Top Banner
9812 Old Winery Place, Suite 1 • Sacramento, CA 95827 • (916) 361-2051 • Toll-Free (800) 951-5556 • www. sportsleisure.com • CA Travel #2011549-40 INSIDE THIS ISSUE Just One Man’s Opinion ........................... 2 Clayton Place ........................................... 3 The Customers Always Write ................... 4 The Human Side....................................... 5 Casino Trips and Baseball ....................... 6 Day Trips ...............................................7-9 New Vacations & Getaways ..............10-11 The Barber Pole ..................................... 12 Tour Calendar ....................................13-19 Teasers ................................................... 19 Coupons and Tour Updates .... Back Cover H H H H H H H H H H H H Editor ................................. Mark Hoffmann Executive Editor ..................Kevin Murphy Staff Writers ........... P. Hansen, R. Goodge, S. Angeletti & C. Whitehead, D. Anderson Contributing Photographer.......C. Galloway 9,699 Active Members • 47,248 Members Since 1979 March/April | VOL. 36 | NO. 4 2015 You are invited to our Spring Fling / Holiday Preview Day Saturday, April 18, 2015 KVIE Studios, 2030 West El Camino Avenue 10am or 1:30pm Free Admission, although we ask your help. We are collecting school supplies for foster children in our area (a list of suggested items is on our website). Complimentary refreshments, including the Key Lime Pie voted number one in our taste test, Boudin’s Chowder and wonderful spring rolls from our favorite Sacramento Restaurant (Peking). This is your opportunity to get advance information (and register early the following week) on all of our holiday trips, plus an update on selected summer and fall trips, including: This display of over 50 international Christmas trees at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago is part of our Chicago Christmas Spectacular in December, details coming at our Spring Fling / Holiday Preview Christmas in Beverly Hills (over Christmas Day) Featured Summer/Fall Trips Include: Cape Cod • Summer in Victoria Glacier/Waterton Lakes National Parks Crater Lake Vancouver Island The Great Gatsby on Mackinac Island Ferries & Towns of Puget Sound New England Fall Foliage Bourbon & Bluegrass Wild & Wonderful West Virginia Advance reservations required, limited to 200 each session. Call today or go online to www.sportsleisure.com to confirm your space. New Fall/Holiday Trips Include: A Chicago Christmas Entertainment Spectacular, featuring Ol’ Blue Eyes 100th Birthday Party and the Broadway hit show BEAUTIFUL A Palm Springs Christmas (also featuring a Sinatra party) Thanksgiving in New York featuring The Rockettes Christmas Show Holidays in La Jolla Our new Hawaii tour in November – Kauai & The Big Island Sedona & The Grand Canyon Our 14th Annual Christmas Mystery Tour A Pilgrim Thanksgiving in Plymouth, MA
20

Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

Apr 08, 2016

Download

Documents

Ryan Quinn

http://sportsleisure.com/system/pdfs/34/original/SLV_Newsletter_MarApr2015_WEB.pdf
Welcome message from author
This document is posted to help you gain knowledge. Please leave a comment to let me know what you think about it! Share it to your friends and learn new things together.
Transcript
Page 1: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

9812 Old Winery Place, Suite 1 • Sacramento, CA 95827 • (916) 361-2051 • Toll-Free (800) 951-5556 • www. sportsleisure.com • CA Travel #2011549-40

I N S I D E T H I S I S S U EJust One Man’s Opinion ...........................2Clayton Place ...........................................3The Customers Always Write ...................4The Human Side.......................................5Casino Trips and Baseball .......................6Day Trips ...............................................7-9New Vacations & Getaways ..............10-11The Barber Pole .....................................12Tour Calendar ....................................13-19Teasers ...................................................19Coupons and Tour Updates ....Back Cover

H H H H H H H H H H H H

Editor ................................. Mark HoffmannExecutive Editor ..................Kevin MurphyStaff Writers ........... P. Hansen, R. Goodge,

S. Angeletti & C. Whitehead, D. AndersonContributing Photographer .......C. Galloway

9,699 Active Members • 47,248 Members Since 1979 March/April | VOL. 36 | NO. 4 2015

You are invited to ourSpring Fling / Holiday Preview Day

Saturday, April 18, 2015KVIE Studios, 2030 West El Camino Avenue

10am or 1:30pmFree Admission, although we ask your help. We are collecting school supplies for foster

children in our area (a list of suggested items is on our website).Complimentary refreshments, including the Key Lime Pie voted number one in our taste

test, Boudin’s Chowder and wonderful spring rolls from our favorite Sacramento Restaurant (Peking). This is your opportunity to get advance information (and register early the following week) on all of our holiday trips, plus an update on selected summer and fall trips, including:

Thisdisplayofover50internationalChristmastreesattheMuseumofScienceandIndustryinChicagoispartofourChicagoChristmasSpectacularinDecember,detailscomingatourSpringFling/HolidayPreview

• Christmas in Beverly Hills (over Christmas Day)

Featured Summer/Fall Trips Include:

• Cape Cod• Summer in Victoria• Glacier/Waterton Lakes National Parks• Crater Lake• Vancouver Island• The Great Gatsby on Mackinac Island• Ferries & Towns of Puget Sound• New England Fall Foliage• Bourbon & Bluegrass• Wild & Wonderful West Virginia

Advance reservations required, limited

to 200 each session. Call today or go

online to www.sportsleisure.com to

confirm your space.

New Fall/Holiday Trips Include:

• A Chicago Christmas Entertainment Spectacular, featuring Ol’ Blue Eyes 100th Birthday Party and the Broadway hit show BEAUTIFUL

• A Palm Springs Christmas (also featuring a Sinatra party)

• Thanksgiving in New York featuring The Rockettes Christmas Show

• Holidays in La Jolla• Our new Hawaii tour in November –

Kauai & The Big Island• Sedona & The Grand Canyon• Our 14th Annual Christmas Mystery Tour• A Pilgrim Thanksgiving in Plymouth, MA

Page 2: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

2 SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015

Just One Man’s Opinion by Mark Hoffmann

Mystery Tours are More Popular Than Ever…

For some, the idea of paying good money (sometimes a lot of it) for a travel package without knowing where you are going is completely off the charts. Many would never consider such a thing.

Yet for hundreds of Travel Club Members, that is exactly what they do. The number of folks who repeat mystery tours once they have discovered one is very, very high. So what is the allure?

I believe Mystery Tours tend to appeal to adventurous travelers, people who are spontaneous and love surprises. (Some of our mystery tour-takers regularly scold me for telling folks what we are doing on tour the next day, proclaiming “that takes the mystery out of it.”) I think travelers who feel they’ve been most everywhere are attracted to these trips, because they know they will see and do things which are not on “the beaten track.” Like the little Polish restaurant we dined at in Chicago last December. A

true gem you would have never found on your own.

How is a Mystery Tour born? Great question. A Mystery Tour is generally the product of one of us finding a great destination or destinations you might not usually consider. In other words, if we think we’ve found something we feel confident you will enjoy, but you would never buy it if we told you where you were going, we consider making the destination part of a Mystery Tour. Here’s where some of last year’s trips went…

May 2014 – 13 Countries Without a Passport

A perfect example of what was described above, because this tour spent its entire 5 day itinerary in… are you ready… Omaha.

It’s a city with incredible cultural diversity and we had a great time. From the Ukrainian lady who fascinated us with her ceremonial linens and stories of her native land, to the Lithuanian bakery and the Hindu Temple, it

was fascinating. There were also stops at a toilet paper factory operated by the blind, and a stop at Boys Town.

When I asked the travelers with us on the way to the airport to raise their hands if they would have bought a 5 day tour to Omaha, none went up. Okay, maybe one.

October 2014 – A Prince and An Abbey

This 7 day trip visited Princeton, New Jersey, where we toured the campus and dined in the very

exclusive Nassau Club in town. We saw Grounds for Sculpture,

undoubtedly the most unique sculpture garden in the country; and “met” George Washington, at the very spot where he crossed the Delaware River so many years ago. He looked to be in good shape for a guy who is almost 300 years old with wooden teeth.

From Princeton, we headed down the Jersey Shore one cool Sunday morning, stopping for an incredible Sunday Brunch at the Molly Pitcher Inn. We visited the state capital of Delaware in Dover, dined in some colonial-style taverns and walked through Longview Gardens. We stayed at the historic Hotel du Pont in Wilmington and enjoyed afternoon tea. That was right after we visited Winterthur, a house museum which was hosting a display of costumes from the PBS series Downton Abbey.

December 2014 – 13th AnnualChristmas Mystery

How about 5 nights in the Embassy Suites Hotel in Chicago? We went to a German-style Christmas market, saw the beautiful international Christmas Tree display (50 of them) at the Museum of Science and Industry, and enjoyed an incredible array

of lights at the Chicago Zoo. (Okay, there’s a story behind that one, but you have to ask someone who was on the trip.)

A performance of A Christmas Carol and prime rib at Lawry’s was also on the agenda, along with lunch in the Walnut Room at Macy’s, formerly Marshall Fields, and treats at the Magnolia Bakery.

If all of this sounds fun to you, much of this itinerary will be found in this year’s Chicago & Sinatra, which will celebrate Ol’ Blue Eyes’ 100th birthday in the Windy City in December. That tour will be announced at our Holiday Preview Day on April 18th and a priority list is available if you are interested.

Mystery Tours 2015 and Beyond

The two previously announced trips, an overnighter in March (A Window in Time), is sold out. An extended trip in May (The

Good, The Bad and The Brave) has two seats available. Scott has put together a new Mystery Tour for the fall, which can be found in this newsletter. The annual Christmas Mystery will be announced at the Holiday Preview Day. Those who went last year on this always-popular trip get

Continuedonpage3

SantaClausdroppedinontwoofourChristmasMysterydaytrippartieslastDecember.ThegangwenttotheGalloCenterforasweet,locallyproducedChristmasplay.EveryoneonthetripsgotChristmasgoodies,includingtheirownfully-loadedstockings!

Page 3: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015 3

mine, a long-secret Cold War-era bunker big enough to house the entire executive and congressional branches of government in case of an emergency (I suppose the judicial branch was to be left out in the cold), explore the land of the Hatfields and McCoys with the nation’s foremost expert on the feud and take a cruise through the breathtaking New River Gorge, now a National Park site.

There’s only one place a tour called Bluegrass and Bourbon could be going: The Commonwealth of Kentucky, of course! This late-October tour, 18-23, is timed to line up with the anticipated peak of fall foliage season, as well as the Keeneland schedule where we’ll have a full day of horseracing. You’ll enjoy all-suite accommodations throughout the tour as we visit farms (such as famed Darby Dan) and other sites (including a thoroughbred day spa) that play a part in Kentucky’s multi-billion dollar equine industry. And of course, there will be bourbon. See it made at Woodford Reserve, then learn more about its past, present and future at the Evans Williams Experience.

As for holiday trips, I’ll be happy to announce the annual Thanksgiving in New

York tour as well as a new tour to Bethlehem,

Pennsylvania and

Washington, DC in early December featuring festive decorations and holiday concerts that include a performance

Clayton PlaceHello Friends!

Spring is in the air, do you feel it? I definitely have the fever. (Both spring fever and hay fever, I’m afraid.) After a bitterly cold winter back home along the Georgia coast, it was amazing to return to California’s warmth a few days ago and find everything blooming virtually anywhere you look. Here in the Sports Leisure offices, spring tours are fully planned and awaiting operation. The thoughts of your dedicated staff have already shifted ahead to a time when crisp mornings, changing leaves and twinkling lights are the order of the day.

I hope you will make plans to join us Saturday, April 18 for our annual Holiday

Preview Day as we introduce you to an extraordinary lineup of fall and holiday tours, as well as a taste of what lies ahead in 2016. Members of our satellite Travel Club at Del

Webb Sierra Canyon in Reno are invited to join us at the Aspen Lodge at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28 where we’ll discuss our new tour offerings over wine and hors d’oeuvres.

I’m particularly excited about two brand new fall tours introduced in the January/February edition of The Traveler visiting my beloved Southland. Won’t you join me? Wild and Wonderful West Virginia

runs October 9-14 and features all-resort accommodations, including two fabulous nights at The Greenbrier. We’ll tour a real coal

NewBPSmemberIreneKishabatookthismonth’swinningphotoofBlueberryonhisrecentvisittoSedona,ArizonawithScottAngeletti.ThefamousRedRocksmakeastunningbackdropforOURfamousBlueBear…orisheadog?Whateverthecase,he’soursandwelovehim!

by none other than Tony “Tie-A-Yellow-Ribbon-‘Round-The-Old-Oak-Tree” Orlando. With so many choices, the only hard part will be deciding which one to book!

“Your Tour Guy,”

Clayton Whitehead, CTP

Vice President

first option on this year’s tour, then it will be opened to the rest of the Travel Club.

Mystery Tours are not for everyone. If you like to know exactly where you are going and what you are doing, and you aren’t known for your sense of adventure, this is probably not your cup of tea. But if you are a wanderlust sort of guy or gal, and you love to explore, you should consider joining us on one of our

BLU

EB

ER

RY

PHOTOGRAPH

IC S

OC

IETY

Just One Man’s Opinion Con’t from page 2

Mystery Tours. Just remember to make your reservations early, as the popularity of these packages is high and they sell quickly.

H H H H H H H H

I hope to see you at our Holiday Preview

Day, back at the KVIE Studios, on April 18th. We’ll roll out the slate of holiday tours for later this year, share a few dozen hugs and a laugh or two. If you cannot join us, the

new trips will be in your next newsletter in early May and posted online at our website, www.sportsleisure.com on May 1st. And so it goes…

Mark Hoffmann, CTP, President

Save The Date…Sports Leisure’s Annual Tour Preview

Day is going to be a little later than usual this year! Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 3. The location is the Red Lion Inn (formerly the Woodlake Inn, formerly the Radisson Hotel). More information will be available during the summer.

Page 4: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

4 SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015

The Customers Always Write

Continuedonpage5

If you have a comment, suggestion or tour idea, we invite you to drop us a line. Due to space limitations, not all letters can be printed (others may be edited). Mail to:

SPORTS LEISuRE VACATIONSAttn: Mark/Clayton

9812 Old Winery Place, Suite 1 Sacramento, CA 95827

Or e-mail Mark or Clayton at: [email protected]

[email protected]

Mark,

I’d like to thank you for being a “Golden Grads” sponsor at CSUS. My 50th year was in 1959 – 55 years ago! I love SLV. Thank you for all your work in creating, improving and staying in business for 35 years. Sincerely,ElaineMyer

Ed. Note: Elaine sent along a tour idea. Thanks to Linda Eastham for the book of ideas in New York, and to everyone who sends along a newspaper or magazine clipping, forwards a website address or link, or calls to share an idea. Your ideas are of

great value and we thank you for them.

Keep ’em coming!

Dear Sports Leisure Travelers,

Want to have the adventure of a lifetime in a foreign country? Go to Cuba with Chris

Galloway and his two Cuban guides Linnett and Patricia. I have just returned (January) with 16 compatible companions and we enjoyed beautiful Havana,driving in beautiful restored cars along the waterfront at sunset and then being delivered to the finest home restaurant, now in its 20th year of service.

We danced at the Santa Amalia Jazz Project with older ladies and gentlemen who jitterbugged and tap danced. We spent two nights in Sancti Spiritus, a little town celebrating its 500th year anniversary, its plaza proud and resplendent in its restoration with new paint of varying bright colors on each building. This was the home town of our guide, Linnett, so she knew everyone. One night spent in Cienfuegos was not enough in the lovely port city to see the sights. A visit to see Ernest Hemmingway’s last home and his boat and the typewriter on which he wrote “Old Man And The Sea” was a special honor. For art, music, history, gorgeous scenery and friendly people, I am ready for a return trip. Ok, Chris? Fondly,MaryJoStreng

Dear Clayton,

Just wanted to thank you for my Blueberry – Had to be delivered through the front door as he refused to be deposited in the mail slot! I think I have a prima donna on my

hands. Hi to all. Love,JoanRobideaux

Ed. Note: If you would like your very own Blueberry mascot, you have to promise to take him on the road and include him in your pictures. Contact Clayton (Clayton.

[email protected]) for details.

To: Sports Leisure, Attention Mark

Thank you so much for your generous donation of a Sports Leisure package for two with transportation to San Francisco for our live auction at our 21st annual Carmichael Kiwanis Crab Feed. This live auction item was a big hit with much bidding. The final bid was $500. We were so excited.

Thank you for supporting our crab feed and the children of our area. Everything we do involves helping the children – through schools in sports, fine arts, music, and academically; parks and recreation programs; Cub and Boy Scouts, high school Key Clubs, local youth athletics, and hands-on by volunteering at schools and other local charities. Our fundraisers allow us to monetarily assist our programs. We appreciate your support. Thank you,JudeeShoemakerandSusanRobersonCarmichaelKiwanisCrabFeedRaffleChairpersons

Dear Sports Leisure Vacations,

We will always treasure your special donation to our Old Mission San Miguel in the amount of $500. Many blessings,Rev.PedroUmana,ofmPastor

Ed. Note: An impromptu visit on Christmas morning resulted in our travelers being given an opportunity to see inside the beautiful Sanctuary at San Miguel. This is not one of the richer parishes in the mission chain, and it was our Christmas give-back gift. It was special.

Dear Sports Leisure Office Staff,

Thank you for the nice card to cheer me up.AtsukoTsuboi

Dear Mark,

Thank you for your support of the Sacramento LGBT Community Center. Your donation of $500 is truly appreciated. You can be proud of your contribution because without individuals like you, who believe in respect, inclusion and creating a safe space for all people, the Center would not exist. Thank you for your gift Mark! Your contribution is greatly appreciated. Sincerely,JuliaRobinson,DirectorofDevelopment

Re: 2/4-5/15 Snow Train to Reno

The train ride was relaxing, and I especially liked the occasional travelogue over the speaker about local railroad and mining history. Kudos to Chris Galloway

for selecting a gluten-free item among the snacks on the bus ride home. As a person with celiac disease I really appreciate this. A trip suggestion: how about the train to Truckee for lunch and shopping; return home by bus? From the train it looked like many shops across the street from the station. Super to have gluten-free meal selections on the upcoming Eagles and Owls trip! A Happy Traveler,JoanNormington

Mark and Chris,

Thanks for the great Key West trip! And I have some trivia for you to store away for next year’s trip. Actually, I was surprised

Page 5: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015 5

The Human Side Learn, Laugh, Reflect

For Those Of us Who Remember

These great questions and answers are from the days when Hollywood Squares game show responses were spontaneous, not scripted, as they are now. Peter Marshall was the host asking the questions, of course.

Q. Paul, what is a good reason for pounding meat?

A. Paul Lynde: Loneliness! (The audience laughed so long and so

hard it took up almost 15 minutes of theshow!)

Q. Do female frogs croak? A. Paul Lynde: If you hold their little heads

under water long enough. Q. If you’re going to make a parachute

jump, at least how high should you be?A. Charley Weaver: Three days of steady

drinking should do it. Q. True or False, a pea can last as long as

5,000 years?A. George Gobel: Boy, it sure seems that

way sometimes. Q. You’ve been having trouble going to

sleep. Are you probably a man or a woman? A. Don Knotts: That’s what’s been keeping

me awake. Q. According to Cosmopolitan, if you

meet a stranger at a party and you think that he is attractive, is it okay to come out and ask him if he’s married?

A. Rose Marie: No, wait until morning. Q. Which of your five senses tends to

diminish as you get older? A. Charley Weaver: My sense of decency. Q. In Hawaiian, does it take more than

three words to say “I Love You”? A. Vincent Price: No, you can say it with a

pineapple and a twenty. Q. As you grow older, do you tend to

gesture more or less with your hands while talking?

A. Rose Marie: You ask me one more

growing old question Peter, and I’ll give you a gesture you’ll never forget.

Q. What are “Do It,” “I Can Help,” and “I Can’t Get Enough”?

A. George Gobel: I don’t know, but it’s coming from the next apartment.

Q. Paul, why do Hell’s Angels wear leather?

A. Paul Lynde: Because chiffon wrinkles too easily.

Q. Charley, you’ve just decided to grow strawberries. Are you going to get any during the first year?

A. Charley Weaver: Of course not, I’m too busy growing strawberries.

Q. In bowling, what’s a perfect score? A. Rose Marie: Ralph, the pin boy. Q. It is considered in bad taste to discuss

two subjects at nudist camps. One is politics, what is the other?

A. Paul Lynde: Tape measures.Q. During a tornado, are you safer in the

bedroom or in the closet? A. Rose Marie: Unfortunately Peter, I’m

always safe in the bedroom. Q. According to Ann Landers, is there

anything wrong with getting into the habit of kissing a lot of people?

A. Charley Weaver: It got me out of the army.

Q. Who stays pregnant for a longer period of time, your wife or your elephant?

A. Paul Lynde: Who told you about my elephant?

Q. When a couple have a baby, who is responsible for its sex?

A. Charley Weaver: I’ll lend him the car, the rest is up to him.

Q. Jackie Gleason recently revealed that he firmly believes in them and has actually

Friends We Will Miss…Longtime traveler Mary Sathre had a

special connection to me. Her son Chuck sold me coins from his family jewelry store at Fair Oaks and Marconi back when we were both a lot younger. Mary had a very colorful memory of my visits to the store, perhaps enhanced with time, and often regaled fellow travelers with her stories of Mark the Coin Dealer. In recent years, before a debilitating stroke, Mary traveled with Matilda Greule, one of our original travelers. Our sympathies to Ron, Chuck and the rest of the Sathre Family.

–Mark

Other friends we have lost recently…BrendaGrinager MarjoryKessingerGeorgeLunger NancyHardingShirleyKing FlorenceThorntonRoseCiarcia EleanorAlvesJosieLee

that no one even mentioned this at all. The James Bond movie, License to Kill, was partially filmed in Key West. They used the old road (7 Mile piece) for driving; they filmed at the Hemingway House and Bond even jokes about this is a farewell to arms, used the airport, and it also looks like the front of the Truman White House. Oh yes, the big Catholic Church for the opening wedding of Felix Lightner. Yeah, Dave and I are Bond fans and while we were on the 7 Mile stretch, I kept thinking that a Bond had been filmed there--so of course, we had to watch it tonight. :-)MarilynLagier

The Customers Always WriteCon’t from pg. 4

seen them on at least two occasions. What are they?

A. Charley Weaver: His feet. Q. According to Ann Landers, what are

two things you should never do in bed? A. Paul Lynde: Point and laugh.

Page 6: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

6 SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015

World Champion San Francisco GiantsThurs., Apr. 23 Giants vs. Dodgers 12:45pm $134/$118

Sat., May 2 Giants vs. Angels 1:05pm $134/$118

Thurs., May 21 Giants vs. Dodgers 12:45pm $134/$118

Wed., June 3 Giants vs. Pirates 12:45pm $139/$104

Tues., June 16 Giants vs. Mariners 12:45pm $134/$118

Wed., July 8 Giants vs. Mets 12:45pm $134/$118

Sat., July 25 Giants vs. Athletics 1:05pm $155/$139

Sun., July 26 Giants vs. Athletics 1:05pm $155/$139

Wed., Aug. 12 Giants vs. Astros 12:45pm $131/$119*

Sat., Aug. 15 Giants vs. Nationals 7:05pm $155/$139

Sun., Aug. 30 Giants vs. Cardinals 1:05pm $159/$119

Sun., Sept. 20 Giants vs. D-Backs 1:05pm $115/$103

Thurs., Oct. 1 Giants vs. Dodgers 12:45pm $134/$118

*Includes ferry service from Vallejo to AT&T Park / Field Level Sold Out

Oakland AthleticsSun., May 31 A’s vs. Yankees 1:05pm $120

Sat., Jun. 27 A’s vs. Royals 1:05pm $109

Fri., July 3(Fireworks Night)

A’s vs. Mariners 6:05pm $109

Wed., Aug. 19 A’s vs. Dodgers 12:35pm $109

Sat., Sept. 26 A’s vs. Giants 1:05pm $120

Sun., Sept. 27 A’s vs. Giants 1:05pm $118*

*Plaza Level Seating (2nd Deck) for this game.

The Champagne Express to Tahoe

Wednesday, April 22 or Tuesday, May 19

Our popular Champagne Express to Harvey’s at Lake Tahoe continues in 2015. Your 6-hour stay includes a $20 slot credit and $7 food credit. You must be a member of Harvey’s Total Rewards Program to receive the bonus! $45

Casino Trips and BaseballThe 2015 Ballpark ExpressFor over 35 years, the BEST way to get to the major league

ballparks in Oakland and San Francisco has been with Sports

Leisure Vacations. Our original Ballpark Express allows you to travel to games in comfort without the traffic, tolls, gas, food stops, etc. Refreshments are served on board the motorcoach on your way to and from each game. You’ll enjoy Field Level seating for most A’s games and your choice of Field Level or View Level (3rd Deck) seating for Giants games. Please request your seating area at the time of your reservation.

Magic in Reno!EldoradoHotel&Casino,Reno

2 Days • April 7-8From the producers of the award-winning stage spectacular,

Magiquecomes a sensational and sensual new magic show. MadameHoudini will astound audience members with her dazzling deceptions and stunning aerial skills. Only a handful of strong, talented female magicians have ever succeeded in the highly competitive field of grand illusion. For the first time in the United States, audiences will see one of the most glamorous and successful performers in the world of magic when Madame Houdini (Hellevi Woodman) takes the Eldorado stage. Stay overnight at the Silver Legacy Casino Resort with a buffet dinner included prior to the show. Stop at John Ascauga’s Nugget for some casino play before heading home the following day. 250/275 Gold Passport Points

$229 p.p./dbl.occ., $255 single

You are invited to ourSpring Fling / Holiday Preview Day

Saturday, April 18, 2015

At the KVIE Studios2030 West El Camino Avenue

10am or 1:30pmFree Admission, although we ask your help. We are

collecting school supplies for foster children in our area (a list of suggested items is on our website).

Complimentary refreshments, including the Key Lime Pie voted number one in our taste test, Boudin’s Chowder and wonderful spring rolls from our favorite Sacramento Restaurant (Peking). This is your opportunity to get advance information (and register early the following week) on all of our holiday trips, plus an update on selected summer & fall trips. RSVP with our office or visit www.sportsleisure.com.

Look What We’re Doing…

We encourage you to find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/sportsleisure. We’ve been posting pictures of recent trips and sometimes even trips that are currently on the road… so you may see a fellow Sports Leisure traveler while they are actually on vacation. How awesome is that?

Page 7: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

Visit us 24/7 on the web at:www.sportsleisure.com

SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015 7

San Francisco Flower & Garden ShowSanMateoEventCenterWednesday, March 18

Welcome Spring with our annual visit to the San Francisco Flower & Garden Show. Experience spectacular full-scale gardens, seminars by master gardeners and landscapers, and stroll the vast marketplace filled with flowers, plants, and anything you would need for a do-it-yourself project. The show continues to delight and attract visitors back year after year. Lunch is on your own from a variety of food vendors onsite. $99

Easter in the DeltaSunday, April 5

No need to travel far to enjoy an awesome Sunday Champagne Brunch. Just a short “Sunday Drive” away through the scenic Delta in our own “backyard,” is the historic Ryde Hotel – voted one of the “Top 5 Restaurants for Brunch in the Sacramento Area.” Enjoy a wide variety of tasty, gourmet menu items and your champagne glass will never be empty. $132

High Style: The Brooklyn Museum Costume CollectionLegionofHonorMuseum,SFThursday, April 9

On exhibit exclusively at the Legion of Honor on the West Coast, High Stylepresents the evolution of fashion from 1910 to 1980 through more than 60 stunning fashions and accessories that reflect American tastes and transformation over the course of the 20th Century. This preeminent collection of haute couture and ready-to-wear garments includes pieces by French designers Jeanne Lavin, Elsa Schiaparelli, “Coco” Chanel, Hubert de Givenchy and American designers Charles James, Sally Victor, and Gilbert Adrian among others. The accompanying audio guide is included for your enjoyment. An optional shuttle

will be available to the de Young Museum in the afternoon to visit its permanent collection or special exhibit of Botticellli toBraque: Masterpieces from the NationalGalleries of Scotland. With over 50 works from the Renaissance to the 20th Century, the collection is on loan through May with a surcharge payable at the door. Lunch is at your leisure this afternoon at either of the museum cafes. $99

Rodin & WrightAvisittoStanfordUniversitySaturday, April 11

Journey to Palo Alto, the home of Stanford University, for a unique opportunity to see the creations of a beloved sculptor and a legendary architect. Start first at Hanna House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1936 for Stanford Professor Paul Hanna and his wife Jean. The unique hexagonal-designed home contains no right angles. The design was a turning point in Wright’s career, influencing future designs including the Guggenheim Museum in New York City. Lunch is served nearby at The Fish Market, a Sports Leisure favorite. Return to campus after lunch to explore the Cantor Arts Center, home to the largest collection of Rodin bronzes outside of Paris, as well as many art pieces collected by Leland Stanford. $145

San Francisco’s Cherry Blossom FestivalSaturday, April 18

The Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival in San Francisco’s Japantown is said to be the second largest festival outside of Washington, DC to celebrate the blooming of cherry blossoms. In San Francisco there will be food booths, cultural performances, martial arts demonstrations, live bands and more. You will have ample time to enjoy the festival and lunch on your own from the onsite vendors or local restaurants. $85

The Pops: May the ForceBe With YouWellsFargoCenter,SantaRosaSunday, April 26

Enjoy the cinematic musical magic of John Williams, one of the most celebrated and well-known film composers of all time, with 49 Academy Award nominations (second only to Walt Disney) and winner of five Academy Awards. This concert is the opportunity to hear thrilling musical scores brought to life by a full symphony orchestra. Selections from E.T., Jaws, Raiders of theLost Ark and, of course, Star Wars will be featured. Lunch will be included at Union Hotel prior to the 3pm matinee concert with orchestra seating. $155

Sacred Stones, Wine and OlivesFeaturingtheAbbeyofNewClairvauxThursday, April 30

Visit the grounds of the Abbey of New Clairvaux and view the gorgeous ceiling created from the stones of the Spanist 12th-century Santa Maria de Oliva Chapter House. Learn about the connection of William Randolph Hearst and Leland Stanford to this quiet enclave located in Vina in the North Valley. Lunch and a tour are included at the Lucero Olive Oil Mill in nearby Corning. $119

The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter & SweetNevadaTheater,NevadaCitySunday, May 3

Community Asian Theatre in the Sierra (CATS) brings to stage a wonderful story. Memory and longing bridge Henry Lee’s 1940s boyhood in Seattle’s Chinatown and, decades later, his second chance at love after a miraculous discovery in the basement of the Panama Hotel. Historic events and places mesh in this story of faithful hope. The play is based on the book of the same title that was on the New York Times’ Best Seller’s list. Lunch is included at Tofanelli’s Bistro in nearby Grass Valley. $118

Day Trips & Theatre Outings

Proud members of the

Page 8: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

8 SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015

A Taste of Tuscany Tuesday, May 5

Treat yourself to a taste of Tuscany! Tour Calistoga’s top-ranked attraction, Castello di Amorosa, an authentic 13th-century Tuscan castle. View the hand-painted Great Hall, the dungeon, chapel, cellars and caves on a 60-minute leisurely walking tour followed by free time to visit the gift shop and grounds or sample their wines. A delicious pasta lunch, with gelato for dessert, is included at Napa’s Ristorante Allegria. $157

Getting Around San FranciscoTuesday, May 12

Begin with SuperCoachIII service to the East Bay to meet our buddy BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit). A short time later emerge from under the bay in downtown San Francisco. A cable car will whisk you over the hills to Fisherman’s Wharf for an included lunch at the venerable Franciscan Restaurant. After some time to explore the wharf, board the Vallejo Ferry for a cruise across San Francisco Bay where SuperCoachIII will be waiting to return you home. $142

The Covered BridgeFeaturingavisittohistoricPatrickRanchWednesday, May 13

Our annual spring visit to Chico has a new twist! Visit the newly restored Patrick Ranch Historic Park with a guided tour of its historic

home and an escorted riding tour around the grounds. The new visitor center is also a gem! Lunch is included in town along with a visit to one of Northern California’s last remaining covered bridges: The Honey Run Covered Bridge. Walk the bridge and hear about its unique history and the volunteer efforts to keep it preserved. $116

The Book of MormonOrpheumTheatre,SFSunday, May 3, Saturday, June 13 or

Wednesday, June 24

From South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone TheBookofMormon, winner of nine Tony Awards including Best Musical, is returning to the Orpheum Theater for a limited engagement. The religious satirical musical follows the misadventures of two Mormon missionaries in Uganda. All shows include orchestra seating. The Wednesday trip features a 2pm matinee with a box lunch served on the coach en route to San Francisco with a no-host stop at Pier 39 for dinner after the show. The Saturday trip also features a 2pm matinee with lunch on your own in the area of Union Square prior to the show with a return to Sacramento following the performance. The Sunday trip features a 6:30pm show with an early, no-host dinner stop at Pier 39 prior to the show. Please note: this show contains VERY explicit language with adult themes. Wednesday – $186,

Saturday – $216, Sunday – $190

San Francisco Decorator Showcase 2015Wednesday, May 20

Considered to be the West Coast’s premier design show house, this annual San Francisco event features the work of the region’s top interior and landscape designers. Located in Presidio Heights, this year’s residence was designed by Julia Morgan, dates back to 1916, and boasts magnificent views of the Presidio, Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay. Following the self-guided tour of the many rooms and garden, a 3-course lunch is included at Swiss Louis Restaurant at Pier 39. Then enjoy another view of the beautiful Bay via ferry to Vallejo and SuperCoach III home to Sacramento. Be advised the mansion is multi-level and requires use of stairs. $143

Brunch on the BayFeaturingaHornblowerYachtCruiseSunday, May 24

Dazzling waves and soft breezes set the mood for Hornblower’s Champagne Brunch Cruise, a good-morning getaway featuring free-flowing bubbly. The enticing outing includes a buffet stocked with classic breakfast dishes, lunch entrees and desserts. And, live music and views of the San Francisco Bay’s renowned sights make it the perfect way to spend the day! Pause in Sausalito before returning home. $154

View From The TopWednesday, May 27

With Craig Smith as our guide, this new San Francisco tour will explore a variety of small parks and rooftop gardens created as public and open spaces. Permits for all new buildings in San Francisco mandate they include areas that are free and open to the public. When space next to the building is available, colorful little “parks” have been planted, and where no space is adjacent, a garden on the rooftop offers a beautiful view from the top. The day’s itinerary includes stops at the Yerba Buena Gardens, Embarcadero Center, Wells Fargo Bank, Hines Building, Fairmont Hotel, and lunch mid-day at Pompei’s Grotto Restaurant near Fisherman’s Wharf. $124RideaboardaniconicCableCaronGettingAroundSanFrancisco

Page 9: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015 9

Lights, Camera, Glamour!The Photography of George HurrellDisneyFamilyMuseum,SFTuesday, June 2

Revel in the Golden Age of Hollywood through an extraordinary exhibit of photography from George Hurrell – one of America’s finest photographers, credited with creating opulent glamour portraits of the 1930s and 1940s. See rare and vintage prints of Jean Harlow, Clark Gable, Joan Crawford, Katharine Hepburn, Carole Lombard and more, including Hurrell’s “uncle-in-law” Walt Disney! Take time also to explore the Disney Family Museum’s permanent exhibit including family heirlooms and treasures donated by Diane Disney Miller. Lunch is included at Scoma’s prior to a ferry ride across the bay to Sausalito. $152

A Day at the RacesGoldenGateFieldsThursday, June 4

Our always popular Day at the Races includes a buffet lunch and seating in the enclosed Turf Club at Golden Gate Fields by beautiful San Francisco Bay in Berkeley. Enjoy the races from a comfortable table with betting windows conveniently nearby and television monitors throughout the dining room. We’ll arrive to get settled before post time and the first race. $115

Unnecessary FarceEastSonoraTheatreWednesday, June 10

Two cops. Three crooks. Eight doors. In a cheap motel room an embezzling mayor is meeting with his female accountant. Next door, two cops wait to catch the meeting on video… Suddenly, confusion reigns and questions abound in this comedy of mix-ups and mayhem. Lunch is included prior to the 2pm matinee at Christopher’s. $128

The Marriage of FigaroSanFranciscoOperaHouseSunday, June 21

One of Mozart’s most loved operas, TheMarriage of Figaro is a tender comedy which tells the story of a countess and her servant who unite forces to teach her

husband to change his philandering ways. Graceful, witty, and warm, it is the ultimate in ensemble opera and delights with it arias and melodious score. Your choice of seating is in the side sections of the Orchestra or in the Dress Circle of the first balcony for the 2pm matinee. Be advised that Dress Circle involves steep stairs without the availability of handrails. A stop is included in Union Square for no-host lunch prior to the 2pm matinee. Orchestra – $242, Dress Circle

– $185

MatildaOrpheumTheater,SFWednesday, July 22 or August 5 or

Saturday, July 18

The Tony Award-winning Matilda is the story of an extraordinary little girl who immerses herself into books and dreams of a better life. Armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, Matilda dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. Based on the beloved novel by Roald Dahl, colorful costumes, onstage magic and over-the-top comic performances make this a fabulous musical outing for theatergoers of any age. Our Wednesday trips include a snack box onboard the motorcoach, the show with orchestra seating, and dinner on-your-own after the show on Pier 39 before returning to Sacramento. Saturday trips include lunch on-your-own in Union Square, the show with orchestra seating, and return to Sacramento

Sundays at 3:00 PMKFBK, AM 1530, FM 93.1A lucky Sports Leisure Traveler

wins the cash jackpot each week

(minimum of $100)! Details at:

www.travelguysradio.comTomRomanoandMarkHoffmann

Contests, Travel News,updates on your favorite Sports Leisure destinations, Cultural Arts and FUN!

Radio Show

directly after the performance. Wednesday

– $160, Saturday – $180

Phantom of the OperaOrpheumTheater,SFWednesday, September 2, 9 or 16 or

Saturday, August 22 or 29

Based on the novel by Gaston Leroux, this spectacular NEW production by Cameron Macintosh of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s award-winning musical is coming to San Francisco. The much-beloved story of the Phantom’s unrequited love for his protégée Christine is now even more beautiful and dramatic under Mr. Macintosh’s direction; new staging, new costumes, new lighting and, of course, new special effects, even for the legendary chandelier! Our Wednesday trips include a snack box served onboard the motorcoach, the show with orchestra seating, and dinner on-your-own at Pier 39 before returning to Sacramento. Saturday trips include lunch on-your-own in Union Square, the show with orchestra seating, and a return to Sacramento directly after the show. Wednesday – $171, Saturday – $185

Remember Meal ChoicesWhen you receive your itinerary/

confirmation for a trip, check to see if a meal choice is needed and take a minute to make your selection by calling or emailing our office or returning your choice with your payment. Thank you.

Page 10: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

10 SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015

When You Wish Upon A Star Mystery5 Days • September 27 – October 1

Join Scott on this new mystery tour that has a little bit of everything: entertainment, arts, moments that will warm your heart, and grand scenery. Unpack just once as you will stay in one lovely hotel for four nights.

Clues? This tour flows at a nice pace and the beauty of the area might stop you right in your tracks! We’re sure you will meet some friends along the way. If you were to say it was beautiful here you wouldn’t be just whistling Dixie. Still not sure where we’re going? Let’s just say if you are new to mystery trips or a longtime mystery tour veteran, you won’t want to miss this one!

The tour includes door-to-door service, roundtrip air, deluxe motorcoach transportation, accommodations, 10 included meals and several attractions and experiences we can’t list here. After all, it’s a mystery tour! 1750/1900 Gold Passport Points

$1720 p.p./dbl.occ., $1895 single$ave $60 until April 14

Catalina Island Getaway4 Days • October 4-7

Catalina Island isn’t a destination; it’s a state of mind. And October is the perfect time to visit, with mild temperatures and long after the summer crowds are gone. Our annual escape to the island “26 miles across the sea” features three nights at the Pavilion Lodge, in the heart of Avalon, right on the harbor and within walking distance of countless shops and restaurants. Begin with a short flight to Southern California. Enjoy a tour and spectacular Sunday Brunch aboard the Queen Mary, moored in Long Beach Harbor. Travel aboard the high-speed Catalina Express ferry to the island. At your hotel, enjoy a wine reception each night and a continental breakfast each morning.

The itinerary includes several adventures on the island as well as plenty of free time to enjoy additional activities or time to relax on your own. Included in the package is a behind-the-scenes tour of Catalina’s

famous ballroom and Casino Building. Get a look at the underwater world surrounding the island by a semi-submersible vehicle. Additionally, view Avalon and its beautiful harbor from high above on the Inland Motor Tour: follow the island’s original stagecoach route aboard a specially designed bus and visit the Catalina Fox Island Habitat and the Nature Conservancy Center. A final night dinner is included at the Avalon Grill, across from the harbor, just steps from your hotel. A mid-morning return to the mainland by ferry allows you time for lunch in Long Beach at Parker’s Lighthouse prior to your late afternoon flight back to Sacramento.

The tour includes door-to-door service, roundtrip airfare, deluxe motorcoach transportation, accommodations and three tours on Catalina Island, 6 meals (3B,1BR,1L,1D), and the services of a Sports Leisure Vacations Tour Director. 1600/1850 Gold Passport Points

$1595 p.p./dbl.occ., $1830 single$ave $40 until April 14

Rails Around Oregon & The Columbia River GorgeAnexcitingnewrailadventuretoOregonandSouthernWashington!5 Days • October 24-28

1. Begin your journey in Portland after a mid-morning flight. Lunch is served at Wilf’s Restaurant, inside the city’s historic Union

Station, upon your arrival. At the Oregon Rail Heritage Center discover Portland’s importance as a rail hub and experience a scenic train ride along the Willamette River. Back at Union Station, board Amtrak’s EmpireBuilder for a ride across the mighty Columbia River to White Salmon, WA. Cross the river back into Oregon by motorcoach and enjoy dinner and an evening stay in Hood River. Comfort Suites (L,D)

2. It’s Sunday and that means BRUNCH! Climb aboard the Mt. Hood Scenic Railroad for a three-course dining experience complete with champagne! Enjoy the passing scenery in the shadow of Mt. Hood before arriving in Parkdale. Return to Portland in the afternoon, pausing en route for pictures at majestic Multnomah Falls (time permitting). Enjoy the rest of the evening on your own or join your Tour Director for an optional performance of the Broadway musical Ain’tMisbehavin’at Portland Center Stage. Relive the glory days of the Cotton Club and the Savoy Ballroom with songs like “Honeysuckle Rose,” “The Joint is Jumpin’” and “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love.” (A $25 credit per person will be provided for those not attending the performance – please confirm at time of reservation.)Doubletree Hotel Lloyd Center – 2 nights

(B,BR)

3. Across the Columbia in Southern Washington you will find Mt. St. Helens,

New Vacations & Getaways

26milesacrossthesea,SantaCatalinaiswaitingforyou

Page 11: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015 11

an active volcano remembered for its catastrophic eruption on May 18, 1980. Rediscover the story during a visit to the national volcanic monument’s visitor center. Return to Portland by train as you meet Amtrak’s Cascade in Kelso, WA. Dinner tonight is a real treat, high above the lights of Portland at The Chart House. (L,D)

4. Are you a fan of Bob’s Red Mill brand oatmeal or baking flours? In Milwaukie, just outside Portland, explore the company’s mill during an informative tour and enjoy lunch at the company’s nearby restaurant, along with the chance to shop in the company store! Back in Portland at Union Station, it’s time for one last rail adventure, this one aboard Amtrak’s CoastStarlight for a journey south to Eugene. Upon arrival, dinner is featured at the Oregon Electric Station, the end of the line for the Willamette Valley’s Electric Railway, completed in 1914. The restored station is now a restaurant featuring dining in and amongst its historic railcars. Hilton

Hotel (L,D)

5. School’s in session at the University of Oregon so don’t be surprised if you see a “Duck!” Explore the town on a brief morning tour then it’s off to Oregon City for lunch and to discover a train of a different kind – a wagon train! Before the railroad there were thousands of covered wagons that brought settlers to the Oregon Territory. Learn about the great migration at the End of the Oregon

Trail Interpretive Center. Your return flight home departs from Portland in the late afternoon. (L)

The tour includes door-to-door service, roundtrip airfare, deluxe motorcoach, four nights accommodations, five rail experiences and all included attractions in the itinerary and 9 meals (1B,1BR,4L,3D), and the services of a Sports Leisure Tour Director. 2000/2300 Gold Passport Points

$1995 p.p./dbl.occ., $2295 single$ave $60 until April 14

Tonopah, Laughlin & Las Vegas by SuperCoach III6 Days • November 8- 13, 2015

1. Our fleet of Carey vehicles will pick you up at your home and transport you to the Sports Leisure office. Depart our office by Supercoach III for the south shore of Lake Tahoe where you will enjoy the popular Forest Buffet at Harrah’s. Continue your travels down Hwy 395, criss-crossing between California and Nevada. Your final destination for the day is Tonopah. Indulge yourself at the Mizpah Hotel, a landmark of luxury since 1907. Its origins date back to the days when Tonopah was the last of the Wild West boom towns, bustling with those seeking fortunes in the silver mines. The Mizpah was painstakingly restored to its original elegance and comfort and has welcomed visitors once again since 2011.

Due to a limited number of two-bedded rooms at the Mizpah Hotel, additional rooms will be provided at the nearby Best Western

High Desert Inn (BR)

2. Heading south pass a number of ghost towns as you make your way to Beatty where you will have a hosted lunch at the Stagecoach Hotel. After a rest stop in Las Vegas, arrive in Laughlin in late afternoon. Golden Nugget Laughlin – 2 nights (B,L)

3. Travel the Colorado River by jet boat to Lake Havasu, home of the famous London Bridge. View breathtaking Topock Gorge, only accessible by river, featuring volcanic rock faces, enchanting emerald waters, ancient Indian petro glyphs, and desert wildlife. Enjoy a hosted lunch and some free time in Lake Havasu before returning to Laughlin via SuperCoach III. (If you opt out of the jet boat ride and lunch at Lake Havasu you may deduct $100 from the price of the tour. This must be done at time of reservation.) (L)

4. Head to Las Vegas. Stop for lunch at Sam’s Town’s popular Firelight Buffet followed by some free time to hit the slots or tables. Check into you hotel centrally located on the strip. Tonight see the lights of Vegas during your narrated city tour which will include the Freemont Street experience (downtown) as well as the strip. Treasure

Island Hotel Las Vegas – 2 nights (L)

5. Today is at your leisure to explore some of the amazing hotels that surround. Your hotel sits in a great location in the middle of the strip with the Venetian and Wynn across the street as well as the Mirage and Caesars Palace next door.

6. Depart Las Vegas this morning for the trip back to Sacramento. There will be rest and meal stops en route; arriving home via Mojave, Bakersfield and Fresno, about 9pm. Carey vehicles will be waiting at our Sports

Leisure office to return you to your front door! (L)

The tour includes door-to-door service, deluxe motorcoach, accommodations, all included attractions in the itinerary and 6 meals (1B,1B,4L), and the services of a Sports Leisure Tour Director. 1400/1600 Gold Passport Points

$1365 p.p./dbl.occ., $1575 single$ave $50 until April 14TheEmpireBuildertravelsthroughColumbiaGorgeonourNEWrailtourtothePacificNorthwest

Page 12: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

12 SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015

The Barber Pole, or Once Over Lightly

Simple Rules of the Program(our lawyer insists we say all these things)

Points have no cash value and cannot be transferred to other members. Travel Rewards, on the other hand, can always be given to anyone you wish to use towards their travel. (You can’t give points to others, but you redeem points and give the Travel Reward you get to anyone.) Points are the property of Sports Leisure Vacations. The program may be adjusted or terminated at any time. Just as we did here, it is our policy to give members advance notice of any pending changes, but we are not legally obligated to do so.

Once awards are redeemed/applied to a tour, if you cancel that tour within 60 days of departure, for reasons requiring a charge of part of your payment, the awards will only be

returned if the traveler who submitted the

award has taken cancellation protection

at the time of registration.

Should you have any questions regarding anything printed here, we welcome your call or email. These changes are made with reluctance, but with the knowledge they will keep the program healthy for many years to come. The Gold Passport program is our way of rewarding our best customers.

Why Stop There?A traveler asked on the Internet, “Wouldn’t

a pick up location in Davis or West Sacramento make more sense than South Sacramento?” In response, we wanted to offer that bus stops are rarely chosen for their convenient location, but rather for their availability. All downtown lots require parking fees, and our travelers have shown no inclination to be willing to pay to park.

Something in West Sacramento or Davis might be convenient for the writer, but would eliminate the ability of many in the south area to travel with us. (Free parking in Davis is impossible almost anywhere in town.). With Vic’s grocery closing in South Hills, we have lost the business which gave us “permission” to park there, so a change may be coming. To where? Anyone’s guess. Pay parking may be the only option.

MarkandDonniemodelournewSportsLeisurejackets

Gold Passport Travel AwardsAs announced in our last newsletter,

effective June 1, 2015, some of the redemption levels in our Gold Passport

program will change. Our frequent travelers earn Gold Passport Points. You become a Gold Member by traveling 20 days with Sports Leisure (completing that little yellow card). Once you are Gold, you remain Current Gold by traveling 8 days a year (day or extended trips). Gold Passport Points are earned at the rate of roughly 1 per dollar spent on tours.

When the program was originally created over 20 years ago, it was intentionally created with a “balloon award” at the top of the redemption chart. If you earned 40,000 points, you could redeem the points for a $650 Travel Reward. But if you waited until you earned 50,000 points, you would receive a $2,500 reward, almost 4x as much.

Of course, in those days, the top tour price was around $2,000 and it was viewed as a mathematical probability most people would never get to the top of the chart (spend $50,000). Inflation has eaten away at the program, and at a rate of 2% a year, getting to the top of the award chart has gotten easier, as tour prices rose. The man who created the program for us told us last year we should have adjusted the chart for inflation every 5 years. It has never been

adjusted. Eventually, we would be unable to pay off Travel Reward redemptions.

Get Yourself a Sports Leisure JacketThe top Travel Reward is now at 75,000

(formerly 50,000). There are new awards at the 60,000 and 70,000 point level. You can also now redeem your points for a Sports

Leisure Vacations All Weather Jacket. The top award value has been increased from $2,500 to $3,000, the lower point levels remain unchanged. The top award will now give you a 4% rebate on your travels (in the past it was 5%).

It is important for you to know the integrity of our Gold Passport Frequent Traveler

program has never been compromised. We have never offered big chunks of bonus

points for any reason, meaning the only way to earn points has only been through tour purchases. This has allowed us to maintain the exact same redemption levels for over 20 years. Most hotel chains and airlines now adjust their redemption charts on an annual basis, so 20 years without changes is pretty remarkable.

Gold Passport Points Program RewardsNew Chart Valid for All Travel Rewards

Redeemed Beginning June 1, 2015

Number ofPoints

RequiredTravel Reward

5,000 $50

7,000 $75

9,000 $100

11,000 $125

12,000 Free SLV All Weather Jacket (Retail value $129)

15,000 $175

20,000 $250

25,000 $325

30,000 $400

35,000 $500

40,000 $750

50,000 $1200

60,000 $1800

70,000 $2500

75,000 $3000

Page 13: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015 13

The Tour Calendar (Previously Announced)

4 Days Apr. 13-16 On the (Pismo) Beach

Love the ocean? How about 3 nights at the Sea Crest Resort in Pismo, with ocean views from every room? See the Great American Melodrama, tour the Point San Luis Lighthouse, visit the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dune Center. A leisurely trip for those who love to stay at the water’s edge. 8 meals (3B,4L,1D), door-to-door service, SuperCoachIII transportation, 1250/1450 Gold Passport Points, Tour Director: Scott Angeletti. $1240 p.p./dbl. occ., $1445

single

3 Days Apr. 19-21 Beautiful Bodega Bay

Featuring Fort Ross (one of California’s original settlements – by the Russians), Armstrong Redwoods State Park (walk among the tall trees) and two nights at the Bodega Bay Lodge (every room looks out over the gardens to the water). Enjoy lunch at the famous Union Hotel in Occidential and Sunday Brunch at the Flamingo Resort in Santa Rosa. 5 meals, door-to-door service and 1000/1150 Gold Passport Points. Tour Director: Ramona Goodge. $995 p.p./dbl.

occ., $1150 single

7 Days Apr. 18-24 Sweet Home Alabama

The attention garnered by the recent movie Selma, and the

anniversary celebrations of historical events in and around

that city bring a special focus to this tour. Clayton will be your escort on what promises to be one of the most memorable excursions we’ve ever planned. It’s not all about Civil Rights. There are amazing gardens to see in the spring, heroes were born at Tuskegee and did you know Alabama has a gulf coast? You’ll stay there for 2 nights. 2 nights Huntsville, 2 nights Montgomery, 2 nights Fairhope. U.S. Rocket & Space Center, Twickenham Historic District (Antebellum Homes), Selma Civil Rights Tour, Tuskegee (Carver Museum & Tuskegee Airmen NPS site), Fairhope Arts & Flowers Tour, Bellingrath Gardens. 15 meals (2B,4FB,5L,4D), roundtrip air Huntsville/Mobile, door-to-door service, 2650/2950 Gold Passport Points. $2645 p.p./dbl.occ., $2935 single

17 Days Apr. 22 – May 8 Croatia by Land and Sea

March 22 registration deadline. 4 seats available. What could be better than a private small-ship cruise? When combined with a land package, it gives you a magnificent look at Croatia. Seven unforgettable days sailing on the southern Adriatic Sea, then 5 nights on a land tour. Dubrovnik, Split, Opatija and Zagreb. 22 meals (12FB,6L,4D), roundtrip air to Dubrovnik/from Zagreb, 6100/7700 Gold Passport Points. Tour Director: Scott Angeletti.

Please refer to the complete itinerary in the catalog or online. $6095 p.p./dbl.occ., $7675 single, this vacation requires a valid

passport!

3 Days Apr. 26-28 Springtime in Yosemite

2 seats available. Spring is a wonderful time to visit our closest national park. A guided tour takes you to Half Dome, Bridal Veil Falls, El Capitan and more. Explore on your own at the Ansel Adams Gallery, or with a hike to Mirror Lake. Brunch at the historic Ahwahnee Hotel is included, along with 2 nights in Yosemite Lodge accommodations. 2 meals (BR,L) included, 1200/1400 Gold Passport Points, Tour Director: Chris Galloway. $1155 p.p./dbl.

occ., $1375 single

6 Days May 2-7 The Good, The Bad and The Brave: A Mystery Tour

2 seats available. Our featured Mystery Tour for the spring is centered around history. The itinerary includes steamboats (don’t immediately think the Mississippi River, because you might not be right), bank robbers, battles that did (and didn’t) take place, and a look at one of the planet’s biggest historical events. You’ll stay in a college town and a classic little village, each for 2 nights. An overnight in the small city next to the big one of the similar name rounds out your 5 nights of travel. Great statesmen, a trip that didn’t get there, and even a tiger shows up on the scene at one point. Will you be brave enough to go inside?

The tour includes 12 meals, airfare, door-to-door service, 2850/3200 Gold Passport Points and lots of fun extras along the way. In 2014, we started an Anniversary Mystery Tour tradition with 13

Countries Without a Passport. In 2015, the tradition continues with The Good, The Bad and The Brave. Tour Directors: Clayton

and Mark. $2845 p.p./dbl.occ., $3165 single

DiscoverthelegacyoftheCivilRightsMovementandtheeventsof1965inSelmaattheEdmundPettusBridge

For more information on any itinerary listed in the calendar, go to our website at www.sportsleisure.com. Click on the appropriate button at the top of the page and scroll down to the trip you are Interested in. If you do not have a computer, refer to your 2015 Tour Catalog “Escape,” or call our office and we will be happy to mail you a hard copy of the itinerary for the trip or trips you are interested in.

Refer to the back page for special Early Registration Payment Di$counts on your trip and Cancellation Protection. Di$counts are limited and the early bird always gets the best price at Sports Leisure.

Page 14: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

14 SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015

3 Days May 5-7 Missions III: The Last Stops

Along El Camino Real

4 seats available. Each of the last two springs, Tour Director Chris

Galloway has produced and directed visits to many of California’s historical missions. This is the third and final tour in the series, checking out the three missions missed the first time through the state (Mission San Fernando Rey, Mission San Luis Rey, Mission San Antonio de Pala). Stay 2 nights at the Anaheim Embassy Suites, fly into Burbank and fly home from Ontario.

This tour dines one evening at the Anaheim White House. Not only is this a fine dining restaurant, they serve 1200 homeless children

in Orange County EVERY NIGHT. That is only one of its outreach programs. Some will feel this dining experience alone is worth the entire trip. Lunch the last day is at the Mission Inn in Riverside, along with a visit to Graber Olives (one of the best gift shops ever). Old Town Temecula is also featured. 6 meals (2FB,3L,1D), airfare, door-to-door service, 1250/1400 Gold Passport Points, Chris will again lead the tour. $1210 p.p./dbl.occ., $1360 single

4 Days May 11-14 Savor Santa Fe

2 seats available. What happens when you pair history and nature with food and wine? You get this wonderful new tour. Your accommodations are downtown at the new Drury Plaza

Hotel. Enjoy breakfast each morning, complimentary snacks and beverages each night. You are two blocks from the plaza, the best location in town. Visit Pecos and Bandolier National Monuments, tour Santa Fe and the Georgia O’Keefe Museum, shop at the Palace of the Governors, travel the Turquoise Trail back to Albuquerque. Ride the train from Albuquerque to Santa Fe to begin your stay. Lunch at the Standard Diner (featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives) 6 meals (2FB,3L,1D), roundtrip air to/from Albuquerque, 1950/2200 Gold Passport Points, Tour Director: Chris Galloway.

$1940 p.p./dbl.occ., $2160 single

2 Days May 12-13 Tiny Tour Group to The Tiny

House Hotel in Portland

Waitlist only available at this time. $1099 p.p./dbl.occ., $1169

single

6 Days May 22-27 New York City: Broadway, Brooklyn and The Bronx

3 seats available. An exciting New York itinerary which spends significant time outside Manhattan. Your day in Brooklyn features Tony Muia and the Slice of Brooklyn Pizza Tour. Learn the history and hear the stories as you travel through the borough, stopping for pizza along the way. Your day in The Bronx features lunch in Little Italy, and the chance to visit local merchants and get the feel of the neighborhood. Your day in Manhattan takes you to the new 9/11 Memorial and Museum. Accommodations are top notch – both in quality and location. 5 nights at the Westin, a 4-diamond property, one block from the center of Times Square. Tickets to two Broadway shows are included, one we pick and one you choose yourself. There’s even room to add a third show if you wish, we are here to help you plan your itinerary. Our New York guide is a police officer, and we actually visit police and fire stations in The Bronx, to meet some of the city’s first-responders, and get unique souvenirs. 6 meals (3L,3D), 3850/4550 Gold Passport Points, and experienced Tour Directors who can enhance your experience (Chris Galloway and Mark Hoffmann). Please note: While we welcome all travelers, realistically, this trip requires some walking in the neighborhoods. If you cannot walk 3-4 city blocks without difficulty, we would not recommend this itinerary for you. $3845 p.p./dbl.occ., $4525 single

12 Days May 27 – June 7

Alaska: By Land and By Sea

Combine a 7-day cruise on the msOsterdam with an exciting land package to discover a big piece of Alaska. Go early in the season, when the weather on the coast tends to be better, the merchants and outfitters just a little fresher and ready to serve you. The cruise includes visits to Glacier Bay, Haines, Juneau and Ketchikan. The land tour includes a ride in the dome car of the Alaska Railroad, a visit to Denali National Park, a stop at a sled dog kennel to learn more about how they race across the tundra. We encourage you to see the day-by-day itinerary online. Land package includes 7 meals (4B,2L,1D), the cruise portion includes all meals on board, Gold Passport Points are based on cabin selection. Inside cabins start at $4810 p.p./dbl.occ., $6210 single; Outside cabins start at $5230 p.p./dbl.occ., $7050 single

4 Days May 31 – June 3

Off to Oregon, to Sisters; It’s Just Around the Bend

A great short getaway at a great price. Stay 3 nights at the Best Western Ponderosa Inn, a beautiful accommodation in a spectacular setting, with llamas and deer right outside your door. Ahead of the summer crowds, you have the area practically to yourself! A low mountain sightseeing tour takes you to the birthplace of a river and a spectacular waterfall. Visit the High Desert Museum in Bend for a special wildlife program, and enjoy a food tasting tour in town. Scenic mountain drives in both directions. Fly to/from Portland. The package includes 8 meals (3B,3L,2D), and features lunch at Timberline Lodge on Mt. Hood. Come to Sisters and discover the Cascades! 1500/1650 Gold Passport Points, Tour Director: Mark Hoffmann. $1485 p.p./dbl.occ., $1635 singleExploretherichsceneryofAlaskabymotorcoach,trainandcruiseship

Page 15: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015 15

4 Days June 1-4 Oregon Gardens, Falls & Mt. Hood

Another short, front of the season Oregon adventure. Scott

Angeletti is your leader as you stay at the Oregon Gardens near Silverton for 2 nights and enjoy the spring blooming season. Tour a Frank Lloyd Wright house and visit Silver Falls State Park. You’ll meet the Sisters tour group for lunch at Timberline Lodge on Mount Hood, and spend your last night at an Embassy Suites in suburban Portland. A sake tasting and a fascinating mineral museum round out the itinerary. You can connect this trip with the Portland Rose

Festival if you wish (see below). 7 meals (3FB,4L), airfare, door-to-door service and 1500/1700 Gold Passport Points. $1475 p.p./

dbl.occ., $1685 single

3 Days June 5-7 Portland Rose Festival

Connect this trip to the one previous, or just make it a short getaway of its own. The Rose Parade in Portland is equally as big and as grand as the annual one in Pasadena. One advantage in Portland – you have covered, reserved seats in an arena to watch the parade. No risking the weather (it’s Portland, after all). Two

nights at the Doubletree by Hilton. See the magnificent award-winning blooms at the Flower Show, view the parade and then spend the afternoon at the riverfront, explore the Portland markets. A champagne brunch cruise on the river is your last stop before returning home on Sunday afternoon. 4 meals (1FB,1BR,2D), airfare, door-to-door service, 1350/1500 Gold Passport Points, Tour Director: Scott Angeletti. $1335 p.p./dbl.occ., $1490

single; combine Oregon Gardens & Rose Festival for a

7 Day Tour: $2395 p.p./dbl.occ., $2835 single

7 Days June 13-19 Ferries, Islands and Towns of

Old Cape Cod

This year’s group will be smaller, likely no more than 20 or so. Smaller group = better experience, just sayin… Fly to Boston, overnight, then enjoy a tour on a new “duck” (land/water) and lunch at historic Quincy Market. Ride the ferry across the water to Provincetown, where you’ll stay 2 nights at the Surfside Motel, right on the water. There’s sightseeing and great dining in town, along with a tour of the sand dunes. Chatham is a stop on the way to an overnight in Hyannis, which features a lobster dinner. Take the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard for a brief tour, and continue to Nantucket for 2 nights at the Nantucket Inn. Tour the island with great food before flying home. 12 meals (6B,1L,5D), airfare, door-to-door service and 3400/3800 Gold Passport Points, Tour Director: Mark Hoffmann. $3390 p.p./dbl.occ., $3795 single

6 Days June 25-30 Yellowstone & The Grand Tetons

– Geysers, Rivers and Peaks

Spend two full days exploring Yellowstone, including Mammoth Hot Springs, Old Faithful, the Geyser Basin and Yellowstone Falls. Discover Montana’s ghost town, Virginia City, and neighboring Nevada City (sounds a bit like California). Enjoy a cruise on Jenny Lake in the shadow of the Tetons. Wildlife abounds, and while we can’t guarantee sightings, we do arrange our schedule to try and maximize those opportunities. A great trip, focused on the two parks. If you love the outdoors, this is one adventure you should put on your list. 8 meals (1B,4FB,2L,1D), airfare to Bozeman/from Jackson Hole, door-to-door service, 3350/3850 Gold Passport Points, Tour Director: Ramona Goodge. $3315 p.p./dbl.occ.,

$3840 single

BuffaloandtheGrandTetons–animpressivecombinationwaitingforyou

SeetoweringMt.HoodduringourvisitstoOregoninJuneandOctober

Page 16: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

16 SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015

OFFICE HOURS:8:00am – 4:30pm MON. thru FRI.

Closed weekends & major holidaysCLOSED TUES. 12:00pm – 1:15pm

5 Days July 3-7 Crater Lake and the umpqua

National Scenic Byway

Scott Angeletti hosts this comprehensive tour of southern Oregon. Travel to Klamath Falls, then visit Crater Lake National Park. The “viewing” season is short, only about three months long, but it’s spectacular. Next stop is Roseburg, home of Wildlife Safari, an outdoor animal park, and a hometown 4th of July celebration. In Grants Pass, the highlight is a jet boat trip on the scenic Rogue River. Historic Jacksonville is the last stop. Site of a gold rush, there’s a great story there. 10 meals (4B,4L,2D), door-to-door service, Supercoach III transportation, 1600/1800 Gold Passport Points. This tour will not be offered in 2016. $1560 p.p./dbl.occ.,

$1755 single

3 Days July 8-10 Seattle’s Best

Join Chris Galloway on a getaway to the Emerald City. Stay two nights at the beautiful Mayflower Hotel, enjoy a tasting tour of famous Pike Place Market, ride the historic monorail (left from the 60’s World’s Fair), visit Dale Chihuly’s Garden & Glass, enjoy waterfront dining on Puget Sound. Tour the Underground City, part of Seattle’s early years. Perhaps you’d enjoy seeing the Broadway show Wicked; it’s in town during your stay (optional attraction, additional cost, advance ticket purchase needed). There’s a coffee and bakery tour (how appropriate for the home of Starbucks) and views of the spectacular homes on Lake Washington. 4 meals, airfare, door-to-door service, 1700/1900 Gold Passport Points. $1685 p.p./dbl.occ., $1895 single

6 Days July 13-18 Oregon – Covered Bridges and

The Coast

First offered last year, this itinerary was a huge hit and it’s filling up quickly. Based on feedback, we expanded the trip by a day, adding an extra night in Newport. Fly to Portland, dine in Salem, then visit a unique carousel-making facility in Albany. A true behind-the-scenes experience. Accommodations feature 2 nights in Cottage Grove at the Village Green Resort, and 3 nights in Newport at the Elizabeth Street Inn (ocean views from every room). Attractions include a Victorian costume shop, a chocolate store, a cruise on Newport Harbor and a private dinner at the Oregon Aquarium, a visit to the tiny hamlet of Toledo, the Hatfield Marine Science Center and even a trip to Lincoln City, where you are treated to glass blowing and a culinary demonstration which becomes your lunch! Tillamook is the last stop (if you don’t count the berry farm – bring some really wonderful berries home with you), for some cheese tasting and lunch. 14 meals (5B,6L,3D), door-to-door service, airfare, 2000/2250 Gold Passport Points, Tour Directors: Mark and Chris. $1970 p.p./dbl.occ., $2250 single

6 Days July 15-20 Jammin’ Through Glacier and

Waterton National Parks

Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks are part of the Rockies. It’s a region that will be impacted by a warming climate, as the glaciers are melting at a record rate. Now is the time to go and see this magnificent scenery, to travel Going to the Sun Road. Fly to Kalispell. Spend 2 nights at a beautiful lodge, then head into the parks. The legendary “jammer” touring cars take you through Glacier to Waterton Lakes in Canada. Overnight at the Prince of Wales Hotel before re-crossing the border and staying 2 nights at St. Mary’s Bear Lodge, giving you additional time to explore and enjoy the mountain scenery. 3 short scenic lake cruises are a part of your itinerary. 8 meals (3FB,4L,1D), door-to-door service, airfare to/from Kalispell, 3250/3800 Gold Passport Points, Tour Director: Scott Angeletti. $3205 p.p./dbl.occ., $3755 single, this vacation

requires a valid passport!

8 Days July 23-30 The Canadian Rockies Aboard the

Rocky Mountaineer

Rated the most scenic train ride in North America, the two days you spend on the RockyMountaineerwill take you from Vancouver, into the spectacular Rocky Mountains. See lots from the train, then enjoy a land package featuring Banff, Lake Louise and the Columbia Icefields. Fly to Vancouver, overnight, then ride the rails for two days (overnight off the train in Kamloops), next is 2 nights in magnificent Jasper and a night each in Banff and Lake Louise (at the Chateau). The Rockies are not an inexpensive destination in the summer, but this package has many upscale features. Accommodations on board the Rocky Mountaineer are in Silver Leaf class (one higher class is available for upgrade, but in our opinion, this selection offers the best quality and value for the dollar). Fly home from Calgary. 10 meals, door-to-door service, 6000/7150 Gold Passport Points. $5990 p.p./dbl.occ., $7140

single, $75 EPD*, this vacation requires a valid passport!

Visit us anytime on the web at:www.sportsleisure.com

MeettheanimalsofWildlifeSafariinsouthernOregon

Page 17: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015 17

4 Days July 25-28 Summer in Victoria

3 nights at the Chateau Victoria, spacious accommodations in a terrific location on the Inner Harbor in downtown Victoria. Lunch overlooking the water at Pike Place Market, fast ferry Seattle/Victoria, sightseeing includes High Tea at The Empress, a city tour and a visit to famous Butchart Gardens. Return flight from Victoria. 5 meals, airfare/ferry tickets, 1800/2050 Gold Passport Points. Tour Director: Chris Galloway. $1795 p.p./dbl.occ., $2045 single, $25

EPD*, this vacation requires a valid passport!

5 Days Aug. 12-16 All Around the Olympic Peninsula

Our resident Tree-Hugger, Ramona Goodge, declares this to be one of her favorite trips. It features an extended look at one of our most interesting and diverse national parks, Olympic. From the beaches to the mountaintop, the scenery is spectacular. Fly to Portland, stopping in Astoria, on old seaport with stories to go with the history. The Maritime Museum is one of the best in the country.

Then it’s on to Olympic National Park, spending your second night at Lake Quinalt Lodge. Eat in the Roosevelt Dining Room. Visit the rainforest, the beaches and stand on Hurricane Ridge, 5,242 feet above sea level. Lakes, forests, mountain wildflowers, no wonder Ramona likes it here so much! Stops in the towns of Poulsbo and Long Beach are also featured. 10 meals (4FB,5L,1D), door-to-door service, airfare to Portland/from Seattle, 2500/2800 Gold Passport Points. $2450 p.p./dbl.occ., $2795 single

6 Days Aug. 25-30 The Tapestry of Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is more than just Victoria. In fact, this itinerary does not provide more than a glimpse of that magnificent city, and instead shows you the rest of the island. Fly to Vancouver and catch the ferry to Nanaimo. After an overnight, head for the west coast of the island and the town of Tofino.

The paved road has only gone to Tofino for 40 years, so it’s an unspoiled region. Stay 2 nights at the Tin Wis Resort. Visit old growth forests, beautiful gardens and visit a local tea room. Back on the east side, travel the Comox and Cowichan Valleys, on to Chemainus and Duncan, home of magnificent murals and totem poles respectively. Depart from Sidney, but first, there’s time for a two hour tour of Victoria, so first-time visitors can see the city (note: the tour does not stop at Butchart Gardens due to time limitations). 9 meals (5FB,4L), door-to-door service, 3250/3650 Gold Passport Points, airfare to Vancouver/from Victoria. $3245 p.p./dbl.occ.,

$3620 single, this vacation requires a valid passport!

3 Days Aug. 23-25 Laguna Pageant of the Masters

New added departure. Famous works of art displayed by human tableau, on a huge stage and you have the best seats in the house. Be immersed in California’s premier cultural event. Fly to/from Orange County, stay two nights at the Newport Marriott. Enjoy a Hornblower Brunch Cruise on Newport Harbor, enjoy dinner on the pageant grounds, be entertained by a pageant speaker at breakfast the following morning. 3 meals, airfare, 1350/1550 Gold Passport Points. Tour Director: Patricia Hansen. $1345 p.p./dbl.

occ., $1515 single

6 Days Sept. 9-14 The Redwoods of the North Coast & The Rogue River Jet Boats

Head for the California coast near Eureka, to “meet” the Coastal Redwoods. Then travel on into Oregon for the opportunity to ride the jet boats that deliver the mail to remote locations on the Rogue River. Walk through ancient redwood groves, enjoy ocean view accommodations for 2 nights in Oregon (Brookings), travel the famous “Avenue of the Giants” and ride through Redwood National Park. Stroll the Sundial Bridge in Redding. The package includes 13 meals, door-to-door service and 2100/2450 Gold Passport Points. Tour Director: Ramona Goodge. $2080 p.p./dbl.occ., $2405 single, $20 EPD*

6 Days Sept. 10-15 Ferries and Towns of Puget Sound

Year after year, this is one of our most popular itineraries. Our featured Pacific Northwest tour got a new look last year, as we moved from the San Juan Islands for 2 nights to Anacortes, and the beautifully modernized Majestic Hotel. We still go flightseeing in the San Juan Islands and visit all the wonderful little towns along our route. In order, from Poulsbo to Port Townsend, on Whidby Island from Coupeville to Langley, on to La Conner, Anacortes and Friday and Roche Harbors in the San Juan Islands. This really is the perfect tour, visiting and shopping in small towns, a leisurely pace, often hitting some of the best weather of the year in Puget Sound, and without the summer crowds.

Overnight in Poulsbo, 2 nights on Whidbey Island, 2 nights at the Majestic Hotel in Anacortes. 11 meals (2FB,3B,3L,3D), door-to-door service, airfare to/from Seattle, 3100/3350 Gold Passport Points. Tour Director(s): Mark and/or Chris. Important notes about the ferry boats: Many of the boats have elevators for passengers, but some offer stairs as the only way to access the passenger deck. Those with mobility issues are requested to discuss them with our staff prior to registering. $3080 p.p./dbl.occ., $3320 single, $40 EPD*

7 Days Sept. 12-18 Great Gatsby at the Grand on Mackinac Island

Over the years, hundreds of Sports Leisure travelers have explored Mackinac Island on our trips. It’s a popular destination. This year, it’s available with two unqiue twists. You have the chance to participate or be a spectator in the Great Gatsby Weekend. Full of fun and activities, it will highlight your trip. The second is the chance to stay at The Grand Hotel on Mackinac. It is one of the classic accommodations in the country. You’ll stay 3 nights and have plenty of time to enjoy your lush surroundings, plus all the activities of the special Gatsby Weekend. The perfect “period” setting for this magnificent and historic hotel.

The itinerary also features overnights in Bay City, Frankenmuth and Dearborn. Visit the Henry Ford Museum (like a miniature Smithsonian) and Greenfield Village, plus Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland and a great dinner at the Bavarian Inn Lodge. 12 meals (6FB,1L,5D) plus two bonus “teas,” door-to-door service, airfare to/from Detroit, 3450/3900 Gold Passport Points. Tour Director: Kevin Murphy. $3430 p.p./dbl.occ., $3830 single, $50 EPD*

Page 18: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

18 SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015

7 Days Sept. 20-26 National Treasures of the West

2 seats available. Featuring The Black Hills, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mount Rushmore and the old west town of Deadwood. Fly to Rapid City, and head for nearby Spearfish. Stay 2 nights at the Spearfish Canyon Resort. Visit Deadwood, and learn the story of the bison, the legend of Boot Hill and visit the historic main street saloons. Then 2 nights in the Black Hills at the Palmer Gulch Lodge, jumping off point for Crazy Horse, Mt. Rushmore and Custer State Park. (You’ll also have the option to see Mt. Rushmore after dark.) At Crazy Horse, you have the unique opportunity to stand on the mountain. This is a Sports Leisure exclusive!

Travel south to Hot Springs National Park, home of the ancient Woolly Mammoth. Drive through Badlands National Park and visit Wall Drug, a famous South Dakota outpost. 10 meals (2B,4FB,2L,2D), airfare to/from Rapid City, door-to-door service, 3050/3300 Gold Passport Points, Tour Director: Ramona Goodge.

$3030 p.p./dbl.occ., $3295 single, $40 EPD*

8 Days Sept. 30 –

Oct. 7

Fall Foliage in New England,

featuring Vermont &

The Berkshires

There’s nothing like the autumn colors in New England. While hitting it perfectly is no guarantee, our trip arrives at the traditional peak of the season. We pay a little more for these dates, but you get the prime foliage week. Fly to Burlington, and spend 2 nights at the Jay Peak Resort in the mountains. Visit Stowe, and the Von Trapp family lodge. Tour Ben & Jerry’s original ice cream factory, cruise Lake Champlain, tour Hildene, once the home of Robert Todd Lincoln, and hear the magnificently restored pipe organ.

Stay 3 nights at the Basin Harbor Resort, enjoy a hands-on experience at the New England Culinary Institute, have fun at the Maple Museum (learn how they “tap” the trees). End with two nights at the historic Red Lion Inn in The Berkshires (not the west coast chain, an independent historic property). Visit the Rockwell Museum before your travels come to a close. The package includes 14 meals, airfare (to Burlington, return from Albany, NY), door-to-door service and 3900/4450 Gold Passport Points. Tour Director: Ramona Goodge. $3855 p.p./dbl.occ., $4430 single, $50 EPD*

4 Days Oct. 7-10 Albuquerque International

Balloon Fiesta

Only one seat remains at press time. You are encouraged to place your name on the waitlist, as that gives you priority for the 2016 trip. Tour Director: Scott Angeletti, $1745 p.p./dbl.occ.,

$1925 single

6 Days Oct. 9-14 Wild & Wonderful West Virginia

Deluxe, luxurious accommodations, with 2 nights at the renowned Greenbrier Resort and 3 nights at The Resort at Glade Springs. Explore Hatfield and McCoy country with a historical expert (yes, there really are Hatfields and McCoys). There’s a daring adventure in the New River Gorge, a tour of the state capitol, a visit to a moonshine still and a look at the world of coal mining. Door-to-door service, 13 meals, roundtrip airfare to/from Charleston, WV. 3250/3700 Gold Passport Points. Tour Director: Clayton

Whitehead. $3240 p.p./dbl.occ., $3690 single, $100 EPD*

6 Days Oct. 18-23 Bluegrass & Bourbon

Go behind-the-scenes in Kentucky Horse Country. Lexington is where Derby winners are bred. Stay 3 nights at the Embassy Suites, visit farms and other sites important to the Kentucky equine industry. Spend a day at Keeneland and watch future Derby winners begin the Run for the Roses while you wager on the results. In Louisville, tour Churchill Downs and watch baseball bats being made at the Louisville Slugger Museum. Door-to-door service, 10 meals, airfare, 2850/3200 Gold Passport Points. Tour Director: Clayton Whitehead. $2840 p.p./dbl.occ., $3190 single,

$75 EPD*

ClaytonandtheHatfield/McCoyboys

TourthestoriedtrackatChurchillDowns,wherechampionsaremade

We appraise and/or buy old coinsJust about everyone has a jar of old coins sitting around. Turn

those coin collections, big and small, into cash. Mark was a coin dealer in his previous life and is interested in expanding his collection. Call for an appointment to have your coins appraised and/or purchased. Find out what your treasures are worth! 916-361-2051 and ask for Bob or Mark.

Page 19: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2015 19

10 Days Oct. 20-29 Mexico’s Copper Canyon by Rail

Join Ramona on a trip to view one of the biggest canyons in the world. Fly to El Paso, travel to Chihuahua, Creel, El Fuerte, the Copper Canyon (2 nights on the rim), Cuauhtemoc and Nuevo Casas Grandes. See the complete itinerary online or call for a copy. Door-to-door service, 26 meals, airfare, 3600/3850 Gold Passport Points. $3555 p.p./dbl.occ., $3810 single, $100 EPD*,

this vacation requires a valid passport!

Things to Know Before You Go:Airfare: On all trips where air travel is indicated, airfares are included in the listed prices.

Home Pick-up: Our exclusive home pick-up is included on all trips listed here of three days or longer. Carey Limousines and their partners provide transportation to/from the airport, Sacramento’s Amtrak station or the Sports Leisure Vacations office.

Meals: Please refer to the day-by-day itinerary for a break down of the included breakfasts, brunches, lunches and dinners.

*Early Registration/Payment Discounts: Trips with a note like this after the price “$40 EPD*,” indicates there is a discount available for Early Registration and Payment. Please refer to the back page of the newsletter for more details on Early Registration/Payment Discounts.

The Fine Print: Our Special Tour & Vacation Notes brochure contains the answers to many often-asked questions. A copy is sent with your reservations.

Sports Leisure online: You are invited to visit our website at www.sportsleisure.com for more information on any tour listed here, or call our office and we will be happy to send you a detailed itinerary.

All The Way to AsiaThefinalvoyageofmsStatendamSeptember 2015

Holland America’s iconic ship, the msStatendam, will make her final voyage under the line’s flag later this year. She has hosted many Sports Leisure groups during her many voyages, including our recent Panama Canal crossing in January. When our travelers were invited by the crew to join them for one last sailing, they asked us to look into it. In September, her final voyage will be from Seattle to Singapore. The unique, 30-day voyage includes stops on islands not often visited by cruise ships – Hawaii, the Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Guam, the Philippines and Malaysia. This is a great opportunity to cross these ports off your bucket list, and also your last chance to enjoy Holland America’s legendary service aboard this classic, 1,260-passenger ship. Call now to place your name on the Priority Notification List!

Undiscovered Treasures, Kauai & The Big Island of HawaiiAnotherofour“BestHawaiiToursEver”8 Days • November 2015

Mark and Chris just returned from the islands, spending nearly a week interviewing folks, turning over rocks and searching for the things undiscovered on these two Hawaiian islands. On Kauai, a tour gives you the chance to eat your way around the island, sampling local foods and treats, while meeting the people who make them. From Kauai Cookies, to Aunt Liliokoi’s fudge, the cowboy barbecue, coffee and much more, you’ll sample them all. You will fly in a private plane along the breathtaking Na Pali Coast, over the magnificent Waimea Canyon. Visit a cocoa bean farm and taste chocolate like you would taste fine wines. On Kauai, stay 4 nights at the Courtyard Kapaa, a small property right on the beach. On the Big Island, fly to Hilo and visit the Tsunami Museum, discover tropical flowers in all colors of the rainbow, eat at the Hawaiian Vanilla Company Farm. Stay three nights in Lailua at the Courtyard King Kamehameha, right on the historic grounds once tread on by the king. There’s also a two-night Honolulu option, to include a tour of Doris Duke’s Shangri-La Home and the new Pearl Harbor Memorial. Details at Holiday Preview Day on April 18!

Frank Sinatra’s 100th Birthday Party – Chicago & Palm Springs3 (P.S.) or 5 (Chicago) Days • December 2015

Ol’ Blue Eyes would have been 100 this coming December, and we intend to celebrate… twice! Come to Chicago, Frankie’s “kind of town.” We’ll show you where he hung out, introduce you to some of his closest friends… It’s Christmas time, so international markets, a huge exhibition of holiday trees and lunch at the Walnut Room at Macy’s are all part of the itinerary. In Palm Springs, how about a dinner party at Sinatra’s original Twin Palms Estate? A concert from a Sinatra tribute artist? Maybe you’ll run into Marilyn or some of Frank’s other buddies… Put your name on the list for either or both of these tours.

Teasers

TheTarahumaraPeoplehaveoccupiedCopperCanyonforcenturies,anareafourtimesthesizeofourownGrandCanyon.Exploretheregionoverseveraldayswithdailyrailexcursionsthrough86tunnelsandover38bridges.

Page 20: Slv newsletter marapr2015 web

9812 Old Winery Place, Suite 1

Sacramento, CA 95827

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

PRST STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDSacramento, CAPERMIT NO. 517

$ave $10–$40 per person on Cancellation ProtectionValid only when used with the adjacent coupon on the tours listed.

Your savings depend on the double-occupancy price of the tour.

$ave $10 on tours priced from $451-$800, $ave $20 on tours priced

from $801-$2250, $ave $30 on tours priced from $2251-$3500,

$ave $40 on tours priced at $3501 or more. The regular cost of this

protection is $15-$295, depending on the tour price. To receive the

above discounts, you must pay in full within ten days of registration

and purchase the protection at the time you pay for your tour. Within

60/75 days of departure (see adjoining coupon), coverage is limited

to verified medical emergencies. Please refer to the Special Vacation

Notes & Information brochure for details, or call our office.

VALUABLE CoUPon

ToUR UPDATE…A brief list of tours which are sold out, or have only a limited amount of space (10 or fewer seats, number in parenthesis) remaining. Day trips are not listed.

Sold-Out Tours (waiting list available)Alaska Aurora

Ghost Towns of NevadaBig Sur & Carmel

San Antonio – Deep in the HeartThe Flower Fields of Carlsbad

Tulip Time Along the Rhine River (Cruise)Tulips & Niagara FallsBar Harbor to Boston

Castles, Cathedrals and a Very Special AbbeyLaguna Pageant of the Master (August 16 dep.)

Limited Space (10 or fewer seats)Sweet Home Alabama (6)Croatia by Land & Sea (4)

Missions III: The Last Stops Along the El Camino (3)Washington DC & the Amish Country (1)

Savor Santa Fe (6)The Mighty Five: Zion, Bryce & Capitol Reef (9)

Geysers, Rivers & Peaks (6)All Around Olympic Peninsula (5)

National Treasurers of the West (4)

LLC

Early Registration Payment Di$counts listed here expire on April 14, 2015; or may be withdrawn when 50% of the available space has been reserved. To receive the discount, you must pay in full within ten days of registration. If you accept this option, the monies paid, including the cost of Cancellation Protection, are returned to you in full if you cancel more than 60 days prior to departure for US and Canadian tours or 75 days prior for International tours, regardless of the reason for cancellation. Within the time limits noted above, restrictions on refunds apply. See the Special Vacation Notes & Information brochure for complete details.

Jul. – Summer in Victoria – $ave $25

Jul. – Canadian Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer – $ave $75

Sep. – Fall Foliage in New England – $ave $50

Sep. – Redwoods on the North Coast – $ave $20

Sep. – Ferries & Towns of Puget Sound – $ave $40

Sep. – Great Gatsby at the Grand – $ave $50

Sep. – National Treasures of the West – $ave $40

Sep. – When You Wish Upon a Star Mystery – $ave $60

Oct. – Catalina Island Getaway – $ave $40

Oct. – Rails Around Oregon/Columbia River Gorge – $ave $60

Oct. – Mexico’s Copper Canyon by Rail – $ave $100

Oct. – Wild & Wonderful West Virginia – $ave $100

Oct. – Bluegrass & Bourbon – $ave $75

Nov. – Tonopah, Laughlin & LV by SuperCoach – $ave $50

EARLY PAYMEnT DI$CoUnT CoUPon

I Once Was Lost…Sports Leisure’s “Lost & Found” drawer is filled to capacity

with the usual assortment of coats, umbrellas, gloves, notebooks, walking canes, etc., etc., etc. Many items have been here for several months. If you have misplaced an item while traveling with us, please consider contacting the office to see if it can be found in our drawer. Any items remaining in the drawer will be donated to charity at the end of March.