equity lifestyle properties, inc. owns and operates the highest quality portfolio of resort communities in the united states. we have a controlling interest in over 300 quality resorts in 28 states and british columbia with over 110,000 sites. our goal is to create value for residents and investors by providing consistently high levels of services and amenities in attractive surroundings. our high standards have been recognized with several "community of the year" awards for the outstanding quality of our communities and the professionalism of our management. equity lifestyle properties is a real estate investment trust (reit) traded on the new york stock exchange under the symbol "els." our size, national scope and status as a publicly traded company afford us benefits unavailable to smaller, private owners. we have access to capital that allows us to grow, and to expand and upgrade existing communities. we are able to streamline our management operations, owning multiple communitie