Slv newsletter marapr2016 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 ...................4Casino Trips & Baseball ...........................5The Human Side.......................................6Day Trips & Theatre Outings .................7-9Teasers ...................................................10The Barber Pole .....................................11New Vacations & Getaways ..............12-14Tour Calendar ....................................15-19Coupons 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

9,858 Active Members • 48,147 Members Since 1979 MARCH/APRIL | VOL. 37 | NO. 4 2016

DELIVERING BUSINESS ESSENTIALS TO NTA MEMBERS MARCH 2016

OLYMPIC MOMENTS IN PARK CITY, UTAH PAGE 48

SPOTLIGHT SHINES ON NEW YORK CITY PAGE 32

A DAY IN MARY’S PARK PAGE 72

SAMPLING SAGUENAY-LAC-SAINT-JEAN PAGE 45

JASON DORSEY: A MAN FOR THE AGES PAGE 14

TAKE A TRIP THROUGH TREXTravel Exchange generates big business and energy in Atlanta PAGE 22

Spring Tour Preview DaySports Leisure Vacations office

Friday & Saturday, May 13-1410am & 1pm each day

New fall trips and our complete holiday tour schedule will be announced. Those in attendance will naturally have a

jump on registering for the new trips.

Noadmissioncharge • ComplimentaryChinese/AmericanBuffet

Pleasebringadonationtothe:CaliforniaEmergencyFoodlinkCommunityFoodCloset

Reservationarerequired • Callourofficetoregister

ThanksgivingandChristmaspackages,alongwithnewtoursforthefallandanupdateofpreviouslyannouncedtours

Update from the National Tour

Association Convention in

Atlanta, Georgia

(Above)Eachyearatconvention,Clayton

introducesnewattendeestotheprogram.Thisyear,thecoveroftheassociation’smagazine,Courier,caughtClaytonleadingoneofhisconventionfloortours.(Right)NTAPresidentPamInman,2016ChairmanJorgeCasanaveandClayton,withMarkashereceivesNTA’sLifetime

Achievement Award.

Casanave,fromArgentina,wastheassociation’sfirst-everoff-the-NorthAmericancontinentleader.

2 SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2016

Just One Man’s Opinion by Mark Hoffmann

RelationshipsAs Sports Leisure approaches its 37th

birthday in early June, I find myself reflecting on the people who have crossed paths with us, both in the course of building tours and in the actual travel involved. Because truly, it’s the relationships that count the most.

When we solicited the local airport shuttle vans for bids to transport our travelers to the airport 25 years ago, someone from Carey Transportation walked into our office the day before the bids closed, just looking for limo business, and we invited them to bid. Now a quarter of a century has passed, and we still partner with the same company.

If those who travel with us knew what a monumental job it is to prepare a dispatch list for 20-40 travelers who live north, south, east and west of the airport, in a town with two rivers and limited bridges over them, you would have a greater appreciation for how this service is offered. We know it’s important to our travelers, and I’m proud of the fact we have worked with Carey for so many years.

Early years of our company found us moving from one local bus company to another, trying to find one that had the same concepts of service that we did. We had started with All Cal Tours, which had morphed into All West Coachlines. The then general manager was an old friend; he had actually driven some of our early casino trips. Frank and I worked out an agreement, and while Frank retired soon after, the relationship has continued, once again for over 25 years.

It makes all of us very happy that Greg Gross has been our lead driver for 24 years (I’m sure many of you share that happiness). Many of our other request drivers have been taking Sports Leisure groups places for a long time.

Doris Gray, now the GM at the Best Western Sutter House downtown, where our travelers are offered a terrific rate for pre-and-post tour overnights, was the GM at the Best Western Expo Inn over at Howe and Hallmark, and allowed us to use her back parking lot for many, many years. I

consider Doris a personal friend, and she has certainly returned that friendship to SLV Travelers through the years.

Our bright green luggage tags come to us from Marsha Bonowitz, whose late husband John sold us our first logo advertising items, over 30 years ago.

Tom Romano, my broadcast partner on The Travel Guys radio show, has been a friend forever. Tom helped me with my first radio commercials, again over 30 years ago. At one point, Clayton and I bought he and his wife’s home. Now Tom and I work each week to prepare an hour of fun on the air on Sunday afternoons, 3-4pm.

Our first underwriting spots first appeared on KVIE 24 years ago. The man who handles our account, Barry Pitlok, has been there taking care of us for as long as I can remember.

Just on our own staff, continuity is around every corner. Bob Veliky, Patricia Hansen and Clayton Whitehead have been here more than 20 years; Kevin Murphy, Scott Angeletti, Joey Querio, Ramona Goodge and Donnie Anderson have all been a part of the team for more than a decade. This company has only had one owner in its history, another tribute to our longevity and stability as a company.

H H H H H H H H

At Sports Leisure, we have been blessed with many, many wonderful relationships. The ones that are listed here are only a small sample. There are hoteliers, restaurants and attractions, fellow tour operators who help us build awesome vacations, tourism officials, the list goes on and on. There is no question that the relationships we have built over the years are one of the reasons our tours are a cut above. We have a lot of help. Including a few suggestions from our travelers.

Spring Preview DayOn Friday, May 13th and Saturday, May

14th, we will host our annual Spring Preview Day at the office. There will be morning and afternoon sessions, with a complimentary buffet luncheon. Peking Restaurant, which has hosted our Pre-Tour/Cruise Luncheons for many years, is preparing a Chinese Buffet

for your enjoyment. For dessert, Key Lime Pie from our favorite, The Key Lime Pie Co. in Key West. There is no charge for the Spring Preview, but we are continuing a tradition by asking you to make a contribution to a local food closet at the event. Bring a couple of cans of food, a bag or two of pasta, anything non-perishable, to make life a little better for someone in our community. Food banks traditionally struggle as the summer months come on.

H H H H H H H H

I want to take a moment and thank the National Tour Association for the Bob Everidge Lifetime Achievement Award I received at our recent annual convention in Atlanta. Mr. Everidge was a past NTA leader.

As the only person ever to lead the association twice, in 2000 and again in 2013, I truly have a great love for NTA, and the people who make it a great place to do business. When you invest in something you love for so long, you sometimes wonder if anyone noticed. Now I know the answer to that question. It was a special day. Thank you to those who made it possible. I share this award with our travelers, because without you I would not have been there.

And so it goes…

Mark Hoffmann, CTPOwner/Founder

Markatthepodium,acceptingtheLifetimeAchievementAwardattherecentNTAConventioninAtlanta;only13othershavereceivedtheaward

SportsLeisureVacations/March–April2016 3

If you’ve only viewed Iowa and her eastern neighbor Wisconsin as “fly-over states,” I ask most sincerely for you to allow me to show you otherwise in May. Mid-westerners are an intelligent, independent and proud people. That Californians would come to explore their lives and homeland is an extreme compliment to them, and they treat us like honored guests. We’ll visit the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison, House on the Rock, the John Deere tractor assembly plant in Waterloo, the Amana Colonies, Tulip Time in Pella, Hubert Hoover and John Wayne’s birth homes, Iowa’s State Capitol in Des Moines and yes, both the Field of Dreams and the Bridges of Madison County. In the Midwest, places like this are not movie sets. They’re real.

And the food? Oh, the food! We’ll eat cheese curds, Dutch letters, pork cutlets, sweet corn, wiener schnitzel, sauerkraut and drink dandelion wine. (Don’t knock it until you’re tried it!)

The byline for this tour is “America the way she used to be; America the way she ought to be.” That says it all right there. If

Hello friends!I am in my happy place! The Colorful

Mystery Coast is well underway and everything is working out perfectly. Today we spent the day in America’s oldest city, St. Augustine, Florida. Still to come are some of the beautiful and historic barrier islands that create the unique coastline of the Southeastern states: Amelia, St. Simons, Jekyll and Hilton Head. (I can tell you this because we’ll be home by the time this ends up in your mailbox or inbox!) Hopefully you’re a part of our Facebook family and have been following our journey through the photos I’m posting. If not, please LIKE Sports Leisure Vacations!

And I’m watching Celtic Thunder’s new special Legacy on the local PBS station. They just sang “Caledonia,” my favorite Irish song. What could be better? (Insiders tip: This amazing group will be in Sacramento in November and KVIE has a ticket offer!)

This is the first tour of the season for most of us, so there’s an ongoing conservation about where everyone is going next, where we want to go and favorite past destinations. I’ve been a tour guide for over 30 years (gulp!) so I’ve got A LOT of favorites. I find, however, that most folks are surprised by my answer. As much as I love my beloved Southland, my favorite tour was born 20 years ago this spring. And like today’s adventure, it started as a mystery tour.

Perhaps it was the movie “Field of Dreams” that first showed America there could be more in an Iowa cornfield than first met the eyes. The book, then movie “Bridges of Madison County” certainly drove that point home. Therein America’s Heartland was born. Since ‘96, I’ve offered the tour four or five more times. The result was always the same: It’s one of those destinations you never thought of visiting, but once you got there it just felt right.

Clayton Placeyou’re looking for an amazing journey off the beaten path that just feels right, check out page 26 in our catalog or visit our website for the full itinerary. Then join me in May! But be forewarned: You WILL put on a few pounds!

Your Tour Guy,

Clayton Whitehead, CTP

Vice President

BlueberryisdancinginDeathValleywithadesert5spotduringthegloriousonceinadecade“superbloom”(phototakenbyRamonaGoodge)

DiscoverthecoveredbridgesofMadisonCounty


The Customers Always Write

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]

Continuedonpage5

Greetings Mark,

Thank you! Thank you for taking time from your busy schedule to come and visit. Gatsby was fun, exciting and your travelers made it all happen with their participation. I was so impressed with your group sing-a-long, they were wonderful. I personally appreciated your ideas from this experience that will make the next event better. Thank you for your support, smiles and everlasting love for travel. Most Sincerely,JuliaLuckey-OttenwessGrandHotel,MackinacIsland

To The Scholarship Committee:

I cannot begin to express my gratitude for the 2015 Chuck Evans Memorial Scholarship! So let me start with a simple thank you. Receiving this award has taken a huge weight off of my shoulders! I am planning on putting it towards my tuition this spring.

With that being such an enormous help I have been able to explore other activities. I volunteered for over 30 hours these past few weeks in Whittiers’ Theatre Department. I helped construct the set and I worked on lighting prep for the production of “Big Love.” In addition, I have been able to put a lot of my energy towards the Whittier College Improv team. As president, I organized multiple shows in these past few months including one, promoting alcohol awareness. This scholarship has really given me the opportunity to fully enjoy and explore my senior year and, for that, I am very thankful. Thank you,AmyLeighHolfine

Ed. Note: Your Tour Preview Day

admissions are what are helping to make this young lady’s life more productive. Another college-aged member of the Sports Leisure extended family will receive a $2,000 scholarship towards their college expenses at the Preview Day this fall. If you would like information on how your family member can apply for the scholarship, send an email to Clayton (see box at right). Read on to hear of another way we are helping up-and-coming tourism professionals…

Dear Friends:

We at the Dunes Center in Guadalupe, California, received a generous donation from Sports Leisure Vacations and wanted to thank whoever is responsible. We were successful this year in engaging over 10,000 people with our quality programming. It’s important to conserve an 18-mile stretch of dunes from Pismo Beach to Point Sal, CA. Many animals and humans make a trek to experience these dunes. Thank you for helping us.TheVolunteers&StaffoftheDunesCenter

Dear Mark Hoffman and

Clayton Whitehead:

On behalf of Soroptimist International of Sacramento South, thank you for your generous donation for our charity Winter Crab Fest on February 6, 2016. Our records indicate you donated the following, a $100 Gift Certificate towards a Tour of Choice. The event was a great success! We had over 200 people in attendance and we were able to surpass our profit from previous years. All the final figures are not in yet, but it appears that we will have made over $9,000 to use to fund our programs that improve the lives of women and children in our community. Your support this year helped make the success of our event possible. Thank you. Sincerely,KathleenCrone,CorrespondingSecretarySoroptimistInternationalofSacramento,South

Ed. Note: You are so welcome. Any member of the Sports Leisure family can request a prize for a fundraiser. Because of the many requests we receive (and to be fair), we have standardized our donation to a $100 Travel Certificate, good on any Sports Leisure trip. Send me a note, along with a copy of the event publicity/information, and we will see what we can do. Requests from Travel Club Members are given priority.

Via the internet

My husband and I just returned from the Snow Trip to Reno on 1/17. My husband inadvertently picked up another passenger’s

suitcase which I discovered after arriving home. Called the SL office, who reached Joey, our Tour Director. The main thing is that Greg, the bus driver, drove to meet me at the pickup point in Roseville. We got our suitcase back and then he took the other suitcase to the lady in Loomis. This is service over and beyond especially since he had to turn in the bus, get his own car, drive back to Roseville and Loomis. Kudos!KathyStuart

Ed. Note: Thank you Greg! Wow, that’s really above and beyond. And thank you Kathy, for taking the time to share.

Dear Kevin Murphy,

I wanted to write and thank you for mentoring me at the NTA travel exchange recently in Atlanta. I’m very grateful for the opportunity I had to go and learn more about the industry. It was an experience I know I wouldn’t be able to get anywhere else, even in my classes. I left Atlanta with a lot of new connections with people from the tourism industry and a much deeper understanding of all that goes into tour operations, thanks to you.

I’m hopeful that being a part of the NTA travel exchange student mentoring program will make me a desirable candidate for all of the internships I am applying for this summer and for a full time position in tour operations after graduation. It’s exciting that someday I might be able to go back to the travel exchange with the company I work for


The Champagne Express to Tahoe

Wed., April 20, Thurs., May 19 or Tues., June 14

Our popular Champagne Express to Harvey’s at Lake Tahoe continues in 2016. 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! $50

More Customers Always Write & BaseballThe 2016 Ballpark Express

For 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 Reserved seating for most A’s games and Lower Box seating for all Giants games.

World Champion San Francisco GiantsWed., May 11 vs. Toronto Blue Jays 12:45pm $144

Sun., May 22 vs. Chicago Cubs 5:05pm $165

Sun., Jun. 12 vs. Los Angeles Dodgers 5:30pm $167

Mon., Jul. 4 vs. Colorado Rockies 1:05pm $200

Wed., Jul. 27 vs. Cincinnati Reds 12:45pm $165

Sun., Jul. 31 vs. Washington Nationals 1:05pm $182*

Wed., Aug. 17 vs. Pittsburgh Pirates 12:45pm $165

Sun., Aug. 21 vs. New York Mets 1:05pm $165

Sun., Sept. 18 vs. St. Louis Cardinals 1:05pm $165

Sun., Oct. 2 vs. Los Angeles Dodgers 12:05pm $165

*Includes one-way transportation on the Vallejo Ferry

Oakland AthleticsSat., Apr. 16 vs. Kansas City Royals 1:05pm $118

Sat., May 21 vs. New York Yankees 1:05pm $125*

Sat., Aug. 6 vs. Chicago Cubs 1:05pm $118

Wed., Sept. 21 vs. Houston Astros 12:35pm $111

*Plaza Level Infield seating.

❝Baseballislikechurch.Manyattend,fewunderstand.❞ –LeoDurocher

and mentor other college students, like you did for me. Again, thank you so much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to mentor me. Sincerely,ErinLeye

Mark,

I had forgotten to send you these pix. My granddaughter had better ones than I so she shared them with me and I am forwarding them to you. Sorry that I didn’t get one of the entrance because it is so impressive also but these with the wreaths are special for now. Hope you are impressed as much as I was. BrendaHembree

Ed. Note: Thank you Brenda, for sending along the pictures, taken at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery. Again, here’s where some of your Preview Day admission go. Next December, The Travel Guys Radio Show plans on inviting listeners to volunteer and help place the wreaths on the grave sites. Watch your November newsletter for details on how you can be a part of the event.

Thank you Mark,

I wanted to let you know I have received the $400.00 travel card that was mailed to me. It was very exciting to hear my name called a few weeks ago when you announced the weekly winner on The Travel

Guys radio show. I just returned from the Sinatra’s Palm Springs trip and I wanted to let you know, WOW, what an incredible trip it was! Ramona put together a fantastic assortment of special sights, shows and meals. Thanks for making us smarter travelers on your show and thanks also to you and your staff in offering such a great variety of wonderful places to visit throughout the year. Sincerely,BrianA.Toole

Ed. Note: Every week, a recent Sports Leisure Traveler wins on The Travel Guys broadcast (3-4pm Sundays on KFBK, 1530AM and 93.1FM). The jackpot starts at $100 and increases every week there isn’t a winner. Listen for your name to WIN!

Hi Mark,

I wanted to thank you for bringing your group to our store. It certainly was an interesting tour with the surprise element! Lots of brave travelers just getting on a plane for an unknown destination! We hope your group enjoyed the visit. They were certainly a very nice group of people and we look forward to helping with a Virginia Beach experience in the future.BrendaTusingTheRoyalChocolate,VirginiaBeach,VA

Ed. Note: Our Christmas Mystery Tour visited Virginia Beach, Newport News and Richmond (Oh, the Tacky Christmas Lights Tour in Richmond was so much fun!) Chris has decided to offer the trip again this year, except you will know where you are going. Attend the Spring Preview Day on Friday & Saturday, May 13 & 14, for details, or watch your May/June newsletter.

The Customers Always Write –Con’tfrompg.4


The Human Side Learn, Laugh, Reflect

Missing Person ReportA Texas Husband went to the sheriff’s

department to report that his wife was missing. Husband: My wife is missing. She went shopping yesterday and has not come home… Sergeant: What is her height? Husband: Gee, I’m not sure. A little over five-feet tall. Sergeant: Weight? Husband: Don’t know. Not slim, not fat. Sergeant: Color of eyes? Husband: Sort of brown I think. Never really noticed. Sergeant: Color of hair? Husband: Changes a couple times a year. Maybe dark brown now. I can’t remember. Sergeant: What was she wearing? Husband: Could have been pants, or maybe a skirt or shorts. I don’t know exactly. Sergeant: What kind of car did she go in? Husband: She went in my truck. Sergeant: What kind of truck was it? Husband: A 2015 Ford F150 King Ranch 4X4 with eco-boost 5.0L V8 engine special ordered with manual transmission and climate controlled air conditioning. Custom leather 6-way seats and “Bubba” floor mats. Trailering package with gold hitch and special wiring hook-ups. DVD with full GPS navigation, satellite radio receiver and a 23-channel CB radio. At this point the husband started choking up.Sergeant: Don’t worry buddy. We’ll find your truck.

Mom & Dad, and Fixing Things…I grew up with practical parents. A mother,

God love her, who washed aluminum foil after she cooked in it, then reused it. She was the original recycle queen before they had a name for it. A father who was happier getting old shoes fixed than buying new ones.

Their marriage was good, their dreams focused. Their best friends lived barely a wave away.

I can see them now, Dad in trousers, tee shirt and a hat and Mom in a house dress,

lawn mower in one hand, and dish-towel in the other. It was the time for fixing things. A curtain rod, the kitchen radio, screen door, the oven door, the hem in a dress.

It was a way of life, and sometimes it made me crazy. All that re-fixing, eating, renewing, I wanted just once to be wasteful. Waste meant affluence. Throwing things away meant you knew there’d always be more.

Sometimes, what we care about most gets all used up and goes away… never to return… So… While we have it… it’s best we love it… And care for it… And fix it when it’s broken… And heal it when it’s sick.

A Jury of Your BeersThis week, a jury in Wisconsin arrived at a verdict in the case of John Przbyla, a 76-year-

old man who was arrested in 2014 for drunk driving. John had a long history of driving drunk but this time he had an excuse. He said that his elevated blood alcohol level wasn’t from drinking but was due to the fact that he had just come from eating beer-battered fish. The jury decided that the fish defense smelled funny and found him guilty.

Jury Duty Rated “R”The Clerk of the Jackson County Circuit Court in Pascagoula, Mississippi is apologizing

for a grievous error. About 350 jury summonses were sent out with instructions for the juror to call a phone number to find out if they needed to report for jury selection. This sounded like a good system except the summonses listed the wrong phone number.

Instead of getting the courthouse, the callers got hooked up with an adult phone sex line that began with the greeting, “For hot girls, press 1. For hot guys, press 2.” The clerk said he doesn’t know how the error happened but will get to the bottom of it… no pun intended. As a result of this snafu, people lined up around the block at the courthouse to sign up as potential jurors.

JURY DUTY

This is true. For marriage… And old cars… And children with bad report cards… And dogs with bad hips… And aging parents… And grandparents. Like a best friend that moved away or a classmate we grew up with. We keep them because they are worth it, because we are worth it.

There are just some things that make life important, like people we know who are special… And so, we keep them close!

Good friends are like stars… You don’t always see them, but you know they are always there.

Saying A Final Goodbye to Our FriendsWe got a phone call from our good friend Eva the other day. She wanted us to know her

very best friend, one of our travelers, had passed. It seems Hannelore Sangmaster was the one who introduced Eva to her husband oh so many years ago, and Hannelore and Eva traveled together for many years. We also say our final farewells to:

Myrletta Downs Floy Fenner Dorothy Souza Angelina Whitt

On March 23rd, Tom Jennings will be laid to rest at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery near Dixon. Tom and his surviving wife Donna were active travelers for many years and will be missed, especially on the Spring Training excursions.

OFFiCE hOURS:8:00am – 4:30pm MON. thru FRI.

Closed weekends & major holidaysCLOSED TUES. 12:00pm – 1:15pm www.facebook.com/sportsleisure


Oscar de la RentadeYoungMuseuminSanFranciscoWednesday, April 6

The de Young Museum hosts the premiere exhibit covering the life of renowned American fashion designer Oscar de la Renta. Respected and admired for impeccable style and workmanship, the exhibit features more than 100 ensembles designed for a who’s who of celebrities, dignitaries, and global personalities. The accompanying audio guide is also included for your enjoyment. An optional shuttle will be available to visit The Legion of Honor in the afternoon to visit its permanent collection. Currently on loan and displayed at the Legion is Raphael’s “Portrait of a Lady with a Unicorn” and a special exhibit of French artist Pierre Bonnard. With more than 60 works that span the artist’s entire career from impressionism to abstraction, Pierre Bonnard: Painting Arcadia can be included with a surcharge payable at the door. Lunch is on your own at either of the museum cafes. $103

The Stockton Asparagus FestivalSanJoaquinCountyFairgroundsFriday, April 15

For nearly 30 years, the Stockton Asparagus Festival has been a regional party honoring that strange green stalk of a vegetable! The festival takes place at a new location, the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, and includes cooking demonstrations, a farmers market, arts and crafts, and, of course, lots of opportunities to eat asparagus: asparagus ice cream anyone? Stroll the festival grounds and enjoy lunch from any one of the many vendors. Return to Sacramento early, between 2pm and 3pm. $86

The King: The Music of ElvisWellsFargoCenter,SantaRosaSunday, April 17

Elvis Presley was the king… and he changed American music forever. Celebrate thrilling performances of his greatest hits, including “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Love Me Tender,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” “Hound Dog” and more like never before with the full Santa Rosa Symphony and four Broadway and cabaret singers in a JerseyBoys-style show that brings a new twist, shake, rattle and roll to the classic hits of The KING! Lunch is included at Dempsey’s prior to the 3pm matinee show. $173

My Fair LadyEastSonoraTheatre,SonoraSaturday, April 23

Enjoy the masterful scores of Lerner and Loewe in this classic tale based on the story of “Pygmalion.” Can Professor Higgins win the bet by passing off the flower girl as a refined lady? The antics of Higgins, Eliza and the rest of cast bring smiles; as do the wonderful songs “I Could Have Danced all Night,” “Wouldn’t it be Loverly,” and “Get Me to the Church on Time.” Lunch is included at Christopher’s prior to the 2pm matinee performance. $146

ChinglishNevadaTheater,NevadaCitySaturday, April 30

Community Asian Theatre of the Sierra (CATS) brings its annual production back to the historic Nevada Theater in Nevada City. An American businessman is desperately looking to score a lucrative contract for his family’s firm. He travels to China only to learn just how much he doesn’t understand. His translators are unreliable, his consultant may be a fraud, and he is captivated by Xi, the beautiful, seemingly supportive government official who talks the talk – but what is she saying anyway? Lunch is included at Tofanelli’s Gold Country Bistro in Grass Valley prior to the 2pm matinee. Limited space! $122

A Date for Lunch in VolcanoFeaturingthehistoricVolcanoUnionInnMonday, May 9

Join us for lunch in the small Sierra foothills community of Volcano at the historic Union Inn. Built in 1880 by four French Canadians, the inn was first a boarding house for miners. Today, the inn serves fresh, flavorful and seasonable entrees prepared with local ingredients. Pause at Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park to view its incredible collection of Miwok baskets. $128

A Day on the DolphinFeaturingacruiseonthePetalumaRiverThursday, May 12

The Petaluma River has a rich history and beautiful scenery as it flows down to San Pablo Bay. You will enjoy a two hour narrated cruise aboard the Dolphin as you pass old steamship docks and learn the history of this quiet area. Lunch is included prior to the cruise at a Sports Leisure Vacations’

favorite, Dempsey’s. $168

Getting Around San FranciscoWednesday, May 18

Begin with SuperCoachIIIservice 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 whereSuperCoachIIIwill be waiting to return you home. $150

Day Trips & Theatre Outings

Proud members of the

Everrideacablecar?YoucanGettingAroundSF!


Levi’s Stadium ExperienceMorethanjustastadiumtourTuesday, May 24

Levi’s Stadium, the home of your beloved SF Forty Niners, was host to Super Bowl 50 earlier this year. It’s the NFL’s newest sports arena and the rest of the world got glimpses of how technologically advanced this facility is. If you missed out on one of our trips last year to tour this amazing stadium, you’re still in the game! This trip to Santa Clara will include a stadium tour, lunch onsite, and time to browse the interactive museum. There’s also a team store where you’ll find a huge selection to show your “Forty Niner Faithful” team support. Return to Sacramento in early afternoon. Please note: This is an extensive walking tour! $141

A Day at the RacesGoldenGateFields,BerkeleyThursday, May 26

Our always popular Day at the Races includes a sumptuous 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

Brunch on the BayFeaturingaHornblowerYachtCruiseSunday, May 29

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 in the late afternoon. $154

View From The TopTuesday, May 31

Permits for all new buildings in San Francisco mandate areas that are open and free to the public. When space next to the building is available, colorful little “parks” are planted and, if no space is adjacent, a garden on the rooftop offers beautiful “views from the top.” With Craig Smith as our guide, this tour explores a variety of small public parks and rooftop gardens not frequently visited or easily noticed. This walking tour visits several buildings and locations in the downtown, financial, and Embarcadero areas of the city and requires the use of elevators and escalators. Enjoy an included lunch at midday at Pompei’s Grotto Restaurant near Fisherman’s Wharf. $126

Carol Burnett, An Evening of Laughter & ReflectionGoldenGateTheater,SFSaturday, June 4

Mark attended this show when it was last in the Bay Area at the Paramount Theatre in Oakland. He can only recommend that if you are a fan of this comedic genius that you go see her! There won’t be many of these appearances and Carol does it best. Seats are in center orchestra in the middle of the theater. There will be a no-host dinner stop at Fisherman’s Wharf before the 8pm show. (Sorry, there were no matinee options.) While it will be a late night, it will be worth it! Our trip on Friday, June 3 sold out immediately through By Invitation Only – a waitlist is available. $254

Beach Blanket BabylonClubFugazi,SanFranciscoSunday, June 5

There’s nothing quite Beach BlanketBabylon. San Francisco’s longest-running staged comedy show poke fun at everyone – politicians, celebrities and other folks in the public eye. The songs are hilarious, the dancing wonderful, and the hats are really, really big! Reserved seats are upstairs (no elevator) in this historic theatre in the center balcony. Enjoy an included lunch at Sports

Leisure favorite Viva Italian Restaurant. $163

A Taste of TuscanyFeaturingtheCastellodiAmorosaWineryTuesday, June 7

Tour Calistoga’s top-rated 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 guided walking tour followed by a special tour and tasting of a few wines and chocolates. Free time to visit the gift shop and grounds follows the tour. A delicious pasta lunch is included at Napa’s Ristorante Allegria. $183

Travel The Lincoln highway to Farmers’ MarketsSaturday, June 11

Join Mark for another journey on one of America’s most historic roads. The Lincoln Highway leaves Sacramento to the west and to the south; it’s the southern route that interests us this day. Detours include slices of old highway through Galt, Lodi, Stockton and Tracy. We’ll dine at a landmark restaurant in Livermore, stop in at the historic Duarte Garage and visit Pleasanton in the morning for a stop at its small, perfect farmers’ market. Bring home some great goodies. Early start (7-8am), mid-afternoon return. Includes lunch. $109

Treasure island & The ExpositionWednesday, June 15

The Golden Gate International Exposition at Treasure Island (1939-1940) was a celebration of the newly built Golden Gate and San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridges. Created for the World’s Fair, we’ll explore with Craig Smith as our guide learning about its early history, the transition to naval base, and its future plans. The magnificent view from this famous “Island in the Bay” offers an eye to every corner. Enjoy an included three-course lunch at the U.S. Job Corp Culinary Center located on Treasure Island before finishing the day at the Rincon Center, whose interior features the renowned “History of California” mural, composed of 27 watercolor murals painted by the Russian immigrant muralist Anton Refregier, from 1941 to 1948. $117

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CabaretGoldenGateTheater,SanFranciscoWednesday June 22 or

Saturday June 25

Welcome to the infamous Kit Kat Klub, where Sally Bowles and a raucous ensemble take the stage nightly to tantalize the crowd – and to leave their troubles outside. But as life in pre-WWII Germany grows more and more uncertain, will the decadent allure of Berlin nightlife be enough to get them through the dangerous times? Come hear some of Kander & Ebb’s most memorable songs including “Cabaret,” “Willkommen” and “Maybe This Time.” Leave your troubles outside – life is beautiful at the Cabaret! The Wednesday trip includes a snack box lunch served on the coach, orchestra seating, and a no-host dinner stop at Pier 39 directly after the show. The Saturday trip includes lunch on your own in Union Square, orchestra seating and a return to Sacramento immediately following the show. All shows are 2pm matinee performances. Wednesday – $160, Saturday – $180

CarmenSanFranciscoOperaHouseSunday, July 3

Possibly the most famous and recognized opera in the world, Carmen returns to the San Francisco Opera in a bold production of love, lust, and murder. Set in post-Franco Spain, this version of Bizet’s masterpiece with the ultimate femme fatale, lovesick soldier, and dashing bullfighter, retains the pulsating beat and haunting arias you have always known. Your choice of seating is in the side sections of the Orchestra or Dress Circle of the first balcony for the 2pm matinee. Be advised that Dress Circle requires use of steep stairs to reach with no availability of handrails. A stop is included in Union Square for a no-host lunch prior to the performance. Orchestra – $246, Dress

Circle – $188

Disney’s Beauty andthe BeastOrpheumTheater,SFWednesday, July 6 or Saturday, July 9

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is the classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. The musical features a wonderful score including “Be Our Guest” and, of course, “Beauty and The Beast.” The Wednesday trip includes a snack box lunch served on the coach, orchestra seating, and a no-host dinner stop at Pier 39 directly after the show. The Saturday trip includes lunch on your own in Union Square, orchestra seating and a return to Sacramento immediately following the show. All shows are 2pm matinee performances. Wednesday – $150, Saturday – $180

Brunch with SnoopyFeaturingtheCharlesSchultzMuseumSunday, July 10

Spend Sunday with one of Santa Rosa’s most famous residents: Snoopy! Created by Charles Schultz, who worked from his home in Santa Rosa, you’ll discover how one man’s love for his dog turned into Peanuts,the most popular international cartoon strip. Sunday Brunch buffet precedes your visit to the museum at the Flamingo Resort. $121

State FairAttheFallonHouseTheatreSaturday, July 16

Spend a summer day in the foothills with the Sonora Theatre Company as it celebrates summer and the magic of Rodgers & Hammerstein, two of our country’s greatest composers. State Fair is a warm-hearted tale of the adventures of the Frake family as they leave the farm for 3 days of adventure and romance at the annual Iowa State Fair. Includes favorites, “It Might As Well Be Spring” and “It’s a Grand Night for Singing.” Lunch is included prior to the matinee at the City Hotel in Columbia. $141

Beautiful: The Carol King MusicalOrpheumTheatre,SFWednesday, August 17, 24, 31,

September 7 or 14, or

Saturday, September 10

Beautiful: The Carole King Musical tells the inspiring true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom, from being part of a hit songwriting team with her husband Gerry Goffin, to her relationship with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, to becoming one of the most successful solo acts in popular music history. Along the way, she made more than beautiful music, she wrote the soundtrack to a generation. The show features a stunning array of beloved songs written by Gerry Goffin/Carole King and Barry Mann/Cynthia Weil, including “I Feel The Earth Move,” “One Fine Day,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” and “You’ve Got A Friend.” Join us for an afternoon of incredible music with BEAUTIFUL and see why it won two Tony Awards in 2014 and a Grammy Award in 2015. Saturday trips include lunch on your own in Union Square, the 2pm matinee with orchestra seating, and a return to Sacramento following the show. Wednesday trips include a box lunch onboard the coach en route to San Francisco, the 2pm matinee with orchestra seating, and dinner on your own at Pier 39 following the show. Limited space on some departures. Wednesday –

$165, 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.


As promised, here is an update on the tour ideas which appeared on this page in the previous newsletter. Many are still soliciting interest and some have already become reality and can be found on these pages. If any of these tours pique your interest, please call and place your name on the Priority Notification List.

TEASERS

A Cajun Country Christmas6 Days • December 2016

Discover Christmas amongst the towns and bayous of Louisiana! Begin in New Orleans where the French Quarter takes on a holiday flare. Discover the holiday traditions of the Cajuns and Creoles with visits to Lafayette, to view a Christmas Parade and tour Noel Acadian au Village to see more than 500,000 holiday lights, and Lake Charles, to find the Mistletoe & Moss Holiday Market is the perfect place to buy unique holiday gifts. And don’t forget, fabulous food is always in season in Louisiana: bread pudding, pralines and divinity! It’s a holiday tour unlike any other!

Christmas in Palm Springs3 Days • December 2016

We return to Palm Springs for a warm weather holiday trip. Ride the tram to the top of Mt. St. Jacinto and watch the town’s annual Christmas parade from right outside your hotel! There will be a celebrity tour of town to discover the haunts of its most famous residents. We’ll throw in a holiday concert and a late lunch at the Mission Inn in nearby Riverside to view its extensive holiday decorations.

Christmas on the (Virginia) Beach3nightsinoceanfrontrooms6 Days • November 30 – December 5

This is last year’s Christmas Mystery itinerary. Fly to Norfolk, spend 3 nights on the beach, be a part of Newport News’s annual Holidazzle celebration, and finish with some of the most amazing Christmas Lights you’ve ever seen in Richmond.

Teasers & Teaser UpdatesThanksgiving with The Pilgrims & The Boston PopsTraditionalholidaycelebrations,oldandnew,withroundtripto/fromBoston6 Days • November 18-23

Come to Plymouth, to celebrate with the pilgrims, and learn about the first Thanksgiving. Then enjoy a holiday concert from The Boston Pops. Plus, you’ll be home the night before Thanksgiving to celebrate with friends and family if you wish. Parades, holiday feasts, lots of fun!

Key West, Miami & The EvergladesFeaturingKeyLargo&4nightsinKeyWest,tourSouthBeach,meetanalligatorortwo7 Days • January 28 – February 3

Year after year, one of our most popular tours. It features an extended stay in Key West, a host of unique attractions, including our own “Taste of Key West,” dining on a private island, a bawdy nightclub and so much more. Limited to 25.

Winter in Yellowstone6 Days • February 10-15, 2017

Yellowstone is a special place in the winter. It offers a more intimate experience of a snowy landscape with its abundance of geysers and other thermal features. Stay at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge for one night located in the center of the park. From there, adventure deep into the park to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Stay two nights at the Wort Hotel in Jackson Hole. Embark on a wildlife tour and a horse-drawn sleigh ride among an elk herd numbering in the thousands at the National Elk Refuge.

TEASER UPDATES

Solvang & Santa Barbara4 Days • October/December 2016

This has evolved into a possible

Christmas destination. While we check out those possibilities, other departure dates are on hold.

On The Road with the Giants6 Days • June 1-6

This tour was announced a few weeks ago to those who put their names on the list and they took every single seat. Wait list is available. Perfect example of how this whole idea is supposed to work.

What’s New in LA?3 Days • Fall 2016

This tour has been moved back to a fall departure. New Broad Contemporary Art Museum, the rest of the Museum Mile, plus the new Getty Center. The Hollywood Bowl idea became a July trip of its own (see the New Tours section on page 12).

Rivercats Roadtrip to Reno2 Days • August 20-21

See the Reno Aces play the Rivercats twice, along with Sunday Brunch. Add your name to the list if you are a baseball fan and we will have a decision by May.

An Arkansas RendezvousThis idea had enough response that if

has been developed into a tour and can be found on page 12.

Old Man River8 Days • September/October 2016

Not enough interest so this idea has been put on the back burner for now.

Catalina island GetawayFor details on this trip, see page 13.

Fall in Love with Disney3 Days • November 2016

Looks like there is enough interest for a return trip to Disneyland this November. Details will be announced in May. To get advance notice, add your name to the Priority Notification List.

Discover Appalachia: The Great Smoky & Blue Ridge Mountains

Thanks you for showing interest. This package, with a new name, Asheville to Nashville, can be found on page 14.

Costa Rica Paradise8 Days • February/March 2017

We continue to solicit names for this trip, with a decision expected in May.

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The Barber Pole, or Once Over Lightly

Every Sports Leisure Traveler should read this pageNews of importance to our travelers.

Changes, additions, and updates on our policies and requests for your assistance in areas of mutual importance are discussed on this page in every newsletter.

Need Help? It’s Important We Know in Advance

Increasingly, we are seeing travelers sign up for trips that are beyond their physical abilities. Perhaps the assumption is, “Sports Leisure will take care of me.” Yes, and no. We can help, but you have to meet us halfway.

Recently, Patty Thayer escorted two different groups to Southern California to see game/talk shows being filmed. Being a part of a live studio audience is a lot of fun, although it requires patience. When she returned from the second trip, Patty shared that she had four people in one group of 23 who had disabilities or issues that prevented them from being a part of all of the activities. She noted that only one of those people had notified the office in advance of any challenges, and that call came at 3:30pm the afternoon prior to the trip. The tour description clearly stated there were walking tours involved. (No, you can’t just sit on the coach. There are lots of reasons for that, and Mark will be happy to talk to you about them if you wish to give him a call.) You have a responsibility to yourself and

to the other people you are traveling with

to notify us of any special needs. That allows us to tell you if those special requests can be filled, so you can decide if the trip in question is for you.

When handicapped accommodations at hotels, or other facilities are requested at the last minute, they often are not available. Some destinations or attractions will make concessions for folks with disabilities or stamina issues, but they need to know in advance to make that happen. Just showing up and expecting everything you need to be there for you is not only a bad way to travel, it creates stress for the Tour

guaranteeing to get you to the gate for your flight.

When reading the tour descriptions,

look for the hints that will tell you if you are making a good choice. If you cannot stand for 5-10 minutes in one place, climb 4-5 steps using a railing, or get easily on and off the coach, you should not consider multiple day excursions.

There comes a time in every traveler’s life when the ability to go and see and experience life through travel is no longer possible. We offer a wide variety of travel experiences, so you can choose the one(s) that best fit your ability/stamina. We are happy to try and match you up with the right tour for your abilities.

The words “walking tour” mean just that, but certainly there could be a great deal of variance from one walking tour to the next.

What We Are, and Are NotSeveral of our Tour Directors, at a recent

training session, asked us to share this brief reminder.What your Tour Director is:

• Someone to assist you and advocate for you while traveling together

What your Tour Director is NOT:

• Your traveling companion• Your caregiver• Your roommate• Your personal valet

Director(s) who are escorting the group and

is unacceptable behavior.

Speaking honestly, if you show up at

the bus/airport on the day of departure

and are obviously not able to handle the

physical aspects of the tour, we reserve

the right to send you home. It’s very unfair to register for a trip, knowing that you must depend on the kindness of strangers constantly to be able to keep up. It’s unfair to you, to those you are traveling with and to the other people we interact with in our travels. Our tours are for active, mature adults. Different tours have different levels of activity. We have refrained from using little walking men, or stars or some other symbol to designate the level of physical activity, because one symbol doesn’t fit all. Those with disabilities or concerns

should check with the tour planner prior

to registering for the trip. If you will need wheelchair assistance

at the airport leaving Sacramento, please inform staff when you make your reservation. If something unforeseen happens after registration and before the trip departs, update us by email or phone. When you put yourself in the care of an attendant at the airport, you should always know your departure information (flight number, time and gate) and have a charged cell phone. And you should know just because the airline offered you assistance, they are not

EVERY Sunday 3:00-4:00 PMKFBK, AM 1530, FM 93.1Each Sunday, someone who has traveled with us recently wins a $100 Travel Card, no winner and the value increases $100 a week! TomRomanoandMarkHoffmann

Contests, Travel News, updates

on your favorite Sports Leisure

destinations, Cultural Arts and FUN!

The Travel GuysRadio Show


New Vacations & GetawaysGiants Road Trip – Wrigley Field & St. Louis2nightsChicago,3nightsSt.Louis,4ballgames6 Days • June 1-6

This package was pre-announced to those who indicated an interest when this package was “teased” in the January/February newsletter. At this time, all of the 23 available seats have been spoken for. If you are interested, we encourage you to put your name on the waitlist.

Fly to Chicago, tour Wrigley Field, 2 nights at the Embassy Suites Downtown, Dodgers/Cubs game at Wrigley, dinner at Harry Caray’s. Train to St. Louis along old Route 66, 3 nights Drury Plaza Hotel downtown, 3 Cardinals/Giants games, sightseeing in St. Louis. 10 meals, baseball tickets, airfare, door-to-door service all included. 2950/3350 Gold Passport Points.

$2930 p.p./dbl.occ., $3330 single

Fireworks & A Prairie home Companion at the hollywood BowlPlusSplendorsofTheVaticanExhibitattheReaganLibrary3 Days • July 1-3

Perhaps the best short trip of the summer. Fly to Burbank late morning and enjoy a light lunch at the Tam O’Shanter, a classic dining spot. There’s time to browse the Universal City Walk shops before check in at your hotel. An awesome Prime Rib & Seafood

Buffet await tonight, before heading to the Hollywood Bowl for your first concert. Garrison Keillor, who will retire from A

Prairie Home Companion in September after 42 years, will perform live and we have special Garden Box Seats for tonight’s show, to get you a little closer to the stage.

Day 2 offers you choices: Learn about The Vatican and see a presidential library, or go to Universal Studios (there is a $40 supplement on this option, as the Universal admission is quite a bit pricier than the Reagan visit). There is a third choice: just relax at your hotel (receive a $40 credit).

At the Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, you can explore the life of a president and The Splendors of The Vatican, a special exhibition. View 200 art treasures on loan from the Vatican, including 8 pieces which have never before left Rome. Artwork by Michelangelo will accompany frescoes and paintings, along with historic artifacts. Your visit also includes a buffet luncheon under the wing of Air Force One. Those choosing Universal Studios will receive an all-day admission ticket. The Reagan group returns to the hotel about 3pm, so you’ll have time to relax before tonight’s concert.

Back at the Bowl, the pop rock band Chicago will be joined by the Air Force Band of the Golden West. From Travis AFB here in Northern California, it will be part of a program featuring old favorites, patriotic music and thrilling fireworks.

On Sunday morning (Day 3), enjoy Brunch

at The Castaway Restaurant in Burbank before your 2pm flight home.

This tour includes door-to-door airport service, roundtrip airfare to/from Southern California, motorcoach transportation, all attractions listed including tickets for two performances at the Hollywood Bowl, 4 meals (1BR,2L,1D), and the services of a Sports Leisure Vacations’ Tour Director. 1600/1800 Gold Passport Points.


An Arkansas Rendezvous TheClintons,cowboysandCrystalBridgesinviteyouto“TheNaturalState”7 Days • September 23-29

H Highlights H• 3 nights Little Rock, 2 nights Fayetteville,

overnight Ft. Smith• Old South dinner and entertainment at

Marlsgate Plantation• Little Rock tour including the Clinton

Presidential Library, Heifer International, Central High School and the Old State House

• Hot Springs’ Garvan Gardens, Gangster Museum and dinner party in a real speakeasy

• Southern BBQ Bash with entertainment at a real Arkansas castle

• Experience Arkansas’ “Wild West” in Ft. Smith

• Tour Fayetteville, home of the University of Arkansas Razorbacks – Sooie!

• Visit Bentonville, home of Walmart, and Rogers

• Crystal Bridges Museum of Art and Daisy BB Gun Museum

• 13 meals: 6 full breakfasts, 1 lunch, 6 dinners

• Airfare to Little Rock/from Fayetteville• Door-to-door airport service• 2950/3300 Gold Passport Points

Our adventure opens with a 3-day special event staged in and around Little Rock. Join with travelers from across the continent as we explore the culture and history of Arkansas’ Capital City and Hot Springs. By combining efforts with those of other tour operators, we’ve created three dynamite JoinGarrisonKeilloronhisfarewelltourforAPrairieHomeCompanion


themed dinner parties celebrating the Old South, the state’s surprising gangster history (yes, Al Capone slept here!), and the South’s rich and flavorful barbecue tradition.

1. Fly away to Little Rock and check-in to your downtown hotel putting you in the center of everything. Off to Antebellum-era Marlsgate Plantation this evening for a night in the Old South complete with an elegant dinner, live music, house tour and even one of its signature President Jefferson Davis cocktails. Marriott Hotel – 3 nights (D)

2. Hot Spring is only an hour, but a world away. Developed in the Victorian era as a health resort due to the mystical powers of the hot mineral springs that dot the area, the community is perhaps best remembered as the part-time home and hide-away of some of America’s most notorious gangsters in the early 20th Century. Enjoy the area’s natural beauty at Garvan Gardens, then dive into their darker side at the Gangster Museum of America. Feeling the need to clean up before the evening event? Historic bathhouses still operate on Bath House Row, now preserved and operated by the National Park Service. Our speakeasy is staged in the historic Arlington Hotel and includes dinner, dancing, gaming tables and can-can dancers. (FB,D)

3. Explore Little Rock from top to bottom by hop-on/hop-off trolley with admission-paid stops at the Clinton Presidential Center, Heifer International, the Old State House, Central High School and the USSRazorback. This evening, barbecue reigns supreme at the Castle on Stagecoach where you’ll enjoy ample helpings of this quintessential Southern delicacy paired with dancing and a special appearance by CJ Newsom, star of PatsyClineRemembered,from Branson. (FB,D)

4. Off to the west – the Wild West, that is – and Ft. Smith. Located at Arkansas’ western border, it was once the end of the “civilized world.” Here the Cherokee were processed as they passed into “Indian Territory” at the end of the Trail of Tears. Here, too, Judge Isaac Parker, the “Hanging Judge,” ruled with an iron fist and a rope. Ah, but there was a tender side to the city, as you’ll learn when you visit Miss Laura’s Social Club, the only bordello listed on the National Register of

Historic Places. Today it’s the city’s welcome center. To say the staff here takes their job seriously is an understatement! Come see what we mean when Miss Laura appears to greet you… live and in the flesh! Courtyard

by Marriott (FB,L,D)

5. Fayetteville, home of the University of Arkansas, is your next destination. Here history and football – both of utmost importance to the Southerner – are combined in a perfect recipe. See Bill and Hillary’s first home (where they were also married), National and Confederate Cemeteries, the beautiful university campus and dine on world-famous AQ’s fried chicken! Hilton

Garden Inn – 2 nights (FB,D)

6. In nearby Rogers, tour the Daisy Outdoor Products Museum, home of the Red Ryder “you’ll shoot your eye out” BB Gun. The picturesque Bentonville city square is your mid-day destination. After having lunch on your own, you might wish to visit Walton’s original 5&10. It’s hard to believe a retail empire grew from this tiny store! Finally, visit Walmart’s crowning achievement, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The building alone is an architectural masterpiece, but wait until you see the art inside which includes works from historic to modern, including the collection’s most popular work, “Rosie the Riveter” by Norman Rockwell. (FB,D)

7. Have a leisurely morning to collect your thoughts and souvenirs, then it’s off to Fayetteville Regional Airport for the flight home. (FB)


$ave $125 by March 29

Catalina island Getaway4 Days • October 23-26

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 CatalinaExpress 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. 1650/1900 Gold Passport Points



Ghosts & Ghost Towns of Old NevadaBeapartofaREALghosthuntandexploreoldghosttowns5 Days • October 29 – November 2

What could be more appropriate for Halloween than spending the night in a haunted hotel? That’s right, you’ll be in the Mizpah in Tonopah on Halloween. We’ll be searching for ghosts in Goodsprings on Halloween Eve. It just doesn’t get any more exciting than that. See you with the spirits… Mark Hoffmann, Tour Director and Concierge for the Spirit World

H Highlights H• 2 nights Tonopah (historic Mizpah Hotel),

2 nights Las Vegas (Treasure Island)• Haunted Vegas & Mobster Tour – visit

the grounds haunted by “Bugsy” Siegel,


Liberace, Redd Foxx and Elvis; learn the fascinating history of Las Vegas’ “mobster years”

• The Goodsprings Ghost Hunt – Walk the ghost town and sit in the Pioneer Saloon, “speak” to the ghosts that inhabit the old mining town

• Belmont – A “semi-abandoned” ghost town to explore near Tonopah

• Ghost stories at the Mizpah; visits to the ghost towns of Goldfield, Gold Point, Rhyolite, Beatty and Bodie, all with ghosts of their own

• Teachatticup Mine Tour – Tony’s guides regale you with stories of the living and the dead

• Air to Las Vegas, door-to-door service• 10 meals: 4 full breakfasts, 3 lunches,

3 dinners• 1900/2250 Gold Passport Points

Fly to Las Vegas, then trace a one way route through Nevada, searching for ghosts and visiting the towns they live in, including a stay at the Mizpah Hotel in Tonopah over Halloween; over the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains back to Sacramento.

Our Goodsprings Ghost Hunt and Haunted Las Vegas & Mobster Tour will be conducted by Robert George Allen. At the age of 7, Robert had his first ghost encounter when he was visited by the spirit of a family member who would sit at the foot of his bed. The deceased man would smile at young Robert and then his image would dissolve. His parents thought he had an overactive imagination. As Robert got older, he became a musician with an interest in hypnotism. His musical career took him to Vegas’ biggest showrooms over 25 years, but he never lost his interest in the paranormal. He created the Haunted Vegas Tour in 2004, and along with the Goodsprings Ghost Hunt, has received numerous awards from Trip Advisor and others. If you’re not a believer going in, you may be a believer coming out…



Autumn in Appalachia, from Asheville to Nashville7 Days • October 18-24

Travel the crests of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the elegance of Vanderbilt’s Biltmore Estate and sip a little moonshine in the hollers of the Great Smokies. Visit recording legend Dolly Parton’s Dollywood and see her old stompin’ grounds. The neon lights and beats of Nashville, known as Music City, are sure to get your toes tapping!

1. Fly southeast this morning to Greenville, SC. With fall colors ablaze, drive into the Blue Ridge Mountains to beautiful Asheville, NC. Dinner is en route. Spend two nights on the grounds of the Biltmore Estate. Village

Hotel at Biltmore Estate – 2 nights (D)

2. Today is all things Biltmore! Learn about the Vanderbilt family on a tour of the grounds and home of the magnificent Biltmore Estate. Enjoy a seasonal farm-to-fork buffet lunch in the carriage house. Tonight, dine on the grounds or take a shuttle to the shops and restaurants of neighboring Biltmore Village for a leisurely dinner on your own. (FB,L)

3. Wind your way over to the Great Smoky Mountains stopping in Gatlinburg, TN at Moonshine Holler, named for the Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine Distillery. Johnny Bootlegger’s family has been making moonshine for 106 years… 6 years legally! Tour the distillery and sample the signature drink of the South. In Pigeon Forge, your home for the next two nights, the Hatfields and McCoys continue their feud this evening with a dinner show performance. The Inn at

Christmas Place – 2 nights (FB,D)

4. When you wake up it will be Christmas morning… in October! Confused? At your famed hotel it’s Christmas 365 days a year! Wave goodbye to Santa and say hello to Dolly! Lots of crafts, live entertainment and down-home charm are to be had at Dollywood. When ready, return to the hotel or shop the ExploreMusicRowinNashville

South’s largest Christmas Store to prepare for your own celebrations. Dinner is family-style country cooking before an evening musical variety show. (FB,D)

5. Take a drive through Dolly’s hometown of Sevierville, TN and get a picture with her statue on the courthouse grounds. Hear about how she saved the town from certain ruin. Go west across the plains stopping for lunch before arriving in Nashville. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of The Grand Ole Opry before attending the early evening show. Dinner is on your own at one of the many nearby eateries. Nashville Airport

Marriott – 2 nights (FB,L)

6. Music City comes alive this morning on a city tour with fun stops along the way. Did you know the Parthenon was in Nashville? It is, sort of. Centennial Park has a scale replica and affords great pictures of the capitol building on the hill. After an included lunch downtown, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame with memorabilia from stars past and present! (FB,L)

7. Feel the “Soul of Nashville” during a multimedia presentation at the historic Ryman Auditorium, home of the original Grand Ole Opry and Union Gospel Tabernacle. Enjoy one last taste of Southern food with an updated twist before your late afternoon flight home. (FB,L)

This tour includes door-to-door service, roundtrip airfare, motorcoach transportation, accommodations, all attractions listed, 13 meals (6FB,4L,3D), and the services of a Sports Leisure Vacations Tour Director.

Prices available after March 20.

Call now to place your name on the

Priority Notification List!


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


The Tour Calendar (Previously Announced)

3 Days Apr. 17-19 Springtime in Yosemite

National Park

Looks like we have snow, which means we will have beautiful waterfalls in Yosemite Valley this spring. That alone is a reason to make this journey. 2 nights Yosemite Lodge, a guided sightseeing tour of the valley (Half Dome, Bridal Veil Falls, El Capitan) and free time to explore on your own. Plus, your visit begins with Sunday Brunch in the historic Ahwahnee Hotel (2 meals included). $1145

p.p./dbl.occ., $1400 single

7 Days Apr. 22-28 Red, White & Plaid in

Virginia & Maryland

The Virginia International Tattoo is the feature of this itinerary. The largest gathering of military bands in the nation, with a bit of a Scottish flair. Plus Norfolk Botanical Garden (look at the calendar, everything will be blooming); tour the USS Wisconsin, a proud WWII-era battleship; visit Assateague Island, a step back in time. Stay 2 nights in Ocean City, Maryland, home of delicious hard-shell crabs (sounds like dinner)!

Visit Dover, the quaint capital of Delaware. Tour the 1792 Statehouse and the Victrola Museum. Last stop is Annapolis, to tour the U.S. Naval Academy and Ft. McHenry, “home” of the Star Spangled Banner. 12 meals and airfare to Norfolk/from Baltimore including Tour Director: Clayton Whitehead. $2805 p.p./dbl.occ., $3090

single, 2 seats available

3 Days Apr. 24-26 The Beauty of Bodega Bay

2 nights at the Bodega Bay Lodge, where every room looks out over the gardens of the lodge towards the water. Visit Fort Ross, the historic Russian settlement; and Armstrong Redwoods State Park, for a walk among the tall trees. Enjoy a traditional Italian luncheon in Occidental on the return trip. 5 meals, including Sunday Brunch en route to the coast; Tour Director: Ramona Goodge. $995 p.p./

dbl.occ., $1150 single

6 Days Apr. 28 –

May 3

New York City: Broadway,

Brooklyn & The Bronx

Just added: The included Broadway show is SomethingRotten! and the Carnegie Hall concert is the NY Symphony Pops. Plus, you get to pick an available Broadway show to add to your itinerary. Stay in Times Square for 5 nights at the Marriott Marquis Hotel, one of New York’s finest addresses. Spend a day in Brooklyn, sampling authentic pizza and taking a special tour of Coney Island. Spend a day in The Bronx, with an authentic Italian luncheon, visits to Little Italy shops and the Bronx Botanical Gardens or the Zoo (your choice).

Enjoy a guided ranger talk on Ellis Island, visit the 9-11 Memorial and Museum. There is an optional (cost not included) visit to Yankee Stadium on your free day. 6 meals, roundtrip air to New York City including Tour Director(s): Mark and Chris. $3755 p.p./

dbl.occ., $4355 single

8 Days May 2-9 America’s Heartland

From Wisconsin’s capital city of Madison (tour the capitol) to the famous House on the Rock and then the “Field of Dreams” in Dyersville, Iowa, this tour is truly about the Heartland. You’ll see the covered bridges of Madison County, the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and the Tulip Festival in Pella, Iowa. A second capitol visit awaits in Des Moines. Best of all, the tour features three 2-night stays (Madison, Iowa City, Des Moines), so it’s a leisurely paced trip with lots to see. 15 meals and roundtrip air to Madison/from Des Moines including, Tour Director: Clayton Whitehead.


6 Days May 21-26 The 37th Anniversary

Musical Mystery Tour

Only 2 destinations are featured on this tour, we’ll call them “The Two C’s.” That means 2 nights in one place, 3 nights in the next. Or vice-versa. Or not. Maybe. 5 total nights in two destinations. We are sure of that.

This annual excursion celebrates the birthday of your tour company. In 2016, Sports Leisure turns 37. Remember what you were doing then you were 37? Shh, don’t tell us here.

Here are some clues, reprinted from the annual catalog. These are working men and women’s cities. One is named after an old TV show, and the second will remind you of the joy of discovery. The luck of the Irish is a good thing to bring with us, but if you don’t, we’ll get you some. One place you’ll visit has been producing “nuts” for over a hundred years. The kind you eat. We think.

Have you got rhythm of any kind? If you do, we have a place that will let your “inner music” come out, in a BIG way. One place produces 30,000 pounds of something every time it shifts.

Many people have forgotten about the 50’s, but we’ll bring them back to life. Plus all kinds of music are part of your adventure. The package includes accommodations in two treehouses (whatever that could mean), roundtrip air to the places you are going to and coming from, plus 12 meals. Tour Directors: Clayton and Mark.


4 Days May 30 –

June 2

The Splendor of Santa Fe

Fly to/from Albuquerque. Start with lunch at the Standard Diner on old Route 66, visit Old Town and catch the RailRunner train to Santa Fe. The Drury Plaza Hotel (3 nights) is only 2 blocks from the historic plaza. Enjoy a guided trolley tour of the city, tour the Palace of Governors and the Georgia O’Keefe Museum. Dine in renowned restaurants in town, visit Pecos and Bandolier National Monuments, to learn about the natives who once lived here. Travel the Turquoise Trail, stopping in popular Madrid. 6 meals, roundtrip air including Tour Director: Chris Galloway. $1845 p.p./dbl.occ.,

$2070 single


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

7 Days June 1-7 Amazing National Parks of the

Great Southwest

Scott’s annual excursion to the parks of Utah and Arizona. Each year is a little different and this year he has included the North Rim of the Grand Canyon in the itinerary. Add in visits to Bryce and Zion National Parks and you have a week of unparalleled natural beauty. Fly to/from Las Vegas. Also includes a historical tour of St. George, Utah, 12 meals and roundtrip airfare. Tour Director: Scott Angeletti. $2530 p.p./dbl.occ., $2920 single

7 Days June 12-18 From The Hamptons to

Broadway

Another brand new itinerary, features three great stops; an extended stay in the Hamptons, a day at Belmont Park for racing, and a night in New York City to see a Broadway show.

Fly to New York and journey out on Long Island. Your stay in The Hamptons is 3 nights (Sag Harbor Inn), with a night on either side of your stay on the west end of the Island. The final night is at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in Times Square. While in the Hamptons, you’ll dine at the Montauk Yacht Club and at Claudio’s, a famous oceanfront restaurant in Greenport. See lighthouses and fancy homes of the rich and famous, enjoy a $5 ice cream cones!

Our day at The Belmont is complete with lunch, racing programs and reserved seating to watch the ponies run. Then finally, a night in Times Square. The Rockettes have moved their spring show to summer, so you can now choose between seeing a Broadway show or The Rockettes. It’s your choice and it’s part of the package,

either way! The package includes 14 meals and roundtrip airfare. Tour Directors: Mark and Chris. $3985 p.p./dbl.occ., $4555 single

5 Days June 21-25 Montana Bound, to The Land of

the Big Sky and Lewis & Clark

2 nights in Great Falls, overnight in Helena, overnight in Three Forks (at the Sacajawea Hotel). The opportunity to learn more about the amazing journey of Lewis & Clark, plus enjoy a variety of sightseeing. Take the cruise to the Gates of the Mountains, meet members of the Lewis & Clark Honor Guard, visit the state capitol in Helena. Learn how Native Americans hunted buffalo in the area, visit the beautiful Cathedral of St. Helena and stand at the headwaters of the Missouri River.

This is a wonderful, reasonably priced visit to central Montana. The package includes 9 meals and roundtrip airfare (to Great Falls/from Butte or Bozeman). Tour Director: Mark Hoffmann. $2330

p.p./dbl.occ., $2605 single, $50 EPD*

4 Days July 11-14 Rocky Mountain High

Join Tour Director Chris Galloway for a trip to his old college stomping grounds in Boulder (where you’ll tour Celestial Seasonings), and spend 2 nights at the historic Stanley Hotel (yup, the guy who invented the Stanley Steamer) in Estes Park, and enjoy the spectacular natural surroundings. Drive through the park, and overnight in Central City, another historical spot, an authentic Wild West gambling town.

On the last day, tour the Mile High City. In addition to the regular sites like the Molly Brown House (and lunch at the famous Brown Palace Hotel), you’ll learn a little about Colorado’s newest industry by visiting a grow house where legal marijuana is produced. It’s entirely possible you’ll pick up a gardening tip or two that will work at home in your own garden for legal plants. Sorry, no sampling of the product is allowed. The package includes 7 meals and roundtrip air. $1885 p.p./dbl.occ., $2145 single, $35 EPD*

3 Days July 14-16 Progressive Portland

A new all-City of Roses itinerary, full of the type of things that make Portland different (Keep Portland Weird is the city’s unofficial motto). At the Portland Art Museum, enjoy a light lunch and a scavenger hunt as part of your visit. Dinner at the City Grill offers a view of the entire city. On Day Two, start with a visit to one of Portland’s specialty donut stores, followed by a ride on a street car and an aerial tram, right downtown. Afternoon of unique shops, foodie tastings and a tour of the Tiny House Hotel. Dine at a food cart cluster in the evening (How Portland is that?).

Final day features two great markets: The Portland Saturday Market and the Farmer’s Market in nearby Vancouver (Mark’s favorite). Get some fresh berries and other goodies to bring home with you! 2 nights at the Doubletree Hotel, 5 meals, airfare, all included. Maximum 25 travelers, 9 seats available. $1255 p.p./dbl.occ.,

$1475 single

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.

StayatthemajesticStanleyHotel,nestledintheheartoftheRockies

Proud members of the


6 Days July 24-29 Sights & Sounds of Hwy 101

– Long Beach, Washington to

Coos Bay, Oregon

This itinerary features a night at the Coos Bay Music Festival, and a unique fly/drive route. You’ll fly to Portland to begin the tour, then fly home from Coos Bay (via SFO), eliminating the long day-and-a-half ride home from the southern Oregon coast.

Arriving in Portland, head for the coast, with a stop at the Vancouver Farmer’s Market to pick up important supplies and goodies for the trip. Rumor has it there is a scavenger hunt involved.

Long Beach is a small community just over the Washington border. It’s famous for kites, cranberries and oysters. Stay 2 nights at the Best Western and a day exploring the community.

Traveling along the coast, you stop in Seaside for lunch, and at Fort Clatsop for a piece of Lewis & Clark history. 2 nights in Newport at the Elizabeth Street Inn offers everyone a full ocean view. Learn about the critters of the ocean on a Marine Discovery Cruise and a visit to the Oregon Aquarium. In Reedsport, see the Elk Refuge. Arrive in Coos Bay in mid-afternoon, to relax a bit before the evening pops concert at the Oregon Music Festival. 12 meals, roundtrip air to Portland/from Coos Bay, Tour Director: Mark Hoffmann. $2285

p.p./dbl.occ., $2615 single

7 Days Aug. 7-13 A Mystery Tour Celebrating

Our National Parks Centennial

2016 marks the 100th birthday of our National Park Service. To celebrate, we have created a Mystery Tour which visits a number of park sites we think you may not have visited. Don’t worry, there is no mountain climbing or bungee cord jumping. But there are lots of beautiful places to see and experience. State Parks, National Parks, Historic Sites, remember not all park locations are built around scenery, many are all about history. Here are a few clues about your travels:

Every great adventure should have a Yellow Brick Road, don’t you think? This trip is no exception. For those who think we are going to Kansas, think again. Picture yourself on the shores of a mighty lake or river, sailing along and viewing shapes carved by the winds of time. Many more people once lived here, but it isn’t a ghost town by any means. Since you are “exploring,” isn’t it appropriate one of your destinations is named for a famous sailor. We won’t “hound” you to go inside one attraction, but you will find generations of movement inside. In one place, putting in your “two cents worth” would be particularly appropriate.

If you love the great outdoors and like to learn, this is your trip. 15 meals, roundtrip air, Tour Directors: Mark and Chris. $3120 p.p./

dbl.occ., $3490 single, $75 EPD*

11 Days Aug. 10-20 Cruise Tahiti & The South Pacific

on the m/s Paul Gauguin

We didn’t choose any ordinary ship for your adventure to Tahiti, we picked the upscale Paul Gauguin. The ship has been cruising the South Pacific for many years. Tahiti is a very different destination, and a cruise ship is absolutely the best way to see the islands. Fly to Papeete and board your ship. Ports of call include Huahine, Bora Bora, Moorea and Taha’a in the Society Islands; plus Rangiroa and Fakarava. For the complete itinerary and cruise details, we invite you to visit our website at www.sportsleisure.com and click on “Cruises.” This tour requires a valid passport. $6495 p.p./dbl.

occ., $8395 single, $50 or $100 EPD*

2 Days Aug. 14-15 Shakespeare on the Lake

Enjoy the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, outdoors, on the shores of the lake, in an amphitheater. See TheComedyofErrors in the evening. Stay at the Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel (formerly the Embassy Suites) on the South Shore. Lunch one day atop Harrah’s, the second day on the msDixieII for brunch (you may opt out of this one and receive a credit if you wish to gamble). $475 p.p./dbl.

occ., $540 single

4 Days Aug. 15-18 The Sounds of Music in

Leavenworth

First Departure sold out. Second departure added!

Don’t wait too long, because this tour is very popular. 3 nights in Leavenworth, Washington’s Bavarian-themed community. Fly to Seattle, lunch adjacent to Pike Place Market, ride Amtrak to Leavenworth. Two days of sightseeing, including the Applets & Cotlets Factory in Cashmere, Rocky Reach Dam, Ohme Gardens and more. One evening, see The Sound of Music, performed outdoors with the mountains as a backdrop. The second show, also performed outdoors, is SingingintheRain.7 meals, air and train fares included. $1780 p.p./dbl.occ., $1990 single

DiscoverLittleBavariainWashingtonState


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

www.sportsleisure.com


7 Days Aug. 22-28 The International Selkirk Loop

Ramona created this itinerary as a Mystery Tour several years ago. It was so popular, we have brought it back (for the third time) as a known destination.

The Selkirk Loop is a 280-mile international drive in southern BC, northwestern Washington and northern Idaho. From Bonner’s Ferry, ID, into Canada and around the mountains it combines the best of the great outdoors with small town living. Fly to Spokane to begin your travels and back from Spokane at their conclusion. We encourage you to see the entire itinerary online. 12 meals, roundtrip air including Tour Director: Ramona Goodge. This tour requires

a valid passport. $3115 p.p./dbl.occ., $3485 single, $40 EPD*

7 Days Sept. 14-20 New England’s Mansions,

Shores & Exposition

Fly to Providence, Rhode Island, and transfer to your hotel in Newport. The second day, tour one of the magnificent mansions, Marble House. There’s time for you to add a second tour and a list of mansions to visit will be sent to you prior to departure. In Connecticut, discover Mystic Seaport, a living history village recreating life in a New England seaport. In Essex, ride a steam train on a lunch excursion, then board the riverboat BeckyThatcher for a cruise down the river. In Hartford, visit the Mark Twain home. Continue to Springfield for the New England Exposition. This annual event highlights the six state region. In addition to the typical “fair” culture, the Expo offers Storrowton Village, an authentic collection of 18th-19th century buildings. The Avenue of States has impressive replicas of six New England statehouses. You’ll tour the site with a costumed docent and enjoy lunch. This really is a unique attraction. Return to the hotel in early or late afternoon, a shuttle is available.

End your trip with a visit to one of the four museums in Springfield. See the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture (he was from Springfield), and walk down Mulberry Street, the inspiration for his first book. Includes 12 meals and roundtrip air Providence, RI/Hartford, MA. Tour Director: Kevin Murphy. $2675 p.p./dbl.occ.,

$2965 single, $75 EPD*

7 Days Sept. 24-30 Rails Around Colorado

One seat remaining in our group of 25. Fly to Colorado Springs and then visit Canon City (the Royal Gorge). There are 3 train rides, the Royal Gorge Scenic Railway, the Cumbres & Toltec and the Durango-Silverton (the last two are narrow gauge). Visit the historic cities of Ouray, Durango and Telluride. The package includes 11 meals and roundtrip air to Colorado Springs/from Durango. See the complete itinerary online. $3330 p.p./dbl.occ., $3740 single

7 Days Sept. 25 –

Oct. 1

National Treasures of

the Old West

Featuring The Black Hills, Crazy Horse Memorial, Deadwood and Mount Rushmore, this is one of Ramona’s favorite trips. You’ll visit Deadwood, a true old west town; learn about the buffalo/bison, visit Boot Hill and enjoy lunch in one of the saloons. At Crazy Horse, you will be one of an exclusive few to go up on the mountain! You’ll see Mt. Rushmore and drive through Badlands National Park, even stopping at famous Wall Drugs, perhaps the most unique drug store on the continent. Travel south to Hot Springs, where more than 26,000 years ago, Woolly Mammoths were stuck in a sinkhole. At the visitors center, you can view ongoing work to uncover and learn about them. Finally, visit Custer State Park for the park’s annual buffalo roundup. It’s a unique event and Ramona is the perfect Tour Director to show it off. 10 meals, roundtrip air to/from Rapid City. $3080 p.p./dbl.occ., $3480 single, $75 EPD*

12 Days Oct. 2-13 A Cruise on the Blue Danube

3 nights in Prague, Czech Republic, with breakfast and city tour; 7 nights on the Amadeus Royal river cruise ship. includes shore excursions in Passau, Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Melk, and Durnstein. All meals on board ship. Launched in 2005 and refitted in 2015, your ship is one of the finest on European rivers. Because she draws a small amount of water, low water levels do not generally impact her (a recent problem with fall cruises on the rivers when water is low). All cabins have unrestricted views of the scenery through wide, glass panoramas. For more details on this unique vacation, we recommend you call Michael Downer at our office to reserve your cabin. This tour requires a valid passport.

Prices start at $5735 p.p./dbl.occ., $6535 single, $100 EPD*

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.


4 Days Oct. 2-5 The Albuquerque International

Balloon Fiesta

Our first departure sold out very quickly, so we have added this second trip. It has the same attractions and meals as the one on page 25 of your catalog, the only change is the departure date and the hotel (this group will stay at the Hilton Garden Inn).

In brief, fly to Albuquerque, check into your hotel on Day 1. This evening is the Balloon Glow (plus fireworks). You have an upgraded experience with seats in the Chasers Club Lounge for all three events, which offers private outdoor seating where you can enjoy food and refreshments right on the field where balloons rise right in front of you. The next two mornings all participating balloons launch. Please note that balloons need good weather to fly, which is why we stay 3 nights. In case one day is “weathered out,” we still have other viewing options. There is a balloon museum tour, turquoise museum presentation, Sandia Tram with lunch on top of Sandia Peak and a visit to Albuquerque’s Old Town on the itinerary. 6 meals, roundtrip air Sacramento/Albuquerque, Tour Director: TBA. $1830 p.p./dbl.occ., $2100 single, $25 EPD*

3 Days Oct. 14-16 Magnificent Mammoth Lakes,

A Fall Foliage Tour

See the fall colors of the Sierra on this “look out the window” trip. Stay 2 nights at the Shilo Inn in Mammoth Lakes and spend a day sightseeing in the area. Activities include visits to Devil’s Postpile and Mono Lake and a drive around the June Lakes Loop, taking in the colors of autumn.

Your route to Mammoth is over Yosemite’s Tioga Pass, a spectacular route through Yosemite National Park. The trip home is via Hwy 395 to Lake Tahoe, where you’ll enjoy Sunday Brunch at the Forrest Buffet in Harrah’s. All meals (7) are included (2 are continental breakfasts), Tour Director: Ramona Goodge. $940 p.p./dbl.occ.,


5 Days Oct. 22-26 Rails Around Oregon

First offered last year and very popular, this rail trip is back for an encore. Fly to Portland, and head for Union Station for lunch and a visit to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center. Ride the EmpireBuilder from Portland to White Salmon, WA. Cross back into Oregon and stay in Hood River. Sunday Brunch aboard the Mt. Hood Scenic Railroad is featured on Day 2. Visit Mt. St. Helens, a truly fascinating place, on the morning of Day 3; return to Portland by train from Kelso on Amtrak’s Cascade. One more Amtrak ride on Day 4, on Amtrak down to Eugene on the CoastStarlight.

This is only a recap of the train rides, there are sightseeing elements to the itinerary also and can be viewed online (page 17 in your catalog), or call our office for an itinerary. 8 meals, roundtrip air and all train tickets, Tour Director: TBA. $2060 p.p./dbl.occ,


5 Days Oct. 23-27 Sedona & The Grand Canyon

2 nights at the Hilton Sedona Resort, 2 nights BW Squire Inn at Grand Canyon. Lunch at the historic El Tovar Hotel, guided trolley tour of Sedona, guided tour of the South Rim of the canyon and VIP tour of Grand Canyon Village historic sites. 9 meals and airfare incl. Tour Director: Scott Angeletti. $2030 p.p./dbl.occ., $2325 single

5 Days Oct. 29 –

Nov. 2

Ghosts & Ghost Towns of

Old Nevada

Imagine spending Halloween Eve hunting for lost spirits. Now pretend it’s Halloween Night and you are staying in the haunted Mizpah Hotel in Tonopah, in the middle of the dessert. Will your friends ever hear from you again? Or will you become part of a bizarre TV program about the disappearance of an entire tour group… Never mind that Area 51, where the aliens land, is just a few miles over the next hill….

Fast becoming one of our signature tours, this special departure will soon be advertised nationwide. Come meet the ghosts and see the old ghost towns of Nevada. We take you on an authentic ghost hunt, where you can decide for yourself if the spirits are talking to you. (Warning, even the biggest skeptic will be amazed.) After two nights in Las Vegas at Treasure Island, your ghost and mobster tours with Ghost Hunter/Vegas Historian Robert George Allen, and assorted side attractions like the Neon Museum, we head north to Beatty, Rhyolite, Gold Pointe, Goldfield, Tonopah, Belmont and Bodie. Hear the tales and see the sites that make up history in rural Nevada.

Two nights at the haunted Mizpah Hotel in Tonopah (Please note that due to the limited number of 2-bedded rooms at the Mizpah, some guests may be accommodated at the nearby Best Western – which is also available to those afraid of ghosts at the Mizpah.) follows your Las Vegas stay, with a side trip to Belmont, to see the old courthouse and meet local folks. 10 meals, air to Las Vegas from Sacramento included, Tour Director: Mark Hoffmann. $1935

p.p./dbl.occ., $2295 single, $50 EPD*

10 Days Nov. 4-13 Mexico’s Puebla & Oaxaca

Experience the colors, sights and flavors of Colonial Mexico. This vacation is designed to let you experience the regional specialties in three of Mexico’s most interesting cities, Puebla, Oaxaca and Mexico City.

Your Mexico City stay is brief, just one full day so you can get a glimpse of the city. 2 nights in Puebla, home of the colorful pottery. Oaxaca is your home for 4 nights, giving you plenty of time to familiarize yourself with the people, the artisans and the Unesco World Heritage sites. One night in Mexico City at the end of the trip is scheduled to position you for your return flight home.

Please view the entire itinerary online, or request a printed copy from our office. 24 meals, all airfares and transportation included, Tour Director: Ramona Goodge. This tour requires a valid

passport. $4350 p.p./dbl.occ., $4645 single, $50 EPD*Visit us anytime on the web at:

www.sportsleisure.com

9812 Old Winery Place, Suite 1

Sacramento, CA 95827

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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)World Figure Skating Championships in Boston Just Washington DCGhost Towns of Old Nevada (March 29 – April 2) Springtime in Monterey\Tulips of Ottawa & Niagara Falls Red, White & PlaidAmazing National Parks of the Southwest Boston to Bar HarborFlowers & Fireworks in British Columbia Iceland, Land of Fire & IceLaguna Pageant of the Masters (Both Tours) Wildlife Viewing in British ColumbiaThe Sounds of Music in Leavenworth (August 1-4)

Limited Space (10 or fewer seats)Maui & Molokai (8) NYC: Broadway, Brooklyn & The Bronx (3)America’s Heartland (6) 37th Anniversary Musical Mystery Tour (4)Esplendor de Santa Fe (6) Giants Roadtrip to Chicago & St. Louis (1)From The Hamptons to Broadway (5) Fireworks & A Prairie Home Companion (10)Progressive Portland (7) A National Parks Mystery Tour (10)The International Selkirk Loop (9) Sounds of Music in Leavenworth (Aug. 15-18) (9)Rails Around Colorado (7) National Treasures of the West (6)Mexico’s Puebla & Oaxaca (7)

LLC

Early Registration Payment Di$counts listed here expire on March 29, 2016; 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.

Jun. – Montana Bound, to the Land of the Big Sky – $ave $50

Jul. – Rocky Mountain High in Colorado – $ave $35

Aug. – Our National Park Centennial Mystery – $ave $75

Aug. – Cruise Tahiti & the South Pacific – $ave $50 or $100

Aug. – The International Selkirk Loop – $ave $40

Sept. – National Treasurers of the West – $ave $75

Sept. – NE’s Mansions, Shores & Expositions – $ave $75

Sept. – An Arkansas Rendezvous – $ave $125

Oct. – Catalina Island Getaway – $ave $50

Oct. – A Cruise on the Blue Danube – $ave $100

Oct. – Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta (Oct. 2-5) – $ave $25

Oct. – Magnificent Mammoth in Autumn – $ave $25

Oct. – Rails Around Oregon & the Columbia River – $ave $40

Oct. – Ghosts & Ghost Towns of Old Nevada – $ave $50

Nov. – Mexico’s Puebla & Oaxaca – $ave $50

EARLY PAYMEnT DI$CoUnT CoUPon

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Spring Tour Preview DaySports Leisure Vacations officeFriday & Saturday, May 13-14

10am & 1pm each day

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