Reunions Workbook 2019 Edition by Premier Travel Media

For more than 300 years, New Orleans has been inspiring stories. Our Spanish, French, African and Caribbean influences create a cultural gumbo of distinctive architecture, cool jazz and celebrated cuisine that only New Orleans knows how to dish out. From second line parades to centuries old streetcars, this timeless city offers something amazing around every cobblestone corner. Start creating your New Orleans story today!

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Gather Your Family and Friends for a Fabulous Reunion 2019 EDITION

NOTHER YEAR HAS elapsed and despite

our best attempts to stay young, the passage of time is unrelenting. If you haven’t seen some of your extended family members or long-lost friends, perhaps now is the time to do so before the sands flow through the hourglass any further. What better way to rekindle your relationship with old friends and family members than hosting a reunion? Certainly, the planning and logistics of organizing a reunion can be daunting, but thankfully, Reunions Workbook is here to help guide you through the process. Now in its 19th edition, Reunions Workbook is the industry’s most trusted resource, providing a slew of information to usher you through the process of planning, hosting and savoring a reunion. This year’s workbook contains an abundance of features that will assist your reunion planning, including stories on how to best use social media to plan an event and the proper technology to utilize during the planning process. We even delve into how to use genealogy to trace your family history, which will liven up any gathering. The 2019 Reunions Workbook also features a hotel mega section where we provide tips on negotiating with hotels, offer alternative lodging accommodations to the traditional hotel and take a deep dive into the world of dude ranches and glamping. For those contemplating a destination reunion, we highlight numerous destination locales across the country with our Site InSpection section that begins on page 39. When you aren’t thumbing through these pages, you can get more reunions news and morsels on our website, ReunionsWorkbook.com, where you can download a digital edition of this guide, sign up for the InSite on Reunions e-newsletter, learn about reunionfriendly destinations and download convenient forms. Happy reunion planning!

Jason Paha Managing Editor

CONTENTS

How to Use Social Media to Plan Your Reunion Have a Rollicking Good Time with a Theme Park Reunion Find Your Family History for Your Next Reunion Bring Your Reunion Planning into the Digital Age Establishing a Reunion Timetable Five Things Reunion Planners Should Stop Doing Now Hotel Mega Section Seven Tips for Negotiating with Hotels Forget the Hotel, Stay in These Spots Instead Unplug your Reunion at a Dude Ranch What is Glamping, and Why is it Great for Reunion Groups? Site InSpections

REUNIONS WORKBOOK

Editorial & Advertising Office 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 P 630.794.0696 F 630.794.0652 info@ptmgroups.com www.ptmgroups.com Publisher – Jeffrey Gayduk jeff@ptmgroups.com Managing Editor – Jason Paha jason@ptmgroups.com Chief of Content & Technology – Lance Harrell lance@ptmgroups.com Editorial Coordinator – Danielle Golab danielle@ptmgroups.com Director, Design & Production – Martha Gazella-Taylor mgazella@austin.rr.com The publisher accepts unsolicited editorial matter, as well as advertising, but assumes no responsibility for statements made by advertisers or contributors. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information is published, but the publisher makes no warranty that listings are free of error. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited photos, slides or manuscripts.

Reunions Workbook (ISSN 2155-7608) is published annually by Premier Travel Media Inc. 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406, Willowbrook, IL 60527. This publication is distributed to reunion planners and may be ordered through reunionsworkbook.com. The regular subscription price is $9.95 per year. Send Address Change To: Premier Travel Media, Inc. 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527

6 10 14 18 20 24 26 28 30 34 36 39

2019 EDITION

Have a Rollicking Good Time with a

THEME PARK OUTING

THINGS

Planners Should Stop Doing Now

Bring Your

REUNION PLANNING into the

DIGITAL AGE

Relax, Unplug at a

DUDE RANCH A Premier Travel Media publication $9.95 / ReunionsWorkbook.com

ON THE COVER: Photo courtesy of Goosewing Ranch and Dude Ranchers’ Association

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memorable moments define your

o f g e n e r at i o n s .

Columbus is full of festive energy that makes it the perfect destination for family reunions.

You can feel it in historic neighborhoods. Taste it in our incredible dining scene. And experience it in our array of distinctive Metro Parks that provide stunning backdrops for unforgettable gatherings. To plan yours, email tours@experiencecolumbus.com or call 800-354-2657.

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ROADMAP REUNION r

ou for y

19 SOCIAL MEDIA S T E P S TO S U C C E S S

had with your cousins as a kid? Playing softball, swimming and searching for frogs? Whatever happened to your old high school friends? Your mates in the military? Wouldn’t it be fun to see everyone again, catch up and share stories? Reunions are the perfect answer. Planning them can be as simple as 1-2-3. Jumping onto social media can lighten the load every step of the way. Let’s run through a road map that takes you step-by-step through the social marketing piece of planning your next reunion. Whether you’re a professional planner or just really want to reconnect, social media can jumpstart your planning every step of the way.

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Connect and Reconnect

Social media sites make it so easy to connect and start the snowball effect of reaching out to people who are relevant to your reunion. 1) Start a private or closed group on Facebook that’s just for people you plan to invite to the reunion. Start by adding your own Facebook friends and asking them to add others. 2) Start a group on LinkedIn. Add members from your own followers and also search out others and invite them into your group. 3) Create a # (hashtag) and use it across all your social sites to attract people connected to your reunion. For example, maybe you want to start using #ClassOf1979. Use this # in postings on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google Plus, Snapchat and Instagram.

4) Join related groups on Facebook and LinkedIn. When looking for classmates, you may find an older sibling on a Facebook group for their class who would then share the news of your reunion to their younger sibling. 5) Start gathering photos from people. Photos are a great way to trigger memories and inspire that sense of nostalgia that drives reunion attendance. Be sure to have permission from people

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BIGSTOCK

EMEMBER ALL THE fun you

in the photo to use their image. You may consider creating a form that gives you the right to use their image and have everyone sign it.

Generate Ideas

Once you have a core group of people to begin the planning process, getting input and feedback from them will increase interest and engagement. 6) Gather ideas using polling features

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available on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Or simply ask short questions that help in your planning process. 7) Go live. Live-streaming video is a great way to gather people together and gain some momentum in your planning process. During your live broadcast share ideas, invite comments and inspire listeners to invite others. Consider live broadcasting on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Snapchat and Instagram.

Spread the Word

Once you have a basic plan of details, here are steps to use social to gain more momentum and encourage registration. 8) Create a Facebook Event once you have your date and location set. Be sure to include an image that represents your event along with the location and registration info. You may want to use one of the images you collected (and have permission to use) in step No. 5.

REUNIONS WORKBOOK

9) Share news of your event across every social platform using the # you’ve created. Keep people in the loop by providing updates and giving shoutouts to people.

Encourage others to use it as well. 10) Stories on Facebook, Snapchat and Instagram have a longer shelf live than regular posts. Create Stories to showcase your reunion planning process and inspire enthusiasm. 11) A well-marketed live-stream video broadcast will give people the chance to help you share your reunion news. In advance of your live-stream, send emails and post socially to let others know that day, date and time of your live stream. Invite them to share the invite with others whom they know that are part of your 8

REUNIONS WORKBOOK

reunion audience. You can schedule a live broadcast in advance and even give people a link. This makes joining in easy. Don’t forget to send them a reminder an hour before you go live. 12) Building your list of attendees and potential attendees is crucial to keep the ball rolling. Using a spreadsheet is the starting point. Then create an ad audience using your spreadsheet as the foundation. This Custom Ad Audience can be used to target social ads to just these people. It’s a quick and relatively inexpensive way to share event news. 13) Create a Saved Audience on Facebook. This will help you reach those that are

hard to find. You can target: • Specific schools and graduation years • Scottish clan names • Military service • Employers

Devil in the Details

As the planning process evolves and you need to build your attendee list, add these tips to your to-do list. 14) Post your reunion agenda, itinerary and registration info into your Facebook Group. 15) Consider social advertising to boost

your reach. Use the Saved Audience you created above to advertise on both Facebook and Instagram. 16) Invite attendees to reach out and invite others who may be missing from your lists or just haven’t responded yet.

It’s Party Time

Once the big day arrives, don’t leave social media on the doorstop. 17) Invite people to connect by setting up a Social Café where attendees can have a quiet space to friend and follow each other. 18) Create a photo-op area complete with lighting, props and a photographer.

Remember the cardboard photo frame with your # emblazoned on the front 19) Extend the fun by posting photos onto the Group, creating Stories and continuing to use the power of the #. Remember to tag people using the @ symbol. Imagine the stories you’ll share and the new memories you’ll help create. Planning a reunion can be a fun but daunting task. Having a roadmap will keep you on track for an unforgettable reunion. Social media makes it more fun and a bit less daunting. ReunionsWorkbook.com

Essential Tools for the Reunion Planner

E FRE E! GUID Planning a family reunion is hard work. That’s why we created Essential Tools for the Reunion Planner, to make the process easier than ever.

Learn How To: • Establish a Timeline • Form a Reunion Committee • Meal Plan for Everyone • Send Reunion Invitations • Plan Reunion Activities • Budgeting & Fundraising • Deal with Hotels • Negotiate with Vendors • Setup & Preparation • Preserve Memories

Designed as a companion to the Reunions Workbook this guide provides articles, checklists, forms and templates that will help alleviate the stress involved with gathering the whole family together. Enjoy!

Brought to you in partnership with:

GET YOURS TODAY!

ReunionsWorkbook.com/reuniontools

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REUNIONS WORKBOOK

Have a

Rollicking Good Time with

THEME PARK REUNION A

SUMMERTIME

VISIT

theme park is an American institution. Call them what you will – amusement parks, roller coaster resorts, adventure parks – theme parks and their closely-related cousins, water parks, are ideal for hosting any multi-generational gathering.

Why Have My Reunion at a Theme Park?

Amusement parks don’t need much in the way of an introduction. From Coney Island on the East Coast to Disneyland on the West Coast – and with Cedar Point, Kings Island, and a bunch of Six Flags in between, not to mention dozens of other venues – chances are there’s a park not too far from your crew. Plus, you’ll almost always find that the park’s location (handy to an interstate highway)

REUNIONS WORKBOOK

and the businesses that sprout up around it (lodging, stores, and restaurants) make it as near to a one-stop-reunion-shop as anything outside of an all-inclusive resort is likely to be. But let’s talk about the attractions of the park itself. Of course, for most people, the premier attraction is going to be the rides. Nearly every theme park will have a water ride (or several) and some of the larger water parks will also have an indoor or outdoor roller coaster, ropes course, or zip lines. Outdoor theme parks may also feature semi-educational things like animal shows, science- or historythemed areas, and special exhibits. However, not everyone is a fan of roller coasters. What if your group contains a good percentage of these folks? Are theme parks still a good option? Yes! Here’s why:

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T H E M E PA R K S W I L L A P P E A L TO T H E E N T I R E FA M I LY, E V E N G R A N D PA

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activities or worry about guests getting bored; they’ll have enough at the park to keep themselves occupied.

Four Things to Do at a Theme Park

1. Go on rides. 2. Go on rides. 3. Go on rides … Actually, there’s a lot more than just going on roller coasters and water slides available to theme park reunions. Depending on your park of choice, possible non-ride activities could include:

• Taking a virtual adventure. Sometimes, you can have fun without leaving your seat. Several large parks offer visitors a chance to sample virtual reality by strapping on a headset and sitting in a moveable, interactive chair. Disneyland brings the Star Wars franchise to life; Busch Gardens Williamsburg takes you on an Irish fantasy adventure, and other parks offer their own twists on this genre. • Traveling the world (sorta). Among the bigger parks, like Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Disney’s Epcot, you can often find areas that represent a small part of another country. For example, in Busch Gardens, you can stroll through micro-villages representing France, Italy, Germany, England, Scotland, and Ireland; at Epcot, Japan, Morocco, Canada, Mexico, and Norway are on the list as well. Each area is designed to evoke something of that country, with traditional architectures, streetscapes, and activities. • Seeing a show. Most theme parks offer live music shows; the biggest ones

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• They’re designed for multiple interests. There are rides for entire families, for small children, for the average thrill-seeker, and for the hardcore enthusiast. Gentler rides like carousels and midway-style games cater to those looking for something a little less impactful, while shops, shows, and quieter spaces are ideal for attendees with less energy or stamina. • Group rates. Nearly all theme parks offer group rates, and most of the larger ones also offer specific packages for families or groups. • All-inclusive can be an option. Some, like Disney World, offer deals that include onsite lodging and food. If you’re looking to simplify your reunion planning, having the edibles and the rooming search taken off your hands is a major time-saver. • Freedom and Individuality are built in. While every reunion needs some allgroup activities, most guests will want some time to themselves as well. Hosting your reunion in or near a theme park means you don’t have to plan too many

also provide full-on stage shows and extravaganzas. Plus, if you stick around until after sunset, you’ve a pretty good chance of seeing a fireworks display. • Going on a foodie tour. If you’re going to one of the mega-parks mentioned above, visiting each “nation” and exploring its food is a recognized activity. Even in smaller parks, there’s usually a wide variety of eats available, including different restaurants and lots of food carts and trucks. Traditional American midway favorites like corn dogs and funnel cakes are now sharing space with tacos, seafood, sushi, barbeque, and other delicious options.

Theme Park Reunions: Tips & Tricks

While planning a theme park reunion does lighten the load on the planning committee somewhat, there are still a few things to keep in mind:

• Reserve a space big enough to hold the whole group. This may mean reserving a meeting room or event room at your lodging, or you may designate one suite as group HQ. Either way, make sure there’s a central place to meet and hang out. Despite their size, it can be hard for theme parks to provide designated group space on the spur of the moment! • Schedule group time. That long list of activities means that most guests are going to be busy. That’s awesome, but don’t forget that the whole point of a reunion is to reunite as a group. So be sure to schedule in dinner, breakfast, or game night – whatever works to connect your whole group. • Make group dining reservations in advance. Yes, amusement parks cater to large crowds. But there’s no guarantee that any one restaurant will have enough open tables to seat your whole group, or that your group will be seated together.

Solve this problem by making reservations well in advance. • Have a key person. Instead of each family or person fending for themselves, have one person in the group designated as the liaison for all lodging and parkrelated issues; if you have a large group, have additional people overseeing transportation and dining arrangements, too. • Get rooms on the same floor. This makes impromptu gatherings much easier. • Plan well in advance. Otherwise, you might find it hard to stay, eat, or gather in the same places. • Splurge on reunion gear. It’s easy to get lost in the crowd at a theme park, so consider whether buying reunion t-shirts and/or hats is an option for your group. It’ll make spotting long-lost friends a lot faster.

REUNIONS WORKBOOK

Find Your

FAMILY HISTO RY r

ou for y

Next Reunion

VERY FAMILY HAS a story –

this legend is emblazoned on wall art, cushion covers and innumerable web pages, but it happens to be true. In fact, every family has a million stories. Why not find out more about yours before your next reunion? Wait, did you just really read that? As if, in the rush of planning another reunion, you have time to track down your family’s past! But hang on – it might not be as diffi-

REUNIONS WORKBOOK

cult as you fear. One neophyte researcher, armed with only a grandmother’s maiden name, was able to track their family history back to 1800. And the search took about 10 minutes. As it turns out, finding your family’s roots doesn’t mean burying your personal life while you spend months researching – or digging yourself into a big hole of debt! Thanks to the internet and to our own curious natures, it’s easier than it’s ever been before. “I like to tell people we live in the

best of times for family historians,” said Curt Witcher, manager of The Genealogy Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana, one of the leading genealogy centers in the United States that offers extreme customer service to aid you in your search. “There is so much information available on the internet, there is anywhere from 20 to 30 billion searchable records online. “You can also visit a library such as the (Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne) to further help your search,”

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BIGSTOCK

R E U N I O N S A R E A L L A B O U T T E L L I N G G R E AT S TO R I E S . W H Y N OT S H A R E T H E O N E T H AT U N I T E S YO U A L L – T H E S TO RY O F YO U R FA M I LY ?

Witcher added. “Our collection of books and microfilm have more than 1.1-million physical items.” With all that in mind, here are our top tips for tracing your family’s story. They range from short and sweet to involved and expensive, but the joy of family research is that you can decide how far back you want to go. However, we do have one warning before we get started: uncovering your family story can be addictive! You might find yourself digging deeper than you originally planned.

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TIP 1:

TIP 3:

This is a no-brainer, but it’s surprisingly overlooked – and surprisingly effective. Ask your grandparents, your parents, your cousins. It’s entirely possible that someone has already done at least part of your family history. Even if it’s not in your family’s name (like if your maternal first cousin did it), they’ll have traced at least some of your ancestors. This will give you a place to start your own searches. If you don’t have any amateur genealogists in your family, don’t despair. Ask anyway, preferably starting with the older generations. Grandmas and great-aunts are treasure troves of names, often being able to recall their own grandparents’ full names, places of residence, and maybe even birth or death years. These can help you enormously in your record search later on.

Armed with just a few names and dates, you’re now ready to try your hand at online genealogy. But be warned that it’s not exactly easy to navigate. There are a plethora of free and paid sites that let you dig into your family’s past using their databases. Here are a few top picks:

Just Ask

Hit Up the Internet

Your local library can be another place to search for online genealogical help; if they don’t have their own site (like Allen County, Indiana), they may be able to help you access HeritageQuest Online for free. “The easiest thing is to gather information from living memory, relatives, family record pages, etc.,” Witcher said. “People fortunate enough to visit a library such as ours can then talk to a librarian

TIP 2:

This tip can and should be done at the same time as Tip 1. If you happen to be visiting the family farmstead, see if you can explore the attics, sheds and basements for scrapbooks, photo albums and family records. Even if your family’s original homestead is long gone, ask if your parents or grandparents have preserved any of this memorabilia. You might well find birth and marriage records, with their vital names and dates. Maybe you’ll even find a forgotten family tree tucked away in the pages of a massive old Bible (it’s happened more than you’d think). If you just find old photos, you’re still in luck. Look at the backs or on the mounting – you might find names and dates. Ask older family members if they recognize anyone and note the names. At the very least, look at the photos themselves: you might find some good stories there, without having to dig further! Or play detective by examining cars, buildings, and other background information to determine when and where the photo was taken.

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• USA.gov’s Genealogy and Family History section has advice about where and how to search federal and state records. • Archives.gov contains free tools for amateur genealogists, including census, military, immigration, naturalization and land records. • FamilySearch.org, a service of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, offers a free account that allows you to search their massive database of genealogical information. • WikiTree, although smaller, is completely free to use.

that specializes in family research history. We look at surnames they have, dates they have and we help people use our online databases. We subscribe to all the major ones on behalf of our customers.” Industry leaders like Ancestry.com, Archives.com and MyHeritage.com all have paid subscriptions, but if you don’t mind shelling out a modest sum each month, they are quite user-friendly. You may even get most of your research done while you’re still in the free trial stage!

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Go on an Attic Adventure

TIP 4:

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Get a DNA Test But what if you’ve tried asking relatives for a genealogical leg up and gotten nowhere? What if your family’s story dead ends after a generation or two? In that case, getting a DNA test might open some doors. Genealogical DNA tests are now quite affordable. These will tell you the general area(s) where your DNA is most common – for example, in Central Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, Scandinavia, etc. Some, such as Ancestry, break things down even further, tracing where in the USA you’re likely from, based on how common your DNA is in specific regions. Because all these DNA results are stored in a database and cross-referenced, Ancestry can also point you toward distant cousins and other relatives you may not know you have. From there, you can use

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a paid monthly membership to build your family tree.

What If You Can’t Find Your Family Story?

Of course, all of these tips presuppose your family has been in North America or Europe for many generations. What if your family is a more recent arrival, or it hails from a country where birth and death records were destroyed or haphazardly

kept? In that case, you might not be able to trace your family story back more than a few generations. But you know what? A few generations are all you need to begin your own records. Start collecting stories now, and you’ll be building a narrative for coming generations. If you really want to find your family’s history, it might be worth the expense of a professional genealogist. Make sure you find one that produces the results you expect and consider looking for a certification or accreditation. If your family has a strong heritage in a particular culture, you may want to ensure your genealogist either has contacts in that community or can speak/read the language. Remember that genealogy is not a quick trip down memory lane, it’s a fascinating undertaking and one that can last for an entire lifetime. Finding your family’s story is a long journey, but it’s one worth taking.

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Bring your

REUNI ON PLANNING e

h into t

Digital Age F R O M B U D G E T I N G TO G A M E O P T I O N S , T H E S E A P P S W I L L H E L P YO U B E T T E R O R G A N I Z E , E X E C U T E A N D E N J OY YO U R N E X T R E U N I O N

HETHER YOU ARE planning

your first reunion or you are a seasoned veteran, everyone can use a little help here and there. Luckily, a myriad of tech solutions exist that can assist you in planning and executing the perfect reunion.

Budgeting Who couldn’t use a little help with budgeting? A reunion is a major event and especially during the planning phase when a lot of great ideas are being thrown around, it is helpful to have a tool to aid in sorting out what you can realistically include and what is just out of your budget this time around.

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Goodbudget: Proficient for tracking your overall reunion budget, this app allows you to set up virtual “envelopes” to help manage your funds. You can create categories for each of the envelopes, such as food, accommodations or transportation, thus helping you determine how to divvy up your budget and see where you can move money around to squeeze in that extra activity or event. goodbudget.com/

Expenses

Once you’ve set your budget and it is time to start collecting money and paying for things, these next set of apps work extremely well when used in concert to track both expenses and payments.

Venmo/PayPal: A good first step is setting up a digital wallet such as Venmo or PayPal. These will allow you to quickly send or request money to or from anyone else that has it downloaded, making it an excellent method for collecting deposits from reunion attendees and for keeping your reunion funds separate from your personal accounts. venmo.com/ paypal.com Splitwise: A great companion to your digital wallet, Splitwise tracks who owes who. When anyone is ready to pay what is owed, the app links to Venmo or PayPal to make it as easy as a tap on their cellphone screen. This can be especially useful for non-budgeted expenses that happen on the fly, like splitting up the bill for that spontaneous restaurant meal or deciding to take everyone on a Segway tour of the city at the last minute. splitwise.com/

Itinerary

Depending upon the length and complexity of your reunion, building, sharing and getting approval for your schedule of events can be a major chore. Then there is the headache of confirming, tracking and coordinating everyone’s travel information. The following apps range in their depth and intricacy, but can be a real time-saver for larger, longer reunions. Travefy: Used by many a professional travel agent and group travel planner, this app might be a bit more than most reunion planners need, however, it allows you to easily build your itinerary, combine hotel and flight information, then can share with others. This makes it easy for reunion attendees to remember what time everyone arrives, where to meet and if they are staying at the same hotel or not. Travefy also offers a built-in chat and a poll if you need to make a group decision on whether to include that river boat tour or take everyone to the zoo instead. travefy.com/ Tripline: If your needs are on the lighter side, you can try the free app Tripline. Especially useful during the planning phase of your reunion, multiple people can map out restaurants, attractions, accommodations and more and then share it. Group

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members can also upload photos or text for locations on the map. The app then takes the photos and creates an animation outlining the itinerary, which you can share for a more visual preview of your reunion. tripline.net/ Google Calendar: If you only need the most basic of tools, Google Calendar can be a convenient option. Most of your attendees will likely already have a Google account, and if they don’t, setting up an account is quick and free. You can create events, add details, and invite friends or family who have a Google account to make changes. Other features include video chat and mass email, to aid in keeping everyone up-to-date.

reunion. Depending upon your needs, there are numerous options out there that can help. Evite: If you are looking for an environmentally-friendly, more cost-effective alternative to sending out paper invitations through the mail, with Evite you can choose from a large selection of custom-pre-made digital invitations or create your own. RSVPs are also digitally submitted and tracked instantly, eliminating the worry of delayed or lost mail. evite.com/ Band: Relatively new on the scene, this app was designed specifically for group communication and contains multiple

your own playlists to fit the mood of any event. Groups can share, follow or make a playlist collaborative so everyone can edit how they like. spotify.com Perfect Potluck: If you’ve ever tried to organize a potluck for more than a few dozen people, you’ll understand the benefit of an app like Perfect Potluck. Not only can you coordinate who will bring what dish, but Perfect Potluck tells you how many people need to bring certain items depending on the total amount of people and offer suggested menus starting from 10 guests all the way up to 500 people. If you happen to be short on recipe ideas,

group features such as chat, calendar, board, albums, voice calling, polls and more. If you’re dealing with a large reunion, Band is an excellent option for connecting with everyone in one place and sharing information without the need for mass emails. band.us

they even offer them on their website. perfectpotluck.com/ Heads Up!: When it is time for some humorous quality bonding, this app is up to the task. You form teams of two or more and take turns picking which category you’re most knowledgeable about. From charades to guessing accents, celebrities or movie plots, you’ll have a blast and test what you know. *Available in the Google App store Reverse Charades: Bringing a digital twist or a time-honored family game, this app lets teams pick 30, 60 or 90 second rounds to act out as many words as they can while one person guesses. *Available in the Google App store

Photo Sharing

Gone are the days when Uncle Rick was the only one walking around the reunion taking photos with his 35mm camera. Odds are every single person at your reunion will be snapping photos constantly with their cell phones or some other device. With so many photos being taken, it can be easy to miss that perfect candid shot your niece took of grandma or the heartwarming picture of long-parted family members reuniting. This is where our next set of apps comes in handy. Cluster: A great private way to collect and share photos exclusively within your group. You can create separate galleries to organize the photos and video by who submitted them or by the event. You can even get notified when someone sees or likes a photo. cluster.co/ Shutterfly: Digital photo galleries are great, but they aren’t for everyone. If you’re looking to print physical photos, scrapbook or create other photo-based memorabilia, Shutterfly is for you. It offers unlimited photo storage to share with friends and family, as well as an easy way to order prints, holiday cards, or even home décor. shutterfly.com

Communication From sending invitations and receiving RSVPs to the weekly planning meetings with your various reunion committees, efficient communication is key to a great

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Music, Games & More

Let’s close out our list with some apps that can assist with the lighter side of the reunion. Spotify: If you’re looking to have a variety of music at your reunion, download the Spotify app. Millions of albums and songs are accessible for free and you can create

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Establishing a

TIMETABLE for Your REUNION S E T T I N G A T I M E TA B L E W I L L H E L P T H E FA M I LY R E U N I O N P L A N N E R P LOT T H E CO U R S E F O R A W E L L- O R G A N I Z E D E V E N T.

Months Prior

o 8-24 months in advance determine if there is enough interest in holding a reunion o Talk to other reunion organizers about their experiences, positive and negative o Attend a reunion organizing class, workshop or conference, often hosted by a Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) o Inquire with CVBs and hotels about familiarization (fam) trips to scout potential locations and facilities o Start a mailing and email list of potential reunion attendees o Form reunion committees; establish responsibilities and schedules o Consider hiring professional reunion planner if your group is large, complex or recruiting committee members is proving difficult o Develop budget so everyone on your guest list is able to participate o Create bookkeeping system, keep copious records and notes of exact time and monetary expenditures

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Months Prior

o Choose your reunion location, keeping in line with your budget and the geographical radius your reunion attendees may need to travel o Reserve hotel room block o Set your dates. Summer is often best because kids are out of school, but prices may be higher at popular destinations. o Create a simple website, Facebook page, Twitter and Pinterest account o Hire entertainment, secure caterer, photographer, videographer, printer o Send save-the-date cards, first mailer or reunion website information. Include tentative plans, suggestions for tours, souvenirs, memory books, theme, approximate cost, memory book contributions, missing persons list. o Choose a reunion theme. Themes are great icebreakers for reunion members who do not know each other well and can also trigger ideas for activities, food and invitations.

6-9

Months Prior

o Visit hotel, meet with key sales and catering staff, and review pick-up on room blocks o Begin souvenir directory/list of attendees/memory book o Send formal invites with full event details and any TBA info o Keep your reunion website updated and post regularly to social media to build interest o Schedule events and activities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; establish your program, confirm any speakers o Plan reunion activities for adults and children, awards ceremony, tours, entertainment, games for kids o Distribute order forms for family memorabilia like T-shirts, mugs, hats and keepsakes o Send second mailer: registration form, cost and updated list of missing persons (along with souvenir ordering information above)

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Months Prior

o Contact missing persons and send “time is running out” card o Email your reunion announcement to media sources for press coverage o Reserve rental equipment such as tents, chairs, porta-toilets o With your theme nailed down, select and order decorations, signs, banners o Choose menus for group events o Confirm reservations with entertainment, photographer, caterers o Calculate rental needs like tents, chairs, tables, coolers o Submit personalized souvenir order (T-shirts, mugs, caps)

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1-2

Months Prior

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Week Prior o Contact missing persons and send “time is running out” card o Email your reunion announcement to media sources for press coverage o Reserve rental equipment such as tents, chairs, porta-toilets o With your theme nailed down, select and order decorations, signs, banners o Choose menus for group events o Confirm reservations with entertainment, photographer, caterers

Reunion Day of Event o Set up registration and decorations early (day before if possible) o Have contracts handy for rental equipment, displays, caterers o Set up children’s activities/games early so they can start/finish on time o Manage details of volunteers, food, photographer, games, tours, entertainment, ceremonies o Encourage participants to post photos and memories on social media o Salute volunteers and committees o Enjoy the day!

Post-Reunion Follow-up o Reflect and evaluate – note what worked, what didn’t o Consider an evaluation form to get honest, not anecdotal feedback o Complete event bookkeeping, settle all accounts o Write thank you notes to volunteers, committees, hotel staff, caterers and entertainment who excelled o Send follow-up mailing/e-newsletter to entire family, including those who could not attend o Post reunion recap on social media, send to family members who could not attend o Start planning your next reunion!

How’s your mom and them? Many founding families in JoCo settled here in the late 1600s, so why not bring your family for a visit. Reunion planners may choose from restored school houses, new barn meeting venues, a host of fun events, and outlet shopping. Our location along I-95 is easy to reach – tell the family, Exit 95 on 95. Plan your reunion today with help on

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Stop Sending Invitations Through Snail Mail

For more than a century, the mailbox and the rotary dial phone were how we communicated. But times have changed. We no longer have eight track tapes, floppy disks, typewriters and no one is using shorthand. Family reunion planners should embrace the advances in technology when sending invitations and keeping in touch with family members. I’m all for sending thank you cards, Christmas and birthday cards and wedding announcements by snail mail, but when it comes to family reunion invitations and flyers, using email and texts just makes sense. First off, consider the cost. At almost 50 cents for a stamp, the cost of mailing every family an invitation adds up quickly, especially if you have a large family. Also, factor in the cost of paper and the ink to print it on or the cost of taking your invitations to a print shop to have them professionally printed. You also need to figure in the labor involved, sorting, stapling, folding and putting your invitations into envelopes. A reunion planner can sit at her computer, compose a quick message or create a beautiful custom invitation and send it off to the entire reunion family in a matter of seconds. No stamp is required, no trip to the post office and no time is taken to physically fold, staple and lick. Just send it out and your whole family can be reading your reunion information in a matter of minutes. Our family has enjoyed sharing our news and information on our family Facebook page and I know some families that have created their own family websites. Both are convenient, instant and inexpensive ways to keep in touch. Although sending reunion information by

email is awesome, grandma and grandpa and great aunts and uncles may still need a physical invitation that arrives in their mailbox or a call they can answer on their rotary dial phone.

Stop Trying To Do Everything Yourself

This one is huge. As a reunion planner, you have enough to do without worrying about every detail of your reunion. Form a committee and give

responsible for a jumbo-sized family game. Our game was one of six games we played at the reunion and one of six activities the reunion planner didn’t have to worry about. Many years ago, we planned a cruisethemed reunion. Each of the family groups choose a port of call and planned activities and a meal that represented the culture of that port. Because there were six families, we sailed to six countries, including Mexico, Alaska, Africa and Paris, France.

Five Things

Stop Spending Your Own Money

No matter how much you love each other, it still costs money to hold a family reunion. You may charge reuniongoers a fee for attending the reunion or you may ask them to donate food or other supplies, but if you are a reunion planner, I guarantee that you are spending your own money (probably more than you think) to make your reunion successful. For many families, putting someone (or a committee) in charge of managing the money is a huge help. This person should be responsible for all things money including any fundraising that takes place. Our family does a family auction to help with reunion expenses. The responsibility for the auction, including encouraging family members to bring donations to be auctioned off, is up to our reunion financial guru. She keeps track of all winning bids and collects the money. She also deposits the cash in our family reunion bank account and pays all the bills. It’s one less thing the reunion planner needs to worry about. I suggest every reunion organizer purchase a notebook to record each purchase they make for the reunion. Glue an envelope in the back of your notebook for keeping receipts and at the

REUNION PLANNERS ld Shou

Stop Doing Now

REUNIONS WORKBOOK

BY MARILYNN STEWART

out assignments or, if working solo, make a list of activities and divide them up among family members. A simple way to make assignments is by family group. There are six children in my husband’s family. They are all over 60 years old now and have adult children of their own. For most reunions, each family group receives an assignment to do an activity and plan and cook a meal. When my family is given an assignment, my children help with the planning and implementing of that assignment. The theme of our last reunion was, “Game On.” Every family group was

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completion of your reunion, review your purchases and submit your receipts to the money manager. Keep in mind that the purchases you make are made with precious funds and take care to spend wisely, but if there doesn’t seem to be enough funds for one of your activities, unless you pay for it, then it’s time to cut it from the list or find a creative way to pay for it.

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Stop Worrying About Family That Doesn’t Attend the Reunion

When you’re the one that has worked so hard to plan and implement a reunion, it’s pretty hard to not take it personally when someone tells you they can’t attend. Over the last 40 years of family reunions, I have heard some pretty ridiculous reasons and excuses that someone can’t attend a family reunion, but I’ve also learned that if someone doesn’t want to come to the reunion they’re just not going to come, no matter

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what you say or do. Focus instead on all the wonderful people that come to the reunion like cousin Toby, who planned his wedding so that his anniversary would never fall on the reunion weekend, and Aunt Jean and Uncle Mack, who save their work vacation every year so that they can attend. Those are the people that need your attention and are probably the families that are most excited to lend a hand.

To encourage attendance at the next reunion, send out a nice, personalized email or text to those that didn’t attend letting them know that they were missed. Be tolerant and patient with those that don’t make the time or put forth the effort to be at your reunion. Perhaps you’ll see some of the non-attenders next year when they hear how much fun everyone had at the reunion they missed.

Don’t Reinvent the Wheel

We live in an age when everyone is sharing their expertise and experiences on the internet. At

reunions in my early years, I’m sure reunion planners never considered planning a reunion with a Caveman, Western or Wizard of Oz theme, but today, families have thought up some pretty amazing reunion themes and activities. As a reunion planner, you will want to talk with friends and co-workers to find out what their favorite family reunions are. The experiences of others is a great jumpingoff point for creating the perfect reunion for your family. Search the internet for the thousands of reunion ideas you can find there. You might not find exactly what you’re looking for, but reading about other reunion planners’ experiences can help get your creative juices flowing. After you’ve done your online research, put your own family’s spin on the ideas you found there. AmazingReunion.com is a simple, free online service helping people plan their next family reunion. They can help with registration, hotel reservations and collecting fees. Familyreunionhelper. com is a website that offers reunion-themed packages that are packed full of reunion ideas, activities, games, recipes, printables and templates that take a lot of the “planning” out of reunion planning. A family reunion is a huge responsibility for reunion planners but as you work through the reunion process, keep in mind the reason you’re having a reunion. Don’t wait for a funeral or wedding to get your family together. When you plan a reunion, you give your family the opportunity to play and have fun together. The work you do will assure that children will get to know their distant cousins and is a way for families to reconnect with their roots and find a sense of belonging.

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Your Guide to

BOOKING ACCOMMODATIONS CHOICES, CHOICES AND MORE CHOICES. IT’S WHAT REUNION PLANNERS FACE AS THEY NAVIGATE THE EVER-COMPLEX ARRAY OF ACCOMMODATIONS IN TODAY’S MARKETPLACE. LUCKILY, CHOICES TRANSLATE INTO OPTIONS AND BOY, DO REUNION PLANNERS HAVE OPTIONS IN 2019!

Traditional hotels still dominate the landscape The supply of new hotels in the U.S. grew by more than 100,000 rooms in 2018. This is the largest number of new rooms to enter the market since 2009. New hotel developments put pressure on existing properties who are forced to renovate and remain rate competitive. In 2019, CBRE Hotels Americas Research is forecasting the nation’s hotels will enjoy a 10th consecutive year of growth with U.S. hotel occupancy expected to rise to 66.2 percent this year, a fifth straight record level. The growth in occupancy is primarily the result of a projected 2.1 percent increase in demand, more than enough to offset an estimated net increase in supply of 1.9 percent for the year. Buoyed by a strong economy and fresh competition, hotel chains are spending furiously to update their properties to the tune of over $7 billion this year. Properties are refreshing their units with a wide array of features and amenities patrons now expect, such as ergonomic work spaces, upscale retail shops and keyless room entry. Despite the increase in room inventory, hotels are raising rates and adding new fees. The industry is expecting a 2.3 percent lift in average daily rate (ADR) to $133.04 while unpopular resort fees are now creeping into urban luxury and full-service hotels across the United States. They may be called amenities or facilities fees and cover less glamorous goods or services like internet access and bottled water, but major

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chains have embraced this newfound source of revenue. These factors have forced reunion planners to look at ways to keep their costs in check. Check out our article on 7 Tips for Negotiating with Hotels to help your group get the right hotel at the right price.

Alternative to Tradition

Changing consumer preferences has brought alternative housing into the mainstream. Over the last decade, apartment and home rental sites like Airbnb (4 million listings worldwide) and VRBO have opened up a new level of clever choices never thought possible. Not to be overlooked, university housing (school is out during summer reunions), religious monasteries and hostels all offer unique housing choices and a memorable experience. Read our article on Alternative Accommodations to learn why timeshares aren’t nearly as bad as some make them out to be. The great outdoors beckons generations of families looking to reconnect with nature. What better way to create new memories than a scenic dude ranch or glamping (high-end camping) adventure? Our team gives you the inside scoop on these two trending areas. Armed with insider intelligence and plenty of choices, you’re now better prepared to select the right style of accommodations for your group. Ready to book?

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SHOP. DINE. STAY. PLAY. P L A N Y O U R T R I P, F I N D D I S C O U N T S + M O R E I N F O A T M A L L O F A M E R I C A . C O M Wi t h ove r 520 sto res t h a t h ave n o sales tax on c lot hing or s hoes, 50 dining opt ions, 10 att rac ti on s a n d a J W M a r r i ott + Ra d i sso n Blu convenient ly connec ted to t he M all, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all here. /MALLOFAMERICA

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@MALLOFAMERICA

BLOOM IN GTON M N .ORG REUNIONS WORKBOOK

NEGOTIATING HOTELS with

D O I N G S O M E I N I T I A L R E S E A R C H A N D K N OW I N G W H AT TO A S K W I L L H E L P YO U R G R O U P G E T T H E R I G H T H OT E L AT T H E R I G H T P R I C E

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negotiating with hotels can be an intimidating and challenging task if you don’t know what to ask for or how to ask for it. By researching properties well in advance, you’ll have a better understanding of how to approach the process, specific items to request and what can be bargained in your contract. To help out, we have listed seven important tricks from reunion planning experts on how to successfully negotiate with hotels. This will help you determine what you can reasonably ask for, learn throwaway items you can typically get for free, and negotiate certain requests that can be hard to get, even for the most seasoned reunion planner.

Initial Negotiation Steps

Every reunion planner wants to deliver a great experience for his or her guests. Please keep that in mind as you are choosing your property. How the hotel treats you is more than likely how they will treat your guests. Pick a property that is eager to work with you and is responsive to your needs. Also, recognize that the terms of a hotel contract extend beyond just obtaining the best group rate possible, and can include anything from A/V equipment to parking, depending on your reunion needs. There are multiple negotiation points. After doing your research, be sure to contact more than one hotel as this will drive up the competition. All hotels have flexibility with their rates and many sales managers will be willing to negotiate with the customer if they can. Talking to two or three hotels is the best way to get the lowest rate. If the hotel really wants your business, some hotels will come down $10-$50 per room per night, based on competition. If your dates are flexible, you can ask a hotel for the best date they can meet your budget and meeting space requirements. Let the hotel propose dates that are a win-win for the both of you. No hotel will turn down a reasonable offer during slow periods. Once you’ve chosen your hotel, be very specific with your meeting/

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7 Tips Every Reunion Planner Should Use When

HEN PLANNING A REUNION,

hospitality space needs. It is most effective to communicate immediately regarding date, time and setup. Even though the reunion may be months away, you’ll want to secure your block of rooms as soon as possible. You never know what other events in town will affect hotel occupancy. You do not have to know how many rooms you need right now to get the room block set up. The hotel will provide a cutoff date by which you need to book. Make sure the hotel is offering you a courtesy block. This means you will not be responsible for paying for unused rooms in the block as long as they are cancelled by a mutually agreed-upon date. Some properties are more reunion-friendly than others. If they are not offering a courtesy block, you do not want to use that hotel.

Reasonable Requests

When negotiating with vendors for a reunion, be friendly and personable. It’s important to start off on the right foot and establish a good relationship. It’s also a good idea to find some common ground, something that you both can relate to. For example, you want to host a successful reunion, and they want to provide the services for a successful event. Creating an understanding will make the negotiation process much easier because you both want to work towards that common goal.

Obtain References Ask for references from past reunions that the hotel has hosted. Therefore, the property knows you are serious about booking. Hotels tend to negotiate more aggressively with reunions that have history, so share what you have done in the past.

Leverage Room Space Another reasonable request is asking for a banquet room for free. Hotels usually do this by either not charging for the room if a certain amount food and beverage is consumed or offering a package deal, charging a daily fee that includes the meeting room, food and beverage and a/v technology.

Throw-Away Items

Complimentary Room Most hotels will offer an aggressive complimentary room incentive if they really want to win your business. Usually the policy is one complimentary guest room for every 10, 20, 30, 40 or 50 rooms picked up, per night. A complimentary hotel suite upgrade for every 10 rooms booked is also the norm.

Reception Area Many hotels will offer complimentary meeting space for a meetand-greet reception based on how many overnight sleeping rooms the group has booked.

Hard-To-Gets

Bringing in Own Food and Beverage Banquet and catering can get expensive for a group. Ask if the hotel will allow the group to bring in its own food/caterer. But most hotels don’t

allow it, even for kosher needs or special diets.

Big-City Parking Parking is often requested to be included, but it may be hard to obtain this at central-city hotels if they don’t own the space.

3 Other Items to Consider Asking for: • Hospitality space/area instead of “meeting space” for the registration desk • BBQ space or an area to gather and play games, instead of renting a banquet room • Local attractions are a big deal for reunions and the hotel can offer their concierge services for discounted pricing and free advice These items are not always offered by hotels, so you have to ask. It’s all part of the negotiation process. Reunion planning can certainly be a tricky situation when expectations are not expressed. It’s important to keep your budget in mind when it comes to your list of must-haves. If you are down to one item (parking/guest room rate/ hospitality space), offer to sign the contract/agreement immediately if they can meet the request.

Lower Meal Rates Ask for discounted food and beverage rates. It is reasonable to ask for breakfast to be included. Hotels are open to offering meal deals unless they don’t own the restaurant. Fullservice hotels typically do not include breakfast in their price, but ask if they can either provide a discounted voucher or include it the room rate.

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FORGET HOTEL the

Stay in these Spots Instead WHEN YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS COME TO TOWN, THEY HAVE MORE LODGING CHOICES THAN EVER

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HEN ORGANIZING A reunion,

one of the biggest obstacles planners face is the accommodation of those pesky out-of-town attendees. With the average daily hotel room rate increasing annually, booking multiple people in a hotel is a pricey venture. And you certainly don’t want your messy cousins staying in your guest room, which makes finding a suitable lodging situation for them a challenging prospect. These reasons are, at least in part, why many planners opt for alternative accommodations for their guests. From Airbnb to religious housing, reunion architects often forego placing their family and friends in traditional hotels in favor of potentially cheaper options. Here are some of those choices and how to book them.

Apartment and home rentals

With more than five million listings worldwide, Airbnb is a popular company in the travel world. While Airbnb might be the fastest growing player in the vacation rental market, it’s hardly the only one. Other websites like homestay.com, vrbo. com and 9flats.com also enable guests to rent a room in someone’s house, apartment

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or cottage, typically for affordable rates. These options are attractive alternatives to hotels because the properties often offer a more welcoming vibe than hotels, giving guests a home-away-from-home feel. Using Airbnb as an example, here’s how to book a room in a vacation rental: • Before requesting a reservation with a host, guests need to complete a profile that includes photos and verifications. • When searching for a property to

rent, make sure to include your dates and the number of guests using the room in order to get the most accurate pricing. Read reviews, descriptions, house rules and amenities for each establishment to determine which place best fits your needs. You can also contact the host by sending them a message on Airbnb. Once the message is confirmed, you can message, email or call the host to communicate until the trip has concluded. • Once you are primed to book your place, you can choose from a pair of options. You can Instant Book, in which you confirm a reservation at your place on the website immediately or you can Request to Book, in which you submit a reservation request and hosts have 24 hours to accept your request.

Academic Housing

Along the lines of Airbnb is academic housing, in which college dormitories rent out rooms to travelers when students have vacated the premises. The most popular time periods in which these rooms are

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available tend to be during summer, term breaks or weekends. While it may be difficult to envision your Aunt Helen roughing it in a dorm room littered with Animal House posters, in truth, many colleges offer stays in higher-class locales with rates that are cheaper than hotels of comparable quality. Perhaps the most festive time to book an on-campus room is when your family or friends have gathered for a

you can reach out to a university directly. When contacting the university, ask about the rates, how to complete the booking and whether you need to bring your own linens and towels. Some colleges require you submit an application for short-term housing, and availability tends to be posted two to three months in advance, so book early.

university sporting event. Booking guests on campus will most likely ensure they are within walking distance of the stadium and can avoid battling the massive glut of traffic that will accompany the big game. To find academic housing options, websites like universityrooms.com can help you select rooms from across the globe. The site lets travelers book unused rooms at more than 400 universities and more than 100 cities across the world. If universityrooms.com doesn’t suit your needs (the site features considerably more rooms in Europe than in the states),

churchgoers, giving them the chance to stay in a convent, monastery, temple or synagogue could enhance their reunion experience considerably. While religious retreats are distinctively cultural experiences, they also tend to fall on the economical side, with many locales offering free meals. The best sites to find religious housing include goodnightandgodbless.com, monasterystays.com. and brigidine.org/. Using goodnightandgodbless.com as an example, here’s how to book religious housing:

Religious Housing

For those family members that are faithful

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• When visiting the site’s home page, type in your preferred destination, check-in and check-out date, the number of adults and children and what type of room you would like. • Once your information is inputted, the site will show you available locations including a summary, photos, room prices, capacity and a map of the location. • Click on the Book Now button to place your reservation.

These no-frills accommodations tend to fall on the cheapest side of the ledger, as

made up of a younger crowd that wants to spend their disposable income on food and liquor, this choice might appeal to them. Plus, with hostels offering six, eight and 10-person rooms, it will give your fraternity brothers a renewed chance to bond, just like the old days. Sites like hihostels.com and hostels. com have thousands of properties around the world. To utilize these sites, click on the destination of the hostel, select your check-in and check-out dates and the

they offer dormitory-style rooms often with shared bathrooms. While that option might not suit your rich Uncle Herbert, if your reunion is

number of guests. It’s recommended you do your research before booking because a subpar hostel could be filthy and bugridden. On the flip side, some of the best hostels offer flexible check-ins, meaning if your guests arrive in town at noon, they may be able to check in then rather than tooling around town for hours with their luggage in tow. When you have narrowed down your hostel options, call each establishment and ask if they offer flexible check-in times. The one that does should be the one that earns your business.

them from hostile sales tactics by booking a timeshare directly from its owner. Sites like redweek.com and sellmytimesharenow.com will help you rent a property for whatever amount of time you need. On those sites, you can view available properties and learn about their amenities before making a rental offer.

Hostels

Timeshares

Timeshares have gotten a bad rap for the notoriously aggressive nature of their salespeople. Take that element away though and timeshares often offer luxurious accommodations with a full kitchen, living room and a washer/dryer inside the unit, not to mention on-site pools and tennis courts. In other words, timeshares can be a considerable step up from hotels. And with so many timeshares going unused at various points of the year, you can provide your guests lavish quarters and shelter

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Unplug your

REUNI ON DUDE RANCH at a

S EARC HI N G FOR A N ALT E R N AT I V E TO T RADIT IO NAL RE U NIO NS? D UD E RA N CH E S MAY B E W H AT YO U’ RE LO O KING FO R

RANCHES conjure up images of the open range, the bunkhouse and the chuck wagon – which is both fairly accurate and a long way from reality. However you imagine a dude ranch, it’s a great place for a reunion. What exactly is a dude ranch? Basically, they’re ranches that take in paying guests – that’s why some are called guest ranches. The term “dude ranch” was coined early in the last century, when dude meant “city person.” Today’s dude ranch is a place where groups can get out into the wilderness, but it’s not a one-ranch-fits-all proposition. Like hotels, ranches exist on a continuum from basic accommodations – the stereotypical bunkhouse or tent situation – to five-star luxury that just happens to be in a rather remote setting. Some dude ranches are like resorts that focus exclu-

UDE

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sively on hosting guests, others provide a more agritourist-like experience (where guests help out with ranch activities), and others provide a mix of lodging, food and traditional activities (e.g. horseback riding, hiking).

Why Have My Reunion at a Dude Ranch?

While a memorable reunion can be had just about anywhere, a ranch reunion offers some very special advantages. Your group can: • Unplug. Convenient as they are, our devices often get in the way of connecting with the very people we’ve come to see. At a ranch reunion, this problem can easily be remedied: Not only is the beautiful scenery apt to distract from screen time, many resorts only offer wi-fi (or get phone signals) at designated locations.

• Have the place to yourself. Depending on the venue, groups as small as 10 people can book the entire property for themselves. Other ranches may be able to offer groups semi-secluded areas for their reunion. • Simplify planning. By hosting your reunion at a dude ranch, there’s less transportation and outside activities to organize. Plus, food is usually part of the package. • Enjoy the view. Dude ranches specialize in natural, unspoiled beauty. • Interact with animals. Dude ranches – even those that skew more toward resort and less toward working ranch – often provide animal-themed activities. Horseback riding is a popular draw, while others offer a chance to groom, feed, and care for a multitude of other species. Some even allow you to bring your own four-legged friends along. • Get a feel for the past. Traditional dude ranches gave guests a taste of cowboy life – serving authentic grub, singing old folk songs, and even providing a samplesized portion of cattle herding. This is still very much available, and it’s a fun and manageable way of bringing family or group history to life.

Top Five Things to Do on a Dude Ranch

With so many things to choose from, it can be hard to winnow down the list of dude ranch activities. Here are a few classics – and a few that might be a surprise: • Let the kids camp out. Sure, everyone can camp out all reunion long if they want to. But sometimes it’s more fun to send the younger ones off on a (safely supervised) adventure.

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• Get horsey. Horses have always been an important part of ranch life. Groups can watch exhibitions of team penning, gymkhana, and other horse-related skills, or they can have their own carriage or sleigh rides, riding lessons, and trail rides. • Get outside. Sports like tennis, fishing,

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shooting, hiking and mountain biking are all pretty common offerings. Some ranches also have facilities for golf, skiing, rafting, and boating. Of course, simply relaxing in a comfy spot is also a great way to get outside. • Pamper yourself. Most ranches aren’t the strictly “life-on-the-range” type. They also provide thoroughly modern and indulgent activities like massages, spas, yoga, and swimming. • Take a class. There’s more to a ranch reunion than horses! Some offer art, cooking, fitness, photography, and yoga classes. Many provide kids’ programs, too.

Dude Ranch Reunions: Tips & Tricks

• Schedule well in advance. Experts recommend a minimum of six to nine months out. A year is better for large or

complicated reunions. The larger your group, the more time you should give the ranch to prepare for your arrival. • Summer is peak season, but spring and fall can be lovely. Some ranches are nearly inaccessible once snow falls; others turn into winter wonderlands. • Consider the available lodging and activity options and how they’ll fit with your group’s needs. It’s not unusual for one ranch to offer a large lodge, several cabins, and some other structures (yurts, tents, tipis, etc). If your group wants to stay in the same building, make sure this is something the ranch can provide. Also, make sure your choice of ranch hosts (or can partner with local providers for) all the activities your group is most interested in. • Dude ranches are usually all-inclusive, but double-check before you book.

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What is

GLAMP IN G

and Why Is It Great r fo

REUNION GROUPS?

A D D G L A M O U R TO C A M P I N G A N D YO U G E T G L A M P I N G – A R I S I N G T R AV E L T R E N D A N D S O M E T H I N G T H AT M I G H T M A K E YO U R N E X T R E U N I O N E X T R A S P E C I A L

REPARE YOURSELF FOR a news

flash: Some people just don’t like to camp. And yet, camping isn’t merely a popular reunion activity; it’s just plain popular. According to the 2017 North American Camping Report, 61 percent of U.S. households (that’s 75 million, if you’re counting) go camping at least occasionally. For years, there’s been an ongoing search for a way to make camping more palatable to those who hate “roughing it.” Camping has evolved from a tent in the wilderness to a camper parked on a paved lot to an RV complete with kitchen, shower and bathroom facilities. Recently, a new trend has arisen: glamping.

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What Is Glamping?

Glamping is a fairly recent concoction, both as a trend and as a word. The word comes from “glamourous camping,” and that’s also a fair description of how glamping works. Whereas camping is done in basic tents or maybe a camper, glamping is done in style. Where camping cuisine rests on hot dogs and s’mores, glamping offers a fully-stocked kitchen. And where camping toilet and shower facilities can be pretty rustic—or at least a short hike away—glamping comes with a more civilized approach to life’s necessities. Like camping, glamping is what you make of it: for some, it’s camping in a tent with luxury linens and a basket full

of gourmet goodies; for others, the only difference between glamping and a fourstar hotel is the location. At the higher end, the line between glamping and renting a vacation home is pretty blurry, and at the lower end, glamping is camping with a cashmere sweater and Ugg boots. For the sake of argument, let’s say you choose a middle route—perhaps signing up with a glamping provider. What might you expect? Accommodations: While camping tends to have about five basic kinds of accommodation—basic tent, nicer tent, camper, RV and maybe cabin—glamping accommodations tend to be a lot more imaginative. Glamping Hub lists these varieties on their international glamping site (https:// glampinghub.com/types-of-glamping/): tree houses, yurts, safari tents, tipis, RVs, domes, eco-pods, lodges, caves, barns, huts, igloos, cabins, cabooses, villas, tiny houses, towers, cottages, tented cabins and caravans. Clearly, the accommodation part of glamping is very much down to personal choice. Setup: One of the big pluses of camping is that you can select exactly what accommodation suits you, and you can put it up wherever you want to (within reason). For some, though, this DIY-ness is the big minus of camping: who wants to go on vacation and start by building their shelter? Once again, there’s a duality about glamping: you can do the setup yourself, or you can hire a glamping company to do it for you. In that case, expect your accommodation to be clean and the fittings to be more hotel-like than camperlike. Glamping company Under Canvas provides a king-sized bed, plush mattress and full furnishings with all their tents; some tents go a little more glam, with full bathrooms, outside wood decking and indoor star-gazing platforms. Locations: Depending on the company you choose, your glamping experience could be anywhere you choose to set up (Under Canvas will go anywhere in the U.S. or Canada, for example); it could be in a luxury campground, near major landmarks like Yellowstone, near tourist areas like San Diego or Mendocino, or on a private ranch.

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For glamping destinations worldwide—as well as more general information—check out Glamping.com. Amenities: In addition to the amenities provided inside your tent, yurt or treehouse, some glamping resorts and campgrounds offer additional, decidedly non-camping-like perks. For example, the glamping company Collective Retreats offers a range of amenities, including complimentary breakfast and snacks, s’mores round the evening campfire, a gourmet selection of hot beverages in-room, daily housekeeping, games, community Wi-Fi spaces, heating and air conditioning, and a concierge service. Other glamping resorts include activities like hiking, horseback riding, fly fishing and yoga. Still others offer onsite dining pavilions with chefprepared meals and a camp butler.

Some Reunion-Friendly Glamping Ideas

Clearly, glamping provides an important service to reunion groups: it offers a chance to get back to nature, but in a way that doesn’t involve taking a bath in the nearest lake. If your reunion group has a core

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of diehard campers, is it possible to include glamping in your camping plans? Absolutely, especially if you’re handling the setup yourselves. Glampers might not get the same level of pampering, and they’ll almost certainly have to do without a butler, but adopting the simpler form of glamping with an RV, actual bed with actual mattress, luxury sheets and a gourmet goodie basket will go a long way towards making camping more comfortable. However, what if everyone in the reunion group is on board with the idea of glamping? We’ve provided quite a few resources to help you get started; how much glam going into your glamp will depend on your group’s location and budget. For groups with a special celebration in mind, there are a lot of options. Here are just three to get your imagination all fired up: • Go glamping in the Adirondacks. Stay in a log-and-canvas tent in one of America’s best-known playgrounds. Under the aegis of Posh Primitive, the focus here is on the outdoors; hire a guide to take you through this portion of Adirondack Park, go caving, or head out to local lakes and

rivers to go paddling or white-water rafting. In the evening, hang out around the campfire or stoke the wood stove in your tent for a cozy night in. • Glamp it up in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stay at a treehouse (or two) or keep your feet on the ground at Virginia’s Primland resort. Great for families and large groups—and hosting an onsite spa— this resort gets you out in the splendor of the Blue Ridge Mountains, but keeps things civilized with golf, cooking classes, a world-class spa and all the amenities of any good hotel. • Visit a Montana dude ranch in style. At The Ranch at Rock Creek, families can stay in a converted barn, complete with porch, TV, full bathroom, game table and space for socializing. Adventurous guests can spend the night in glammed-up covered wagons, while those craving luxury and solitude can reserve the 1,300-squarefoot Sweet Grass canvas cabin. As you can see from just these three examples, you can glamp any way you want to. That makes it a perfect choice for nature- and luxury-loving reunion groups.

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THE BEST THINGS IN LIFE AREN’T THINGS—

they’re the people we call family and the memories we create with them. Encore Resort at Reunion knows this, which is why our hospitality team is dedicated to making sure every detail of your reunion is perfect so your focus can be on your family. Encore Resort at Reunion is more than just renting a home, it’s an unforgettable experience for every member of your reunion. The resort is located within proximity to Orlando’s premier attractions and provides the perfect home base for an adventure-packed reunion. Reunion groups at Encore Resort can take advantage of world class amenities including our 10-acre water park, multiple onsite dining options, catering, unique entertainment options and activities for every age group and more.

Encore Resort at Reunion • GroupSales@EncoreReunion.net 407-845-9183 • EncoreReunion.com

Take a Virtual Site InSpection of Your Next Reunion Destination

BIGSTOCK

MONG THE MANY planning specifics involved in organizing a reunion

is the significance of selecting a destination that is an ideal fit for your group. While location is important, so are amenities and sticking to a budget. Throughout this edition of Reunions Workbook, you will find destinations, hotels and resorts that are eager and able to help you orchestrate an extraordinary reunion gathering. The following section features Site InSpections of reunion-friendly destinations across the country. Here you can take a closer look inside and discover new details, insights and angles that help you make the right destination choice. Each of these organizations and many more are profiled online at ReunionsWorkbook.com. From the home page of the website, click on the Destination Guides tab or search by keyword or state to hone in on specific resources that fit your needs.

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40 Akron Summit, Ohio 42 Atlanta Airport District, Georgia 44 Branson, Missouri 45 DeSoto County, Mississippi 46 Chicago Southland, Illinois 48 Crowne Plaza, Illinois 50 Encore Resort, Florida 52 Experience Columbus, Ohio 54 Experience Kissimmee, Florida 56 Garrett County, Maryland 58 Halifax County, North Carolina 60 Harrison County, Indiana 62 Jefferson Parish, Louisiana 64 Lake County, Illinois 66 Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri 68 Chicago Northwest, Illinois 70 New Orleans, Louisiana 72 Ocean City, Maryland 74 St. Augustine, Florida 76 North Carolina Smoky Mountains 78 YMCA of the Rockies, Colorado 80 Costa Cruises

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GREATER AKRON OFFERS FOOD, FUN AND ART 2

Historically known as a hub for innovation, Greater Akron stands out as the perfect Midwest locale for hosting your next reunion. Spend some quality time exploring Greater Akron’s cultural scene. At the Akron Art Museum, view impressive collections, including a stunning display of modern art. Also, check out Akron Glass Works and witness glassblowers create colorful works. What better place to purchase a small memento of your time together? In the evening, catch a performance at the Akron Civic Theatre.

Sharing delicious meals is a true reunion tradition. Akron has no shortage of great eats that include local Ohio fare as well as treats from around the world. At Hard Rock Rocksino Northﬁeld Park, dining isn’t the only thing on the menu. In addition to a wide selection of food, there is a casino, shows and entertainment galore.

Everyone will enjoy the nationally recognized Akron Zoo, where 700+ animals from continents around the globe ﬂy, swim, roam and graze. Hop aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic RR, which offers special packages throughout the year, including the popular Polar Express train during the holidays. Choose a dining car or simply take a seat by the window and enjoy breathtaking scenery, impressive bridges and quaint houses.

Two unique trails have been developed to ensure visitors experience everything Greater Akron has to offer. The 3rd annual Summit Brew Path (summitbrewpath.com) celebrates the community’s ever-expanding craft beer scene. In 2019, more than 20 official stops will have visitors raising their glasses ﬁlled with a delicious array of beers. The newly-launched shopping trail, New Again Akron (newagainakron.com) provides shoppers with a road map to ﬁnd special items across vintage, antique, reclaimed and cool junk shops.

Does wine, cheese and chocolate sound like a winning combination to you? Popular local stops include Sarah’s Vineyard, The Winery at Wolf Creek and Red Horse Winery. Groups can participate in the Summit Brew Path – visit Harry London Candies – and shop for tasty treats at Grandpa’s Cheese Barn.

Choosing a suitable place to lodge your family is one of the most important decisions you can make when planning a reunion. From large chain hotels to smaller family-owned properties and rental options, groups of all sizes can easily ﬁnd something to ﬁt their needs in Greater Akron.

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AKRON, OHIO Hotel Inventory: • • • •

Quick Facts

Downtown Akron Adjacent Hotels: 2 Downtown Akron Adjacent Hotel Rooms: 325 Total Greater Akron Hotels: 69 Total Greater Akron Hotel Rooms: 5,400+

Group Perks: • • • • • •

Personalized Digital Concierge Site inspection consultation Itinerary consultation Tour planners & guides Vendor and service referrals Photos

“The Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau was wonderful. You were knowledgeable, helpful, and gracious. Your representative made sure we had all we needed. You can’t improve perfection! You are the best!” – Linda Green, Green Family Reunion Contact: Cindy Coontz Destination Sales Manager Akron/Summit CVB Greater Akron, OH 800.245.4254 Direct: 330.374.8935 ccoontz@visitakron-summit.org

Top Attractions: • • • • •

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens Akron Art Museum Hale Farm & Village Cuyahoga Valley National Park & Scenic Railroad Akron Civic Theatre

1. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens is the former estate of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. founder, F.A. Seiberling. 2. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad travels through the heart of Ohio’s only national park. 3. Modern masterpieces ﬁll the Akron Art Museum.

TAKE YOUR REUNIONS TO NEW HEIGHTS IN THE ATL AIRPORT DISTRICT 2

The District includes 60 hotels with more than 8,000 hotel rooms that include free airport shuttle service The ATL Airport District is near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, with world-class hotels and restaurants perfect for reunions of any size. Your group can save more than 30 percent on accommodations by staying just minutes south of downtown Atlanta. Minutes away from the airport is the Delta Flight Museum, which is housed in the airline’s original headquarters and a host to numerous exhibits on aviation and the company’s history. Nearby, the Chickfil-A Home Office Backstage Tour leads your group through the fast food company’s headquarters while revealing the history behind the famous “Eat Mor Chikin” cows. Car enthusiasts should make a beeline to the Porsche Driving Experience, featuring 25 acres of test tracks and exhibits where you can try a Germanengineered sports car for yourself. If physical activity is more your speed, take advantage of the mixed use hiking and biking Ride & Fly trails just minutes away from most area hotels. Additionally, opening Fall 2019 is the Gateway Center @ College Park, a new multipurpose arena that will be a sports and entertainment venue located just minutes away from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International

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Airport. The arena will seat up to 5,000 attendees for events such as concerts and graduations, and will also be home to the Atlanta Hawks G League developmental basketball games. Just 10 miles away, located in Atlanta’s downtown district, Pemberton Place is home to many of Atlanta’s top attractions. The World of Coca-Cola guides visitors through a history of the world’s best-known soda company. Georgia Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the country, is the only place outside of Asia to see a giant whale shark, seven times larger than an average human and housed in a 6.3-million-gallon tank. The National Center for Civil and Human Rights focuses on civil rights history in Atlanta and the ongoing ﬁght for human equality across the globe. Across the street from Pemberton Place is Centennial Olympic Park, built for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games and host to weekly concerts and cultural events. There’s also SkyView Atlanta, a Ferris wheel that rises more than 20-stories along the city’s skyline. Blending affordable accommodations and meals with access to event spaces, the ATL Airport District ensures your reunion is memorable and within your budget.

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ATLANTA, GEORGIA

4 “Having our family reunion in the ATL Airport District was great. The District offers tons of fun and lots for everyone to see and experience – which made our time spent here even more amazing.” – Mr. Waverly McMichael Green-Barlow Family Reunion

Contact: Todd Neal Senior Sales Manager ATL Airport District, CVB tneal@ATLdistrict.com 404.334.7505

Hotel Inventory:

Quick Facts

• Total hotels: 60 • Total hotel rooms: Over 8,000 Group Perks: • Book you next reunion with us and receive a $300 gift card (must contract and actualize a minimum of 25 rooms) • Visitor guides available for your group • Referrals for local service providers, attractions and more • Site inspection assistance • Discounted restaurants and attractions Top Attractions in the ATL Airport District: • Delta Flight Museum • Chick-ﬁl-A Home Office Backstage Tour • Porsche Experience Center Downtown Atlanta Attractions (just 10 miles away): • Georgia Aquarium • Centennial Olympic Park • World of Coca-Cola • SkyView Atlanta • The National Center for Civil & Human Rights • College Football Hall of Fame

1. World of Coca-Cola at Pemberton Place 2. Atlanta Marriott Gateway & ATL SkyTrain 3. Porsche Driving Experience 4. Chick-ﬁll-A Home Office Backstage Tour 5. College Football Hall of Fame Helmet Wall ReunionsWorkbook.com

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BRANSON, MISSOURI: THE ULTIMATE ENTERTAINMENT AND ADVENTURE DESTINATION

Looking for your next reunion destination? Create fond memories in Branson, Missouri, where nonstop adventure and entertainment will impress you in Southern style. Surrounded by the Ozark Mountains, Branson is spectacularly scenic and packs a host of things to see and do for both young and old. You can have an adventure outdoors or indoors and be entertained endlessly with world-class shows and performances. Fun, festivities and food … Branson makes it extra special and memorable. For an adrenaline pumping adventure for the entire family, soar to great heights at Aerodium Outdoor Flying Adventure. Experience the thrill of skydiving under the guidance of trained instructors in a controlled environment where an outdoor vertical wind tunnel will launch you in the air. Another exciting and energizing activity is at The Track Family Fun Parks Track 3 where on the Skyscraper, riders can experience the G-force effect at 60 miles per hour, similar to what a pilot feels ﬂying a ﬁghter jet. At WonderWorks, you can let your imagination run wild at this sciencefocused indoor amusement park with over 100 handson interactive exhibits. The show always goes on in Branson, where summer concerts, festivals and shows offer plenty of entertainment. The city will be headlining a variety of national tours this year. Laugh out loud and shake a leg when great entertainers like Howie Mandel, Vicki 44

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Lawrence & Mama: A Two Woman Show, Johnny Mathis, Oak Ridge Boys, Dailey & Vincent and more come to theatres and venues in Branson. Don’t miss the premiere of Illusionist Rick Thomas’ Mansion of Dreams at the Andy Williams Performing Arts Center and Shrek: The Musical at the Welk Resort Theatre. Both productions promise to wow audiences of all ages with music, humor and elaborate stage sets. Another much-anticipated production is the award-winning, Broadway-style musical, Reuben’s Swashbuckling Adventure at Silver Dollar City where Pumpkin Nights in the Fall will see the streets lined with glowing gourds in the spirit of the season.

Contact: Julie Peters Leisure Group Sales Manager jpeters@bransoncvb.com 417.243.2117 www.explorebranson.com

1. Branson Jet Boats 2. Wolfe Mountain - Snowﬂex 3. Silver Dollar City - Pumpkin Nights

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DESOTO COUNTY, MISSISSIPPI BRINGS FAMILIES TOGETHER

Charming DeSoto County’s small towns offer a wealth of activities and are perfect for kicking back and relaxing with family and friends Reunions provide the perfect opportunity to surround yourself with some of the most important people in your life, and what better place to do that than in DeSoto County, Mississippi, where the ﬂavors of the south, a rich local history and plenty of family fun are waiting at every turn. In DeSoto County, there is truly something for everyone. 72 holes of championship golf at four courses, ﬁshing at Arkabutla Lake, shopping at the impressive Tanger Outlets, and dining at any one of the county’s 300-plus restaurants are just a few of the activities that reunion groups can look forward to. Be sure to check out what’s happening at the Landers Center, where each month offers an incredible variety – from basketball games and reptile shows to concerts and monster truck rallies. Another great option for groups is Snowden Grove, which features famous musical guests from across the nation. With such close proximity to Memphis, it’s no surprise that DeSoto County has a musical history. You can start your Mississippi Blues Trail adventure here, tracing the path of legends and discovering many of the places they performed, lived and made history. Pay a visit to Circle G Ranch, formerly owned by Elvis Presley, himself. Guests will soon be able to explore the honeymoon cottage he shared with his wife, the stable ReunionsWorkbook.com

where they housed their horses, a 14-acre lake with giant 55-foot cross, and much more. And don’t miss the chance to visit the home of one of rock ‘n’ roll’s ﬁrst true legends, Jerry Lee Lewis. At The Lewis Ranch, visitors get a behind-the-scenes look at the legend’s early life while learning more about his remarkable career. The small towns of DeSoto county offer a rare source of hospitality that is the perfect backdrop for any reunion. Hernando, Horn Lake, Olive Branch, Southaven and Walls are some of the many favorites offering a variety of lodging and dining options for groups, and that are sure to make your next reunion a hit.

Contact: Margaret DeVine Director of Sales DeSoto County Tourism 4716 Pepper Chase Dr. Southaven, MS 38671 662.393.8770 mdevine@visitdesotocounty.com www.visitdesotocounty.com 1. Annual Mid-South Fair 2. Nesbit Blueberry Plantation 3. Memphis Barbecue Co. REUNIONS WORKBOOK

SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES MAKE CHICAGO SOUTHLAND AN IDEAL REUNION LOCALE

Featuring a mixture of urban and open areas, Chicago Southland has something for everyone. A lively region consisting of 63 south and southwest Chicago suburbs stretching across nearly 400 square miles, the Chicago Southland offers a variety of entertainment options for those planning a reunion. Families looking to bond over a sporting event can travel to SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, 15 miles southwest of Chicago, to watch Major League Soccer’s Chicago Fire compete against some of the top players in America. Professional minor league baseball can be found in Crestwood, where the Frontier League’s Windy City ThunderBolts provide family fun at a miniscule cost. HITS Chicago-Balmoral Park in Crete, is a premium equestrian facility, featuring nine competition rings where horses leap and jump to the crowd’s delight. The region is also home to 35 public and semi-private golf courses. Groups looking for high-octane fun can visit Accelerate Indoor Speedway & Events in Mokena. The massive 75,000-square-foot state-of-the-art go karting facility offers the thrill of racing F1-inspired karts at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour. Accelerate now features axe-throwing. Odyssey Fun World, in Tinley Park, is a 45,000-square-foot facility that features indoor rides, go karts, video games, mini golf and more. History lovers will appreciate Historic Downtown Frankfort, a town that offers upscale and eclectic stores and casual 46

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and fine dining in a picturesque small-town setting. Closer to Chicago, the Historic Pullman District is a unique community filled with buildings and houses built from 1880-84 and is home to the Pullman National Monument. The Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park in University Park, offers a premier presentation of large-scaled contemporary sculpture, featuring 29 master works within 100-plus acres of prairie landscape. Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens in Palos Heights, is an 85-acre park that includes woodlands, prairie, wetlands, gardens and a 10-acre lake. The Park Forest Rail Fan Park in Park Forest, is the site of one of the country’s largest rail intersections and visitors can view the trains from a 35-foot-high platform overlooking the tracks. Have a healthy craving for festival fun? Let Chicago Southland whet your appetite with a sampling of seasonal fairs, celebrations and special events. Whether it is Snow Day Festival at the Plum Creek Nature Center in January, Irish Fest at Chicago’s Gaelic Park in May or Lansing Autumn Fest at Fox Pointe in October, you won’t have to travel far to find family friendly activities for any age. We guarantee you won’t be able to experience just a taste of Chicago Southland’s festival offerings, so be sure to check out the complete selection by visiting VisitChicagoSouthland.com/Events. ReunionsWorkbook.com

Hotel Inventory:

Quick Facts

Total hotels - 68 Total hotel rooms - 5,405 New hotels in 2018 - Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Mokena and Holiday Inn & Suites in Bridgeview Newly renovated hotels - Comfort Suites – Lansing, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson – Tinley Park, DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago – Alsip, Hilton Chicago Oak Lawn & Conference Center, Hilton Garden Inn – Tinley Park, Holiday Inn Express – Crestwood, Holiday Inn Express & Suites: Chicago South – Lansing, Sleep Inn Hotel – Lansing, Wingate by Wyndham – Tinley Park

Group Perks:

The Chicago Southland Convention & Visitors Bureau will supply free of charge: • Visitors Guides • Traveler Maps • Coupon Books • Stick-on Name Badges • Festivals and Events Guides • Plastic Bags

Top Attractions: • • • • •

Accelerate Indoor Speedway & Events in Mokena Chicago Fire professional soccer team in Bridgeview HITS Chicago-Balmoral Park in Crete Odyssey Fun World in Tinley Park Windy City ThunderBolts in Crestwood

CHICAGO SOUTHLAND “The Chicago Southland is a fantastic location. It’s close to Chicago, has an abundance of things to do, much of it in close proximity to each other, and it’s easy to get around. If you want to enjoy urban activities or go for a walk in a beautiful forest preserve or park, the Chicago Southland is a great place to do both.”

Contact: Kristy Stevens SMERF Market Manager 888.895.8233 Kristy@VisitChicagoSouthland.com 1. Accelerate Indoor Speedway & Events in Mokena is a massive 75,000-square-foot state-of-the-art go karting facility and now features axe-throwing. 2. HITS Chicago-Balmoral Park in Crete is a fabulous location for equestrian lovers to witness horses leap and jump. 3. SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview is home to Major League Soccer’s Chicago Fire and features some of the best soccer action in America.

Reunions of all kinds, including family and military, can find superior facilities located conveniently to anywhere in the Midwest – and across the country. With our true Midwestern hospitality, the Chicago Southland feels like family. Contact Kristy Stevens to plan your next reunion. 888-895-3211 Sales@VisitChicagoSouthland.com GatherInTheChicagoSouthland.com

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CROWNE PLAZA

Located in the Southwest Suburb of Burr Ridge, Crowne Plaza Chicago SW is a completely refurbished hotel that provides elegant lodging with an abundance of nearby activities. Re-opened in summer 2017, Crowne Plaza features 123 upscale rooms that provide premium bedding with soft pillows and custom linens, wi-ﬁ, in-room coffee and dining, refrigerator, USB ports, spacious work areas and in some suites, soothing jacuzzi tubs. Each room has 12 outlets, enabling electronic devices to stay fully charged. Crowne Plaza resides a short distance from a multitude of downtown Burr Ridge shops and restaurants.

where they can compete on a course that has been dubbed one of the 100 best in the country. Crowne Plaza also resides near numerous parks, like Harvester Park, which encompasses 37 acres, including 17 acres of wetlands containing trails, ﬁshing docks, a pond and observation points. Waterfall Glen County Forest Preserve in nearby Darien, features 2,492 acres of prairies, savannas and woodlands that contain 740 native plant species, and more than 300 species of mammals, birds, ﬁsh, amphibians and reptiles.

Upscale clothing stores like Chico’s, J.Jill, Soma and Loft will entice, while restaurants like Capri Ristorante, Dao Sushi, Hampton Social, Eddie Merlot’s and Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant will satiate hunger pangs. Guests who don’t want to stray from the premises can enjoy distinctive American fare inside the hotel at Sip & Savor restaurant, which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Situated less than 15 miles from O’Hare Airport and 10 miles from Midway Airport, Crowne Plaza is easily accessible. Crowne Plaza supplies free parking, including complimentary bus parking and provides free shuttle service within a three-mile radius. Located directly off Interstate 55, the hotel is 30 minutes from downtown Chicago.

Drury Lane Theatre in Oakbrook Terrace, presents Broadway shows daily and nightly, while nearby Brookﬁeld Zoo is a family favorite and contains 450 species of animals across 216 acres.

Crowne Plaza features 6,500-square-feet of gathering space across three rooms, including a 4,000-squarefoot ballroom. Guests can stay active in the hotel’s ﬁtness center and relax in the indoor pool.

Relaxation awaits at Kohler Waters Spa in Burr Ridge, which features a 25-foot whirlpool with a cascading waterfall, steam room and sauna and three distinctive shower experiences. Guests looking to play golf can visit Cog Hill Golf and Country Club in nearby Lemont, 48

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BURR RIDGE, ILLINOIS

“We look forward to welcoming your reunion groups to our beautiful new hotel, located conveniently along Interstate 55 in upscale Burr Ridge. Please call me directly to book your space!” – Michelle D’Andrea, Director of Sales

Quick Facts Rooms: 123, including 58 kings, 53 double doubles, 9 special-needs rooms and 3 suites. Banquet space: 3 rooms totaling 6,500-square-feet of space. The largest ballroom is 4,000 square feet. Amenities: Gym featuring treadmill, elliptical machines, free weights and a stationary bicycle; indoor swimming pool; 24-hour business center with fax and printing services; restaurant serving American fare and lounge; free wi-ﬁ; in-room coffee and dining and a 24-hour snack shop. Group perks: Groups receive a special rate for breakfast. Complimentary bus parking Nearby: 5-minute drive from the Burr Ridge Village Center, a short drive from Drury Lane Theatre, Brookﬁeld Zoo, Cog Hill Golf and Country Club, Camp Bullfrog Lake and Waterfall Glen County Forest Preserve. Location: Less than 15 miles from O’Hare Airport and 10 miles from Midway Airport, directly off Interstate 55, 30 minutes from downtown Chicago. Contact info: Crowne Plaza Burr Ridge, 300 South Frontage Road, Burr Ridge, Illinois. Michelle D’Andrea, Director of Sales and Marketing. • 630-352-2900 • mdandrea@cpchicagosw.com • cpchicagosw.com

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FUN FOR EVERYONE: LUXURY LIVING AT ENCORE RESORT AT REUNION, FL 2

For your next friends or family reunion, choose to stay at a sprawling and luxurious vacation home at Encore Resort at Reunion. Whether you are a group of friends meeting up after a long time, work colleagues on a team-building mission or a family looking to spend quality time together, Encore Resort in Reunion, FL is the perfect home away from home for your fun get together. With elegant vacation homes located in a private gated resort community, the 24 x 7 resort service team and abundant amenities at Encore Resort will make you not want to leave this slice of sunny paradise. Promising all the frills and thrills to make your reunion an unforgettable one, accommodation at Encore Resort spans exclusive luxury homes, each of which have between ﬁve and thirteen bedrooms. With all the comforts, ample space and privacy, the homes are ideal for groups ranging from 10 to up to 26 people. As a special treat, guests can choose to rent out the home of NFL legend Dan Marino. Each home affords the ﬁnest details, contemporary furnishings and includes downstairs master suites, en-suite washrooms and fully-equipped kitchens. An attractive feature of the homes is that each comes with its own private, heated swimming pool and a Jacuzzi. Complimentary Wi-Fi, home theaters, washers and dryers, housekeeping services on request, furnished patios and complimentary car parking are other inclusive highlights of the homes at Encore Resort. 50

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Guests are guaranteed to have fun at Encore Resort. The recreational amenities offered are top-notch and include something for all ages. Unwind at the Encore Club, have fun at the AquaPark with plenty of rides and slides like WaveRacer and Stormchaser, relax in private poolside cabanas, play video games at Encore Arcade and engage in interactive activities for the entire family at Hang 10 Hideaway. Other guest conveniences at Encore Resort are a fitness center, spa services, sports facilities that include multiple tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts and a full soccer field, bicycle rentals, two restaurants – Finn’s Restaurant and The Bis Grill, the Shark Lounge bar and a Grab ‘n’ Go marketplace. There is also a complimentary shuttle service between Encore Resort and the Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios Florida and SeaWorld Orlando. Another definite added advantage of staying at Encore Resort is that it enjoys easily accessibility to all things that make Orlando so great. The heart and soul of the city, Walt Disney World Resort, is about five miles away for Encore Resort. Encore Resort is also in close proximity to popular restaurants, shopping and entertainment venues in the surrounding area, while the Orlando International Airport is about 25 miles away.

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REUNION, FLORIDA

4 “We just visited Encore this past Labor Day weekend for a family reunion of 45 people. It was by far the best place to stay. We have been planning this for a couple months and Luis, the group sales manager, helped us with all our needs and wants. The resort is down the street from a Walmart, Publix and about a 15-minute drive from a Sams Club. It is at a great location and the theme parks are just a short drive away. Check in was super easy and the houses were super clean and fully stocked. If you need anything, it is just a phone call away.“ – Family Reunion Attendee

Contact: Encore Resort at Reunion Groupsales@encorereunion.net 407.845.9183 www.encorereunion.com

Hotel Inventory:

Quick Facts

• Variety of 3-13 bedroom homes Group Perks: • Dedicated group of specialist • Private meeting rooms, catering, and transportation • Family gatherings and reunions • Corporate travel • Sports groups • Encore Club’s full service restaurant and bar, ﬁtness room, Kid’s Room, basketball, volleyball and tennis courts, soccer ﬁeld, and our fantastic AquaPark • Religious/other groups • Also have experience with military, fraternities/sororities • Weddings • Catering Onsite Attractions: • Spa • Bike rentals • Camp encore • Encore mermaid & swim classes • Changing monthly activities • Dining options

1. The whole family will love Encore Resort’s luxury homes. 2. Each home comes with its own private, heated swimming pool and a Jacuzzi. 3. With so many amenities, guests are guaranteed to have a great time at Encore Resort. 4. Each home affords the ﬁnest details, contemporary furnishings and includes downstairs master suites. 5. If you want to lounge in the sun or take a dip in the Jacuzzi, Encore homes have what you need. ReunionsWorkbook.com

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COLUMBUS, OHIO OFFERS FABULOUS EXPERIENCES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY 2

3 1 Ohio’s state capital is home to incredible dining, hundreds of acres of greenspace and a top-notch sporting scene As the 14th largest city in the country, Columbus is much more than Ohio’s state capital. One of the New York Times’ 52 Places to Go in 2019, with historic neighborhoods, nationally acclaimed attractions and a booming culinary scene, it’s the ideal place to host your next reunion. Columbus offers experiences for the whole family. COSI continues to be a top-rated science center thanks to its more than 300 interactive exhibits including the brand-new American Museum of Natural History Dinosaur Gallery. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium allows guests to hand-feed giraffes in the Heart of Africa or splash in the wave pool at the connected Zoombezi Bay during the summer months. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens houses over 400 plant species and features the Scott’s Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden focused on introducing and connecting children to the natural world. Billed as the ultimate indoor LEGO playground, LEGOLAND Discovery Center at Easton includes two rides, 10 LEGO build and play zones, a 4D cinema and more. Looking for an area to host an outdoor event? Columbus has hundreds of acres of greenspace located conveniently throughout the city, including more than 20 metro parks. Downtown’s Scioto Audubon is a former industrial space transformed into an oasis ﬁlled with wildlife and exciting activities. Museum-lovers should visit the Columbus Museum of Art or the newly 52

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opened National Veterans Memorial and Museum, the only place where the stories of our veterans, their families and the Fallen – across all branches of service and all eras of conﬂict – are told together. For families that love sports, there is no offseason in Columbus. Catch a Columbus Clippers game, Triple-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians, or head to a Columbus Blue Jackets NHL game and hear the cannon boom every time the home team scores, which is often. Both teams are located downtown, surrounded by many opportunities for exploration before and after a game. Not to be outdone, Columbus Crew SC of the MLS play big-time soccer and have an impressive tradition, having been one of the 10 charter clubs of the league. The Ohio History Center opened a new sports exhibit, called Ohio – Champion of Sports, which is highly interactive and is full of stories told by the athletes, owners and coaches through recorded interviews. The exhibit also shares the rich and varied stories of sports across the state. Organized in six thematic zones – Victory, Adversity, Character, Tradition, Identity and Innovation – the exhibit shares stories of Ohio sports’ past, present and future. The friendly and knowledgeable Experience Columbus staff is prepared to make your visit convenient and worry-free, so reach out today to begin planning your reunion in Columbus.

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COLUMBUS, OHIO 4

“I would like to thank you so very much for your professionalism and prompt attention to my request for brochures and souvenirs from the City of Columbus to assist in making our 47th Family Reunion a success. Your support will make our family reunion a reunion to remember for a lifetime.” – Antoinette B. Dawson

Hotel Inventory: • • • •

Total Total Total Total

Quick Facts

hotels downtown- 16 hotel rooms downtown- 4,250 hotels citywide- 263 hotel rooms citywide- 28,854

Group Perks: • • • • • •

Itinerary planning Tour Planner and Visitor Guides Referrals for local service providers Columbus photos Site inspection assistance Resources: Reunion Planning Checklist, Metro Parks Guide and Steps to Success Guide • Discounted souvenirs

Contact: Roger Dudley Director, Tourism Sales 800.354.2657 tours@expriencecolumbus.com experiencecolumbus.com/reunions

Top Attractions: • • • • •

National Veterans Memorial and Museum LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus Zoo and Aquarium/Zoombezi Bay COSI Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

1. The Ohio State Fair is one of the largest state fairs in the country. 2. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens features the brand-new Scott’s Miracle Gro Foundation Children’s Garden introducing and connecting children to the natural world 3. National Veterans Memorial and Museum, the only place where the stories of our veterans, their families and the Fallen are told together 4. Get just outside the hustle and bustle of the city with Hocking Hills Canopy Tours 5. Scioto Audubon Metro Park offers the largest outdoor climbing wall in the country ReunionsWorkbook.com

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PLAY AND STAY TOGETHER IN KISSIMMEE, FLORIDA

Kissimmee is the perfect spot for families to share a fun adventure. If your group can dream it, they can do it in Kissimmee, Florida. With world-famous theme parks, familyfriendly outdoor adventures, and unique dining and entertainment possibilities, this sunny destination offers everything you need for a family reunion ﬁlled with memories to last a lifetime. Conveniently situated in Central Florida, Kissimmee provides easy access to world-famous theme parks, including Walt Disney World® Resort, Universal Orlando Resort®, and SeaWorld® Parks & Resorts® Orlando. Where else can families shake hands with a mouse, blast off into outer space, and let their inner night owls loose at concerts and clubs? Families can also enjoy the nearby Fun Spot America – Kissimmee and take a stroll through the past at The Holy Land Experience. For families who prefer the great outdoors, Kissimmee features incredible fresh air fun and thrills, including zipline excursions, kayaking, horseback riding, and animal encounters, all offered at the many outdoor adventure parks in the area. Fly through the air on boats, balloons, and broomsticks. You can even meet a few toothsome friends at Gatorland, or zoom across the water in an airboat at Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park. Kissimmee offers more than 45,000 accommodation options for every budget, including 22,000 vacation homes. (Maybe that’s why we’re called the Vacation 54

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Home Capital of the World®.). With comfy motels, high-end hotel suites, private villas, and luxurious resorts, Kissimmee offers the best selection of closeto-everything accommodations—all with a variety of features and services to satisfy every reunion need and budget, including dedicated banquet spaces, hospitality rooms, and outside catering options. From ﬁne dining to delightful local eateries, this oneof-a-kind destination features plates for every palate. Dine with kings and queens and wizards. Families can even dine with knights at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, take to the high-seas on a pirate ship at Pirate’s Dinner Adventure, enjoy cultural cuisine at Disney Springs®, or savor while singing along at House of Blues Gospel Brunch. Kissimmee is just a wave of-a-wand away from Orlando International Airport—which is only a 20- to 30-minute drive to every hotel in Kissimmee—and less than an hour from Florida’s east and west coasts. We’ve got planes, trains, and automobiles (and buses, taxis, rental cars, limos, and shuttles) to get you from A to Z and every letter in between. Kissimmee is the perfect location for your next family reunion. And with free planning assistance, plus free reunion T-shirts, Experience Kissimmee can make your dream reunion into a reality!

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KISSIMMEE, FLORIDA

4 “We had a fabulous time! We were able to get everything we needed, and I think all the family members enjoyed themselves to the fullest. The free T-shirts were fantastic and we wore them with pride. I would love to come back to Kissimmee. Thanks again for all your help.” – Debra Thompson of Roberson/Bush Family Reunion

Contact: Jadeine Shives, CMP, HMCC Meeting Sales & Services Manager Experience Kissimmee Kissimmee, FL 407.569.4855 JShives@experiencekissimmee.com EXPERIENCEKISSIMMEE.COM/REUNIONS

Hotel Inventory:

Quick Facts

• 45,000 accommodations options • 1,000,000 square feet of meeting space Group Perks: • Free family T-shirts • Assistance with venue selections • Accommodation recommendations • Site visit and event details assistance • Connections with local vendors Top Attractions: • Walt Disney World Resort® • Universal Orlando Resort® • SeaWorld Parks & Resorts Orlando® • Gatorland • Fun Spot America – Kissimmee • The Holy Land Experience

1. Located in the heart of Central Florida, Kissimmee is just ten minutes from Walt Disney World Resort® 2. Kissimmee is the Vacation Home Capital of the World® 3. This family-friendly destination is home to a variety of beautiful outdoor parks – perfect for family gatherings. 4. Gatorland is a unique family-friendly park offering hands-on animal encounters, ziplines, swamp buggy rides, and exciting entertainment. 5. The destination features memorable dining experiences the entire family can enjoy, including the soulful House of Blues Gospel Brunch at Disney Springs®. ReunionsWorkbook.com

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CREATING LASTING MEMORIES IN GARRETT COUNTY, MARYLAND 2

The natural beauty of western Maryland makes for a perfect reunion destination that is packed with outdoor adventure. Far from big city life but right in the heart of Maryland’s most breathtaking scenery, Garrett County is dotted with charming small towns, the state’s largest freshwater lake and a welcoming atmosphere that makes this the perfect place to plan a reunion that is certain to create memories to last a lifetime. Outdoor adventure abounds in Garrett County, and one of the most popular destinations for visitors is Deep Creek Lake State Park. Home to Maryland’s largest freshwater lake and encompassing 3,500 acres with a whopping 65 miles of shoreline, it’s a wonderful place to spend time bonding with family and friends in the great outdoors. Rent canoes, kayaks, or boats to explore the vast lake, or cool off with a nice swim. This is also a popular lake for ﬁshing and even becomes an ice ﬁshing destination during the winter months. Guests can also take advantage of Garrett County’s many outdoor group-friendly activities, including horseback riding at establishments like Circle R Ranch, which is Deep Creek Lake’s family-friendly ranch, hiking and biking, whitewater rafting, skiing and snowboarding. Garrett County’s quaint small towns are the ideal place for reunion guests to gather. Oakland’s historic downtown offers a host of cool museums dedicated to railroad, transportation and history, and there are 56

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shopping and dining options for everyone’s tastes along with a seasonal famer’s market. Just up the highway lies the small town of Accident, where reunion groups can visit the Rolling Pin Bakery, which has fresh donuts three times a week and many other baked goods. Rolling Pin Bakery also offers fresh deli meats and cheese, hot and cold sandwiches, coffee and an assortment of many other drinks. Also in Accident resides the FireFly Farms, where visitors can sample some award-winning goat cheese. Grantsville is located on the historic National Road in the northern end of Garrett County. Take a step back in time and visit the Casselman Inn. This historic inn catered to travelers along the National Road and to this day, serves as a restaurant and inn complete with delicious home cooked meals. Visitors can also check out the popular Spruce Forest Artisan Village, where historic cabins serve as studios for local artists to display their crafts. Top it off with a visit to High County Creamery and Market for some delectable cheese, ice cream, or a full farm-to-table meal that everyone is sure to love.

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GARRETT COUNTY, MARYLAND

Hotel Inventory:

Quick Facts

â&#x20AC;˘ Over 4,000 rooms spread across the county, encompassing a variety of accommodation styles â&#x20AC;˘ Unique lodging options including cabins, chalets, B&Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, condo-hotels, hotel/motels, lodges, tiny homes, yurts and camping

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Multi-generational reunions have been a tradition for many years in the Deep Creek Area. With an abundance of lodging options including vacation rental homes, KRWHOV FDPSLQJ DQG PRUH IDPLOLHV Í¤QG WKHPVHOYHV planning their vacations year after year, creating lifelong memories surrounded by loved ones.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Jen Durben, Heritage Area & Groups Director

Contact: Jen Durben Heritage Area & Groups Director 301.387.5238 jen@garrettchamber.com www.deepcreekreunions.com

Group Perks:

â&#x20AC;˘ Lodging, activities and dining selection assistance â&#x20AC;˘ Itinerary planning assistance â&#x20AC;˘ Welcome bag for reunion guests

Top Attractions: â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Deep Creek Lake and 8 state parks Historic small towns of Oakland, Accident, and Grantsville Adventure Sports Center International Spruce Forest Artisan Village Wisp Resort

1. Casselman Inn & Restaurant 2. Historic Downtown Oakland 3. Vacation Rental Home at Deep Creek Lake

Four Seasons of Reunion Fun in the Mountains of Western Maryland!

The Deep Creek Lake area located in Garrett County is tucked away in the mountains of western Maryland. Your perfect reunion destination is just 3 hours from Baltimore and Washington D.C.; 2.5 hours from Pittsburgh, and 4 short hours from Columbus and Cleveland, OH. With four seasons of activities including Marylandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only downhill ski resort and the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest freshwater lake, we have something to offer all reunion types, ages and interests! Let us help you plan your reunion and make it a tradition for years to come!

Visit our website to begin planning your reunion!

Great meeting spot within close proximity to major mid-Atlantic cities!

www.deepcreekreunions.com | 888-387-5237 ReunionsWorkbook.com

REUNIONS WORKBOOK

HALIFAX COUNTY MAKES PLANNING YOUR NEXT REUNION AS EASY AS APPLE PIE 2

3 1 Southern charm, rich history, spectacular natural setting and mouthwatering dining await you in Halifax County, North Carolina. Nestled on the banks of the mighty Roanoke River, which gave rise to commerce in the area, we like to say, “rushing river water can take the edges off rocks and people.” We are confident you will find that true and that you will enjoy a relaxing event reconnecting with family members here. Conveniently located on Interstate 95, midway between New York and Florida, the Halifax County Convention & Visitors Bureau is excited to help make your family reunion memorable. The natural landscape of the county provides a host of recreational activities, from Lake Gaston, a 34-mile man-made lake, and Medoc Mountain State Park, a 2,300-acre natural wildlife preserve, to golfing and tennis, there is something for everyone in Halifax County. Roanoke Rapids offers a wide variety of accommodations to meet your group’s needs. Attractions such as Sylvan Heights Bird Park (which features more than 2,500 birds from around the world including ducks, geese, parrots, toucans and flamingos), Roanoke Rapids Lake (a 4,600-acre lake that is perfect for an afternoon of kayaking, bird watching and fishing) and the Roanoke Canal Trail and Museum (featuring exhibits and locally donated artifacts portraying life along the Roanoke River during its lifetime) will keep your reunion busy. 58

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Often called North Carolina’s “cradle of history,” Historic Halifax is the birthplace of the Halifax Resolves, a document that gave rise to the creation of the Declaration of Independence. This is a must-see for anyone visiting the area along with the Halifax County Underground Rail Trail. The Roanoke Rapids Theatre (a 1,500-seat entertainment venue that hosts some of the best acts on the East Coast including country, rock, blues, jazz and R&B performers) awaits your family members to offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Halifax County is also home to a slew of ﬁne hotels, from Baymont Inn & Suites, Hampton Inn, Econo Lodge, Hilton Garden Inn, Sleep Inn, Red Roof Inn and many more. Complimentary welcome reception with cookies and lemonade, assistance with hotel arrangements, including group discounts trip planning and tailored itineraries for your family are all services that can help you shine as a family reunion planner. Resources for venues, meals and catering, banners, photographers, videographers, tent and chair rental etc. are all available to meet your needs.

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HALIFAX COUNTY 4

5 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thank you for all of your assistance with making this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reunion particularly special.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Powell Moody Family Reunion â&#x20AC;&#x153;Halifax County, NC is the perfect place to hold a family UHXQLRQ , SODQQHG P\ Í¤UVW FRPELQHG +RFNDGD\ )DPLO\ of Halifax County, NC reunion in 2018. I did not start SODQQLQJ XQWLO 0DUFK DQG RQO\ H[SHFWHG DERXW SHRSOH WR FRPH RQ WKH ODVW ZHHNHQG LQ 6HSWHPEHU :RUG VSUHDG IDVW DQG WKDW QXPEHU JUHZ WR RYHU people. Lori Medlin and her staff at VisitHalifax NC KHOSHG PH Í¤QG DFFRPPRGDWLRQV DQG IDFLOLWLHV IRU WKDW ODUJH QXPEHU DVVLVWHG ZLWK PDSV DFWLYLWLHV DQG D ZHOFRPH UHFHSWLRQ DPRQJ RWKHU WKLQJV b +LVWRULF +DOLID[ JDYH XV VSHFLDO WRXUV DQG HYHQ DOORZHG XV D WHPSRUDU\ H[KLELW WR KRXVH RXU DUWLIDFWV IRU WKH weekend of the reunion to share ZLWK RXU DWWHQGHHV DQG WKH SXEOLF Ěš 6WHYHQ *UHHQ &KDLU +RFNDGD\ )DPLO\ 5HXQLRQ

Hotel Inventory:

Quick Facts

â&#x20AC;˘ National Chain Hotels â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9 â&#x20AC;˘ Total Number of National Chain Rooms - 799

Group Perks:

â&#x20AC;˘Complimentary welcome reception with cookies & lemonade â&#x20AC;˘ Assistance with hotel arrangements â&#x20AC;˘ Group discounts & trip planning â&#x20AC;˘ Tailored itineraries for your family â&#x20AC;˘ Resources for venues, meals & catering, banners, photographers, videographers, tent & chair rental, etc. are all available to meet your needs.

Top Attractions: â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

The Roanoke Rapids Theatre Historic Halifax Roanoke Canal Museum & Trail Sylvan Heights Bird Park Roanoke Rapids Lake Park

Contact:

1. Sylvan Heights Landing Zone 2. Historic Halifax Family Muster 3. Sylvan Heights Toad Hall

Lori Medlin President/CEO 252.535.1687 or toll free 800.522.4282 lmedlin@visithalifax.com www.visithalifax.com

4. Lake Gaston Pier 5. Medoc Mountain State Park ReunionsWorkbook.com

REUNIONS WORKBOOK

HARRISON COUNTY, INDIANA OFFERS FUN FOR EVERYONE

This beautiful area boasts ancient caverns, zipline adventures and the historic Old Capitol in Corydon. In the heart of Southern Indiana lies a county known for its beauty and recreational offerings – but you have to look below the surface to see some of its most intriguing features – the caves. Explore the famous Indiana Caverns, Squire Boone Caverns or Indiana Cave Trail. Cave tours can be booked as a multi-day trip for families interested in getting to know the cave system. Indiana Caverns opens two new attractions that will entertain the entire family: Escape Rooms and Bat Chaser. Escape Rooms immerse you in adventure as teams work together to solve puzzles, uncover clues and beat the clock to solve the mystery in this unique interactive experience. Opening in 2019, Bat Chaser combines ziplining and free falling in a family-friendly experience. A suspended single rail zip coaster soars past tree tops, giving its riders the feel of both hang gliding and riding in an underslung gravity-powered coaster. It is only the second ride of its kind to be built in the United States. For more outdoor fun, visit Squire Boone Caverns Zipline Adventures and soar through the trees on a ride that will get your adrenaline pumping and take you through Harrison County’s gorgeous scenery. The whole family will love Golf Shores Fun Center, which features two 18-hole mini golf courses, an arcade, coffee shop and even party rooms. 60

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For adult members of the group, a tour of the local wineries is a perfect way to spend the day, and Harrison County has four of them. Or adults can head to Horseshoe Southern Indiana Casino, which offers more than 100 gaming tables and 2,000 slots. At Zimmerman Art Glass in Corydon, visitors can watch demonstrations of glassmaking and purchase beautiful pieces including ornaments and paperweights. Learn about Indiana’s history in Corydon, its first state capital, at the Old Capitol and see where Indiana’s first constitution was signed. Harrison County offers everything from casual and family-style to fine dining, quick service and sweet treats. Check out a locally owned favorite like Beaver Street Brick Oven & Grill, Frederick’s Cafe and Bill’s on the Hill for meals that are sure to leave you satisfied. Harrison County offers a range of lodging styles– from camping and RV sites in gorgeous forest settings to traditional hotels with full amenities. Consider a cozy bed and breakfast, or check out the cabin and cottage options.

ReunionsWorkbook.com

HARRISON COUNTY

Hotel Inventory: • • • •

Quick Facts

Hotels in Corydon 5 Hotel Rooms in Corydon 339 Hotel rooms countywide – 6 Hotel rooms countywide – 842

Group Perks: • • • • •

Itinerary Planning Welcome Receptions Goody bags Site Visits Merchant Discounts

“Historic Corydon and Harrison County offer a multitude RI SODFHV WR VHH 7KHUH LV GHͤQLWHO\ VRPHWKLQJ IRU everyone here. What a wonderful place to visit for a week or just the day.“ - Tammy Beechler

Contact: Stacey Pirtle CTIS Director of Sales & Visitor Services 812.734.0065 stacyp@thisisindiana.org www.thisisiIndiana.org

Top Attractions: • • • •

Horseshoe Southern Indiana Multiple Cave Systems 4 Wineries Historic Sites

1. Explore Harrison County’s four local wineries 2 Explore Squire Boone Caverns 3 Camp at one of Harrison County’s State or County Parks

Get Together... in Historic Corydon & Harrison County

For details contact Stacy at 888.738.2137 or stacyp@thisisindiana.org thisisindiana.org

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REUNIONS WORKBOOK

JEFFERSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, OFFERS GOOD TIMES AND GREAT ADVENTURES 2

From a space complex to a swamp tour, Jefferson Parish has something that will appeal to everyone. Adventure awaits! Neighboring New Orleans, Jefferson Parish sprawls 60 miles from the shores of Lake Pontchartrain to the beaches of Grand Isle, offering diverse communities with some of the nation’s best historic districts, cuisine, nature trails and unique wetland adventures. Explore Rivertown, a 16-block historic district recognized in 2014 as a Main Street USA district. The area features Heritage Park’s display of turn-of-thecentury replicas, such as the old hardware store and gas station. The Kenner Planetarium and MegaDome Cinema is “out of this world” with a 50-foot domed screen featuring galactic shows and laser-light displays set to music. The Space Complex features a full-sized prototype of NASA’s International Space Station! Exhibit includes space travel and technology mapping a historical timeline through the 20th century. One of the nation’s largest historic districts, Gretna is home to the David Crockett Louisiana State Fire Museum, Gretna Green Blacksmith Shop, Southern Paciﬁc Freight Depot and Illinois Central Caboose, and the German American Cultural Museum. Wildlife and the outdoors are a big part of Jefferson’s history and remain a part of our culture today. The Barataria Basin is steeped in history and offers a plethora of wildlife. Aboard a swamp tour see 62

REUNIONS WORKBOOK

alligators, turtles, egrets, and Louisiana’s bayou rat, the nutria as native Cajuns navigate through Louisiana’s wetlands. Learn the importance of this fragile ecosystem and tour the Lafitte Barataria Museum, which tells the story of this 200-year-old fishing community and its most famous resident Pirate Jean Lafitte. With two State Parks and a National Park, the great outdoors is yours to explore! Bayou Segnette State Park located only minutes from downtown New Orleans, features camping, boating, fishing, hiking, picnicking, and during summer months, a wave pool! Visitors can take a trip on the Louisiana Oyster Trail, which has 21 participating restaurants and businesses, enabling guests to enjoy a variety of delicious oysters created by a slew of talented chefs. During spring and fall, fairs and festivals abound and groups can enjoy such celebrations as the Gumbo Festival in Bridge City and the Family Gras Festival and Mardi Gras in Metairie. The Gretna Heritage Festival is a three-day music fest with performances by national artists and Louisiana favorites while the International Tarpon Rodeo is the oldest fishing tournament in the country. The JCVB staff is eager to assist. Contact us today to begin planning you next adventure in Jefferson! ReunionsWorkbook.com

JEFFERSON PARISH, LA

Hotel Inventory:

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve planned twelve military reunions over a span of eleven years, in eleven different cities. Working with Visit Jefferson Parish, reminds me of the slogan of the 79 VKRZ DERXW WKH Í¤FWLRQDO WK 0$6+ Ě¸7KH EHVW care anywhere.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Dave Blake, Planner

Quick Facts

â&#x20AC;˘ Jefferson Parish has over 8,000 hotel rooms â&#x20AC;˘ Value-priced; Limited & Full-service properties â&#x20AC;˘ Most offering complimentary parking & breakfast

Contact:

Group Perks: â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Joshua Ogunyemi Group Sales Manager Phone 504.818.1258 joshua@visitjeffersonparish.com www.visitjeffersonparish.com

Itinerary planning Site inspection assistance Visitor guide Discount promotional booklets for restaurants & attractions Referrals for local service providers for hotels, attractions, transportation & more

Top Attractions: â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Outdoor recreation Swamp & bayou tours Historic Districts Adjacent to the New Orleans French Quarter

1. Space Complex 2. LaďŹ tte Barataria Museum 3. Bayou Segnette State Park

Where Adventure meets Hospitality

The Jefferson Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. is the connection for reunion & event planning in Jefferson Parish! Let us help you plan your facility requirements, accommodations, transportation, attractions or special event. Jefferson Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. |

ReunionsWorkbook.com

504.731.7083

| VisitJeffersonParish.com

REUNIONS WORKBOOK

REUNIONS BECOME REMARKABLE IN LAKE COUNTY, ILLINOIS 2

Located between Milwaukee and Chicago, Lake County provides the perfect backdrop for your next reunion.

In Lake County, you’ll find the recreational opportunities, natural beauty and charm of the Upper Midwest combined with amenities, facilities and conveniences of the big city. In the Lake County Forest Preserves, there’s fun for groups of any size or ability, featuring pavilions along pristine lakeshores, hiking trails, sports and playfields, and breathtaking views. Independence Grove Forest Preserve offers more than 1,100 acres to enjoy picnic spaces, swimming, shoreline fishing, plus boat and surrey bike rentals. Six Flags Great America, one of the country’s premier theme parks, features 16 roller coasters and Hurricane Harbor water park. Explore 27 dazzling gardens in the world-famous Chicago Botanic Garden, or entertain the little ones at Lambs Farm’s petting zoo. Gurnee Mills has 200 retailers and restaurants, plus ice skating and interactive games. In Historic Downtown Long Grove, you’ll discover boutiques, galleries and a craft brewery in buildings dating back to the 1800s. Libertyville Sports Complex features a 360-degree rock climbing mountain, driving range and indoor soccer fields.

REUNIONS WORKBOOK

Choose from 60 group-friendly hotels in every price range. Great Wolf Lodge Illinois boasts 414 suites and an 80,000-square foot indoor water park. The Illinois Beach Resort has 92 rooms in a stunning lakefront location. Full-service hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Libertyville-Mundelein, Embassy Suites Deerfield, Holiday Inn Gurnee, Hyatt Regency Deerfield, Lincolnshire Marriott Resort, and Marriott Suites Deerfield. You’ll find plenty of affordable, family-friendly dining options for every taste. And, if you’re planning a day trip to Chicago attractions, such as Navy Pier, the “Windy City” is easy to reach by train, bus or car. Lake County is easily accessible via Interstate 94 and less than an hour from Milwaukee’s General Mitchell and Chicago’s O’Hare airports.

ReunionsWorkbook.com

LAKE COUNTY, ILLINOIS 5

“All family members said it was the BEST family reunion we have ever had. The family doesn’t know all of the work that went into the planning, and they don’t know that Kimberly started the ball rolling to what became the BEST family reunion ever!” – Ann Hall-Jones, Jones-Ellis-Sykes Family Reunion Hotel Inventory:

Quick Facts

• 60 hotels and 3 resorts

Contact: Kimberly Ghys Senior Account Executive Visit Lake County 800.LAKE.NOW Kimberly@LakeCounty.org VisitLakeCounty.org

Group Perks: • Itinerary planning • Tour Planner Guide/Visitor Guide • Referrals for local service providers for hotels, attractions and more • Site inspection assistance • Resources: Reunion Planning Checklist Top Attractions: • Six Flags Great America • Great Wolf Lodge Illinois • Chicago Botanic Garden • llinois Beach State Park and Illinois Beach Resort

1. Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor. 2. Reconnect loved ones with the fun and beauty of Lake County as your backdrop. 3. Independence Grove Forest Preserve. 4. Great Wolf Lodge Illinois. 5. Families can enjoy a narrated tram ride through the beautiful Chicago Botanic Garden. ReunionsWorkbook.com

REUNIONS WORKBOOK

MAKING MEMORIES IN LAKE OF THE OZARKS, MISSOURI 2

Don’t miss out on a world of family fun at one of the Midwest’s most popular vacation destinations. It’s easy to see why Lake of the Ozarks has claimed a top spot on USA TODAY 10Best’s list of Best Recreational Lakes. This family-friendly destination is the prime location for a reunion and offers everything that a savvy planner is looking for: plenty of activities, a wide variety of lodging and dining options, incredible outdoor experiences and an unforgettable setting. Less than three hours from St. Louis and Kansas City, this reunion destination sees visitors returning year after year, making memories to last a lifetime. Nature lovers should be sure to pay a visit to Ha Ha Tonka State Park, which claimed a spot on USA TODAY 10Best’s list. Hike to the historic hilltop castle, picnic at the water’s edge, explore the amazing natural bridge and cave system and enjoy the fresh air along the 15 miles of pristine trails. Speaking of caves, Bridal Cave is a local awe-inspiring natural wonder formed almost 50 million years ago and which today wows visitors with its massive columns, stalactites, stalagmites and draperies that appear other-worldly. It’s a perfect place to explore year-around as the temperature is always a comfortable 60 degrees inside. And of course, the area’s namesake, Lake of the Ozarks, is a cornerstone for any reunion in the area. This massive man-made lake includes 1,150 miles of shoreline and runs 92 miles

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end-to-end. Boating, ﬁshing, camping, swimming, beachgoing and so much more is all found at this yeararound reunion destination. For family fun, make a splash at Big Surf Waterpark, which is perfect for all ages. There’s a wave pool, a Space Bowl, relaxing lazy river and thrilling rapids and water slides that are perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Another favorite among Lake of the Ozarks visitors is Timber Falls Indoor Waterpark, which features 600 feet of water slides, a lazy river, a wilderness tree house and an activity area for in-water basketball. And for adventure outside the water, visit Lemans Family Fun Park, where you can spend the day speeding along the go-kart track, battling in bumper boats, or teeing up for a round of mini golf. The region is also home to a variety of incredible wineries including Shawnee Bluff, Seven Springs and Golden Rock Winery, to name just a few. All these offer unique dining options, sweeping views and a unique insight into the area’s local viticulture and are perfect for group outings.

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LAKE OF THE OZARKS Hotel Inventory:

Quick Facts

• Over 250 resorts, hotels, condos and house rentals • More than 3,500 rooms available in hotels, resorts, condos, and rental homes • 100+ restaurants, many with lakeside views

“Our central, affordable location, family attractions and wide variety of lodging options makes the Lake of the Ozarks a premier reunion location. The scenic beauty alone will have you returning for many years to come.” – Lagina Fitzpatrick, CMP, CHSC, Director of Sales, Lake of the Ozarks CVB

Group Perks: • • • • • •

RFP assistance Site Inspection assistance Itinerary planning Welcome bags & visitor guides Lake of the Ozarks photos or videos Referrals for restaurants, attractions and more

Contact: Jen West Group Sales Manager Lake of the Ozarks CVB 573.348.1599 jen@funlake.com www.funlake.com

Top Attractions: • • • • • • •

54,000-Acre Lake Big Surf Water Park Bridal Cave Miner Mike’s & Busters Ha Ha Tonka State Park 14 Golf Courses Shopping

1. Lake of the Ozarks Sunset 2. The Lodge of Four Seasons 3. Tan-Tar-A/Margaritaville Lake Resort & Tropic Island Cruises

S c e n i c B e a u t y Great Shopping

Year- Round G o lf 54,000 Acre Lake

I T ’ S J US T B E T T E R H E R E Let our Group Sales Manager assist you. Jen West, Group Sales Manager, jen@funlake.com | (573) 348-1599 ext. 234

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FAMILY-FRIENDLY REUNION FUN AWAITS IN CHICAGO NORTHWEST 2

Delicious food and unmatched activities will entertain your whole family. Give your next reunion an advantEdge with Chicago Northwest! Located four hours from anywhere in the continental United States, Chicago Northwest resides on the edge of O’Hare International Airport and just minutes from downtown Chicago. Meet Chicago Northwest is a full-service destination marketing organization providing event planning ideas that are sure to make your reunion successful, fun, and easy. Best of all, our services are completely free. Our Chicago Northwest area hotels offer a range of accommodations to fit every budget and service level. Your reunion guests can take time to browse the many fantastic shopping outlets in the area from Woodfield Mall to IKEA. Just 40 minutes west of Chicago, Woodfield Mall is one of the largest shopping destinations in the United States. With more than 2 million square feet of distinctive retail shops (including Nordstrom, Macy’s, Lord & Taylor and Aeropostale) restaurants and family-friendly amenities, Woodfield Mall has something that will appeal to every member of your group. Woodfield Mall also features a new multi-million-dollar dining pavilion, which features a contemporary 820-seat showplace with natural light streaming through ceiling-to-floor picture windows, soft-seating conversational areas, large-screen televisions and a range of new, fast-casual dining options.

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Entertain your group with several hands-on activities, such as GameWorks, a family-friendly entertainment and dining complex, PAC-MAN Entertainment, an enormous hangout with bowling alleys and arcade games, Punch Bowl Social, which features a great lineup of arcade games, karaoke, food and drink, and Topgolf, showcasing fun and competitive golf games for all ages. For the youngest guests, FireZone and LEGOLAND Discovery Center are at your ﬁngertips. All ages can spend time at Brookﬁeld Zoo, Laugh Out Loud, Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, and Schaumburg Boomers Baseball while adults can enjoy some late-night laughs at IMPROV comedy club. For a breath of fresh air, move your group to the outdoors with an outing to Busse Woods Forest Preserve for a day of hiking, biking, or kayaking. Picnic shelters are available by reservation. Chicago Northwest is also home to hundreds of family restaurants from local favorites to top Chicago names. Plus, your group will never spend a penny on parking in Chicago Northwest. Chicago Northwest is easily accessible to downtown Chicago due to our location at the crossroads of major highways or even by commuter rail. Give your reunion an AdvantEDGE - call today!

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CHICAGO NORTHWEST 4

“Let us assist with hotel selection, suggested itineraries and all-around destination information. We want to make planning your reunion less stressful and give you the time to enjoy your family or friends.” – Melinda Garritano, Meet Chicago Northwest

Hotel Inventory:

Quick Facts

Total hotels: 64

Group Perks:

• Itinerary planning • Welcome materials • Hotel, transportation, and all-around destination assistance • Completely free resource

Top Attractions:

Contact: Melinda Garritano Senior Account Executive 847.278.3445 mgarritano@chicagonorthwest.com chicagonorthwest.com

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts Arlington International Busse Woods GameWorks IKEA IMPROV Laugh Out Loud LEGOLAND Discovery Center Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament Metropolis Performing Arts Centre Mitsuwa Japanese Marketplace PAC-MAN Entertainment Schaumburg Boomers Topgolf Woodﬁeld Mall

1. Schaumburg Boomers Baseball Fireworks Night 2 LEGOLAND Discovery Center’s Build and Test 3. Busse Woods Forest Preserve Rental Pavillion 4. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament 5. Arlington International Racecourse ReunionsWorkbook.com

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NEW ORLEANS: DISHING OUT POMP AND PAGEANTRY IN SOUTHERN STYLE 2

Warm and welcoming, plan a fun-filled reunion in the Big Easy. New Orleans has something for everyone from culture and cuisine to sights and sounds. There are not too many places that compare to lively New Orleans. With so many facets to its vibrant character, the Big Easy, as it’s fondly known, has Spanish, French, African and Caribbean influences in everything from its culture and cuisine to its sights and sounds. Stroll through the oldest and most famous area of the city, the French Quarter where local mom-and-popshops and fine dining eateries stand alongside. Drop in to the historic Café du Monde for delicious powdered sugar covered beignets and café au lait. Adding to the infectious atmosphere of the French Quarter are strains of jazz that can be heard from all corners of this historic district. Make your way to Preservation Hall, where daily shows for all ages fill up this old school New Orleans jazz venue. For a day of family fun, the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas offers plenty of excitement for the young and old. See over 15,000 sea life creatures here including African penguins, sea otters and stingrays. New Orleans is also home to a zoo with animals like Malayan tigers and Sumatran orangutans and an insectarium with varied species of bugs, beetles and butterflies.

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The Garden District is where you can get a glimpse in to Mardi Gras at Mardi Gras World, the largest ﬂoat design facility in the world. See colorful displays and costumes being created for the largest carnival in New Orleans! Take a ride down the historic avenue on the St. Charles Streetcar, operational since 1835, and see the distinguished homes and landmarks in the neighborhood. A green oasis and a recreational hub in the heart of the city, City Park has several attractions. Indulge in some family-friendly activities at the Carousel Grounds Amusement Park with rides for kids of all ages or play a round of mini-golf at City Putt. Kids will especially enjoy themselves at Storyland with larger-than-life storybook sculptures. Enjoy the outdoors by going biking or boating at Big Lake where the stately Singing Oak tree stands tall. Tour the New Orleans Botanical Garden with over 2,000 plant species and see works of art at Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden next to the New Orleans Museum of Art. Have a rocking time at Rock ‘n’ Bowl with live music and bowling to keep you entertained.

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NEW ORLEANS

4 “Our complimentary service will help you and your family plan a local or destination reunion in New Orleans. Before you choose your dates, let us check the special events and exclusive convention calendar for you. We make the planning easy and remove the additional stress from the reunion planner.” – Rachel Funel, Account Executive, New Orleans & Company

Contact: New Orleans & Company Rachel Funel Account Executive 800.748.8695 x5018 RFunel@NewOrleans.com www.NewOrleans.com

Hotel Inventory:

Quick Facts

• Total hotels in Downtown New Orleans (French Quarter, Central Business District, Warehouse District and Garden District): 134 hotels • Total hotels in Greater New Orleans Area (including Downtown hotels): 300 hotels Group Perks: • Complimentary assistance with booking group accommodations • Access to convention and event calendars to help choose your dates • Complimentary visitor guides and maps • Reunion promotional tools, including save-the-dates and invitations Top Attractions: • The National WWII Museum • Swamp and Plantation Tours • Live Music every night of the week • Mississippi River Cruises • Mardi Gras World

1. Royal Street in the French Quarter 2. Musicians in Jackson Square 3. Steamboat Natchez 4. Café du Monde 5. St. Charles Streetcar ReunionsWorkbook.com

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FESTIVALS AND AN AWARD-WINNING BEACH MAKE OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND, A POPULAR REUNION TOWN

1 Family fun in the sun. Ocean City combines the fun of a beach resort with local regional touring for your family. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the 17 surrounding golf courses or the beach that appeals to the family, Ocean City has it. Generations have enjoyed Ocean City and come back year after year. The beach is free and open to all. This 10-mile stretch of clean, soft sand beckons anyone to the Atlantic seaside resort year round. In season, the Boardwalk holds shopping, arcades, haunted houses, candy, popcorn and fries. For a famous Crab Feast, try one of the Phillips restaurants. Reunions will enjoy the large amusement park Jolly Roger. In season, this park offers unique rides and water park experiences, miniature golf, games, go carts and more. Boat rides can be arranged for the whole group at such notable places like Talbot Street Pier, where the selection ranges from the large powerboat OC Rocket to the Assateague Adventure, where you can traverse the bays to see wild ponies and wildlife. Private party or sightseeing cruises can be arranged through Talbot Street, the vessel Swim Call or Back Bay Adventures. Fishing abounds with Tortuga, Judith M and Back Bay. Family members may want to experience paddle boarding or kayaking in the calmer

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waters of Ayers Creek Adventures, where personalized service is a hallmark. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the Ocean City Life Saving Station Museum right on the Boardwalk at the Inlet. A great gift shop, displays and history of the early forerunners of the Coast Guard will entrance your imagination. The new Harriet Tubman Visitor Center, about an hour away, is a historical, cultural and environmental gem. Harriet Tubman was born here, experience childhood as a slave and garnered the ethical compass that guided her and relatives to freedom.

Contact: Norma Dobrowolski Destination Sales Manager 410.289.2800 ndobrowolski@ococean.com ococean.com

1. Aerial view of Ocean City and its shoreline. 2. The sun rises over a calm Atlantic Ocean in Ocean City. 3. Paddleboarding at Ayers Creek can be offered for any level outdoorsman.

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R EU N I T E in Halifax County, NC

Let us make planning your next family reunion as EASY as Grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s apple pie! Conveniently located on Interstate 95 midway between New York and Florida. The Halifax County Convention & Visitors Bureau is excited to help PDNH \RXU IDPLO\ UHXQLRQ PHPRUDEOH E\ RĚ&#x2020;HULQJ Âˇ complimentary welcome reception with cookies & lemonade Ă&#x201A; DVVLVWDQFH ZLWK KRWHO DUUDQJHPHQWV LQFOXGLQJ JURXS GLVFRXQWV Ă&#x201A; WULS SODQQLQJ WDLORUHG LWLQHUDULHV IRU \RXU IDPLO\ Ă&#x201A; UHVRXUFHV IRU YHQXHV PHDOV FDWHULQJ EDQQHUV SKRWRJUDSKHUV YLGHRJUDSKHUV WHQW FKDLU UHQWDO HWF

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thank you for all of your assistance with making this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reunion particularly special.â&#x20AC;? ~ Powell Moody Family Reunion ~

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ROANOKE RAPIDS

NORTH CAROLINA

Halifax County Convention & Visitors Bureau 260 Premier Blvd | Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870

(800) 522-4282 visithalifax.com REUNIONS WORKBOOK

HISTORY AND BEAUTY AWAIT FAMILY REUNIONS IN ST. AUGUSTINE | PONTE VEDRA 2

With 450 years of history, beautiful beaches and world-class dining and entertainment, it’s easy to see why St. Augustine | Ponte Vedra is the perfect family reunion getaway. The oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine boasts centuries of history and tradition. St. Augustine also has a thriving, modern arts and entertainment scene, delectable contemporary cuisine cooked up by top chefs and a range of outdoor activities to enjoy. Family reunions will never be dull in this centuries-old Florida city.

The Castillo de San Marcos is not to be missed. This National Monument is the oldest masonry fort in the U.S. and the only standing 17th century military construction. This large Spanish stone fortress was built to protect and defend Spain’s claims in the New World. At more than 315 years old, it’s the oldest structure in St. Augustine.

Established in 1565, St. Augustine is home to more than 60 historic sites and attractions. Visitors can explore the bricked lanes and explore historic sites all around downtown. Visit the Oldest Wooden School House, a National Historic Landmark that dates back to the early 1700s. This historic museum is touted as the oldest wooden school building in the United States. Guests can also stop by the Authentic Old Jail, where you can get a glimpse of what incarceration was like more than a hundred years ago. This historic jail served the city from 1891 to 1953 and visitors can take tours of the jail during the day or night.

The children in the group will love a visit to Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, the original 1565 site of St. Augustine. They can learn how explorers navigated in the 1500s at the Navigators’ Planetarium, take a sip from the Spring of Eternal Hope or climb up the Spanish watchtowers overlooking the ocean. No trip to St. Augustine or Ponte Vedra would be complete without a visit to one of the many stunning beaches along the shore. Ponte Vedra Beach, Vilano Beach and Anastasia State Park are just a few options, but there are many more to enjoy as well. If you’re ready to plan your reunion, the team at St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches VCB will make your vacation truly memorable and worry free.

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FLORIDA’S HISTORIC COAST Quick Facts

“Our family reunion on Florida’s Historic Coast was a great success and we really appreciate the support from the St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitor and Convention Bureau! The historic nature of the St. Augustine area served as an ideal stage for our Family Reunion. Florida’s Historic Coast offered the perfect setting to reflect our family’s legacy of making memories and providing opportunities for our growing generations.” – Mr. Michael B. Campbell, McPherson-Campbell Family Reunion

Destination Inventory: • • • • • •

Over 6,487 Guest Rooms More than 188,000 sq. ft. of meeting space Largest meeting space under one-roof 26,450 sq. ft. Nearly 50 active and passive parks Over a dozen boat ramps Fishing Piers

Group Planning Services: • Assisting with collecting hotel, service, and venue proposals • Site inspection assistance • Itinerary planning assistance • Brochure distribution • VCB Welcome Letters or Personal Welcome • Destination image and script support Top Attractions: • Florida’s Historic Coast span more than 42 miles from Ponte Verda Beach in the north to Marineland in the south • More than 60 historic sites and attractions • Florida’s Historic Coast offers world-class culinary delights • Nearly 50 art galleries and antique shops • Two factory outlet malls • Home to the PGA Tour, TPC Sawgrass, and The PLAYERS Championship

Contact: Jaya Dillard Sales & Services Manager St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitor & Convention Bureau JDillard@ﬂoridashistoriccoast.com 904.209.4429 www.FloridasHistoricCoast.com 1. Family dining on the Tolomato River 2. Soaking up History at Castillo de San Marcos 3. Trolleys and “trains” provide group tours and transportation

They explored sun-kissed beaches and the nation’s oldest coquina-shell fort, sharing stories passed down through generations. And after an inspiring tour of the Lincolnville neighborhood, they decided this family reunion was definitely one for the history books. Only on Florida’s Historic Coast®, where history is not the same old story.

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FloridasHistoricCoast.com | 800-418-7529, ext. 2009

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GATHER IN THE NORTH CAROLINA SMOKY MOUNTAINS 2

Visit NC Smokies offers authentic reunion experiences from a lakeside cabin to a mountain-top guest ranch. Gather in Haywood County to visit the North Carolina Smokies. Home to several quaint mountain towns like Maggie Valley, Waynesville, Lake Junaluska, Canton and Clyde, Haywood County features natural attractions like the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and Blue Ridge Parkway with wildlife, hiking and long-range mountain views.

For families wanting to elevate their experience, we have 46 scenic miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Along the parkway there are a variety of hikes like Graveyard Fields, Devils Court House and WaterRock Knob where you can visit waterfalls and enjoy scenic views. Afterward, head over to Elevated Mountain Distilling Company to take a tour and sip some moonshine.

Groups will love spending time in Cataloochee Valley. This special section of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park features camping, picnic areas, hiking trails, several historic buildings and wildlife. The Elk were reintroduced in Cataloochee Valley making it the perfect place to see the herd. The Catalooche Guest Ranch, which opened in 1935, offers cabins at nearly a mile-high and horseback riding and ﬁreside smores.

Main Street in Waynesville is the perfect place for groups to unwind on their own. They can learn from local artists at a studio, shop for rare antiques, visit a general store or have a farm-to-table experience at one of our many local restaurants.

Haywood County is also home to two great conference retreat centers Lake Junaluska and Lake Logan, which appeal to everyone. Lake Junaluska has plenty of meeting space, a lakeside pool, walking trails, playgrounds, tennis courts and shuffle board. Lake Logan offers a more secluded experience with plenty of trails, canoes and streams for ﬂy ﬁshing. No matter which lake you visit, memories will be made.

If festivals are important to your group, we’ve got you covered. In the summer, you can listen to music at the Cold Mountain Music Festival, celebrate moonshine at Hillbilly Jam or see countries from around the world perform at the Folkmoot International Festival. In the fall, people ﬂock to Waynesville for the Apple Harvest Festival and Church Street Art & Crafts Festival. Finally, in December, you can attend the Balsam Range Art of Music Festival or Appalachian Christmas at Lake Junaluska. The staff at Visit NC Smokies is ready to assist you in planning your next memorable reunion so give them a call today.

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SMOKY MOUNTAINS Hotel Inventory: • • • •

Quick Facts

Total hotels - 35 Total hotel Rooms – 1,621 Cabins / Rentals - 825 Campgrounds / RV Parks - 8

Group Perks: • Itinerary Planning • Tour Planner / Visitor Guide • Assistance with Hotels and Attractions • Site Inspection • Hiking Maps Top Attractions: • Great Smoky Mountain National Park • Blue Ridge Parkway • Wheels Through Time Museum • Elevated Mountain Distilling Company • Historic Downtown Waynesville • HART Theatre • Cataloochee Ski Area • Shelton House, Museum of NC Handicrafts • Bear Waters Brewing • Frog Level Brewing • Boojum Brewing

“Our group loved exploring the North Carolina Smoky Mountains, especially seeing the elk in Cataloochee Valley.” – Angie Bozeman, Heritage Tours

Contact: Benjamin Wilder Tourism Development Manager Visit NC Smokies Maggie Valley, NC 800.334.9036 ben@visitncsmokies.com www.VisitNCSmokies.com

1. Sunset View from the Blue Ridge Parkway 2. Tasting & Tour at Elevated Mountain Distilling Company 3. Elk in Cataloochee Valley, Great Smoky Mountain National Park

• 800-334-9036

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RECONNECT DURING YOUR FAMILY REUNION AT YMCA OF THE ROCKIES

YMCA of the Rockies offers a welcoming environment that allows families to reconnect with each other. Nestled up in the beautiful Rocky Mountains, YMCA of the Rockies offers a picturesque backdrop for family reunions. Through its variety of outdoor activities, families can disconnect from their everyday lives, and reconnect with one another. YMCA of the Rockies has two locations to choose from, and both provide families with unique experiences they won’t soon forget. Fall in Estes Park is a great time to enjoy the spectacle of nature as the trees turn the hillsides golden and the wildlife delight. Elk and deer are present on property and in the area as they engage in the ritual of the rut. Crisp air and clear skies make outdoor adventures experiences to live in memories for a lifetime. The Estes Park location has educational programs and activities for family members of all ages. Learn about wildlife through YMCA’s courses, like Elk Ecology and Animal Detective. Bring the whole family horseback riding or take a guided hike through the stunning wilderness. There are also fun activities for the whole family to enjoy, like zip lining, ice skating, roller skating, a worldclass craft center and much more. The Estes Park location offers hotel-style lodging as well as family cabins from two bedrooms to four bedrooms. You can also stay in reunion cabins from ﬁve bedrooms to 17 bedrooms to accommodate all group sizes and budgets.

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At Snow Mountain Ranch near Winter Park, Colorado, families can enjoy a variety of activities. In summer, explore trails and discover the local wildlife, take a ride on a zip line, spend a day on the water ﬁshing or canoeing, enjoy an exhilarating mountain bike ride or hit the summer tubing hill. In winter, the world-class Nordic Center offers more than 150 kilometers of trails for classic and skate skiing, snow shoeing and fat biking. The Winter Fun Park also offers ice skating and tubing. Dog sledding and adventure programs with the dogs are extremely popular with guests of all ages. Year round, families can enjoy crafts, campﬁres, horseback riding, swimming and roller skating. Snow Mountain accommodations include hotel style lodges, reunion cabins, family cabins, yurts and a campground. YMCA’s activities and accommodations ensure a truly multi-generational experience in which family members from the youngest to the oldest are comfortable and enjoy adventure suited to them.

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Hotel Inventory:

ROCKY MOUNTAINS

Quick Facts

• Snow Mountain Ranch • Family Cabins - 52 • Lodge Rooms – 173 • Reunion Cabins – 9 • Campsites - 42 • Yurts – 24

• Estes Park Center • 214 Family Cabins • 553 Lodge Rooms • 10 Reunion Cabins

Group Perks: • Onsite buffet dining and catering options • Group Planning Brochure • Many free activities for onsite guests • Meeting space available

“YMCA of the Rockies is a safe haven in the beautiful Rocky Mountains for reunion groups to re-connect, play together or simply relax. We offer endless recreation and so many fun activities for all ages to enjoy. The experiences a group will share become fond memories and before you know it, a tradition, which generations will treasure always.” - DB Daugherty, Reunion Specialist, YMCA of the Rockies

Top Attractions: • Estes Park Center • Mountain Center for adventure activities including zip lining, rock climbing, ﬂy ﬁshing • Hikemaster Program – guided hikes for all abilities into and around Rocky Mountain National Park • Surrounded on three sides by Rocky Mountain National Park • Snow Mountain Ranch • Family Adventure Park including summer tubing hill, adventure playground and dog park • Nordic Center for cross country skiing, snow shoeing and fat biking • Located less than 30 minutes from Winter Park Resort and Rocky Mountain National Park

Contact: Reunion Specialists 800.777.9622 ColoradoConferenceCenters.com

1. Mountain biking 2. Nordic skiing 3. Reunion cabin

YMCA of the ROCKIES ESTES PARK CENTER SNOW MOUNTAIN RANCH

ADD ADVENTURE to Your Reunion

YMCA of the Rockies’ two locations offer comfortable accommodations and activities for all ages with the stunning background of the Rocky Mountains. Groups of all sizes and budgets can choose from hotel-style rooms or large reunion cabins with full kitchens. Meeting space abounds and our programs and staff will ensure there is adventure for everyone. ColoradoConferenceCenters.com 800-777-9622 ReunionsWorkbook.com

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The perfect way to spend your reunion!

A new perspective from the Sea Live La Dolce Vita!

On a Costa Cruise, you can experience the best of Italy in this fully immersive international experience without the international price tag! With over 250 destinations that we travel to, some of the most popular destinations are in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean and the Far East. Enjoy hassle free planning and multiple destinations in a single vacation. Travel in a group and enjoy a cruise that is the best value for the money and the perfect alternative to a traditional cruise experience. For more information and reservations, please contact your travel professional, visit costacruises.com or contact us at 1-800-GO-COSTA (1-800-4626782). Monday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Friday 9 am8 pm ET.

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HOST A REUNION ON THE HIGH SEAS WITH COSTA CRUISES

1 Bring the family together on-board Costa’s luxurious ships and set sail for adventure with over 200 destinations to choose from Looking for a unique and unforgettable experience to complement your next reunion? Look no further than an adventure on board Costa Cruises’ ﬂeet of Italian-inspired ships, each with a unique character and amenities that are perfect for group travel. Exploring new destinations with family and friends is one of the highlights of a reunion, and Costa Cruises makes it easier to see the world than ever before. But this is more than just your average cruise. With a dedication to discovery, culture, international cuisine, and luxury, Costa offers guests the chance to have an immersive cultural experience both on board and at the international ports of call. Santorini, Dubai, Marseilles, Stockholm, Martinique – these are just a few of the more than 260 destinations that could be part of your next reunion when traveling with Costa Cruises. The adventure begins the moment you step on board, with the chance to meet fellow passengers from all over the world, indulge in international fare, and take part in festive evenings that include masquerade parties, shows, and much more. CostaTours helps guests create their perfect on-shore experience and there are over 2,500 shore experiences to choose from, such as zip lining in Antigua or cruising over the sand dunes near Dubai. Of course, a major part of any reunion and the cornerstone of a great cruise is the cuisine. Costa’s cuisine is a delightful blend of the regional delicacies of Italy and food from across the globe, so there is something for every ReunionsWorkbook.com

palate. Wine lovers have an extensive selection to choose from, with each wine chosen by the Italian Sommeliers Association and expertly paired with the authentic ﬂavors. Guests can also treat themselves to a variety of wellness activities at the award-winning Samsara Spas. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind in between excursions. Costa Cruises are kid-friendly, with special programs and activity areas just for the youngest family members. At the Squok Club, kids 11 and under can dance, play, and swim in a colorful atmosphere, while the Teen Club offers music and dance classes, sports tournaments, pool parties, midnight swim, themed dinners, and more. Costa offers a unique approach to cruising which can set the stage for an out-of-this-world reunion that everyone is sure to remember for years to come. Whether you choose to sail to Martinique or Mumbai, Singapore or Sydney, a Costa Cruise is the perfect place to gather everyone together and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Contact: Barbara Holgate Davis Group Sales Specialist groupsales@us.costa.it www.costacruises.com 1. Enjoy multiple courses in our Main Dining room. 2. Take a CostaTour. 3. Take a cruise to the East Med. where you can visit this beautiful destination in Santorini. REUNIONS WORKBOOK

INSTANT INFO CENTER

Please send me information on the following reunion-friendly destinations:

2019 EDITION

Let us help you plan YOUR REUNION! Update your subscription information, or tell us about your reunion needs and we will connect you directly with qualified destinations, facilities and service providers! Name Reunion or Group Name Type of Reunion/Group Address City

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Mail: PTM Publications 621 Plainfield Rd., Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527

o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o

Akron Summit CVB, Ohio Atlanta Airport District, Georgia Branson CVB, Missouri Chicago Southland CVB, Illinois Costa Cruises Crowne Plaza, Illinois DeSoto County Tourism, Mississippi Encore Resort, Florida Experience Columbus, Ohio Experience Kissimmee, Florida Garrett County, Maryland Halifax County CVB, North Carolina Harrison County CVB, Indiana Jefferson Parish CVB, Louisiana Lake County CVB, Illinois Lake of the Ozarks CVB, Missouri Meet Chicago Northwest, Illinois New Orleans CVB, Louisiana Ocean City CVB, Maryland St. Augustine/Ponte Vedra, Florida Visit NC Smokies YMCA of the Rockies, Colorado

Please send me informaton on reunion destinations in the following regions and countries: o o o o o o o o o

Northeast U.S. Southeast U.S. Midwest U.S. Frontier Mountain West U.S. West Coast U.S. Canada Mexico/Caribbean Cruises Other

Size of Reunion – Scan and email to Readerservices@ptmgroups.com – Fax this page to 630.794.0652 82

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Proposed Dates (year/month)

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Getting together is better in Lake County Illinois

Home to some of the Midwest’s most beautiful landscapes and just 30 minutes north of Chicago, Lake County is reunion-perfect. You’ll find world-class attractions such as Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor, more than 75 lakes and beaches, wonderful dining and entertainment, and exceptional indoor and outdoor gathering spaces for your big event. Choose from 60 hotels and three resorts—including Great Wolf Lodge Illinois, with its family-friendly 80,000-sq. ft. indoor water park. Let Lake County make your next reunion unforgettable. Before you plan your reunion, contact Kimberly Ghys, Senior Account Executive, at Kimberly@LakeCounty.org or find more information at VisitLakeCounty.org.

Lake County

Lake Michigan

Milwaukee

Chicago

ReunionsWorkbook.com

REUNIONS WORKBOOK

Affordable Sophistication SUCCESSFUL FAMILY REUNIONS

We are your go-to experts on the Chicago Northwest region. With over 60 hotels and 10,000+ guest rooms, ďŹ nding the right venue to host your gathering, retreat, meeting or convention is easy. 4 hours from anywhere in the continental U.S. and free parking everywhere gives your reunion an advantEDGE!

Give yourself an edge at ChicagoNorthwest.com. Free Planning Assistance | Over 400 Restaurants | Outstanding Attractions