t trip over his big feet.

TB: Where have you gone that you wouldn’t have otherwise, if it hadn’t been for your Thousand Trails membership?GD: Our Thousand Trails membership has given us the ability to do what we want to do, visit as many National Parks and Monuments, Reserves...most of the sites listed in the National Parks guide book. We have been full-time now for three years and have averaged close to 200 nights a year in TT campgrounds. That adds up to a lot of money saved for us. We have crossed the USA northwest to southeast, back to the southwest, through the northwest again, through Montana, Wyoming, Colorado and Utah and back to the desert southwest.

Continued from page 29


Then with the arrival of spring this year we visited the New England states. Now we are headed back to Texas and the desert southwest. Since we began November 2, 2010, we have logged over 50,000 miles (September 2013 in Indiana). We have enjoyed TT and affiliated campgrounds across the USA. This trip would not have been possible without our Thousand Trails membership and we have many more miles and places to go and see and do before we finish this adventure and begin another.

JD: George doesn’t particularly like big cities, and most RV parks aren’t anywhere near them, so that makes him happy. People in small towns or rural areas are really friendly, and more welcoming than city folks. We’ve taken trains to Boston and Philadelphia (pictures of the Liberty Bell at the request of George’s daughter Judy), and a tour bus that came right to the RV park into NYC. That’s the only way I’d get George there. My daughter and I both remember reading Misty of Chincoteague by Marguerite Henry when we were kids. When I told her that TT Virginia Landing was only a few miles away from there, she told me we definitely needed to go to Chincoteague Island to see the wild ponies. It was easy in the RV, but not a place I would have flown to Virginia to visit.

TB: What is your favorite part about the outdoor lifestyle?GD: The fun thing about full-timing, first, is all the new places one can go and see. Second, we have met some awesome folks along the way, many who have been at this longer than we have by a bunch. The freedom, the people and the beauty of this great country, the USA, can’t really be seen and enjoyed unless you can do it at a more leisurely pace which can only be achieved with the RV lifestyle. Every park, monument, historic site, all those places each have something unique to offer. We are always asked “What is your favorite spot?” My most favorite spot? Being at ease with my wife at my side, our children a phone call away, seeing what a great and beautiful country we call home, something new and different every day. Wow! What a trip! And...we get to campout every day.

JD: My favorite part is getting there, then wandering around taking pictures so I can remember where I’ve been.

TB: This is the question we finish the feature with every month. We want to know when you knew you were the consummate camper, a true TrailBlazer. Finish this sentence - I knew I was a TrailBlazer when...GD: We realized we are TrailBlazers when we decided time didn’t matter anymore. We began this adventure

thinking we would see the US in a year. Yeah, right! One can travel across this country in year, in an RV and say they have done it...but was there time to really enjoy the journey? We realized, in Las Vegas, in January 2011, that we were trying to move much, much too fast and too far each time we hit the road. We were treating the trip as you would a vacation, too much hurry and not enough leisure along the way. We decided then, that to really blaze a new trail, to take time to enjoy our retirement, we needed to take on a different approach to the adventure. We have taken a trail less travelled and gone places and done things others haven’t taken the time to do. We are continuously blazing a new trail and inviting others to do the same. Jane maintains a blog site and we invite folks we meet to follow us and enjoy the adventure along with us by visiting the blog at www.2dodges2go.blogspot.com. Forget about what you left behind and look forward to new and totally amazing adventures and discoveries. This country is full of surprises and Thousand Trails makes the stopovers more enjoyable. You really do only live once; life is a trip, enjoy the journey.

JD: I had to have it pointed out to me by a friend. My grandfather’s family moved west in a wagon train on the Oregon Trail when he was a kid—I thought all those pioneering genes had died out by the time they got to me. A friend told me that anyone who would travel all around the country in a modern-day covered wagon still had plenty of pioneer spirit left. That’s a pretty good definition of TrailBlazer, isn’t it?

TB: Feel free to share any other camping/RVing stories here.JD: I think it’s really cool that you run into people at a TT park that you met months before at a different one. You may not remember their names, but once you figure out where you first met, then you can go from acquaintance to friendship quite easily. It’s quicker to make friends when you travel than when you work, partly because you already know you have common interests. We met people in TT Verde Valley, and ran into them again at a national park. We’ve become friends with other couples, then arranged to be at the same park where they were going to be months later. TT is a much smaller world than you expect it might be.

From funny stories to touching moments, we’re looking to tell the story of our members - when they started and when they realized they were a true “TrailBlazer.” If you’re interested in being interviewed, send us a note at [email protected]. ■


Alpin Haus - Amsterdam, NY- Port Jervis, NY - Saratoga, NY - www.alpinhaus.comAl’s Trailer Sales - Salem, OR - www.alstrailers.com

American Family RV - Chesapeake, VA - www.americanfamilyrv.com Baydo’s RV of Chehalis - Chehalis, WA - www.baydosrvs.com Big Country RV - Bend, OR - Redmond, OR - www.bigcrv.com

Blade Chevrolet RV - Mt. Vernon, WA - www.bladerv.com Boat n RV - Ridgeland, SC - West Coxsackie, NY - www.boatnrv.com

Browns RV - McBee, SC - www.brownsrvsuperstore.com Campers Inn - Leesburg, FL - Macon, GA - Elkhart, IN - Raynham, MA - Merrimack, NH

- Kingston, NH - Mocksville, NC - www.campersinn.comClear Creek RV - Silverdale, WA - www.clearcreekrvcenter.com Crossroads Trailers - Newfield, NJ - www.crossroadstrailers.com

Curtis Trailer Center - Schoolcraft, MI - www.curtistrailercenter.com Floyd’s RV - Norman, OK - www.floydsrvs.com

Funtime RV - Tualalin, OR - www.funtimervinc.com Lakeside RV Sales - Anderson, SC - www.lakesidervsales.com

La Mesa RV - Orlando, FL - Ft. Myers, FL - West Palm, FL- Sacramento, CA - San Diego, CA - www.lamesarv.com

McMahons RV - Mesa, AZ - Colton, CA - Palm Desert, CA- Westminster, CA - www.mcmahonrv.com

Media Camping - Fairless Hills, PA - Hatfield, PA - Media, PA - www.mediacamping.comPatterson RV - Wichita Falls, TX - www.pattersonrv.com

Paul Evert’s RV Country - Bullhead City, AZ - Coburg, OR - Fresno, CA- Laughlin, NV - www.rvcountry.com

Princesscraft RV - Round Rock, TX - www.princesscraft.comRoy Robinson RV - Marysville, WA - www.royrobinsonrv.com

RV Value Mart - Litiz, PA - Manheim, PA - www.rvvaluemart.comScott Motor Coach Sales, Inc. - Lakewood, NJ - www.scottmotorcoach.com

See Grins RV - Gilroy, CA - Morgan Hill, CA - San Martin, CA - www.seegrins.comSmart Choice Auto Group & RV Sales - Jersey Village, TX - www.smartchoiceautogroup.com

Sunbelt RV Center - Belton, TX - www.sunbeltrv.comSundown RV Center - Atwater, CA - www.sundownrv.com

TAC Trailer and RV - Moyock, NC - www.tactrailerandrv.comTacoma RV - Tacoma, WA - www.tacomarv.com

Vogt RV - Ft. Worth, TX - www.vogtrv.comWelcome Back RV Outlet - Athens, TX - www.welcomebackrv.comWestern Travel Sales - Lyden, WA - www.westerntravelsales.com

Attention Thousand Trails MembersCheck out member specials on parts, service and sales by visiting our preferred RV Dealer partners listed below, or visit with them directly at our next Member Appreciation Day.

THOUSANDTRAILS

PREFERREDDEALERS


FloridaWhether it’s beaches, big cities, fishing adventures or just plain relaxing, with over 25 resorts in Florida, Encore and Thousand Trails definitely have a place for you to soak up the sun this winter.

On the west coast, more than 15 resorts are an option to choose from. Ramblers Rest in Venice, sits along the Myakka River and offers great fishing. Plus, major renovations are underway so visiting just to see what’s new is a must.

At Silver Dollar Golf & Trap Club in Odessa, learn all about shooting trap and skeet or play a few rounds of golf. Or make your stay at Royal Coachman in Nokomis and take in the nearby beaches.

On the east coast, there are seven resorts you can call home while you explore the Atlantic beach towns, including Flagler Beach, Daytona, Pompano, Ormond Beach and Fort Lauderdale.

Inland, near Orlando, our central Florida properties offer proximity to the Magic Kingdom and all the Orlando attractions. Stay with us at Clermont Golf and RV Resort and enjoy an 18-hole golf course. Sit in on a jam session at Southern Palms in Eustis, or book a stay in a cozy park model in Sherwood Forest in Kissimmee.

If you’re looking to explore the Florida Keys, see page 12 to see what we’ve got to offer there.

For more details or to make reservations for your Encore winter getaway, visit www.RVontheGo.com. Don’t forget to mention you’re a Thousand Trails member so you will receive the best deal for your select location. ■


PRESERVE HIGHLIGHTS

TT SINGLESCentral CaliforniaDecember 6-8: San Benito, CAContact Jane Davis at (209) 467-3278 or email to [email protected]; Becky Staffeld at (408) 253-6995 or email to [email protected].

NorthwestNovember 22-24: La Conner, WAContact: Director Marybeth Turner at (206) 255-9363 or email to [email protected]; Winnie Hoyteniuk at (604) 858-9757 or email to [email protected] (British Columbia); Daphne Bailey at (503) 590-8566 or email to [email protected] (Oregon); or Linda Christofferson at (360) 653-3648 (Washington).

SouthwestContact Babe Bohner at (909) 797-6437.

FUN NITESFun Nites are social gatherings organized by and for TTN members.

Eugene/Springfield AreaRound-a-Bouters groupFor more information call Merry Klum (541) 726-7586 or Leona Todd (541) 844-4277.

Pacific CityPacific City RamblersRamblers meet the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 5 p.m. at Home Town Buffet in the Tigard Market Place, 13500 SW Pacific Highway, Tigard, Oregon. Contact Charlie Buren at (503) 705-1587, Chickie Dientsel at (503) 286-8566 or Suzy Mulbey at (503) 678-2993. All Portland-area TT, NACO and LTR members welcome.

TTN So Cal WeekendersNovember 1-3: Wilderness Lakes, CA December 6-8: Palm Springs, CAWe 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: [email protected] website: http://home.earthlink.net/~ttnweekenders/

TT TravelersWe are retired residents of Southern California who are TTN members. We meet monthly at a Southern California preserve for fellowship, games and potlucks. Please call Darlene Steddum at (805) 714-9038 or email to [email protected] or Sharon Straite at (562) 899-8298 or email to [email protected] if you are interested in information about our group.

TTWest/FMCANovember 8-10: San Benito, CAMembers of Thousand Trails and FMCA meet at Northern California Preserves bimonthly, except for the “no-host get-together” at Palm Springs Preserve immediately following the FMCA Western Area Rally in Indio, California. Contact Bob Litfin at (408) 226-6529 or email to [email protected]. Reservations are required two weeks in advance.

TT of Texas/FMCANew members must be a member of TTN and FMCA. Contact Connie Farrar at (817) 454-4612 or email to [email protected]. Our website is: ttnoftexasfmca.com. We also have a blog site: www.ttfmcaralliesandmore.blogspot.com

Bounders United (BUTTN)Wagonmaster will be Tom & Pat Kennedy. Bounders United/TTN are TTN members who own Bounder motorhomes and belong to Bounders United. For more information, contact Thomas Kennedy at (360) 794-4903 or email at [email protected].

TT East Trail BuddiesWe 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 [email protected].

CLUB CALENDARNOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013


Tech Topics continued from page 9

Emergency Breakaway SystemsTrailers that require brakes must be equipped with an emergency breakaway braking system. If the trailer separates from the tow vehicle for any reason, this system will automatically engage the trailer’s brakes, bringing the trailer to a safe stop. Depending on your trailer’s breakaway system, these are either hydraulically or electrically operated. ALWAYS connect your breakaway cable or chain to your tow vehicle each and every time you hook up your trailer.

Emergency BrakesMost emergency brakes (parking brakes) are simple mechanical braking devices operated by two cables connected to the rear brake shoes, completely independent of the hydraulic brakes we use daily. If your parking brake needs adjusting, your favorite mechanic can usually make a relatively simple cable adjustment for you.

Brakes may not be a particularly exciting RV system, but they’re an essential one. Take the time to treat them right and they’ll return the favor. Happy travels; above all, enjoy the journey! ■

Paul and Kerri Elders are freelance writers; visit their list of RV Industry Links at RVLinker.com. Their cookbook, The American Gourmet Collection Cookbook, is also available at Amazon.com. Follow Paul & Kerri on Twitter @rvlinker.

Medina Lake continued from page 19

WASHINGTONChehalisDecember 7: We’re trimming the tree - come give us a hand at our Tree Trimming and Dessert Potluck party at 1 p.m. in the Adult Lodge. Throughout the winter season, our Adult Lodge is open for all ages (Family hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Adults-only hours are 6-8 p.m.) Join your fellow campers for an evening around the fireplace, a Saturday matinée or catch the games on Sunday with free popcorn. ■

Mount Vernon

December 6-7Capital Christmas & Shoppers JubileeFrom 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, stroll down Main Street and enjoy the open house at the shops. On Saturday, beginning at 11 a.m., enjoy the Holiday parade down Main Street. Then from 1 to 4 p.m. there will be Cowboys on Main, Western displays in front of the Courthouse and strolling entertainers. Head down to the banks of the Medina River at the City Park at 4 p.m. and enjoy the amazing display of Christmas lights and holiday vignettes. At dark, the Bandera County Christian Fellowship presents a Living Nativity. Then gather round the campfire and chuck wagon for hot chocolate, coffee and cookies. Don’t forget your lawn chairs.

November 27Murder Mystery Dinner TrainExperience this event at the Chehalis-Centralia Railroad & Museum, located just 20 minutes from the preserve. For information call (360) 748-9593.

December 764th Annual Santa ParadeHeld in downtown Chehalis, just 20 minutes form the preserve. For information call (360) 748-8885.

November 16Skagit Wine FestivalHeld at the Best Western, just 15 miles from the preserve, event features Washington wines, local cheeses and chocolate sampling. For information call (360) 428-8547.


To advertise in Marketplace or to place a Classified Ad email

[email protected]

ClassifiedAdvertisingWORLDWIDE RV TOURS AND RALLIES Mexico, Canada, Alaska, Overseas & USA, Rose Parade, Balloon Fiesta, Kentucky Derby & more! Free vacation guide (800) 952-8496 or www.fantasyrvtours.com

Get DIRECTV for your RV and Home! Pkgs start at $29.99/mo for 12 mos. Ends 12/31/13. Offers subject to change. NEW DIRECTV customers only. Terms & restrictions apply. Call Now! (800) 257-4480

SCRUBR Odor-Free Dishcloths & TREKR Self-Cleaning WashclothsPerfect for RVing and camping. They dry fast, rinse clean, and don’t get smelly. (858) 653-0401 www.lunatecgear.com

Omnia Stove Top Baking OvenWant to bake when RVing or camping. Get the affordable portable Omnia. Works on any stove top heat source. (858) 653-0401 www.lunatecgear.com

JOB OPPORTUNITYManage a Christmas Tree Lot in California. Palm Springs area. Thanksgiving until Christmas. Earn percentage of sales. For more information, call Woody Miller (503) 705-2044, or email [email protected]

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Answers - Crossword puzzle can be found on page 50

Fast Facts entries will be entered in our Monthly Drawing to

win a $25 American Express Gift Card!This month’s Fast Facts winner is

Paul Porterof Benson, AZ

Answers - Sudoku puzzle can be found on page 62

Find The Evergreen TreeAn 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 American Express Gift Card! Carol Horner

from Mountain View, CAfound the evergreen tree on page 11 of the September 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 November 30, and remember — the tree could be a different

color and size.

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Preferred Access has vacation packages that you can book with a deposit as low as $150 per person. This is GREAT

news because you can lock in your airfare and hotel rates and make payments over time so that you won’t have to

worry about the price of your trip going up.

You CAN stay at a 4 or 5-Star resortbecause we’ve made it simpler for you.

Don’t delay. Preferred Access has vacation options throughout the U.S., Hawaii, Mexico, Europe and the Caribbean.

*Valid for bookings made 45+ days prior to departure on a space available basis. Europe deposit is $300 per person. Some hotels may require an additional deposit at time of booking. Deposit requirements may vary during airline fare sales. Restrictions and blackout dates may apply. Policy is subject to change with or without notice.

Book Your Next Vacation PackageUsing Preferred Access

For Reservations, contact us at(800) 281-4977

Plan NOW and Pay LATER!

Preferred Accessis included with

RPI Preferred Gold,Resort Connectionsand RPI Platinum

memberships. To findout how to add

Preferred Access to yourmembership, call1-888-318-1214


Batter Up!Here’s the pitch - make your reservations to stay with us in Arizona or Florida so you don’t miss a single play of your favorite Major League Baseball team’s Spring Training Camp season.

Stay at an Encore RV Resort in Arizona and travel around the camps located within the Phoenix metro area. Fifteen teams, including the Arizona Diamondbacks, Midwest favorites like the Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs, the Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Indians and Milwaukee Brewers, make up the Cactus League.

Head to Florida and experience the season with the Grapefruit League whose teams include the Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, St. Louis Cardinals, the Minnesota Twins, and many more. Camps are located on both coasts as well as inland in Lake Buena, Lakeland and Kissimmee.

Everyone should experience MLB’s Spring Training at least once in their lives - why not make it this season?

For a full listing of teams, stadium locations and schedules, visit www.mlb.com. For a complete listing of area resorts, or to make reservations, visit www.RVontheGo.com.

Camelback Ranch. Photo courtesy of Mesa Convention & Visitors Bureau

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CIRCLE NO. 132 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

trailblazer magazine - nov/dec 2013

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