TrailBlazer Magazine - September 2012

TN

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SEPTEMBER 2012 n $2.00www.trailblazermagazine.net

A JOURNEY INTO THE BLOGOSPHERE

TRAVEL THEVERDE VALLEY WINE TRAIL

A TRUE TRAILBLAZER:GLOBAL NOBLE PART 6

Another Iconic All-American Drive

Natchez Trace Parkway:

TN

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Nashville

Tupelo

Jackson

Natchez

SEPTEMBER 2012 | TRAILBLAZER SEPTEMBER 2012 | TRAILBLAZER 2 3

VOL. 34 n ISSUE 8

SEPTEMBER2012CONTENTS

Message from Tom 5 The Camper’s Kitchen 8

Tech Topics 11

TrailMix 12

Activities & Events 14

News & Notes 20

A True TrailBlazer: 22Global Noble, Part 6

Features:Natchez Trace Parkway 26 Another Iconic All-American Drive

Verde Valley Wine Trail 34

A Journey Into the Blogosphere 38

Member Deals 42

Advertiser Index 50

Crossword & Sudoku Puzzles 50

Preserve Services Directory 52

Winding Roads 60

Marketplace 63

Classified Advertising 63

On Location 66

Combining history, culture and some awesome scenery, a Natchez Trace Parkway road trip is sure to please everyone! Check out our feature and see some of the highlights on the 444-mile drive.

Hit the trails and enjoy some of the best tasting wines this side of the Pecos on Arizona’s Verde Valley Wine Trail.

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NATCHEZ TRACE PARKWAY

VERDE VALLEYWINE TRAIL

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Dear Journal: Boy, how time flies. I can’t believe my family and I haven’t been camping in the past few years, but we are excited as we head out tomorrow on a 2-week trip before the kids go back to college.

Dear Journal: Well, we did it! We bought a new motorhome and

plan to tool around the country enjoying our retirement. Our neighbors think we’re nuts, but our kids wholeheartedly endorse the idea!

Dear Journal: After all the years of exploring this great country, we’ve decided to put down roots at our favorite campground and have become “annuals” here. Our first family event here was a celebration of our 50th anniversary. What a blast. It was so nice introducing all the grandkids to the whole camping experience. And while they need to learn a bit more about camping etiquette, I think they may just become true blue campers down the road. After all, it’s in their blood.

A CamperThrough the Years:

Dear Journal: I just got back from my first camping trip. My grandparents took me camping for the first time. I had a blast. They were excited to show me the great outdoors except they were a bit mad when my friend and I didn’t follow the pool rules. I can’t wait til next summer to go again.

Dear Journal: Tomorrow my friends and I leave for a 3-week camping trip. Since we all just graduated college we figure this is our last chance to enjoy ourselves before we enter “the real world.” Note to self – remember to remind the crew to keep it down at our campsite. Other campers may not be celebrating our graduation and tents have thin walls!

Dear Journal: Just got back from our honeymoon -- a trip through the Pacific Northwest staying at some of the best campgrounds while we explored this awesome region. I am so glad I married someone who enjoys camping as much as I do. We met a couple who were celebrating their 50th anniversary – they say they have been camping since they met! Who knows, maybe when we hit 50 years we’ll still be camping.

Dear Journal: We’ll we did it. We purchased an annual camping pass. I am so excited to take my little guy camping. He is going to love it! Our new pop-up is just the right size for the three of us.

Dear Journal: Just got back from our annual family camping trip. Aside from the rowdy neighbors who kept us up most of the night, it was, as ever, a great way to enjoy the great outdoors.

MESSAGE FROM TOM

Camping is Better with Friends

Receive a $25 American Express Gift Cardwhen your referral purchases a Zone Camping Pass.Your referral also enters you into our 2012 drawing

for a chance to win these great prizes.

Details and qualifi cations for participation in this promotion may applyand are set forth on page 62 of this magazine.

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Does any of this sound familiar to you? Whether you’ve been camping for 50+ years or are new to it, the common thread is our love of camping. The only thing that’s different is how we experience it.

This “journal” is actually the story of Thousand Trails – the variety of our products are designed to meet the ever-changing needs of our campers. We are there every step of the way. So next time you see a newbie learning the ropes or a “seasoned” camper set in their ways, stop and say hello! We’ve all been there!


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 Life-Style Properties, Inc., Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. An annual subscrip-tion is $20. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, IL and additional offices. Postmaster: Send ad-dress 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.

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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.

Pio Pico, CA: Miss Terri leading the 4th of July kids parade. All the kids had a great time. Miss Terri was great with the kids; they all loved her! - Robert Krtek, San Marcos, CA

Little Diamond, WA: I was taking the garbage out when I heard the familiar call of the Pileated Woodpecker. Seeing it on the ground, I dropped the garbage on the picnic table and ran for the camera. The bird was very cooperative; this is one of 62 photos. The garbage finally made it to the can.- Robert Martin, Des Moines, WA

Lake Gaston, NC: Having fun with shaving creme on the slip-in-slide on the Fourth of July.

- Becky Harris, Red Oak, NC

PICS FROM THE PARKS


Tupelo Tribute Bread Pudding (or Elvis Lives!)

Cooking Requirements:1 12-inch Dutch oven325 degrees for 60 minutes17 coals on lid, 8 under

Ingredients:1 loaf of Italian or French Bread4 eggs2 – 2 ½ cups milk or half and half or a mix of two4 ripe bananas½ cup peanut butter4 strips of crispy, crumbled bacon¼ cup honey1 teaspoon salt3-4 teaspoons vanilla1 teaspoon cinnamon, optionalButter or pan spray to lightly grease the oven

Cut or tear the bread into 1-inch cubes. Put into the lightly greased Dutch oven. In a bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. Add in vanilla and salt. In a separate bowl, melt the peanut butter and honey together. Once the peanut butter/honey mix is really loose, mix it slowly into the egg mix. Slice the bananas thinly onto the bread. Sprinkle the cinnamon onto the bananas if you are using that spice. Pour the egg mixture over the bananas and bread. Gently fold so that the bread and bananas are all coated. Put the oven over a ring of 8 briquettes. Then put the 17 other coals on the lid.

Cook for 45-60 minutes until set. Serve with cream if desired.

Watermelon Ribs (Based on a recipe from the Loveless Café, Nashville, TN)

Cooking Requirements:12-inch Dutch oven15 coals on lid, 8 coals below (in a ring) to start

Ingredients:2 racks of “St Louis” cut pork spareribs or 3 lbs. of pork country style ribs3-4 tablespoons good rub*1/2 cup brown sugar1 jar sweet and smoky-type BBQ sauce3 cups watermelon, cut into large cubes

Blend BBQ rub and brown sugar and rub ribs, making sure to cover all the surfaces evenly. Let sit and marinate for several hours (approximately 3-4 hours).

Pan sear the ribs in hot Dutch oven by putting 12 coals under the oven. Pull out ½ the ribs. Put in ½ the watermelon chunks. Put the other ½ of ribs into the oven; and then the other ½ of the watermelon chunks.

Cook the ribs in the Dutch oven for 2 ½ to 3 hours at slow temp; 300 maximum or use a loose ring of coals on the lid and a loose ring on the bottom (14-15 on top, 8 on bottom). Replenish the coals as necessary, every 45-50 minutes.

The ribs and watermelon will make plenty of liquid. The meat should be so tender that it will almost melt in your mouth! You can serve with BBQ sauce, but I didn’t find that necessary.

Rub(Here is a basic recipe from award-winning cookbook author and chef Steve Raichlen)

Ingredients:Dark brown sugar, packed1/4 cup paprika3 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper1 tablespoon garlic powder1 tablespoon dried onion flakes1/2 to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper1/2 teaspoon celery seeds

Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and stir or whisk to mix. Transfer to a jar, cover, and store away from heat and light. The rub will keep for several months.

Sweet Potato Pie with Crunchy Oatmeal Crust(From about.com/southernfood, this sweet potato pie recipe from Dottie, made with an oat pecan crust has been adapted to Dutch Oven by Lesley Tennessen, Dutchovendiva)

No camping trip can be complete without a little Dutch oven cooking! In researching the famous and infamous places along

the beautiful Natchez Trace Parkway, we got to explore “down-home” cooking so I decided that we should try to adapt these foods and put a new twist on things. Let’s experience the culinary treats from Vicksburg to Tupelo to Nashville and enjoy the feast from your Dutch oven!

NatchezTrace Parkway

The Camper’s Kitchen | by Lesley Tennessen | www.dutchovendiva.com

Watermelon Ribs

Sweet Potato Pie

A TRIP ALONG THE

Continued on page 62

Cooking Requirements:12-inch Dutch oven30-35 lit briquettes Makes one 9-inch pieCook Time: 60 minutesTotal Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients:Crust:1 cup quick cooking oats (I use old-fashioned)1/4 cup whole wheat flour1/4 cup ground pecans2 tablespoons light brown sugar1/4 teaspoon salt3 tablespoons vegetable oil1 - 3 tablespoons water

Filling:1/4 cup packed brown sugar1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg1/4 teaspoon salt1 egg, beaten4 teaspoons vanilla1 cup cooked, mashed sweet potatoes2/3 cup evaporated skim milk

Foodie


Bed Liners for Pickup TrucksEvery RVer who owns a pickup truck knows the damage that can be done by careless loading or by the unexpected shifting of a load within the bed. Not only is the noise of a moving load annoying, it leaves scratches, dings, and dents in its wake. That’s why bed liners are so popular with pickup truck owners.

Bed liners are available in a wide variety of styles, including temporary mat-like bed liners that are simply laid in the back of the pickup as needed. Some of these are rubberized, some are similar to carpet. If you plan to use them more than temporarily, it may be worthwhile to invest in a more permanent solution, simply because temporary liners can trap dirt and water underneath them. And dirt and water, over time, can conspire to damage your truck bed, especially in scratched and dinged areas.

There is a wide variety of permanently mounted bed liner options, customized for your truck’s year, make, and model. Some are made of rubberized materials, some are molded plastic, some cover the wheel wells and some don’t. Some are glued down and some are bolted down, and some do-it-yourselfers choose to install theirs with heavy duty Velcro. There’s even a brush-on version of a sprayed-in liner for the avid do-it-yourselfer that’s garnered positive reviews at Amazon.com.

An even more permanent solution is the familiar sprayed-in bed liner, which actually becomes part and parcel of the truck bed itself. Offering the added advantages of actually strengthening and reinforcing the truck bed, a sprayed-in liner also helps soundproof the bed from cargo and road noise. Not only does it protect the bed, but since it’s texturized and cushioned, a sprayed-in liner works to prevent cargo from shifting and can improve the resale value of your truck.

Fire ExtinguishersNo one likes the thought of a potential fire emergency in their RV, but it can and does happen. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so you need to be sure your RV is equipped with working fire extinguishers and that you know how to use them. Fire extinguishers should be inspected monthly, and, according to some fire prevention experts, your RV should have FIVE of them—one by the front door; one in the galley; one in the bedroom; one outside in an unlocked compartment; and the fifth one in your tow vehicle (or the cab of your motorhome).

Fire extinguishers should be easily accessible, even in the dark. If your RV is equipped with dry powder/dry chemical extinguishers, the bumps and jarring caused by driving down the road can cause the powder to pack over time. Once a month, counter this effect by inverting and shaking the fire extinguisher canisters to loosen the powder, and place them back in their storage racks so they’ll be ready to use.

Most experts recommend that you extinguish a fire by pointing the extinguisher at a forty-five degree angle to the flame, spraying side to side, and aiming at the base of the flame to deprive the fire of oxygen as quickly as possible. You should practice using a fire extinguisher outside before you really need to use one in an emergency situation. This will increase your comfort level, in case you’re ever confronted with a fire emergency. We’d recommend simply drawing a chalk circle on concrete, rather than starting an actual fire for your practice session. As soon as you’ve practiced with your extinguisher, be sure to either replace it or have it recharged, because a partially discharged fire extinguisher may not function properly.

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Tech Topics by Paul and Kerri Elders

Continued on page 62

Protected, prepared and positively charged – this month’s Tech Topics offers a host of helpful information.{

Thousand Trails is offering members the opportunity to win a

$1,000 American Express Gift CardIt’s easy ... pay your 2012 dues on time and camp at your favorite TT Preserve to earn entries into our monthly drawing. There is no limit

to how many entries you can earn - so Get Out and Camp!

Our July winner is Elizabeth Manczak from Bend, Oregon

When you pay your annual dues for 2012 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 2012. In addition, once you pay your dues in full, each time you camp at a Thousand Trails Preserve in 2012, 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 or phone. 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, 2012. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limtied Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606.

WANT TO BE ALUCKYWINNER?

Get Out andGet Out andCampCamp


The Volunteer State of Tennessee offers up two great preserves. Cherokee Landing, just 50 miles from Memphis, provides a backdrop of verdant hills and valley views. “People come to Cherokee Landing for many reasons,” said Preserve Manager Robert Scott. “Our large pool is one of our biggest draws as well as the peaceful setting amidst the beautiful trees throughout the preserve. Our lake offers plenty of activity for canoe and row-boat outings.”

The friendly staff is at the ready to assist you with the various amenities on-site which include mini-golf, a Family Center with game room, badminton and basketball courts, shuffleboard and horseshoe pits. Civil War buffs will appreciate the Shiloh National Military Park, just 34 miles from the preserve. Plus, the proximity to Memphis and the fabulous music-lover attractions of that city, including Beale Street, Graceland and Sun Records make Cherokee Landing a perfect getaway location.

A visit to Natchez Trace is about as close as you can get to a wilderness experience down south. “Natchez Trace is very much a wilderness preserve,” said Preserve Manager Mandy Lupu. “Wildlife is abundant within our 800+ acres.” This forested preserve features a 3-mile long lake and plenty of fishing for bass, shellcracker, crappie and more. “We are miles from big city life so traffic noise and ringing phones are not the sounds you’ll find here,” said Mandy. “Instead, you’ll hear birds chirping, fish jumping and kids laughing.”

The laughter is due in part to the variety of activities the preserve offers, including regular theme weekends such as Wet ‘n Wild and Crazy Camper weekend. “We try to get everyone involved with dinners, dances, and site decorating contests. The list goes on.” said Mandy. “Our very popular Independence Day Celebration just celebrated 30 years!”

Conveniently located right off the Natchez Trace Parkway, this is one preserve you’ll want to set your GPS to. “There’s something about the rolling hills, sunsets and the way the world seems to stop that makes a visit here all worthwhile,” said Lupu.

“For the last four miles leading into the resort, despite the signage, you’ll feel as if you’ve wandered down a wrong path,” said Hidden Cove Manager Becky Fredrick. “The road splits, and you are deep in farm country with corn fields and pastures. You round a curve and the most beautiful little preserve opens up before your eyes, with all the splendor of northern Alabama.

That’s why they call it Hidden Cove. Situated on Smith Lake, a lake world-famous for its fishing, this 80-acre preserve offers 60 different tree species, 500+ miles of shoreline, and a gentle rolling terrain ideal for walking and biking. “It is a playground for all types of watercraft, plus our shady lake observation deck is a perfect place to relax and enjoy watching the people and the wildlife,” said Fredrick. “We also have many traditions here at Hidden Cove in regard to our events.” Every holiday weekend, you can catch the Holey-Board Tournament (cornhole), or enjoy the Haunted Cove in October and the Medieval Weekend each April.

These four preserves combine to equal Thousand Trails and southern hospitality at its best! ■

T R A I L M I X

Southern Charms

The Natchez Trace Parkway beckons the ultimate road-tripper. Stretching from Tennessee on south to Alabama and over into Mississippi, a ride on this storied

highway should be on everyone’s bucket list. Conveniently, there are four preserves along the way so you can enjoy some of our own southern hospitality as you make your way on the parkway.

Before you begin your foray down the parkway, make a stop to experience the wonders of Diamond Caverns, in Park City, Kentucky. Just an hour northeast of Nashville (where you can begin your parkway trip just outside downtown Nashville), Diamond Caverns is located at the Gateway to Mammoth Cave National Park. At 743 acres, there’s plenty to do at Diamond Caverns. There is an 18-hole golf course, bocce court, horseshoe pits, mini-golf,

two large outdoor swimming pools, and of course, the awe-inspiring caves and caverns that surround the area.

Describing Diamond Caverns, Preserve Manager Lana Riddle uses the words bountiful and breathtaking. “The abundance of wildlife, including grazing white tail deer and turkey, as well as the fall colors and beautiful sunsets are only a few of the spectacular sites you’ll see here!” she said.

Hidden C ove

Hidden C ove

Diamond CavernsDiamond Caverns

Cherokee

LandingCherokee

LandingNatchezTraceNatchezTrace

Hidden Cove, AL

Diamond Caverns, KY

Cherokee Landing, TN

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Palm SpringsSeptember 15: We open the front gates and invite our members back for a fun-filled 2012-13 season here at Palm Springs Preserve. Beat the desert heat by joining the Recreation Staff in the pool Monday through Friday mornings for water aerobics. Enjoy our Friday and Saturday night movies.

Pio PicoAugust 31-September 1: Labor Day Weekend: Come celebrate Labor Day at Pio Pico with music and dancing all weekend long. On Friday, come join us for Country Line Dancing and learn how to do the Electric Slide, Power Jam and Tush-Push. End the day with a fun and yummy Ice Cream Social. During the day on Saturday, all kids are invited to a Wii Dance and Karaoke Party. Then in the evening come and enjoy a Family Fun Ice Cream Social and Karaoke Contest! On Sunday, head outside for a spinning good time playing Chinese Softball on the front lawn. That evening come dance in our Freestyle Dance Competition. On Monday, we’ll have pool games and water balloon toss, Patriotic Arts & Crafts, and a Front Lawn Soccer Game. Throughout September - Casino Days; Time and Dates TBA.

Ponderosa

Rancho OsoEvery Saturday: 11:00-Noon: Come on down to the arena to watch the stock dogs herding sheep and cattle and stay for the bucking bull demo! Get up close and personal with our “baby” bulls as we prepare them for a future in

rodeo! A definite photo op! Every Weekend: Join the fun and hop on board the famous Rancho Oso hay wagon to take a tour of our beautiful resort! Wagon will drop off passengers at the barn for the stock dog and bucking bull demo and barn tour. Don’t forget to call the stables at (805) 683-5110 and book your unforgettable horseback ride for ages 8 and over. Of course, your little buckaroos can get their first ride on a big horse, led by one of our friendly wranglers! This is a great “photo-op” for your scrapbook. The weather is perfect for hiking, swimming, riding, photography, or wine tasting in the Santa Ynez Valley, only a scenic half hour drive away. Don’t want to drive? Let us help you arrange a guided winery tour with a local tour company! Later in the day, join us for the Ice Cream Social to make your favorite sundae! Keep the weekend sweet with our Candy Bar Bingo too! Check out the new menu items on Friday and Saturday at the Stone Lodge Kitchen!

San BenitoThroughout September: Every Wednesday we will have Tea Time Social at 1:30 p.m. and we will create greeting cards for our troops at 2 p.m. in the Family Lodge. Every Thursday is Bunco with prizes in the Family Lodge at 3 p.m. Every Friday is our Ice Cream Social from 2 to 2:30 p.m. and then dinner from 6 to 7 p.m. followed by a movie in the Fireplace Room. Every Saturday, we will have breakfast with a full menu from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Ice Cream Social from 2 to 2:30 p.m. and Movie Night in the Fireplace Room with two showings - one at 7 p.m. and one at 9 p.m. Every Sunday is breakfast with a full menu from 8:30 to 10 a.m. and Non-Denominational Sunday Sevices at 11 a.m. in the Adult Lodge. Ice Cram Social from 2 to 2:30 p.m. and movie at 7 p.m. in the Fireplace Room. Our Family Lodge is open daily from 8 to 11 p.m. with free WiFi available. The Country Store is open daily from 9 a.m to 4:30 p.m. September 1: Labor Day Dinner at 6 p.m. The Corvairs entertain with 50s and 60s music from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. September 2: Patio Lunch at noon, plus a Pool Party with DJ Mike from 5 to 7 p.m. September 3: Get-Away Continental Breakfast at Quail Run Cafe from 8:30 to 10 a.m. September 8: Outdoor Movie at the Family Lodge Patio. September 15: Patio Lunch at noon, plus Cisco Jim with his horse, Silverado, will be playing all the old Western cowboy songs. September 21-23: Horseshoe Tournament - we have people coming in from all over California! We have BBQ lunches scheduled at our Country Store during the event. On Saturday, we’ll have Potluck at 6 p.m. and Karaoke at 7 p.m. in the Family Lodge.

SnowflowerSeptember 1: Karaoke

BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADACultus LakeAugust 31-September 3: Labor Day Weekend: Our Carnival is set for September. Fun for the whole family! Enjoy the different events such as ring toss, find the worm eating contest, egg spoon race, adult’s raw egg toss and the bouncy tents. Don’t forget the cotton candy, sno-cones and popcorn. Events run from 2 to 4 p.m. As this will be the last meal of the season the cook is going to surprise us with a selection of entrées. Chili, hamburgers, hot dogs, spaghetti and who knows what else. Have one or some of each for one price, some items may be limited. On September 3, the checkout time will be waived and we hope all the kids and adults will join in on the annual cleanup of the preserve starting at 11 a.m. and enjoy a free hot dog (noon to 1 p.m.) in exchange for a bag of garbage picked up. September 15: Minter Gardens: Need something to do? Get a group together and carpool to the Minter Gardens. The gardens are absolutely breathtaking. Don’t forget your camera. It is wonderful to stroll around the gardens and take in all the beauty. There is a great little gift shop as well as a restaurant. September 29: Thanksgiving Potluck and TT Singles Weekend: Every year we celebrate Thanksgiving a couple of weekends before the Canadian Thanksgiving. We will supply the turkey and stuffing and would like you to bring your favorite side dish. There will be a sign-up sheet posted in the Rec Hall and you must sign-up before 12 p.m. on Saturday. Dinner will be start at 4 p.m.

CALIFORNIAIdyllwildAugust 31-September 2: As summer comes to an end and the kids return to school, spend your Labor Day Weekend at the Idyllwild Preserve. There will be a fishing tournament and prizes for the longest fish. Hike the preserve with Pat, try your luck at Bingo Saturday and Sunday. Saturday night entertainment features the band Faultline and s’mores at the campfire. We end the long weekend with “Cowboy Jack” on Sunday night along with a campfire and s’mores. A perfect way for the summer season to come to an end!

Lake MindenAugust 30-September 2: Labor Day/1950s Sock Hop: Fun for the whole family. Join us Friday night for a Hoagie Sandwich and Root Beer Float Potluck Social followed by bingo. Make a hip 50s craft or compete in the paddleboat races. Saturday night we’ll head to the barn for a Rock n’ Roll Barn dance complete with bubblegum blowing contest, Limbo and hula-hoop contest. September 7-9: Hydroplanes/Grandparents Day: Bring your grandparents along and catch the excitement of the Hydroplane Boat Races. Take a break with Candy Bar Bingo and the Ice Cream Social and then back to the race. Bring a few of your favorite photos and make a pocket-sized brag book. These are so cute you’ll want to make one as a gift. September 14-16: Fly and Float RC Planes: Saturday and Sunday watch the show as the Fly and Float RC planes take off from and land on the lake. On Friday take a jewelry making class then stay for the Friday Nigh Potluck Social, followed by Brown Bag Bingo or a family movie. On Saturday join us for scavenger hunt, Candy Bar Bingo and the Ice Cream Social. September 21-23: Puzzle Me This: Friday night we’ll put together a Puzzling Potluck Social. Bring a mystery addition to the potluck and we’ll put together an evening of fun. Can your team finish a puzzle the fastest? Join the Puzzle Race and find out. Puzzle a photo game or do other puzzling craft projects. Hope your not too puzzled to take in a bead class. September 28-30: Travel Trivia: How well do you know our Thousand Trails preserves? Join us for an evening of fun travel trivia. Show off your knowledge of TT and the surrounding areas and/or gather information you can use while planning your future excursions. Stay for the Friday Night Potluck Social and Brown Bag Bingo.

Lake of the SpringsEvery Friday, our Volunteer Fire Department will be here for Adult Money Bingo. September 1-3: Labor Day Weekend: RV Show with ET Quality RV, plus Craft and Variety Fair. On Saturday we will have a kids’ fishing derby, tie-dye craft, and family hayride. Jim Hunter Band will perform at our Family Dance. John Carter will be at our Family Campfire and DJ Eric at the Teen Dance. On Sunday, the James Slack Band will perform at the Family Dance and DJ Eric at the Teen Dance. September 8: DJ Eric at our Family Dance. September 14-16: Horseshoe Tournament, plus DJ Eric at our Family Dance on Saturday. September 22: DJ Eric at our Family Dance. September 29: DJ Rhonda at our Family Dance.

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September 293rd Annual Calling Back the Salmon CelebrationIf you are interested in learning how you can positively impact the environment, then you will want to attend this event. Festivities bring our community, tribes and families together, offering a time and place on the Auburn Ravine for everyone to make a spiritual “call“ to the salmon. Throughout the day there will be live music, information and science booths, artisan crafts for children, fly tying and casting activities, and food and merchandise for sale Held at McBean Park Pavilion, 65 McBean Park Dr, in Lincoln, just 18 miles from the preserve.

September 14-166th Annual American River Music FestivalHeld throughout the friendly river community of Coloma, and named by the Sacramento Bee as a BEST choice for “Fun things to do for 2012”, the festival features over 25 performances in 10 locations of live music, great food, beverages, art vendors, kid’s activities and much more. Event is held in Coloma-Lotus, less than 2 miles from the preserve. For information visit www.americanrivermusic.org or call (530) 622-6204.

September 8-9Constitution Day Parade & CelebrationNevada City’s Constitution Day Parade has been a local tradition since 1967. Members of the American Civil War Association offer living history and battle reenactments at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday in Pioneer Park. Event runs 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. More than 200 military and settler reenactors are expected to take part. For a detailed listing of scheduled events visit www.nevadacitychamber.com

September 1-2So Cal Music FestSouthern California’s lifestyle is synonymous with sunshine, music, art, parties, beautiful people, and outdoor activities. Now we’re bringing the Southern California lifestyle to the streets of San Diego’s East Village. This all-day festival will include four music stages featuring DJs and live bands as well as interactive art exhibits displayed throughout the streets. Five blocks transformed into an “alternative reality where people can express themselves by immersing in music, paint, sculpture, 3D and 4D visuals.” Life-sized sculptural art installation pieces displayed by local artists, plus freestyle motocross and skateboarding competitions and fireworks. The festival will take place from 2 p.m. until midnight and will be expanded across five blocks between 9th Ave and Park Blvd. For information call (619) 233-5008.

(Events may be subject to change)

August 31-September 2Idyllwild’s Art and Treasures WeekendVisit Idyllwild, one of the 100 best towns in America, during Labor Day Weekend and discover one of the most unique community-wide events in Southern California! Watch artists create original art, with the sounds of live music filling the area. Friday through Sunday special treasures are being offered throughout the community, including shoppes, inns and restaurants. For more information call or visit their website: www.artinidyllwild.org.

September 15Historic Home TourTour distinctive mountain homes showcasing the mountain diversity. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $20 person. For more information call (951) 659-2717 or visitwww.idyllwildhistory.org.


WilmingtonSeptember 1-3: Labor Day Weekend: Poolside party with hamburgers and entertainment by American Made Band. Performance by gospel groups Church, Majestic Sounds, Evening, and Sonship on Sunday.

OREGONPacific CitySeptember 1: Labor Day Weekend activities include Coastal DJ tunes with Charles Wayne dance. This is the last weekend for the food services kitchen breakfast and BBQ lunch. September 8: Member Appreciation Weekend. September 22: Harvest Celebration/Autumn begins.

SeasideSeptember 1-3: Labor Day Weekend: Come to the Oregon Coast for your last chance for summer fun. School will be starting soon but don’t let that get you down. Ocean breezes and sunshine are what you need! On Saturday we will all be a Rockin’ and a Rollin’ with Storm‘in Norman! And at the same time we will be lighting up the fire pit and cooking some s’mores! September 6-9: Wheels ‘N’ Waves: Seaside is the place to be to end your summer because downtown Seaside is roaring with ocean waves and Hot Rods and Custom Cars. Join us on the property for our second annual Hot Rod Parade! As many as 70 cars tour the Northside! September 14-16: “Pickleball By The Seaside”:It’s official and it’s here at Seaside! Join us for our first official USAPA scheduled Tournament. Our four Pickleball courts were redone last year and have been busy ever since! Pre-registration is required. September 15: “Almost the End of the Season” BBQ Bonanza! Join us for our first, and soon to be one of our annual, events held here at Seaside! Guaranteed to be delicious! Brisket, Tri-Tip or Chicken cooked on a Treager Grill by Master Grill Chef John! Served with all the fixings! We will all be a Rockin’ and a Rollin’ with Storm‘in Norman! And at the same time we will be lighting up the fire pit and cooking some s’mores!

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Whalers RestSeptember 7-9: Get slicked back and ready for the “Nifty 50s”. We will turn up the soda fountain and enjoy “The Rockin’ 50s Party” at 2 p.m. in our South Clubhouse on Saturday. September 14-16: It’s “Viva Mexico” as we celebrate Mexican Independence Day with at party and lunch. The Fiesta will be held in the South Clubhouse at noon on Saturday and will include great food and games. September 21-23: We are “Down on the Farm” this weekend so get ready to practice with ole Betsey for the Milking Contest or cow patty contest. Bring your best partner to the fun at the South Clubhouse on Saturday at 2 p.m. September 28-30: Rev up your motors for “NASCAR Weekend”. We will have pinewood derby car kits to purchase and make too! Get them ready for the big race at the NASCAR party on Saturday at 2 p.m. in our South Clubhouse.

PENNSYLVANIAPA DutchAugust 31-September 3: Labor Day Weekend features Friday night Candy Bar Bingo and Saturday wagon ride. Come and impersonate your favorite movie star or sports figure contest, plus DJ Steve at the pool. September 7-9: Drive-In Movie Weekend features Saturday ceramic class ($) and wagon ride. We will have an old-fashioned drive-in movie on our big screen in the field. September 14-16: Potluck and Birthday Cake Weekend features Saturday wagon ride, plus potluck dinner with a birthday cake to celebrate all September birthdays. September 21-23: Pig Roast Weekend features Saturday wagon ride and our 3rd Annual Pig Roast ($). September 28-30: Pet Weekend features Saturday ceramic glass ($) and wagon ride. We will have a contest for our beloved pets.

ScotrunSeptember 8: Campfire Nights: Come to a campfire on the beach. Join the other campers for roasted marshmallows and bring your camping stories. September 21-23: The Native American Tribal Organization (Yukakyke Taino of Pa) will hold a 3-day campout at Scotrun. They will present tribal changes and perform ritual ceremonies.

TENNESSEENatchez TraceSeptember 1: Labor Day Party. September 8: Goodbye Summer Blues Pool Party. September 15: Movie Madness and Casino night begins at 7 p.m. September 22: Crazy Camper Weekend, plus Field Day and Cookout. September 29: Native American Celebration features drum team and feather dancers

Turtle BeachJoin us every Thursday at 7 p.m. for Bingo in the Family Lodge. This is an evening of fun, bingo, and goodies (Member sponsored).

Wilderness LakesAugust 31-September 3: Labor Day Weekend. Activities all weekend long for the whole family. Friday Night Movie outside with popcorn. E & E Animals bring critters you don’t see on a daily basis. Dominic’s Karaoke provides lots of songs to show your talents, have fun and maybe you can be the next American Idol. Hit Men will entertain you all afternoon with music to dance to and great listening. Teen Dance in the Gazebo for the younger generation. Twinkles & Sunny Sunshine the clowns do face painting and make balloon figures. September 8: TBA. September 15: Western Days Weekend. Do you cook chili? Well guess what? You need to join in our Chili Cook-Off and win one of our fabulous prizes. Cornbread Entertainment plays bluegrass music to entertain most of the day and Judy Taylor will do a demonstration on roping and a few tricks. In the evening, those 21 years and older can enjoy a relaxing evening of Blackjack. Drawing for prizes will follow before retiring for the evening. September 22: Tony Lopez Live Entertainment performs all types of music for you. Just bring the whole family and enjoy quality time together. Dance, clap your hands and stomp your feet or just listen. September 29: Movie Night with Popcorn.

MASSACHUSETTSGateway to Cape CodAugust 31-September 3: Labor Day Weekend: BBQ fun with family, arts and crafts. Last weekend to use the swimming pool and enjoy wagon rides.

SturbridgeAugust 31-September 3: Labor Day Weekend: This is the last long weekend so let’s have some fun with DJs on the beach, lots of activities and much, much s’mores!

NEW JERSEYChestnut LakeSeptember 28-30: Halloween Weekend: Lots of Halloween fun so wear your costume for Trick or Treat throughout the preserve.

Sea PinesSeptember 1-3: Labor Day Weekend: Breakfast served both Saturday and Sunday morning. Plus Saturday night band and Sunday night DJ. September 7-9: Halloween Weekend includes costume contest, site decorating and trick

or treating. September 14-16: Covered Dish Gathering. September 21-23: Yard Sale Frenzy all weekend.

NEW YORKRondout ValleySeptember 1-3: Join us for Labor Day and our 3rd Annual Penny Social, Prize Bingo Mania and this year we are bringing back the Miss Rondout Pageant. Gentlemen raid your wife’s closet and be our newest Miss Rondout! Entertainment: No Limit on Saturday and Joey B on Sunday.

NORTH CAROLINALake GastonSeptember 1: Beach Party features music, games, crafts and friends. Party on the beach and enjoy the sun’s energy while we play in the water, dance in the sand and make lasting memories. September 8: Talent Show to Show Love to Our Grandparents: It’s Grandparents’ Day and we’re here to say, “We love our Grandparents in a major way.” So sit right down and take a seat, And we’ll put on a show that can’t be beat! Some Grandparents are skinny. Some eat a lot. Some are funny. Some are not. Some short, some tall, some big, some small. It doesn’t matter. We love them all. (Unknown Author) We all love our grandparents so let’s show them how much. We’ll put on a show and make them glow.

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September 1-October 21King Richard’s FaireEntertainment, exciting rides and skill games abound on the enchanted 80-acre site. Eight stages, acrobats, aerialists, jugglers, minstrels, dancers, fire eaters, puppeteers and even exotic tigers are here. Held at 235 Main Street, in Carver, just 15 miles from the preserve. Tickets at the gate are $27 for adults, $15 for children ages 4-11 and children under age 4 are free.

August 31-September 1Littleton/Lake Gaston FestivalDowntown festival features vendors, street dance on Friday night and Antique Car Show. Held in downtown Littleton, just 5 miles from the preserve. For information call (252) 586-2709.

September 7-95th Annual Rods ’n Rhodies Car Show in FlorenceJoin us to celebrate the 5th Annual Rods ‘n Rhodies Car Show in Florence! Early registrations is encouraged – 175 car limit. For more information call Cal at (541) 997-3128 or Craig at (541) 999-1713 or email [email protected]

September 1-3Woodstock/New Paltz Arts & Crafts Fair Event features over 300 artists and craftspeople displaying their art and demonstrating their unique talents, plus food, children’s center, specialty health care products and lots of entertainment for everyone. Held at Ulster County Fairgrounds, 249 Libertyville Road, New Paltz, just 15 miles from the preserve. For information call (845) 679-80-8087 or visit www.quailhollow.com.

September 14-16Oktoberfest ZinzinnatiOktoberfest-Zinzinnati USA is an outdoor festival held in downtown Cincinnati that showcases the rich German heritage of southwestern Ohio, as well as tasty samples of German-style music, food and beer. First held in 1976, the event has grown to be North America’s largest Oktoberfest with over 500,000 people attending each year. Hours are Saturday from 11 a.m. to midnight and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Event is just 45 minutes from the preserve. For information visit www.oktoberfestzinzinnati.com.

September 14-1610th Annual Lakeshore Park Rib Burn-OffEvent features national and local ribbers, concessions, park and live entertainment all three days. Admission is free. Sponsored by the Ashtabula Township Park Commission, event is held at Lakeshore Park, 1700 East 1st Street, in Ashtabula, just 30 minutes from the preserve. For information, call (440) 964-3819.

September 1Mt. Airy FireworksFireworks by the Lake at Mt. Airy features an unusually beautiful fireworks display. Just five miles from the resort, fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m. For information call (877) 682-4791.

September 22-23Rodeo & Chili Cook-OffProfessional rodeo with all live events, plus country music, line dancing, and crafts. Held at Shawnee Mountain, just 18 miles from the preserve. For information visit www.shawneemt.com.


Harbor ViewSeptember 1: Crabs and Cornhole at the Pavilion. Cornhole Tournament at 11 a.m. Crabfeast begins at 4 p.m. for $10 per crab eater. Bring your own refreshments and a side dish to share. Hot dogs and hamburgers provided. Pre-registration required. September 15: Hobo Stew at the Pavilion at 6 p.m. Bring your favorite ingredient for the chef to put in the stew. Also bring extra to go the Food Bank.

WASHINGTONBirch BayAugust 31: Karaoke Party and Dance planned to close out the summer. September 29: 5th Annual Canadian Thanksgiving Potluck. Join us on Thursdays in September for Thursday Football Night beginning at 5:20 p.m.

ChehalisAugust 31-September 3: It’s the Last Hurrah! Labor Day weekend is always full of fun, including tunes by RAM Karaoke and two days of Slip ‘n Slide for your excitement! September is one of our best months for camping weather! Don’t put the camping gear away yet! Horse trails will be open for you equine enthusiasts (reservations required).

La ConnerSeptember 1: Flower Power Weekend. September 2: Back to School party with DJ Charlie Moore. September 8: Movies, Movies and some more Movies!

Little DiamondSeptember 1-2: Carnival! Complete carnival setup with the Big Top Tent and carnival booths, food and games. Face-painting, pony painting and pony rides are all a part of what’s in store for you this weekend. Plus Music Maker DJ, Todd McLean, will be here to host a dance party. September 21-23: The “last enchilada” as we prepare for fall and winter seasons. Come join the fun and festivities...before the snow flies.

Long BeachSeptember 1: Old-Fashioned Camping Fun features Team Horseshoe Contest followed by individual Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest. September 15: Aloha Saturday includes Bean Bag Toss, Water Balloon Fight and Goody Bag for the kids.

Mount VernonSeptember 1-2: Wenatchee Youth Circus: Celebrating the 60th year of “The Biggest Little Circus in the World”, this is a two-day, three show event. Join us to honor Guppo the Clown, an 81-year-old who has dedicated his life to the love of the circus and teaching and inspiring performers. Show times are Saturday at 2 and 5 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. For tickets and information, call (360) 724-4811.

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TEXASBay LandingSeptember 7-9: “S” Weekend: A fun-filled weekend in store for you all. We will have sack races, sand pass, straw toss, spaghetti slurp, spider walk, sauerkraut contest, straight line walk, sandal toss, and many more. Be prepared to be “S” ed! September 28-30: Chili Cook-Off Time: Winter is around the corner and what better way to meet new friends and members than over a pot of chili? Members will be the judges and prizes will be awarded. So bring your favorite ingredients all ready to serve and maybe you will be the lucky winner.

Colorado RiverSeptember 1: Craft sale at the Activity Center from 8 a.m. to noon. Bring your handmade items or stuff you want to sell. Tables available at no charge. From 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. we will have our What’s Happening at Colorado River and Meet with the Manager event. Come and find out what’s going on in the Columbus area and catch up on the latest news. At 1 p.m., decorate your bikes and golf carts to prepare for the parade. We have some decorations but feel free to provide your own for a personal touch. Bike and Golf Cart parade at 2 p.m. Kids’ games at the basketball court sponsored by PAID4U at 2:30 p.m. Christian Ministry with Earl and Pam LaPone. Water games with prizes. Free hot dog with all the fixin’s, chips, cookies and drink from 6 to 7 p.m. At 7 p.m. we will have our Raffle at the Activity Center - all proceeds benefit PAID4U Christian Ministry which provides meals for the less fortunate. Ticket prices and prize descriptions available at the Activity Center. September 2: Worship service with Rev. and Mrs. J.V. Hamman at the Activity Center from 10 to 11 a.m. At 1 p.m. we’ll have kids’ games sponsored by PAID4U Ministry. Water games with prizes. Root Beer Floats for all at 3 p.m.! Come to the Activity Center at 3:30 p.m. and play Win the Money Jar, sponsored by PAID4U. Guess the amount and win the jar; closest guess without going over and you MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN! Enjoy a NIGHT AT THE MOVIES featuring the movie, Up, plus popcorn, candy and drinks provided. Event begins at 6:30 p.m.

Lake TawakoniSeptember 1: Back to School Celebration/Labor Day Celebration: Activities in the Family Center during the day, plus Ice Cream Social at 1 p.m. and Washer Championship Tournament. Annual Fish Fry begins at 6 p.m. (tickets available at Ranger Station for $8. Please buy your tickets by noon on the 1st.) At 7:30 we will have entertainment by recording artist and performer Rita Fulmer. Come enjoy old country, gospel and bluegrass at the Family Center.

Lake TexomaSeptember 1-2: Labor Day Weekend: A weekend of fun will include family relays (kayak-walk-run-bike-swim), water polo, water volleyball, and our final Minute to Win It competition of the season. Our evening entertainment features a Branson-style show by Allen Hurt and the Mountain Showman. On

Sunday, after church, we will have ping- pong tourneys. In late afternoon you can challenge others in a game of washers and then dance the night away with the Backroads Band. September 8: Grandparents Weekend: Enjoy an afternoon of Birthday Bingo and other member-generated activities. September 15: Autumn Begins: Let’s kick off the weekend with a scavenger hunt. Then back to the Family Center for some bingo games. September 22: Western Weekend: For all you Texas cowgirls and cowboys, there will be an old-fashioned “Cow Chip” (washers) tossing contest, followed by our weekly Saturday Bingo. Finally, we’ll settle down to make some Western-themed crafts. September 29: Puzzler’s Weekend: Wrap up the month with puzzles of all types. For the younger set, we’ll have a breakfast scramble, word searches and interlocking puzzles. We will have 500-piece puzzle team race for the older set. Mid-afternoon let’s make puzzle picture frames. Don’t forget your cameras so you can take a picture of your puzzle team.

Medina LakeSeptember 1: Bike and Cart parade, plus Candy Bar Bingo, Banana Splits, Red, White and Blue Contest and water games at the pool. September 2: Bean Bag Baseball, Candy Game, Top of the Trail Café menu includes Chicken BBQ, plus dance with Bimba and the Borderline Band. September 15: Craft Sale, Kids’ craft, Ice Cream Bingo, Ice Cream Social, Brown Bag Bingo and water games at the pool. September 22: Kids’ crafts, Wacky Golf, Ice Cream Social, Croquet and water games at the pool. September 29: Craft Sale, Kids’ craft, Wacky Golf, Bean Bag Baseball and water games at the pool.

VIRGINIAChesapeake BaySeptember 1-2: Labor Day Celebration: It’s the last fling of summer. Saturday evening, join your fellow members for a wine and cheese social. If horseshoes or pickleball is your thing, play in the last tournament of the year on Saturday. Sunday night, Dance at Dark (Band TBA). September 8: Bingomania/Computers for Dummies: Several bingo games over the weekend for the Bingo-addicted. Computers for Dummies continues. September 22: 6th Annual Bluegrass Festival: Local and regional bluegrass bands will set your toes a-tappin’ and your hands a-clappin’! Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy sensational music from noon to 10 p.m. Featured entertainers this year include Code Blue Bluegrass Band, Rappahannock Crossing, Highway 249, Willis River Band and Salt Marsh Band. Discount tickets for TT members. Call (804) 695-9645 for tickets and information.

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September 1, 8, 22Monarch Butterfly EventCome to Caledon State park, just 21 miles from the preserve, and tag and release Monarch butterflies as they head south to Mexico. For information call (540) 663-3861.

September 15-16ARTrails Studio ToursEnjoy the great creations of our many local artists and artisans, just in time for Christmas gift shopping and visit artist studios and galleries all over southwest Washington. For more information visit www.artrailsofsww.org

September 1-3Labor Day Weekend Hog Roast CelebrationSponsored by NTWP, this event at Natchez Trace features kids’ carnival with lots of prizes, golf cart parade, live country music and hog roast dinner.

September 22Medina Lake Cajun FestivalAuthentic Cajun food and music, plus four top Cajun and Zydeco bands from Louisiana, a Cajun band from San Antonio and a jazz band will provide continuous entertainment on two pavilions, each with a dance floor. The Gumbo Cook-off will feature professional, amateur and culinary student divisions. Enjoy Cajun dance demonstrations, arts and crafts, games and and souvenirs, plus homemade Cajun food cooked by volunteers. Held at Lakehills Civic Center, 11225 Park Road, just 5 miles from the preserve. For information call (800) 364-3833.

September 8-9Rod Run to the End of the WorldAnnual classic car show features thousands of automobiles, from Model As to the muscle cars of the 60s and 70s. Main events are held at Wilson Field in Ocean Park, but the cars will be seen all over the peninsula. Held at 258 Sandridge Road in Ocean Park, just 11 miles from the preserve. For information call (360) 665-3565.

September 10-11Founders DayEnjoy a pancake breakfast, picnic, car show, children’s activities and more. Held at Riverfront Park, just 15 miles from the preserve. For information call (360) 855-2390.

September 29Harvest FestivalEvent features medieval-type machines hurling pumpkins through the air, zucchini races, pumpkin painting, food vendors, pie eating contest and children’s activities. Held at Skagit River Park, just 15 miles from the preserve. For information call (360) 757-0994.

September 1-3Evergreen State FairThe Evergreen State Fair is the largest annual event in Snohomish County. Approximately 900,000 visitors walk through the gates to eat food on a stick, ride the rides, play the carnival games, see all the 4-H exhibits and farm animals and gather around stages to hear big name music acts. Don’t miss the Fair Days Parade at 11 a.m. on the 25th on Main Street in Monroe. For more information on the Fair call (360) 805-6700. Held at the Evergreen State Fairgrounds in Monroe, just 7 miles from the preserve.

SEPTEMBER 2012 | TRAILBLAZER SEPTEMBER 2012 | TRAILBLAZER 20 21CIRCLE NO. 116 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

NEWS&NOTESFROM THE PRESERVES Bend/SunriverBend/Sunriver is very excited about their recently completed new pickleball courts. The preserve now has eight pickleball courts. Also, the new boardwalk in Towne Square has been completed and they have added two paddleboats to their river trips, plus new kayaks and canoes. The cottages have been renovated complete with new furniture and mattresses and they are now working on the yurts and cabins. The yurts received beautiful new futons.

Cultus LakeCultus Lake would like to remind all TTSNW members to come and enjoy the Thousand Trails Cultus Lake preserve, the best and only one in Canada. Lots of activities and good food will be planned by your co-coordinators.

Harbor ViewHarbor View is pleased to announce that the new Miniature Golf Course has been installed! Fun for all ages!

IdyllwildIdyllwild has installed a new Outdoor Theater, 15’x15’ screen and surround sound system at their amphitheater. Come enjoy the new system and free popcorn! They are also installing white fencing to frame the elite annual sites.

Lake WhitneyThe pool at Lake Whitney has undergone renovations and now also has new pool furniture. The Rangers have a new golf cart, the kitchen has a new air conditioner and work on the lift station has begun, which will include new electric panels and alarms for all three lift stations as well as new insides for the D and B lift stations. The Family Center lift station is in great shape already but the electrical panel will need to be redone. Two grinder pumps are being installed in each lift station. Bids are coming in for a new roof on the Activity Center which they hope to complete before the end of the year.

Kenisee LakeNew outdoor bowling alley and cornhole courts have been added by the pool area and pavilion at Kenisee Lake.

Long BeachLong Beach has added a number of new tents sites this year. Quite a few of these tent sites have private fire pits and a few even have water and 15-amp power. A new picnic/viewpoint area that is great for an afternoon picnic has been added. Two new large communal fire pits have been built and you will see a number of assorted landscaping and general improvements around the park have been completed.

Mt. VernonA new coat of paint has brightened all of the bathrooms at Mt. Vernon and they now match the lodge. Also, as you drive up to the Ranger station you will see the newly painted lane signs on the road directing you to the proper lane you should be in for check-in – which will speed up the process!

PA DutchThe C Loop Road at PA Dutch has been graded with recycled asphalt.

Pio PicoPio Pico’s Country Store is finally complete. The Staff did an amazing job giving the store a beautiful make-over. The new counter tops and wood flooring give it a more modern look and with all the extra room they will be able to stock more of the necessities and little extras you may need. Next time you’re visiting Pio Pico Preserve, stop in the Country Store and check it out!

Sea PinesSea Pines recently upgraded their entry road and main parking lot and has brand new “Sea Pines” signs.

SnowflowerSnowflower just finished installing all new buried water lines in their year-round Cliffs area. This will allow them to add water to this popular section early in the spring when the temperatures have warmed up but there is still snow covering the ground.

South JettyA new roof on the Activity Center at South Jetty has been completed. Storm damage to Loop A has caused the restroom to be closed indefinitely and all A loop sites are without power indefinitely. The Adult spa is closed. Wading pool is now open. The main entrance outbound lane now has a tire ripper installed to prevent unauthorized access to the preserve. Sites 101 through 138 now have new 50-amp electrical service. Also, the RV Resource Guide is now available at South Jetty.

Turtle BeachTurtle Beach has new picnic tables and the tent site improvements include new BBQ grills and picnic tables.

New pickleball courts at Bend/Sunriver

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After Noble’s release from the Colombian authorities, thanks to his ties to USC, he and Dean headed to Ecuador.

“We crossed an uneventful border out of Colombia into Ecuador, the land of two significant volcanoes in the Cordillera, Cotopaxi and Chimborazo,” said Noble. “Cotopaxi is the highest active volcano on earth at 19,347 feet, about the same elevation as Kilimanjaro.”

While Dean had his birds to find, Noble had particular interest in Ecuador’s Pacific port, Guayaquil, which is the banana capital of the world and the fact that Ecuador has a great deal of oil.

“Dean and I decided to climb Cotopaxi as a warm-up for our upcoming trek up Kilimanjaro,” Noble said “Since we climbed Mexico’s Popocatepetl, at 17,777 feet, in one day, we did not assign a great deal of time or concern to climbing Cotopaxi.”

This turned out to be a mistake. And before we get into that, note that while cashing a portion of his letter of credit at the National Bank of Ecuador, Noble met the bank’s president, Jacque Bermeo.

Now back to the Cotopaxi climb.

“While we had no concern about any eruption as it last blew its top in 1940, there was a great deal more snow on Cotopaxi and we had no idea that there were no roads above 10,000 feet. So what did we do?” said Noble. “I hired an Indian guide to take us off road and across the mountain in tundra territory.

But neither the guide, nor Dean and Noble, realized how heavy the Jeep was. And given that tundra is soft, mushy, wet land, this was not going to be a smooth ride!

“According to our altimeter, we had made it to 12,000 feet by off-road traversing this virgin territory,” said Noble. “It was not easy. We encountered lots of rocks, soft soil and the unknown.” Eventually the rear end of the Roadrunner got buried two feet deep in the tundra, right up to the bumper.

“So there we were, stuck in the tundra with no trees to attach our winch to pull us out,” he said. “We had 200 feet of wire cable but nothing to attach to. So Dean and I got out, surveyed our circumstances and went to bed at a 20 degree angle that night. We’d worry about how to dig ourselves out the next day.”

The next morning found little traffic in this remote part of the world, but as luck would have it, along came a truck loaded with mountain climbers who had the same idea about climbing Cotopaxi. “It was the Club Alpinista, whose president turned out to be none other than Jacque Bermeo,” said Noble. “Being the good guy that he was, and understanding our predicament, he dispatched some climbers to dig us out.” That took two days!

Their next leg of the adventure had them heading from the capital city of Quito to the coast at Guayaquil, mostly downhill. Ecuador at the time had the least expensive gas of any of the countries Dean and Noble had visited (and were to visit) at thirteen cents per gallon. “But it was horrible gas, very low octane, so that we pinged even going downhill,” said Noble. “Each ping shearing off a tiny piece of the cylinder or

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piston. By the time we got to Guayaquil, our number six piston had a hole blown in it and had to be replaced. So we spent three days at the Jeep agency getting a new piston.”

Noble spent the time counting bananas being loaded on the ships while Dean looked for his birds. “That was paradise for Dean, he loved our breakdowns,” said Noble.

Noble continued to focus on the bananas. “We ran across a truck selling stems of bananas for about a penny per banana. That stem must have weighed about 100 pounds and we hustled it onto the Jeep,” recalls Noble. “I wanted to see how many bananas I could eat in one day so for one day I ate nothing but bananas, tracking the number by saving the peel. At the end of the day I counted 19 total.” said Noble, adding that he would not recommend this to anyone!

The recommended daily diet portion of bananas is two per person. Can you guess why? Without going into much deal, it was four long days and then similar to Cotopaxi in 1940, there was an eruption.

“We were 25-years old, we could survive such antics,” said Noble. “Dean and I were in Ecuador, where the equator runs through high in the Andes, separating north from south, establishing something new. The water would begin to swirl down the drain counter-clockwise, not clockwise and we know it in North America. It was our first time to have crossed the equator; it would not be our last. We journeyed across it 10 times in our three year adventure.”

So where are they headed next? Read the October TrailBlazer to find out. ■

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Nicknamed “The Friendly City,” Welcome, Minnesota boasts Checkers Welcome Campground, an Enjoy America! campground that offers the kind of family friendly activities and relaxation that only a small, rural town can offer. Located in beautiful southern Minnesota, Checkers Welcome Campground is a breath of fresh, country air that can benefit city and country-dwellers alike.

Soak up the Minnesota country sun as you enjoy on-site amenities and activities for all ages in a completely customizable vacation experience. Take the kids for a fishing trip or dive in with your sweetie at the nearby lake. When you arrive home, you can play indoors in the game room, complete with PlayStation 2 and computers or continue the outdoor activity with a round of horseshoes or a family volleyball match.

With doors open from April to November, Checkers Welcome Campground prides itself on being clean and convenient while providing excellent customer service. Checkers Welcome also has a convenience store, dump station, propane, laundry and a WiFi hotspot. Guests have use of the pavilion area, gravel roads and sites, shade trees and picnic tables. This campground is sure to inspire lifelong memories in a rejuvenating country oasis. Checkers Welcome offers Enjoy America! members 50% savings on up to 3 night’s stay.

Enjoy America! makes quality camping more affordable with 50% savings on regular overnight fees for RV sites at participating campgrounds. Your 50% discount is good for the duration of your stay, one night only, or a few days on a space available basis as specified by each park. Enjoy America! is included in RPI Plus, RPI Preferred, RPI Preferred Gold and RPI Preferred with Resort Connections programs. This program is available to anyone and can be purchased on its own for only $39.95. Call RPI at 1-888-643-6569 for more information. Visit www.enjoy-america.net to view all the participating campgrounds.

Checkers Welcome CampgroundWelcome, MN Tracing History from Big Buck

Hornsby, TN

The Appian Way. The Silk Route. The Oregon Trail. Route 66. All famous roads throughout history.

As an RV enthusiast, you are certainly aware of the allure of the open highway. If you are traveling in the southern U.S., and you have a sense of the history of mobility, then you must experience the Natchez Trace Parkway, which follows a 440-mile path used for centuries from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee, that links the Cumberland, Tennessee and Mississippi rivers.

If you’re an RPI member, with access to the finest RV resorts in America, home base for your sojourn would be Big Buck Resort in Hornsby, Tennessee. An hour and a half east of Memphis, this lush 212-acre getaway is a rustic delight that places a special emphasis on the outdoors, such as hunting and fishing and other recreational pursuits.

For instance, Big Buck gives you access to 1,200 wooded acres for seasonal deer, squirrel and turkey hunting as well as for four-wheeling, hiking, horseback riding and more. On-site you’ll find ranges for skeet/trap shooting, rifle/pistol targets and archery. You can fish in a pair of ten-acre, deep-well-fed lakes. There’s also swimming, horseshoes, sand volleyball, a sandy playground next to the lake, large clubhouse and a big furnished deck with views of the lake.

Big Buck is famous, too, for its family music and dance events featuring the Wolf River Band every Thursday night, which also offers free dance lessons with admission.

All this comes at RPI’s typically reduced rates, an economical way to enjoy the adventure and charm of the road, and a trip to produce fond memories and good times for your family.

The journey along the Natchez Trace Parkway is full of exceptional scenery and unmatched history and culture. But there is more in the Big Buck region to intrigue the lucky vacationer. Elvis Presley’s home, Graceland, for the rock and roll fan; Shiloh National Military Park for the Civil War buff; and Mud Island River Park for those looking to have a blast overlooking the Mississippi. Plus, the nearby Natchez Trace State Park is a legacy of FDR’s “New Deal.”

All this represents a sterling example of what makes RPI so special – great locations, the best facilities and the finest staff members. In short, the finest RV reciprocal camping program in North America.

To check out the extensive list of resorts available to you, and all the other benefits gained with RPI membership, visit www.resortparks.com or call 1-800-456-7774.

Not an RPI Member?Add RPI Basic for Only $79or RPI Plus for $89Call

1-800-635-8498for informationYou must be a NACO, LTRor Mid-Atlantic member to qualify for this offer.

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Running 444 miles through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee, the historic Natchez Trace Parkway is one of those classic North America drives well-suited for RVers. Much like Route 66, the

Blue Ridge Parkway, the Skyline Drive, the Pacific Coast Highway, the Alaska Highway, and many more iconic drives, the Natchez Trace Parkway beckons road trip lovers with stunning scenery (including colorful fall foliage), centuries of history, varied culture, an array of activities, friendly people, and much more.

“The Natchez Trace Parkway is a world class resource that commemorates one of the oldest transportation corridors in North America and provides millions of travelers each year with an incredible journey through American history,” says Cam Sholly, superintendent of the National Park Service’s Natchez Trace Parkway. “The Parkway provides a collection of resources and a depth and diversity of educational and recreational experiences that are hard to find anywhere,” he says, adding that the Parkway was the 8th most-visited national park in the system in 2011.

The last two segments of the Parkway were completed in 2005 between Mississippi’s Ridgeland and Jackson and the southern terminus at Natchez—finally connecting the 444-mile route from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee, after 67 years of work. The Parkway had originally been introduced in legislation by Jeff Busby, a US Congressman from Mississippi, back in 1934 (it was authorized for the National Park Service in 1938). The result is a model in preservation, stewardship, and forward-thinking policy that has earned the Parkway the double distinction as a National Scenic Byway and an All-American Road. An elite All-American Road must demonstrate significance in at least two categories from a list including archaeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational, and scenic. The Natchez Trace Parkway is actually a natural fit for all six categories! The scenic element means just that. There are no billboards and no overdevelopment—just mile after mile of gentle curves and scenic vistas through forests, wetlands, prairies,

the natchez trace parkway another iconic all-american drive

by Lynn Seldon

farms, and more. The drive formally starts at milepost 0 in Natchez, Mississippi, but driving sections of the Natchez Trace Parkway also provide a popular alternative to driving the entire length either north or south. Before starting the Parkway proper, Natchez possibilities can include the Mississippi River, the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians State Historic Site (once a major ceremonial center), and Natchez National Historical Park, which includes antebellum Melrose plantation and mansion, the William Johnson House (the downtown home of African American barber and diarist William Johnson), and the French Fort Rosalie. The first one hundred or so miles north between Natchez and Jackson, Mississippi provides a great introduction to what to expect during the entire drive. Thousands of years of history await explorers, including several prehistoric American Indian mounds and even an entire town abandoned in the early-1900s.

After leaving Natchez and heading out on the Parkway, Emerald Mound at milepost 10.3 provides a fascinating first stop. Built around 1400 AD, Emerald Mound is the second largest Mississippian period ceremonial mound in the United States (Cahokia in East St. Louis, Illinois, is the largest). Emerald Mound is also the largest mound found along the Parkway. It covers nearly eight acres and there’s a trail leading to the top. Next, Mount Locust Inn & Plantation at milepost 15.5 provides insight into early life along the Natchez Trace. Acquired by the National Park Service and restored to its 1820 appearance, the Mount Locust plantation site includes the historic inn, cemeteries, brick kiln, slave quarters, the overseer’s house, and more. Historic Port Gibson just off the Parkway around milepost 40 is well worth the short diversion. Historic Bethel Church still stands, as does the Shaifer House—which still has Civil War bullet holes in its exterior.

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According to the National Park Service, Sunken Trace at milepost 41.5 may be the most-photographed spot on the Parkway. The short trail here is sunken due to the number of visitors traversing the easily-eroded “trace” (the original trail and road that eventually became the Natchez Trace). Next comes Rocky Springs, a once thriving town that’s now abandoned. There’s a trail to the town, as well as a cemetery, remaining buildings, picnicking, and the first of many campgrounds on the Parkway. RVers should note that campgrounds on the Parkway proper are “primitive” and have no hookups. Parkway campground sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and no reservations are offered. Check out pages 12-13 of this issue for great TT preserves along the way. Raymond is just off the Parkway near milepost 80. The town’s St. Mark’s Episcopal Church still has blood stains from when it was used as a Union hospital after the Battle of Raymond in 1863. After the historic town of Clinton, Jackson awaits to the south of the Parkway. Highlights while passing through Jackson or spending the night could include the Mississippi Governor’s Mansion (the second oldest continuously-occupied gubernatorial mansion); the

sunken trace

Parkway Information Cabin (staffed by rangers); Millsaps College (including Civil War artillery emplacements); the Choctaw Agency (also a great hiking and biking base); and the Old Trace and Brashears Stand Site (advertised in 1806 as “a house of entertainment in the wilderness”). Back up on the Parkway near Ridgeland, the large new Mississippi Crafts Center is tucked into the trees. The stretch from about milepost 105 to 120 is among the most scenic Parkway drivers will find (and that’s saying something). The Ross Barnett Reservoir essentially parallels the Parkway on this section, providing pretty views across the water. There’s a great overlook at milepost 105.6, as well as excellent walking and hiking possibilities in the West Florida Boundary area starting at milepost 107.9. There are many spots along the Parkway for walks and hikes, with more than 50 different hiking, horse, and nature trails. Next comes the unique Cypress Swamp region. There’s a fascinating half-mile self-guided trail starting at milepost 122.0 through the water tupelo and bald cypress swamp (look for alligators from the boardwalk). Milepost 128.4 marks the Upper Choctaw Boundary. This was the site were Choctaw Chief Pushmataha signed the Treaty of Doak’s Stand with President Andrew Jackson. This treaty ceded more than 5.5 million acres of Choctaw land to the United States. Doak’s Stand is one of more than a dozen Native American sites along the route—long popular with Native American hunters on the move. The Little Mountain Overlook at Jeff Busby Site (milepost 131.1) is reached by a short drive, providing one of Mississippi’s highest points and prettiest views on the Parkway at 603 feet. The popular gas station is now closed, but there’s still the great overlook, picnicking, and camping. Situated at milepost 232.4, Bynum Mounds is from the Middle Woodland period and is a burial mound. There are a total of six mounds and five of them were excavated back in the 1940s (two of the largest have been restored). Along with the mounds, there are also interpretive exhibits of early resident settlers along the Natchez Trace. Yet another archaeological site awaits at milepost 261.8 - The Chickasaw Village Site. Hundreds of American Indians once occupied this spot and, today, there’s an outline of a typical summer home, a winter home, and what was once a fort. A short, but fascinating, trail also provides information about American Indian uses of native plants.

This stop also provides one of many access points to the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail. There are actually five separate trails totaling more than 60 miles that comprise this National Scenic Trail. Of course, charming Tupelo is best-known for the 15-acre Elvis Presley Park and Birthplace Center. There’s a memorial museum, tribute statuary, gift shop, and chapel. Fans of the King of Rock and Roll will want to visit the Tupelo hardware store where he bought his first guitar, Shakerag, where he first heard the blues, and the Assembly of God Church where gospel entered his soul. Road trip enthusiasts will also want to visit the Tupelo Automobile Museum. The Chickasaw Village Site is situated at the edge of Tupelo, home to the Tupelo National Battlefield. Administered by the National Park Service, this one-acre site (no visitor services) commemorates the fiercely fought 1864 Civil War battle that kept Confederate forces away from the Union railroads in Tennessee. The area around nearby Brices Cross Roads looks much like it did during the Civil War—there’s a visitor and interpretive center, two cemeteries, and two battlefield trails.

rocky springs

mississippicrafts center

Just north of Tupelo, the well-run Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center at milepost 266 is well worth a stop of several hours. Along with a 12-minute introductory film, visitors will enjoy cultural, historical, and natural displays—as well as the well-stocked Eastern National Bookstore. A renovation of the Visitor Center resulted in new interactive exhibits that included collaboration with local Native American groups.

Helpful park rangers here staff a desk daily (except Christmas Day, which is the only day the Visitor Center is closed). RVers who collect National Park “passport” stamps can get them here for the Natchez Trace Parkway, the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail, the Tupelo National Battlefield, and Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield. Civil War buffs or those simply in need of some leg stretching will want to stop at milepost 269.4 for a short walk on the Old Trace. There are 13 confederate gravesites at the end of the trail, but the causes of death or identities of the soldiers are not known. About 15 miles further at milepost 286.7, yet another one-time American Indian village and remaining mounds await visitors. The Pharr Mounds Site contains a total of eight mounds from the Middle Woodland period. Waysides at Pharr Mounds explain village life and the mound building process. In Alabama, there was once a ferry across the Tennessee River operated by George Colbert in the early-1800s (around milepost 327), but there’s now a bridge. Picnics and fishing (license required) are both popular here along the banks of the Tennessee. Just a few miles after the bridge at milepost 330.2, the half-mile Rock Springs Nature Trail takes explorers to bubbling Colbert Creek, where wildflowers (like jewelweed) and perhaps migrating hummingbirds await in late-summer and early-fall.

The 33 miles of Parkway in Alabama feature many fascinating side trips, including Dismals Canyon Natural Conservancy (a National Natural Landmark); the Frank Lloyd Wright

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Rosenbaum House; Ivy Green, birthplace of Helen Keller; the Alabama Music Hall of Fame; Key Underwood Coondog Memorial Cemetery (dedicated to the burial of coondogs); Rattlesnake Saloon (built under a cavern overhang); and the Wichahpi Commemorative Stone Wall (honoring a female Yuchi Indian tribe member). Located in Florence between the Wheeler and Wilson dams on the Tennessee River, The Shoals is a popular stop on the famed Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail—with two championship layouts called Fighting Joe and Schoolmaster. The Volunteer State of Tennessee is next and some of the best of the Natchez Trace Parkway still awaits. The first major stop once in the Volunteer State is the Meriwether Lewis Monument at milepost 385.9. Known for his role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition (along with William Clark), Lewis was a soldier, an inveterate explorer, and an administrator.

This stop features a cabin in the style Lewis would have used and it contains several displays about his life. Along with the cabin and the monument, this stop features a picnic area, another campground, and some excellent hiking and walking opportunities nearby. Six miles up the road, Fall Hallow Trail leads to a viewing platform for a small waterfall (more cascades follow further down the trail).

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tupeloJust past the drives 400th mile at milepost 401.4, Old Trace Drive and the Tobacco Farm make for an interesting stop (and drive). The Tobacco Farm features a barn replica and other displays about the bygone days of growing and drying tobacco in the region, while the Old Trace Drive provides the opportunity to drive (one way) on the original Old Trace for two miles.

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Pretty Jackson Falls is next at milepost 404.7. A short and scenic paved trail drops about 900 feet to the small gorge containing Jackson Falls. There’s a picnic area back up at the trailhead, as well as another short trail to picturesque Baker Bluff Overlook. Located east of the Parkway around milepost 435, the town of Franklin is well worth a visit. This is where the “Gettysburg of the West” battle unfolded at Carter Farm—resulting in 9,000 deaths (7,000-plus Confederate soldiers). The nearby home of Carrie and John McGavock at Carnton Plantation became a bloody field hospital and Carrie’s experience inspired Robert Hicks to write the bestseller, Widow of the South. A Franklin walking tour is inspired by the book and includes a visit to Carnton Plantation. The Union headquarters, Carter House, is also open to the public. The end is near at Birdsong Hollow and milepost 438. This is the location of the award-winning double-arched bridge over the valley floor 150-plus feet below. Milepost 444 marks the end of the Parkway (including the classic Loveless Cafe) just 18 miles south of downtown Nashville. Of course, many possibilities await Nashville visitors as well, ranging from the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum and the famed honky tonks on Lower Broad to the Schermerhorn Symphony Center and the Grand Ole Opry. It’s a musical end to a lyrical drive!

For more information, visit www.scenictrace.com and www.nps.gov/natr. ■

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erde ValleyWine Trail

By Dave Houser

If you were to picture a typical Arizona landscape, you’d probably envision a desert scene scattered with saguaro and saltbush -- not Sauvignon and Syrah. Cactus, not Cabernet, right? Ah, but there’s a valley in northern Arizona that defies stereotypical

impressions of the Grand Canyon state’s flora. It is a wine valley -- and one of fast-rising prominence that boasts a great deal in common with some of the great wine producing regions of the world.

I’m talking about the Verde Valley, a verdant vale stretching about 20 miles from Sedona to Cottonwood, bordering Oak Creek and the Verde River and flanked by gently sloping hillsides carpeted with grapevines. The valley’s bountiful sunshine and dramatic nighttime cool-downs, matched with rich volcanic soil and a good water source, create an ideal environment for hearty varietals, especially those from the Rhone region of southern France, such as Syrah, Petite Syrah, Viognier, and Mourvedre. A host of other popular varietals, including Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay are grown successfully here as well.

While winemaking has boomed in the Valley over the last decade, the craft actually dates back to the 16th century when Spanish missionaries planted the first vineyards in the state. The Valley’s original winery appeared on Oak Creek in 1884, operated by German-born baker, Heinrich Schuerman.

Today, a string of four producing wineries and five tasting rooms nestle in and around the communities of Sedona, Camp Verde, Clarkdale, Jerome, Cottonwood and Cornville. These pioneering wineries produce a wide variety of hand-crafted, limited production wines in both red and white varietals, many having received praise from wine critics and even some national awards for their quality.

Each winery has its own tasting room and welcomes guests. Some offer tours and in most cases you’ll meet the owner/winemaker who will be more than happy to engage in a chat. Should your tasting sessions prove fruitful (no pun intended), you can, of course, purchase your favorite wines direct from the source.

Recognizing the tourism potential for wine tours of the Valley, Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce, directed by Lana Tolleson, and the Verde Valley Wine Consortium, headed by Jerome Chamber president and local restaurateur, Tom Pitts, teamed up in 2009 to develop the Verde Valley Wine Trail. The Trail connects the dots between four wineries – Alcantara Vineyards, Page Springs Cellars, Oak Creek Vineyards and Javelina Leap Vineyards – and five tasting rooms -- Arizona Stronghold Vineyards, Pillsbury Wine Company, Caduceus Cellars, Jerome Winery and Bitter Creek Winery.

Located just minutes from Cottonwood and literally overlooking Alcantara Vineyards, Thousand Trails’ 300-acre Verde Valley RV Resort and Campground couldn’t be a better home base for exploring the region. So let’s go on a tour, following the Wine Trail to each of the wineries and tasting rooms. We’ll begin at neighboring Alcantara, the Valley’s first, largest and, some critics proclaim, the finest of Verde Valley wineries.

All photos by Dave Houser, Left:Javelina Leap Vineyard & Winery is a 10-acre estate vineyard with a fully equipped winery and tasting room situated near Page Springs, just south of Sedona. Owner/winemaker Rod Snapp and wife Cynthia specialize in bold, full-bodied red wines that have won a number of notable awards, near Sedona, AZ.

Photo Above:Set in a charming Tuscan-style farmhouse, the tasting room at Alcantara Vineyards is a popular stop along the Verde Valley Wine Trail, just south of Sedona, AZ.

Alcantara VineyardsIdyllically situated at the confluence of Oak Creek and the Verde River, where bald eagles nest and ancient petroglyphs adorn limestone caves along the water’s edge, Alcantara invites you inside a lovely Tuscan farm-style tasting room snuggled amidst 87 acres of carefully tended vines. Excite your taste buds sipping from a selection of the winery’s ten varietals (eight reds and two whites) but be prepared for a visit that goes beyond mere tasting.

“We don’t just serve wine here,” says Barbara Predmore, Alcantara’s exuberant owner and self-proclaimed farmer, “we talk, laugh, listen and learn – and not just about wine itself but about the whole wine culture, including agriculture, art, music and food.” Predmore is widely credited with pioneering the Verde Valley’s resurgent wine industry when she established her Italian-inspired enterprise back in 2005.

Tasting room hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (tasting price: $10) and tours of the property depart at 11:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. For information, call (928) 649-8463 or visit www.alcantaravineyard.com.


The Snapps have just expanded their tasting room, a space that exudes an elegant pub-like atmosphere highly conducive to sampling Javelina Leap’s superlative wines.

Tasting hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (tasting price: $12). Free winery tours are offered Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For information, call (928) 649-2681 or visit www.javelinaleapwinery.com.

Verde Valley tasting rooms are conveniently concentrated in historic Old Town Cottonwood and in Jerome, a turn-of-the-century copper mining town on Highway 89A, just southwest of Cottonwood, which has turned from mines to wines to become a popular stop along the Wine Trail. We’ll check them out, beginning with a classy pair of tasting rooms interspersed among the eclectic boutiques, galleries, cafes and antique stores of Old Town.

Arizona Stronghold Vineyards Tasting Room is the rock star of the Verde Valley wine scene – quite literally -- as it is co-owned by Maynard Keenan, lead singer of the popular rock band Tool. Keenan and Eric Glomski, founder of Page Springs Cellars, have formed a partnership committed to putting Arizona on the fine wine map. Red wines are their specialty including some exciting, award-winning blends utilizing Syrah, Mourvedre, Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Malvasia and other varietals grown largely at their Dos Cabezas Vineyard in Wilcox, AZ. Sip some of your favorites in the comfort of Stronghold’s stylish lounge, open daily noon to 7 p.m. (9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday). Tastings are $9 for a flight of five wines. For information, call (928) 639-2789 or visit www.azstronghold.com.

Pillsbury Wine Company Tasting Room represents a dream-come-true for New Zealand film director Sam Pillsbury who came to Arizona to film a pilot for Universal Pictures. As fate would have it, he fell in love with a local gal and the Arizona landscape – and returned for good. A wine enthusiast, Pillsbury saw the state’s potential for viticulture and ventured forth in 2000 to plant 20 acres of Rhone varietals in southern Arizona’s Cochise County. Within a few years, Sam’s wines were winning awards left and right and critics’ praise as some of Arizona’s best. Reds dominate his lineup, led by some fragrant, complex blends such as Wild Child Red (70% Merlot, 30% Zinfandel). He also serves up several crisp, tasty whites, including Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc – all available daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday). Tastings start at $10 for a flight of five wines. For information, call (928) 639-0646 or visit www.pillsburywine.com.

Caduceus Cellars Tasting Room in Jerome is another Valley wine enterprise owned by rocker Maynard Keenan, who appears to be devoting most of his time and passion these days to his viticulture interests. Keenan’s richly decorated Main Street tasting room sets the stage for sampling his latest creations, largely red

Page Springs CellarsIntimate, and even romantic, could describe Page Springs Cellar’s setting overlooking picturesque Oak Creek and some 20 acres of vines on Page Springs Road in Cornville, just a few miles northeast of Cottonwood. Like most Valley vineyard owners, Page Springs boss Eric Glomski champions the environmentally sensitive production of fine European-style wines that he says “express the characteristics of the land – clean, healthy wines produced without the use of a lot of chemicals.”

Rhone-style wines including Mourvedre, Roussanne, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Malbec and Malvasia – and some unique blends of these varietals are among top tasting choices at Page Springs Cellars.

Tasting room hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily (tasting price: $10). Tours are available Friday through Sunday at 2 p.m. For information, call (928) 639-3004 or visit www.pagespringscellars.com.

Oak Creek VineyardsContinuing along Page Springs Road, you’ll soon encounter Oak Creek Vineyards on your right. Here’s another Verde Valley winery owned and operated by a woman, South African native Deb Wahl. It was during a visit to Arizona back in 2001, when Wahl, a Hamburg, Germany-based wine broker at the time, discovered and purchased ten acres of raw land with the dream of establishing her own winery.

In little more than ten years, Oak Creek Vineyards has flourished, earning a reputation as one of the Valley’s premium wine producers, noted in particular for its flavorful, full-bodied reds -- Zinfandel, Syrah and Merlot – and a lean, fruity Chardonnay. Open daily, Oak Creek’s bright, spacious tasting room includes a well-stocked gift shop featuring wine-related merchandise as well as a deli case packed with cheeses, olives (homegrown on the property), cured meats, baked goods and chocolates.

Tasting room hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (tasting price: $5). For information, call (928) 649-0290 or visit www.oakcreekvineyards.net.

Javelina Leap VineyardsA bit farther along Page Springs Road, just across from the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, lays another family-owned estate winery, Javelina Leap Vineyards, the pride of Rod and Cynthia Snapp. A former landscaping contractor, Rod wasted little time turning his 10-acres of volcanic hillside into a lush vineyard, criss-crossed with rows of Zinfandel and Barbera vines. Rod’s Barbera, a robust Italian red, has been a critical success, netting several awards, including the 2009 Whole Foods Consumer Choice Award. The Snapps bottle about 2,000 cases annually. This is pretty much in line with the production of fellow Verde Valley vintners, which ranges from 1,000 to about 10,000 cases a year. Continued on page 49

All photos by Dave Houser, Above:1 - Page Springs Cellars flourish alongside Oak Creek,

just south of Sedona, AZ 2 - Oak Creek Vineyards tasting room3 - Owner/winemaker Rod Snapp at his

Javelina Leap Vineyard & Winery tasting room

Photos Above:1 - Arizona Stronghold Vineyard tasting room2 - Some of the Verde Valley’s finest estate-grown wines are

presented for tasting by Dana Borger at Pillsbury Wine Company in Old Town Cottonwood, AZ

3 - Caduceus Cellars tasting room is a popular stop on Main Street in Jerome, AZ


After squirreling away their money for years, two of my close friends quit their jobs and prepared for a

trip across the globe. Their plan was to take a year off work and travel across the United States, Europe, Asia and lastly, Australia. To share all their worldly adventures with their friends and family back home (especially their nervous mothers), they created a Weblog (or blog for short). Through stories, photos and videos, their friends and family were able to experience the highs and lows of their trip, from a bear encounter on the Appalachian Trail to cheering the Tour de France along the streets of Paris.

This story is just one example of the millions of blogs that have sprung to life on the Internet. The social media research firm, NM Incite, estimates there were over 181 million blogs around the world in October 2011. Some of the most popular topics

for blogs involve politics, technology, entertainment, health and fitness, news and travel. No doubt, the ease and lack of expense has made blogging a popular option for many vacationers, especially RVers who full-time or take extended trips. Better than postcards, blogs are interactive with readers, helping them feel more connected to loved ones who might be far away. Readers can post comments or send messages and bloggers can add special features such as maps, which detail where they have been and where they are going.

Plenty of savvy bloggers have turned their sites into money makers, by selling

advertising space or marketing goods they make themselves. One of the most successful travel blogs, according to Blog Rank, is Nomadic Matt, who calls himself the nomadic backpacker. (www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blog) He took his passion for travel and turned it into a successful business. He’s been blogging about his worldly travels since 2003, and he makes his living from the ads on his blog site as well as selling the books that he has written. His blog is intelligently written with candid articles such as why Matt wishes never to return to Vietnam and what he loved and hated about his recent cruise. With a quick Internet search, you can probably find several blogs that match your RVing lifestyle or interests, whether you are single, retired, full-timing, or traveling with children. Some have great eye-popping photography. Some have great writing and tell a good story. Others are loaded with useful information. Some are geared toward specific topics such as cooking in an RV, working from an RV, technical tips, budgeting tips or boondocking advice. Once you find a blog you like, you can choose to follow that blog and receive future updates or journal entries automatically on your computer. One method is to give your email address and have updates sent to your email account. Or, if your favorite blogs show an icon for MSN, Yahoo or Google, for example, you can click on that icon and add their blog updates directly to your homepage. Another option to subscribe that’s often available is to click the

orange RSS Feed icon. RSS means “really simple syndication”. RSS feeds, however, do require a feed reader such as Google Reader or MyYahoo, which are available

for free. All these methods save you time so you don’t have to keep checking your favorite blogs for any updates. Interested in creating your own blog? Almost anyone with the most basic computer knowledge

can create one. The first step is to find a blogging provider. Popular providers include WordPress, Live Journal, Blogger and Tumblr. These sites offer pre-made templates and simple “push button” publishing tools that don’t require a lot of technical knowledge. Some blog sites are free and other might charge a small amount, usually less than $50. One important decision to make is whether you want to keep your blog private for only your friends and family to view or make it open for anyone on the Internet. If you want to attract readers, give your blog a creative title. Here are some eye-catching RV blogs that I stumbled across when doing Internet searches: Two Taking a Fifth, Flamingo on a Stick, Of Moose and Men, Travels in Therapy, and Too Many Cats. With titles like these, who can resist not taking a peak? Here’s a roundup of some popular RV blogs you might want to check out:

Full-Timing Vacation TalesGypsy Journal gypsyjournalrv.comNick Russell has been blogging for about six years. He and his wife Terry are full-time RVers who travel the country, preferring a loose itinerary. “I use the blog as a means to share our experiences with the full-time RV lifestyle, the places we

visit, things we see, and how it is to live day to day in an RV,” Nick said. “Not every day is a vacation. I try to show both the good and bad of RVing, because like anything in life, it has both pros and cons.” Nick also uses

his blog to promote his newsletter, The Gypsy Journal and his travel e-books. Nick does most of the writing, and his wife Terry writes a recipe column.

Full Time USAfulltimeusa.comIn 2010, Ann and Jerry loaded their stuff on board a 27-foot, Class C motorhome and took off for their travels. Ann and Jerry say that they hope to see as many interesting places in North America as they can while they are still reasonably healthy. Ann is a retired nurse, and Jerry is partially retired but still trades stocks via the Internet. Their blog explains how they live and travel full-time in a relatively “small” RV, about the places they visit, and the things they do and what they see.

A Journey into the

By Kim Wuchter

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A little bit of everything -RV Home Yet?blog.rvlifestyleexperts.comThis blog is co-authored by two RVing experts, Alice Zyetz and Jaimie Hall Bruzenak. Both have have written several books on RVing. Jaimie says she is an expert at RVing for dollars. She is the author of Your RV Lifestyle! An Insider’s Guide to Working on the Road. Alice has written Taking the Mystery out of Retiring to an RV. Together, they have written RV Traveling Tales: Women’s Journeys on the Open Road, The Woman’s Guide to Solo RVing, and Taking the Mystery out of RV Writing. This duo says their intention is to have lots of good information and interesting tidbits on the RV lifestyle. They say they are happy to answer questions, too!

Cutting CostsFrugal RV Travelfrugal-rv-travel.com/rv-blog.htmlIf you are looking for ways to cut your travel costs, this might be a good blog for you. Marianne, a former waitress and Randy, a former handyman, created this successful blog in response to questions from friends and relatives who wondered how they could afford to travel as often, as far, and for as long as they do. Their blog offers budgeting and lifestyle tips as well as boondocking advice. The couple also wrote a series of RV travel e-books

called The Frugal Shunpiker’s Guides. (In case you are wondering, a shunpiker is a traveler who avoids super highways, prefers driving on backroads.)

Travels with Emmatravels-with-emma.blogspot.comJudith Bell, who travels with her canine companion, Emma, shares her adventures, trials, and tribulations of being a solo full-time RVer. She started full-timing in 2006 and adopted Emma as a young stray pup in 2008. Originally, Judith says she started her blog as a way to continue her personal journal, liking that she could add photos to her text. “Eventually, folks other than family began reading it,

and I found a most friendly RV blogging community out there,” Judith said. A big part of her travels involves volunteering. Judith has volunteered at 15 different locations over the last six years. Mostly she prefers National Wildlife Refuges, but she has also given her time at several state parks, a fish hatchery and the Dinosaur National Monument in Utah.

Travels with Mirandatravelswithmiranda.uskeba.caRae Crothers is not your typical full-timer. She’s a single, thirty-something- year-old Canadian, who didn’t want to wait until retirement to hit the open road. At 29, she writes that she “decided to stop buying into the myth perpetuated by our society; that is that we must slog away at a job we hate for forty years before we are allowed to live.” After she decided that the full-time RVing lifestyle would be ideal for her she took a leave of absence from work, downsized, and moved into a 31-foot motorhome. On her site she says, “I love this life! How else could I “possibly see all of North America and still sleep in my own bed every night with my trusty feline co-pilots by my side.”

SoloWomanRV www.solowomanrv.blogspot.comJanet Groene is a long time RVer and former columnist for Family Motor Coaching magazine and contributor the TrailBlazer’s Camper’s Kitchen. She says she full-

timed with her husband for 10 wonderful years, sailing the tropics in the winter and cruising in their economical 24-foot diesel RV in the summers. Now due to her husband’s health, Janet finds herself traveling solo more often as her husband must stay closer to home. Altogether, Janet has written more than 25 books and her blog is chock full of wonderful tips and advice.

For the BirdsBirding RVersbirdingrvers.com Grant and Kathy Webb say they are “seeing North America one bird at a time.” They set out in 2003 to see the parks, monuments and wildlife refuges of North America and started their blog several years later. Their passions are bird watching and astronomy, and they have traveled to almost every state in the country. A nice feature on their blog (one that more blogs should have) is an alphabetic listing of all the states they have visited. You can click on a state and it automatically pulls up their journal entries during their visit to that state.

What’s CookingRV Cooking Showrvcookingshow.blogspot.com This blog gives you a front row seat in Evanne Schmarder’s virtual cooking class on wheels. She says her blog takes “viewers on adventures to some of the most sought-after or interesting but little known RV locales then creates a healthy, easy destination-related RV recipe.” Evanne often post videos showcasing some of the fantastic attractions and her cooking demonstrations.

Gone With The Wynnswww.gonewiththewynns.comNikki and Jason Wynn sold it all, packed up their 2 cats, bought an RV, and hit the road! Winners of the 2011 Best of the Road competition, Nikki and Jason’s passion for adventure is evident in every video and travel post script. Whether it’s hang gliding over San Francisco, carving pumpkins under water in Lake Havasu City or celebrating an art festival in the desert of Nevada, the Wynns

search, discover and explore all that life has to offer ... a mantra that is repeated from one journey to the next. Join them as a new adventure begins.

Getting TechnicalRV Tech Tipswww.rvtechtips.comWant to repair an awning tear? Or replace an RV faucet? RV tech Mark Polk can show you how in his blog. His technical guides are clear and easy to follow and he also occasionally posts videos, showing step by step instructions for do-it-yourself projects. Mark is also founder of RV Education 101, which is an instructional series on using and maintaining your RV available in videos, DVDs, books and e-books.

Boondocking ProsThe Adventures of Tioga and Georgeblog.vagabonders-supreme.netIf you are nervous about boondocking, George can show you the ropes. He started this blog in 2003 and is considered by many to be a boondocking expert. Since 2003 The Tioga RV Team has been dry camping in California, Idaho, Oregon and Washington and now Mexico, which he considers his home base. His goal is to share the vagabonding lifestyle with fellow RVers and encourage them to try boondocking and dry camping. ■

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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.

MEMBER DEALS SEPTEMBER 2012Thousand Trails members receive 20% off daily rates30% off daily rates for stays of 7 days or more and

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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. Valid on new reservations only.

*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. Valid on new reservations only.


blends combining Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, and Sangiovese. Most bear the Caduceus label and are supplied from his Merkin Vineyard in nearby Cornville. Tasting hours are 11a.m. to 7 p.m. (8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday) daily. A five-wine flight here will set you back $9. For information, call (928) 634-3444 or visit www.cadeceus.org.

Jerome Winery looks out across the Verde Valley from atop Jerome’s Cleopatra Hill where its charming tasting room with spacious views and outdoor patio make it a favorite among novices and oenophiles alike. A family enterprise of vintner John McLoughlin and sister, Melanie, Jerome Winery offers more than 30 distinct wines, from Cabs to Chardonnay and even Champagne -- plus a very special 15-year-old Port -- all produced from grapes tilled by John at his Wilcox, AZ vineyard. Enjoy your tasting with a light meal on the patio. Tasting hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (6 p.m. on Friday) daily. A four-wine tasting is $8. For information, call (928) 639-6067 or visit www.jeromewinery.com.

Bitter Creek Winery provides the first glimpse of the wine side of Jerome’s appeal as you wind up Cleopatra Hill into town. You’ll see the big “Winery” sign on your right, fronting a white stucco building perched on the edge of a cliff. John is producing so much wine from his Wilcox vineyard that he simply can’t sell it all through one location. It doesn’t matter because the Bitter Creek shop has its own distinctive personality – part artisan gallery, part tasting room. Here you can try more of John’s palate tempting blends while shopping for art and handicrafts, much of it the work of Verde Valley artist Rick Wykoff. A sculptor, furniture maker and illustrator, Wykoff creates Bitter Creek’s wine labels, including an interesting series based on tarot cards. Rick is a noted tattoo artist as well, so you could even arrange to decorate yourself in the process. Tasting hours are 10 a.m.

to 5 p.m. daily during summer months and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the winter. A four-wine tasting is $8. For information, call (928) 634-7033 or visit www.bittercreekwinery.com.

More Options: Here are some additional and somewhat unconventional approaches those planning a Verde Valley wine tour might consider.

Go in style aboard a stretch limo courtesy of Arizona Wine Tours (480-528-2834, www.azwinetours.com). You’ll meet in the morning at a pre-arranged pickup point in Phoenix and the company chauffeur and guide take it from there. Visit most of the wineries and tasting rooms featured above, enjoy an included lunch, and return to your originating location in the evening. Tours start at $160 per person.

Outdoorsy types can combine kayaking and wine tasting by signing on to a “Water to Wine” tour offered by Sedona Adventure Tours (928-204-6440, www.SedonaAdventureTours.com). This adventure ($129 per person) begins with an hour-long guided float trip on the Verde River in safe, stable inflatable kayaks and leads to Alcantara Vineyards for snacks and wine.

Those with a serious, or perhaps academic interest in wine might want to pay a visit to the Southwest Wine Center at Yavapai College in Cottonwood. Still under development, this program, generously backed by the Verde Valley Wine Consortium, features an on-campus 15-acre student-cultivated vineyard and a full-production teaching winery in support of the College’s Associate Degree program in Viticulture and Enology. For more information, contact Program Director Nikki Check at (928) 634-6576 or email at [email protected]. ■

MEMBER DEALS RETAILER DISCOUNTSThousand 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!

Exclusive Coleman DiscountThousand Trails members can now save 15% on their online purchases of tents, camping stoves and more!

Exclusive Hertz ProgramWhen you rent with Hertz, you can take advantage of special year-round savings through the Hertz Membership Benefits Program. By using the Thousand Trails discount code, you can save whether you reserve online or by phone.

Exclusive iDine SavingsSimply 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.

MyRVMarket.com - RV Parts & Accessories10% off all your purchases for the first year! get all of your RV supplies and Lifestyle products all in one great store at an affordable price. We look to make your RV experience the best it can be. That’s why we offer great products at great prices delivered to your doorstep. Over 1,000 valuable products for your RV, Boat or Home and growing every day! Sign in as a Travelers Club Member and get additional savings with travel and special promotions all year. MyRVMarket is the Exclusive Distributor of the powerful and environmentally safe Nature-zyme products. Join the Travelers Club today at MyRVMarket.com and see what’s in it for you!

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 promo code: BLAzER5

PetFoodDirect.com15% 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. It’s the easiest way to shop for all the top brands of pet food (137 brands and counting!), flea & tick preventatives, treats, toys, cat litter, crates, collars, beds, bowls, pet meds, and so much more (16,000 top-quality pet products in all)! (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 McNallyThe first gPS designed specifically for RVers. Special member discount. Thousand Trails is offering our members a special discount offer on all Rand McNally RVND gPS products. Visit www.randmcnally.com/ELS for more information.

TCIThousand Trails members receive discounts on Michelin tires through the Equity LifeStyle Properties Advantage program currently in place with TCI. TT members should call 1-888-532-6435 and reference the Equity Advantage program to receive discounts.

Wayfair.comA gift for you ... 10% OFF orders over $100* at Wayfair.com. Promo code: WAYFAIRSEPTA zillion things for your home! This promotion can be used on Wayfair.com. Save 10% on orders over $100 (any size, any quantity, any products). This code is for one-time use only. Once used the code will not work again. Offer valid 9/1/2012 through 9/30/2012.*Excludes Power Equipment only

Verde Valley Wine continued from page 37


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Answers on page 64

ACROSS 1 General Agreement of Tariffs

and Trade (abbr.) 5 Turk. title 9 Federal Aviation Admin.

(abbr.)12 Oriental maid13 Pinafore14 Sleeveless Arab cloak15 Firebug17 Mine (Sp.)18 Indo-Chin. language19 Moles21 Revise24 Suspend27 Soak30 Terrapin32 Pleasant33 Cost of living index (abbr.)34 Household gods36 Exclamation37 Arm bone39 Starnose40 Indian ground salt41 Spirits of the dead43 Son of Leah45 Adjective-forming (suf.)47 River into the North Sea50 Vigor52 Free56 “Fables in Slang” author57 Bird58 East59 Sleep60 Headland61 Elide

DOWN 1 Hiatus 2 Starch (pref.) 3 Edible root 4 Oar’s fulcrum 5 Luzon people 6 Cotton machine 7 Fr. exclamation 8 Bent 9 Brazen10 Mother of Hezekia11 Shoe size16 Emulate20 Vein (pref.)22 Muslim holy man23 Alps25 Yearn26 Affirmative27 Slimy stuff28 Wide-mouthed vessel29 Seal31 Proofreader’s mark35 Cut38 Atomic Energy Commission

(abbr.)42 Black buck of India44 Epic by Homer46 Rounded projection48 Cold alpine wind49 Norse mythical hero50 Old Doric name of Zeus51 Artificial language53 Power (Lat.)54 Curve55 No (Scot.)

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Answers on page 64

Luxury Rooms

9-Hole Golf

Pickleball

3 Pools

Seasonal Rental SpecialBook a 3 month seasonal reservation in a park model rental and receive $300 off (Members Only)

• Day Spa/Massage • 3 Pools/Hot Tubs• Tennis Courts• Fitness Center• 9-Hole Par 3 Golf Course• Pickleball Courts• Bar & Grill

800-424-9191520-574-5000

Off er valid for members of Thousand Trails, NACO, Mid-Atlantic, Leisure Time and Outdoor World only. All rates are based on double occupancy for standard room types are and are subject to availability. Free night off er is for 3 nights consecutive stay. Not valid with any other off ers or discounts. Rates do not include tax and resort fee and are subject to change without notice. Limited time off er - valid through September 30, 2012.

8701 S Kolb RdTucson, AZ 85756

Come Explorethe Southwest!

Voyager-ad-sept.indd 1 7/30/12 11:50 AM


catering, day-use activities and amenities can be all yours with our SuperHost program. Our lodge is available off-season for weddings, banquets, parties, retreats, or conferences. Call preserve or send email [email protected].

On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage: $45 per month or $180 for 6 months. Call Ranger Don.

CRESCENT BAR | 509-787-4349On-Site/Dry Storage - Limited dry storage. Call the preserve for information.

GRANDY CREEK | 360-826-3554Annual/Extended Stay - Annual site available! $2,600, please call the preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Off-site storage available on a limited basis. Call the preserve for information.

LA CONNER | 360-466-3112Annual/Extended Stay - Your very own site on our beautiful resort is waiting for you. Spend your free time on the Skagit Bay, walking on the beach, photographing the resident Bald Eagles, and relaxing in our spa. We have limited sites available so hurry and get one now for the summer season. Our Annual Program now has 210-day usage. Please call Nancy or Matthew at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - Leave your RV at home and come stay in our comfortable Panabode Cedar Cabins. Full kitchen, sleeps 6. Call preserve to make reservations. Please call Nancy or Matthew at the preserve.

Special Events - The perfect place for a reunion, retreat, church group, birthday party, wedding, RV rally, or corporate/business meeting or party. Great rental units, facilities and food. Call the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Only - please call the preserve for information.

LEAVENWORTH509-763-2020 | 800-353-1700Annual/Extended Stay - Leavenworth still has many beautiful sites available to call your own. Please call the preserve manager for more information.

Short-Term Rental - We have monthly stays for 1-6 months at $500 a month, plus utilities. Come enjoy Leavenworth and all its beauty.

Special Events - We’ve got the perfect venue for a fun-filled family reunion or a relaxing club/church retreat. Call or send e-mail to [email protected].

On-Site/Dry Storage - RV Dry Storage available for $5 per day, $30 per week or $75 per month. Call or send e-mail to [email protected].

LITTLE DIAMOND | 800-994-6654Annual/Extended Stay - Stay in sunny, beautiful Eastern Washington! Annual and extended stay sites available. Call Mike at the preserve.

Special Events - Granite Lodge: Two full kitchens, dining for large groups, sleeps 20+, adjacent RV and tent sites, spa and sauna, satellite TV. Contact preserve for more information.

LONG BEACH | 360-642-3091Annual/Extended Stay - Only minutes away from the grand Pacific Ocean, surrounded by gorgeous nature and a rich history of pioneers past. Don’t miss out on your chance to have your own place at the beach. You can have your own personal RV site where your rig can stay year-round and you can occupy your rig for 210 days of the year! No more hassle storing your rig and just think of all the money you will save on gas. We are also introducing a special 3-month rate during the off-season. Stay 3 months for only $350 per month or $500 per month during peak season. Call Kate at the preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - Feel at home in one of our Vacation Trailers or Thousand Trails Cabins. Start planning now! The summer will be over before you know it and we don’t want you to miss out on all the great festivities and events here on the Long Beach Peninsula. Call the preserve for rates.

Special Events - Planning a reunion, wedding, special event or a trip with a bunch of friends and family? Long Beach is the place for you! We have plenty of RV and tent sites as well as cabins and trailers available for rent. We are right off the beach and close to historic downtown Long Beach. For more information, call Kate at the Preserve Office.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Save on gas with our dry storage sites. Available year-round at the low price of $50 a month or get two months free when you sign up for a year for only $500. Call the Preserve Office for details.

MT. VERNON | 360-724-4811Annual/Extended Stay - Come enjoy our preserve with beautiful forest settings and views of the mountains where wildlife parade through. Relax in your own personal site now up to 210 days. Walk the trails or relax in the large swimming pool and spa. Please call Kelly King at the preserve to get your site.

Special Events - Perfect site with all amenities – we do it all! For any of your SuperHost needs, all events, weddings, anniversaries, reunions, rallies, birthdays, banquets and more, with catering available. Call Cookie at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call Donna at the preserve. Short term also available when you are taking a cruise.

OCEANA | 360-289-3504Annual/Extended Stay - Walk down to the beach for some quiet time away from all the hustle and bustle. Park your RV 12 months at Oceana. Stay up to 210 days a year with no time out. For the BEST PRICE on the WA coast for a full hook-up site with 50-amp power call Dale Graham at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - A limited number of sites are available starting at $350 per month, plus elec. for the summer season. Call Dale Graham at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - RV Storage $40 per month without electric (dry) or $50 per month with electric (limited sites with electricity and may be subject to availability).

PARADISE360-985-2121 (Preserve Office)360-985-2756 (Ranger Station)Annual/Extended Stay - Save on fuel, extend your stay at Paradise for $550 per month, or consider leaving your rig year-round with an annual lease. Call the preserve for more information.

Special Events - Starting to think about your family and friends gatherings? For more information call the preserve.

NORTHWESTOREGONBEND/SUNRIVER | 541-593-8494Annual/Extended Stay - We still have some open sites available for annual use. Stop worrying about space available in beautiful Bend/Sunriver with your own site and come and enjoy all we have to offer year-round. From skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in the winter to fishing, hiking and festivals in the summer. Please call Bobbie or Julie at the Preserve.

Short-Term Rental - Cabins, cottages and yurts available for rent year-round, call for quote.

Special Events - Perfect location for your family reunions, rallies and birthday picnics. Packages are available for renting our winter lodge for that special birthday. The main lodge is available for weddings, banquets and conferences. We also welcome ski clubs and snowmobile clubs. Call Anne or send email to [email protected].

On-Site/Dry Storage - Off-site storage available year-round. Call the preserve for information.

PACIFIC CITY503-965-6200 (Preserve Office)503-965-6442 (Ranger Station)Annual/Extended Stay - No longer a need to move your RV off-site for one or more years, plus the flexibility to occupy the unit up to 210 nights without contract use restrictions and then stay longer with reservations. Decorate your preferred site or add a storage shed if desired. Order your new Cavco Cedar Cabin and custom design the interior, select your preferred campsite and schedule delivery. Financing available. Contact Ginny to make an appointment.

Special Events - Awesome coastal weather, beach access, clamming, crabbing, beach-combing, professional and friendly service, campsites, rental units and gazebo. We host parties, club rallies, reunions, weddings and retreats for all group outings. A group consists of 4 or more campsites/rentals or any combination thereof. Contact the preserve for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Save on gas and take advantage of our RV storage program. $50 for 4 weeks, $300 for 26 weeks or $550 for 52 weeks. Dry storage space is limited.

SEASIDE503-738-0626 (Preserve Office)503-738-5292 (Rentals)Annual/Extended Stay - The Oregon Coast! Enjoy your own personal site for your RV. Home base for full-timers, improved landscape options available, personalize your site – add a storage shed and/or deck. You no longer need to move your RV. Call Christopher or Barry at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - Discounted short-term rentals available for two week and monthly stays. Great rates for Monday-Thursday mid-week stays. Call for our current specials. Our cabins are available all year long.

Special Events - Family reunions, RV rallies, church events, weddings or business meetings. Call Barry at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage for $60 per month. Get two free months with our yearly rate of $600.

SOUTH JETTY541-997-8296 (Preserve Office)541-997-8333 (Rentals)Annual/Extended Stay - Extended Stay program now available. Use it any 210 days and store your rig year-round. Contact Preserve Manager for details.

Short-Term Rental - Yurts, cabins and trailers available to fit your budget.

Special Events - Our heavily wooded preserve is located just 55 miles west of Eugene on the beautiful Oregon coast. The Oregon Sand Dunes Recreational Park is just a few minutes from our preserve. South Jetty is a perfect place for your reunion, company picnic, rally, wedding or business meeting. Call preserve for more details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call the preserve for information.

WHALERS REST541-867-6078 (Preserve Office)541-867-3100 (Storage)Annual/Extended Stay - Enjoy the beautiful Oregon Coast on your own personal site at Whalers Rest. Leave your rig year-round and occupy up to 210 days per year. Don’t have an RV or want a “vacation home”? We have former vacation rental trailers available for purchase and placement in the personal site program. Call Denise or Shari at the preserve for more information.

Special Events - Beautiful setting on the central Oregon coast, 18 rental units, including two new cabins and a very large garden home. Large meeting area and kitchen facilities. Parties and meetings of all sizes. Call preserve for details. SuperHost not available June 15-Sept. 15.


WASHINGTONBIRCH BAY | 360-371-7432Annual/Extended Stay - Play by the bay longer with stays beyond your membership days and enjoy the sun, not the grays, at Birch Bay. Space may still be available for your Personal Site. Purchase a vacation home, while they last, or bring your own. Monthly stays limited and also available at just $450 month, plus utilities. Come experience the beauty of the true Northwest. Contract Chandra at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Please call for dry storage availability.

CHEHALIS | 360-262-9489Annual/Extended Stay - Enjoy your own year-round private site in beautiful Chehalis. There’s no need to move your RV off-site. You can occupy your site for 210 days without reservations and then stay longer with reservations. Contract Brenda Roza for an appointment.

Short-Term Rental - We have monthly rentals for 1-4 months for $475 per month, plus utilities. We also have rental cabins and trailers offering daily and weekly rates.

Special Events - Perfect venue for your family reunion, church campout, picnic, party, school event or retreat. Rental units, RV sites, picnic areas,

Preserve Services Directory* | September 2012

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up and taking down your RV? If you like to escape the hustle and bustle of your life then we have the program for you. You can have your own personal site and you can leave your rig 365 days a year, you can occupy your rig for up to 210 days a year. We offer a limited number of annual sites and due to gas prices they fill up fast. Call Sheila or Cheryl at the preserve for more information.

Short-Term Rental - We offer rental cabins you can stay for the night or by the week. Call the preserve for prices. We also have a limited number of horse corrals available by the day or week. Call the preserve.

Special Events - If you are looking for that special place to have your family reunion, office get-together, church picnic or whatever the occasion, we do SuperHost groups. We have RV sites, tent sites, picnic areas, summertime activities and a few cabins to rent. Please call the preserve and ask Cheryl or Sheila.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage for only $450 per year, $65 per month or $40 per week. Call the Ranger Station for more information.

PALM SPRINGS | 760-345-1682Annual/Extended Stay - Nestled In the Coachella Valley, surrounded by the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains, you will find our preserve. It Is the perfect place to spend your winter, with average temperatures In the 70s and beautiful blue skies. Centrally located so you can be at the beach in a few hours, or visit Joshua Tree National Park in the high desert. Stay with us for a month or the season. Call the preserve for details.

Special Events - Rally groups welcome September through November and April through May. The preserve offers many activities, such as water aerobics, water volleyball, horseshoe pits, pickleball courts and a billiards room. Call the preserve for information.

PIO PICO619-421-0104Annual/Extended Stay - Are you tired of moving from park to park every 2-3 weeks? Or moving your RV in and out of storage? Get our own personal site and leave your RV there all year long. Contact Dave D. at Preserve Office.

Short-Term Rental - Are you going on vacation? We have Vacation Rental Trailers and cabins available for short-term stays. For more details please call the preserve.

Special Events - Do you have a group event or family gathering? Let Pio Pico host your event. Please call Faris or Shauna at the preserve to find out more information about our Group Event accommodations.

On-Site/Dry Storage - For more details please call the preserve.

PONDEROSA | 530-642-5830Annual/Extended Stay - Sign up for our new Annual Site program. Make a site yours for an entire year or up to 3 years! Eliminate storage costs and the hassle of moving your rig. Call Dominic at the preserve.

Special Events - Plan your next special event with us along the beautiful American River. We can help you host up to 150 guests for your wedding, family reunion, rally, or other special event function. Make your event one to remember – host it at Ponderosa Resort! Call the preserve for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call Kathy at the preserve for information.

RANCHO OSO | 805-683-5686Annual/Extended Stay - Short-term monthly FHU campsites at $650 per month, plus electric. Annual sites also available at special rates. Call the preserve or send email to [email protected].

Short-Term Rental - Check out our new reduced rates for our 29 and 30-foot trailers.

Special Events - Reunions, youth groups, picnics, retreats, meetings. Private Chapel/Pavilion and courtyard available for events. Stay in cozy cabins, covered wagons or our full amenity kitchenette campers. Call the preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: $75 per month or $750 per year and save $150. Call the preserve for information.

RUSSIAN RIVER707-894-5321 (Preserve Office)707-894-5355 (Special Events)Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites are still available - only a couple left. Extended Stay $400 per month, plus electric; includes one honeywagon dump per week. For more information call the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - Over 200 wineries, close to shopping, casinos, cultural events and world-class dining. 1.5 hours to the Mendocino coast. All TT cabins include one set of linens.

Special Events - Family gatherings and SuperHost events in Sonoma wine country. Call the Special Events number for more information.

SAN BENITO831-389-4477 (Ranger Station)831-389-4478 (Special Events)Annual/Extended Stay - Both our Annual Site and Extended Stay Programs are available. We also have Getaway cabins and other cabins and vacation trailers for the asking. Give us a call and see when we can fit you in. We also have space available for the public and we have tent sites. For any of your questions or concerns, contact the Ranger Station.

Special Events - If you’re looking for that great place for family gatherings, youth groups, reunions, meetings, retreats, church gatherings or just your very own special event, such as birthdays or anniversaries, contact one of our Host Coordinators at the Special Events office and they can get you on your way. We have whatever you need here at San Benito.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage is available. Call the Ranger Station for details.

SNOWFLOWER | 530-389-8241Annual/Extended Stay - Have a favorite camping area or site you prefer? Reserve a personal seasonal site anywhere in the preserve for only $388 per month. Seasonal sites available from May through October, weather permitting.

Short-Term Rental - Try something new and stay in one of our cabins or yurts! Cabins sleep four maximum and start at $71.20 per night mid-week, plus tax; yurts sleep 4-5 and start at $44 per night mid-week, plus tax. Cabins and Yurts are only a short drive to exploring California’s historic Gold Country or gaming and nightlife In Reno, NV. The yurts have heaters and new mini-fridges for your convenience. Call preserve for information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage sites available starting at $8 per day to $75 per month. Call the Ranger Station to check availability.

On-Site/Dry Storage - RV Storage $40 per month without electric (dry) or $50 per month with electric (limited sites with electricity and may be subject to availability).

TALL CHIEF | 425-222-0778Special Events - Our Timber Lodge is available for your special event. Tall Chief is a great place to hold your next Rally or group event. Call for details.

THUNDERBIRD360-794-4030 (Preserve Office)360-794-8987 (Ranger Station)Annual/Extended Stay - We are now open year-round and have Annual Sites available. Come stay with us and explore the beautiful state of Washington. We also offer the Extended Stay Program at $575 per month, plus $35 electric fee. If interested, please call the Preserve Office.

Short-Term Rental - Four (4) TT Rental Cabins available. For special off-season rates, please call the Preserve Office.

Special Events - We welcome Family Reunions, SuperHost Groups, Weddings, etc. Please call the Preserve Office for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - RV Storage for $2.50 per day or $75 per month. Call the Preserve Office

BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADACULTUS LAKE | 604-858-3932Annual/Extended Stay - We offer Annual Sites but are current sold out and we have started a waiting list in the Ranger Station. If you are interested, sign up and we will call you when a site becomes available. From October 1-March 31, each winter season, we offer month to month stays (not to exceed three (3) months at a time). Talk to Norm or Lisa about this program.

On-Site/Dry Storage - We offer storage in our storage area at a daily, weekly, monthly or six-month rate. Check at the Preserve Office or Ranger Station if you’re interested.

SOUTHWESTARIZONAVERDE VALLEY | 928-634-8158Annual/Extended Stay - Extend your stay with us for $99 a week plus tax. Extend by the month on a 30-amp for $350 or 50-amp for $425, plus electric. Annual sites start at $2,500 per year. Pick a lease package where you can stay 365 nights-Best Deal. For more information regarding our Extended Stay and Annual Lease programs, contact Scott Woolley at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - 29-foot trailers for $595 per month (includes electric). Cabins $1,000-1,250 per month (includes electric). Weekly housekeeping and linens, TV/VCR, satellite. Pet and non-pet units available. Call the preserve to reserve your unit.

Special Events - SuperHost groups welcome. Nice RV sites, catering, rentals and friendly staff. Contact Angela at the preserve.

Dry Storage - Dry Storage available w/o electric for $50 per month or $425 per year, with electric for $90 per month or $775 per year. Call the preserve for details.

CALIFORNIAIDYLLWILD

951-659-4097 (Preserve Office)951-659-4137 (Ranger Station)951-659-0698 (Recreation Office)Annual/Extended Stay - Annual lease as low as $2,195 per year (not including electricity). Keep your trailer/rig or motorhome on a site for 365 days per year! Please contact Preserve Manager for more details.

Short-Term Rental - Stay in the preserve on a month-to-month basis for as low as $575 per month, including water and electricity. We also have rental cabins!! Daily, weekly and by the month. Please contact the Preserve Manager at for more information.

Special Events - To book your next SuperHost outing at Idyllwild, please contact SuperHost Coordinator at (951) 659-4137 for further details. For the resort’s list of activities, please contact the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available for as little as $75 per month or $650 per year. Please contact the Preserve Office for more information on terms and conditions.

LAKE MINDEN530-656-2701 (Preserve Office)530-656-2702 (Special Events)530-656-2700 (Storage)Annual/Extended Stay - Variety of sites available – 1-3 year leases, sewered and non-sewered sites; utilities not included. Snowbird Program: $425 per month, plus electric, includes one honeywagon dump per week. Call the preserve for more information.

Special Events - Family reunions, church outings, company picnics, wedding receptions. Call Sonia at Special Events.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: Quarterly for $120. Call the preserve for information.

LAKE OF THE SPRINGS | 530-692-1852Annual/Extended Stay - Enjoy having your rig waiting for you on-site. Call us for more information on our Annual and/or Monthly Programs.

Special Events - Group outings are available. Sites and/or Rental units available. Overnight or Day Use. Call Tina at the preserve.


MORGAN HILL408-779-6396 (Preserve Office)408-779-4932 (SuperHost)Annual/Extended Stay - Call the preserve to get the details on the best prices in the area for full hook-up and partial hook-up sites for stays up to 210 days in a year.

Special Events - Let us help plan that special family event or company get-together. Call SuperHost.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: $85 per month and $792 per year. Call the preserve for more details.

OAKZANITA619-445-2835 (Preserve Office)619-445-2515 (Ranger Station)Annual/Extended Stay - Gas prices got you down? Hate the hassle of setting

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MASSACHUSETTSGATEWAY TO CAPE COD | 508-763-5911Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available for $2300. Vacation cottages for sale starting at $2500, plus site fee of $2400. Please call preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - Park Model rentals available starting at $60 per night (some pet units available). Call the preserve for more information and reservations.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available $46 per month or $360 per year. Call the preserve or inquire at the Trading Post.

STURBRIDGE | 508-347-7156Annual/Extended Stay - Annuals from $1740 to $2666 for lakeside and, new this year, seasonal sites for spring and fall for $500.

Short-Term Rental - Nightly and weekly rates, 10 people per site. All you bring Is linen and food. Amenities are free.

Special Events - We have a beautiful conference center for all occasions nestled in beautiful Sturbridge.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Off-site Storage: $20 per week; $45 per month; or $350 per year.

MICHIGANBEAR CAVE | 269-695-3050Annual/Extended Stay - Limited annual sites still available. Call for rates. Just 90 minutes from Chicago and only 20 minutes to Michigan’s finest beaches. Reserve now and enjoy one of the most stunningly beautiful waterfront camp reserve sites available. Located on the St. Joseph River with boat launch and docks.

Short-Term Rental - 1 and 2 bedroom park model rentals for $59 and $69 per night; 2-night minimum stay on weekends and 3-night minimum stay on holiday weekends. Linen rental for additional fee. 2-4 person, fully-equipped tent rentals available. Call for details.

ST. CLAIR | 810-329-7129Annual/Extended Stay - Beautiful sites, concrete pad and patio, paved road, metered 50-amp electric, water and sewer. Stay up to 180 nights and store your rig the rest of the year. $2,000 per year. Similar new sites with gravel pads and roads are only $1,500 per year. Contact Preserve Manager for details.

Special Events - Enjoy family reunions, rallies, company picnics or special events through our SuperHost Program. Call preserve for more information.

NEW JERSEYCHESTNUT LAKE | 609-652-1005Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites starting at $1,599; Monthly Sites from $500.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage for $25 per week; $50 per month or $400 per year.

LAKE & SHORE | 609-624-1494Annual/Extended Stay - Limited Cottages available so make the call today.

SEA PINESAnnual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites available, starting at $2895.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available for $ 20 weekly, $50 per month or $400 per year.

NEW YORKRONDOUT VALLEY | 845-626-5521Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Special - September 1, 2012-June 3, 2013: $795. Short-Term Rental - September or October Cabin Stay Thursday-Monday for $165; September or October Loft Cabin Thursday-Monday for $220.

On-Site/Dry Storage - November-April: $25 per month; April-October $45 per month or $395 for the year, if paid in full.

OHIOKENISEE LAKE | 440-576-9030Annual/Extended Stay - Lakefront for $1,545 and non-lakefront for $1,030. Call the preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - Elite site is $475 for a month-to-month and $425 per month for a standard site.

Special Events - Rustic Barn, Pool Pavilion available for Family Reunions, Superhosts, and Get-togethers. If interested, please contact Linda Roberts or Connie Higgs for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage ONLY. Fees: $35 per month; $65 per quarter (yearly) $125 per 6 months; and $235 for one year.

WILMINGTON | 937-382-5883Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites now available: $1,250-$1,750. Call Amy for more information.

Special Events - SuperHost Facility Rental: Family Lodge $400; Pavilion $100. Call preserve for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: $15 per week, $35 per month or $150 for six (6) months. Call the Ranger Station.

PENNSYLVANIACIRCLE M | 717-872-4651Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites Available! Starting at $2,350, 210 days of occupancy; space is limited.

Special Events - Looking for a great place for your next family outing? Look no further than Outdoor World Circle M in Lancaster. Contact Judy at to make your plans.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Outdoor World Circle M is not accepting any new dry storage agreements.

GETTYSBURG FARM | 717-292-7191Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites available. Call Jeff at the preserve office for information.

Special Events - Two pavilions are available for your reunion, company picnic, wedding or party. These creekside pavilions are a popular gathering spot for your special functions. Call Jeff or Mary at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Rates: $20 weekly, $50 monthly and $300 yearly. Call the preserve or stop by the Trading Post.

SOLEDAD CANYON661-269-1740 (Preserve Office)661-269-7038 (Special Events)Special Events - Have your rally, wedding, picnic, retreat or reunion at our beautiful preserve. Catering for up to 3,000 available. Call the preserve for information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - On-site storage no longer available. Dry Storage $75 per month or $750 annual. Call the preserve for information.

TURTLE BEACH | 209-239-0991Annual/Extended Stay - Limited number of sites available for both annual lease and monthly rental. Extended stay available. Contact Preserve Manager for pricing.

Special Events - Contact Preserve Manager for information on accommodations for SuperHost groups and family gatherings.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available for $20 per week or $60 per month.

WILDERNESS LAKES951-672-4831 (Preserve Office)951-672-7804 (Special Events/SuperHost)Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available. Fish from the back of your site! No reservations required. You can leave your RV on-site 365 days per year. You may occupy the site 210 days per year. Call Brandie or Dave at the preserve for more information.

Short-Term Rental - Discounted rates Sunday-Thursday, excluding three-day holidays. Call for prices or check reservation’s web page.

Special Events - Call or send email to [email protected] for your next reunion, retreat, party, seminar, and group rally. Catering available.


NEVADALAS VEGAS702-451-2719 (Preserve Office)800-288-7245 (Rentals)702-451-4647 (Storage)Annual/Extended Stay - Come HOME to your own private site in FUN City. Year-round sites available in four price ranges. Extended Stay monthly sites available from $475 per month. Call preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - Make your cabin and trailer reservations early; high demand in fall, winter and spring. Call the Rental Office for information.

Special Events - Let us make your special event memorable. Have your family reunion, company picnic or wedding in Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world. Call the preserve for more information.On-Site/Dry Storage - Call the preserve for information.

MIDWEST/NORTHEASTILLINOISPINE COUNTRY815-547-5517 (Preserve & Marketing Office)Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available - rates $2,044. Monthly site rental (RV) - $425 per month. We offer weekly and mid-week special rates also. Call preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - Public W/E/S - nightly rate - $43. Tent sites - nightly $28.

Special Events - Large and small pavilion available for rental - must reserve. Clubhouse space available for rental - must reserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Yearly storage rates $350.

INDIANAINDIAN LAKES812-934-5496 (Preserve & Marketing Office)Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites starting at just $1,200. Please call Charlene.

Short-Term Rental - Monthly cabin and site rentals available. Please call Charlene.

Special Events - Church event, picnic, weekend retreat, youth group gatherings, meeting, reunion, birthday party, anniversary party, or wedding ~ no matter what your event, we have the facility you need. Please call Jody at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - RV storage available starting at $35 per month. Quarterly, semi-annual, and annual rates available. Call Charlene at the preserve.

HORSESHOE LAKES | 765-832-2487Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Lease Sites are $1,500 for lakefront and $1,075 for non-lakefront.

Short-Term Rental - We have 126 sites available (122 full hook-up, and 25 50-amp sites - 50-amp sites are $3 per night).

Special Events - RV sites, meeting/banquet room, kitchen available for reunions, parties, church groups, weddings, etc.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available starting at $10 per week up to $300 annually.

MAINEMOODY BEACH | 207-646-4586Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites Available: Premium $2882, plus electric fee; Elite $3542, plus electric fee; membership required. Great sites still available. Close to sandy beaches, attractive, Portland ME and Portsmouth NH. Annual Cottages Available: 28’x12’ park models, sleeps 4 adults and 2 children, complete kitchen and bath, supplies. Own your own cottage to come to all season! Annual site fee required. Prices vary - contact manager for more information. Extended Stay Available: $535 per month - April, May, June - September, October. Extended Stay available for 1000 per month - July and August. Call Country Store for more information.

Short-Term Rental - April 15-June 10 and September 5 to closing (Oct. 20). Spring or Fall - Shoulder Seasons, get away for a weekend or a week at Moody Beach. Call Country Store for special or look us up on line at www.1000trails.com.

Special Events - Moody Beach Is a great getaway for your group. Rallies and Reunions. Safari Field available. Contact us to book your group or party.

On-Site/Dry Storage - $4 per day, $25 per week, $45 per month or $375 per year. Valid insurance and agreement required.

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HERSHEY717-867-1891 (Preserve Office)717-867-3967 (Storage)Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites available at beautiful Hershey Preserve starting at $2,600. Call Kim at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Rates: $20 weekly, $50 monthly, $200 for six months or $375 per year. Call or stop by the Country Store during regular hours.

PA DUTCH COUNTRY | 717-665-2500Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites available – Standard sites $1,800, plus metered electricty; Premium sites $2,175, plus metered electricity. Vacation Cottage site fee $2,100 per year. For more information, please call Joanne or Joan at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - 16 cabins available for rent. Call the preserve for details.

Special Events - Don’t worry about the weather – our large building is available for rent. Building will accommodate square dance groups inside; also available for weddings and other events. For more information, please call Joanne or Joan at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Off-site Storage is available for $3 per day, $60 per month, and $375 per year. For more information, please call Joanne or Joan at the preserve.

SCOTRUN | 570-629-0620Annual/Extended Stay - Scotrun, in the beautiful Pocono Mountains, has annual sites available starting at $1295. Scotrun is central to everything in the Poconos and easy access right off Route 80.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Only - $400 per year or $50 per month. Contact preserve for details.

TIMOTHY LAKE NORTH & SOUTH | 570-588-6631Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available and vacation cottages for sale in the beautiful, scenic Pocono Mountains! Call the preserve and ask for Cathy or Nicole for pricing information.

SOUTHEASTALABAMAHIDDEN COVE | 205-221-7042Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available - $2,150. For information please call the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - Park Model Rentals $60 and $70 per night. For information, call the preserve.

Special Events - Our lakefront Clubhouse and Pavilion are the perfect venues for family reunions, receptions, birthday parties, company events, church picnics, etc. We also have RV sites, tent sites and cabins. For details please call the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available for $3 per day or $200 for 6 months. Call preserve for information.

FLORIDAORLANDO352-394-5531 (Preserve Office)352-394-7300 (Special Events)

Annual/Extended Stay - Sites still available for extended stay and lease options. Leave your rig and not have to move every few weeks. Please call Beth-Ann McCourt for more details or ask for when you arrive at the preserve.

Special Events - Function hall, catering, activities and amenities are all yours with our SuperHost Program. For details, contact Beth-Ann McCourt.

PEACE RIVER | 863-735-8888Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available for $2,280 per year, plus tax and electric. Extended seasonal sites available as well. Weekender program-$179 per month-limited availablility, limited time offer. Call Lee at the preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - We have nine rental log cabins available, for nightly or monthly rental.

Special Events - We are the perfect location for your group events. Reunions, birthday parties and other special events are fun and carefree when using our facilities.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage $45 per month. Call the preserve for information.

KENTUCKYDIAMOND CAVERNS | 270-749-2891Annual/Extended Stay - Annual lease sites available as well as Extended Stay. Call the preserve for more information.

Short-Term Rental - Call the preserve for details on short-term rentals.

Special Events - Special rates available for rallies, reunions and special functions. Please call the preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - On-site and dry storage available. Please call the preserve for rates.

NORTH CAROLINAFOREST LAKE | 336-988-4135Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites are available! Don’t delay in securing yours now and start enjoying the convenience of annual site rental. Contact Preserve Office for current rate.

Short-Term Rental - Cabins, cottages and short-term rentals are available. The longer you stay, the better the price! For rates and availability contact Barb Stanze at the Preserve Office.

Special Events - Ask about our special group rates for family reunions, rallies and camping adventures for that special occasion or birthday party! To learn more about these customized camping experiences please contact Barb Stanze at the Preserve Office.

GREEN MOUNTAIN PARK | 828-757-4088Annual/Extended Stay - Rates are $1,400 to $2,855. Call preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - Vacation cottages for sale at $4,495.

Special Events - Call preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage available - $2 per day or $365 per year

LAKE GASTON | 252-586-4121Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available. Rates from $1,950. Call the preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available: $20 per week, $45 per month or $325 per year. Storage available for boats and RVs. For information, please call the preserve.

SOUTH CAROLINACAROLINA LANDING | 864-972-9892Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available starting at $1,300 for current members.

THE OAKS AT POINT SOUTH | 843-726-5728Annual/Extended Stay - Come spend the summer where it’s sunny at our beautiful spot close to Savannah, Charleston, and right next door to the historic Beaufort by the sea. Our summer price is very reasonable - $350 per month plus tax and electric. Call the preserve and book now for a great summer. Easy access to/from I-95.

On-Site/Dry Storage - We offer on-site storage at $150 per month, plus electric and taxes.

TENNESSEECHEROKEE LANDING | 731-376-0935Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available from $1,099 to $1,300 for the season for current members. Extended Stay sites are $300 for current members. Call the preserve to make your reservations.

Short-Term Rental - We have campsites and rental cabins available. Call the preserve to make your reservations.

Special Events - We are the place for your SuperHost needs. Rallies, family reunions, weddings, church groups, Boy Scouts, Girls Scouts, birthday parties and more. Call the preserve to make your reservation.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage only.

NATCHEZ TRACE | 931-796-3212Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites still available - $1,020 to $1,380.

Short-Term Rental - Mid-week cabin stay special - $99 Monday through Thursday. Limited Availability. Standard Cabins only.

Special Events - Rallies Welcome! Large rental hall facilities available.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry: $5 per day/$25 per month.

TEXASBAY LANDING | 940-683-3016Annual/Extended Stay - Bay Landing is now your personal site for 12 months. *Annual Stay – stay up to 210 days a year with no time out. Limited spaces available. Honey Runs every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for $10, plus tax. No need to move your rig, we come to you! Contact the Ranger Station before 2 p.m. to put your name on the list. Don’t cut your weekend short with towing and setup. Save on Gas. No pulling! Please call Lynn.

Special Events - We have excellent amenities for any of your SuperHost needs, such as family reunions, weddings, church groups, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, etc. Beautiful pavilions on Lake Bridgeport! Please call Nena.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Only - $45, plus tax ($48.04).

COLORADO RIVER | 979-732-8229Annual/Extended Stay - Annual site leases available for part-time or full-time occupancy. Suitable for RV or park models. Also offering Summer Texan extended stays for members and the public for up to 5 months at market rate, plus metered electricity. For pricing and details about Annual sites or 55+ programs, call Marty or send email at [email protected].

Special Events - Make your family reunion or church picnic interesting and fun for all ages. All family oriented groups welcome. Contact Marty or send email to [email protected].

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available year-round; fenced secure area. Call the preserve or send email [email protected].

LAKE CONROE936-856-7888 (Preserve Office)936-856-3751 (Rental Office)Annual/Extended Stay - Come stay for a maximum of five months at a time on our Texan Program. The cost is $375 per month, plus electricity. We also have medical stays available. For details contact the Ranger. Our annual program allows you to stay up to 210 days and leave your rig onsite for the entire year. Hidden Cove annual programs are available for 300 days. Contact the Preserve Office for details.

Short-Term Rental - We have four cabins for rent nightly for two weeks at a time, for $80 for members, plus $10 extra for guests, plus tax, per night. We have nine Getaways for our Getaway members. We also have a Hidden Cove rental, which are owned by members and rented by the week or the month. Check with our Preserve Office for details. All rentals are fully furnished. You just need to bring clothes and food!

Special Events - SuperHost/pavilion/family center/lake area rental available most weekends for parties and special events. Contact the Ranger Station at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage is $35 per month, plus tax. Contact the Ranger Station. We also have short-term storage at $40 per week, plus tax, where you may store your RV and leave electric plugged in while you are out of the preserve.

LAKE TAWAKONI | 903-598-2800Annual/Extended Stay - Standard and Premium sites are available. There are electric charges on both. These sites are for 210 days of usage. Marina and dry storage are available for boats.

Short-Term Rental - Two rental cabins available.

Special Events - SuperHost facilities are available for family reunions and business use for a fee. Contact the BA for assistance.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Monthly Dry Storage cost is $42.70.

LAKE TEXOMA903-523-5835 (Preserve Office)903-523-4206 (Special Events/Storage)Annual/Extended Stay - Personal Sites available. A year with no time out. *Limited spaces available.* Save on gas, setup, pulling/towing. Please call Nic at the preserve office for information. Don’t delay - sites are rapidly filling up!

Short-Term Rental - New rates - call the preserve manager or ask at the office.

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Special Events - We offer SuperHost programs church groups, family reunions, scout groups, etc. Contact Brynda.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available for $40 per month. Please call Brynda.

LAKE WHITNEY | 254-694-4269Annual/Extended Stay - Our annual/personal site program allows you to camp up to 210 days a year. There are 4 different price ranges depending on the site type chosen. Call us to find out how to get your personal site at Lake Whitney.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available for $55 per month or $605, plus tax, for the entire year (if paid in full at start of storage). You receive the 13th month free. Don’t wait - limited space.

MEDINA LAKE830-751-2444 (Preserve Office)830-751-2406 (Special Events/Storage)Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Site program available. Guarantee your personal site for an entire year with sites starting at $1,733. Call preserve for details.

Special Events - Family reunions, company picnics, rallies – we do them all! We have two large outdoor areas available for day use. Campsite and limited cabin rentals are also available. Call Cindy at Special Events.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage $60 per month or $540 per year, plus tax. Call Preserve Office or Storage.

VIRGINIACHESAPEAKE BAY804-693-6951 (Resort Office) 804-693-9645 (Special Events) Annual/Extended Stay - Chesapeake Bay is the best place to spend weekends and vacation and our annual sites make it so easy to jump in the car and head to the “rivah”! Contact Lisa in the Resort Office if you would like information on how you can lease a site in 2013.

Short-Term Rental - We have 20 fully-furnished rental cabins that sleep 4-6. (18 are lakefront locations). Pet units also available.

Special Events - On a tidal river of the Chesapeake Bay, we have 20 rental cabins, tent sites and 30- and 50-amp full hook-up sites. Perfect for group events, rallies and reunions. Indoor and outdoor facilities for meetings and gatherings. Call Special Events.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Field storage available year-round. On-site storage

available Nov. 15-May 15. Call Resort Office for details.

HARBOR VIEW | 804-224-8164Annual/Extended Stay - Seasonal sites: $1,075, plus tax and electric, for the season or $350, plus tax and electric, per month. ALL SITES ARE FULL HOOK-UP.

Short-Term Rental - Book your stay in our Rental Unit; sleeps 6 with a full kitchen and bath. Pets allowed. Call for rates and details.

Special Events - Plan your group event at Harbor View. Air-conditioned Recreational Hall and covered Pavilion available for reservation.

LYNCHBURG | 434-332-6672Annual/Extended Stay - Plan to spend the season with us and enjoy all the beauty, festivals and fun that Central Virginia has to offer. Annuals sites are available for $1,200; premium sites are $1,875. Call the preserve for more details.

Short-Term Rental - Spend a month or two and enjoy all the wonderful activities and attractions of the area. Our monthly rate is $300, plus electric. Call the preserve for more information and start making your plans today.

Special Events - We offer the perfect place for family reunions, church or company picnics, camping rallies, weddings and receptions, and other special functions. Contact the preserve at or send email to [email protected] and let us help you plan your special gathering today.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: $40 per month; $200 for six months $200, $400 for the year.

VIRGINIA LANDING | 757-442-4853Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available. Call the preserve for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available year-round.

WILLIAMSBURG | 757-566-3021Annual/Extended Stay - Your best year of camping begins at Williamsburg. Annual on-site program at our beautiful tree-sheltered campground: full hook-up, metered sites begin at $1,750. Vacation Cottage Program offers 28 to 38-foot park models, vinyl or log-sided from $1,499 to $4,999, with a 3-year annual on-site lease. Satellite reception sites still available. Call Gary at the preserve to find out about this month’s TrailBlazer Reader’s Special.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Secure and easy access storage for $395 annually with park membership. Call the preserve for more information.

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Your Thousand Trails Gear Shop

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September weather calls for snuggly warm gear. Stock up on Thousand Trails zip and hooded sweatshirts for the season. Use the promo code TTGEAR25 to receive 25% OFF your first order of Thousand Trails Gear. Visit www.myrvmarket.com and click on LifeStyle to get this great discount on your first TT gear order.

Also be sure to check out the other products available at myrvmarket.com.


Marketplace

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To Advertise in Marketplace Or To Place a Classified Ademail [email protected]

Deadline for Nov/Dec 2012 Issue is September 7, 2012

WORLDWIDE 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

FREE DIRECTV & RV KIT for your RV when you get DIRECTV for your home with ENTERTAINMENT Pkg & above. Pkgs start at $29.99/mo for 12 mos.Ends 9/30/12. NEW DIRECTV customers only. Restrictions apply. Call Now! 1-800-257-4480

RV Dishcloth & Washcloth by Lunatec Trekr® and Scrubr™ are made from technical materials designed to dry fast, rinse clean, and not get smelly. Perfect for travel and RVing. 858.653.0401 www.lunatecgear.com, 10% coupon code: 10TRAILBLAZER2012

ClassifiedAdvertisingHEARTLAND LANDMARK 2013 Heartland Landmark Grand Canyon. $68,900 MSRP $99,817. True Four Season (Zero-Rated!), 38’ w/ Triple Slides. 42” LCD TV, Central Vacuum, One Touch Leveling, Frameless Dual Pane Windows. Dual Quiet Whisper AC System (In Stock Units Only)www.rvsforless.net1-877-960-1777

DRV MOBILE SUITES 2013 DRV Mobile Suites 36RSSB3. $93,013 MSRP $110,668. True Four Season. (Sub-Zero Rated!) 37’ w/ Four Slides. 2 ACs, Frameless Dual Pane Windows, Central Vac, Disc Brakes, Fireplace, 4 Dr. Refrigerator, One Touch Leveling, 43’ Units available. Mention this Ad for 10% Discount off MAP Pricingwww.rvsforless.net 1-877-960-1777

Terms and Conditions for 2012 Referral PromotionTerms and Conditions: For each Eligible Referral (as defined), you will receive a $25 American Express gift card. 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 2013, not to exceed $499 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, 2013. 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, 2012 and December 14, 2012, 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

Tech Topics continued from page 11

AlternatorsYour motorhome or tow vehicle uses the running engine’s alternator to help keep your batteries charged. An alternator’s ideal size is determined by the size of the load on the batteries. If your alternator is too small for its load, you’ll find your batteries are chronically undercharged, even after a full day’s driving. If you consistently find your batteries’ charge level is low, it could be a sign that your alternator may be too small to handle your RV’s power requirements. But bigger is not always better: if you simply replace your alternator with one that’s too large for its load, you could potentially squander fuel mileage.

Generally speaking, a motorhome’s alternator is appropriately sized to its load, unless you’ve added several aftermarket 12-volt accessories. But if you pull a trailer or fifth wheel that requires battery power to operate everyday appliances (like stereos, radios, 12-volt TVs, water pumps, heating systems, etc.), you may need to consider upgrading the size of your tow vehicle’s alternator. To do this, you must first determine your load (meaning the power requirements of all of the above-mentioned appliances). Next, consider both the size and the number of batteries you expect to keep charged and size your alternator accordingly. Your local RV Service Center or a trusted mechanic should be able to help you with this project.

Happy trails!

Paul and Kerri Elders are freelance writers; visit their website at RVLinker.com.

Camper’s Kitchen continued from page 9

Preheat oven to 425° by heating the lid with a ring of charcoal and about 7-8 more briquettes. Combine oats, flour, pecans, sugar, and salt together in small mixing bowl. Whisk together oil and 1 tablespoon of water in measuring cup. Add oil mixture to dry ingredients and mix well. If necessary, add a little more water to hold mixture together. While the oven is preheating, make the crust and press into a 9-inch pie or round cake pan. Make a ring of charcoal for underneath the oven. Reduce temperature to 350° by removing a few briquettes from the lid (use a ring and 1/2 of coals). Place the pie or cake pan into the 12-inch Dutch oven. Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes, or until lightly browned. In a mixing bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt together. Add eggs and vanilla and mix until ingredients are well blended. Stir in mashed sweet potatoes and milk. Make sure the filling is really smooth. Pour filling into prepared pie shells. Bake 45 minutes at 350° or until knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Remove your pan from the Dutch oven and cool on a rack. ■

Share your pictures, chat about campingand get involved with other camping enthusiasts.

www.facebook.com/ThousandTrails

Like us onFacebook


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 124th Annual Tournament of Roses Parade.

18th Annual TourTues,January 1,2013

only $140 per person

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

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TournRoses.pdf 1 8/1/12 11:15 AM

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

Rod Shierof Templeton, CA

Answers - Sudoku puzzle can be found on page 50

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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! Hartcel & Ruthie Hobbs

from Mission Viejo, CAfound the evergreen tree on page 22 of the

July issue. Send your entry(postcards only) to

TrailBlazer Evergreen Tree, Two North Riverside Plaza,

Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. Postmark deadline is September 30, and remember — the tree could be a different

color and size.

VisitTrailBlazerMagazine.net

to read September’s

CLUBCALENDAR


Dragon Run, 35 miles of wetlands and stream at the headwaters of the Piankatank River, may be the most pristine water body in Virginia,

affected least by the changes in the landscape over the last few centuries.

Historians note that Peter Jefferson, a colonial Virginia surveyor (and the father of Thomas Jefferson), surveyed the Dragon Run in the 1700s. His drawings of the stream path may have led to the stream’s naming due to the dragon-like shape it takes as it wanders from its origins toward the Chesapeake Bay.

Other historical references to the Dragon Run include Captain John Smith’s crossing the stream in 1607 while on his way to meet with Powhatan and Pocahontas as well as the report that County Clerk P.T. Woodward reportedly prevented important Confederate documents from falling into Union hands by hiding them on an island in the Dragon Run during the Civil War.

Wild – and for much of its 35 miles, inaccessible to humans – the Dragon Run Swamp is home to many fish species including chain pickerel, warmouth sunfish, bowfin, redbreast sunfish, and white catfish. The lower river is filled with migratory fish that only come into the area in the spring to spawn such as American shad, hickory shad, alewife herring, blueback herring, and striped bass. The Dragon Run also houses rookeries for egrets and herons while beavers, white tail deer, otters, muskrats, raccoons, wood ducks, bald eagles, ospreys, hawks, herons, and owls make their homes here.

For the past 7 years, the second Saturday in October has been devoted to celebrating the heritage of the Dragon Run watershed area. And Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay RV Resort has served as the host to this event.

The goal of Dragon Run Day is to “increase public awareness of this ecologically critical watershed and to educate area residents and visitors about the activities, both helpful and harmful, to the health of Dragon Run.”

The event, scheduled for October 13, 2012, includes hands-on activities for kids, food concessions, music crafters, a mini-RV show, hayrides and a free guided wetlands walk. For kayaking newbies, discover how easy and fun kayaking can be by participating in one of the brief “Introduction to Kayaking” courses that are free to all with equipment provided. And free guided interpretive boat tours on the Piankatank River into the mouth of the Dragon Run provide an extraordinary, up-close and personal glimpse of the Dragon. Last but not least, 25-, 50- and 100-mile bike rides that start and end at Chesapeake Bay are also a highlight of the event.

Both overnight and day visitors of Chesapeake are welcome to attend this wonderful event.

To book a stay at Chesapeake, visit www.ThousandTrails.com. If you’re interested in participating in the bike ride, visit www.gloucesterparks.org/ride-the-dragon. For more information on the Dragon Run, visit landonstudios.net for an historic pictorial or www.dragonrun.org.

Photo: www.visionarywild.comPickerelweed blooming in Dragon Run swamp,

border of Middlesex and King & Queen Counties, VACIRCLE NO. 128 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

SEPTEMBER 2012 | TRAILBLAZER 68 CIRCLE NO. 132 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

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TrailBlazer Magazine - September 2012

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