Reunions Magazine Volume 24, Number 3. February/March/April 2014 (SOLD OUT) by Reunions Magazine

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reunion to remember in Lake County, Illinois Hi, I’m Kimberly. I’m Lake County’s reunion specialist and I’m ready to help you create an unforgettable event. Let’s work together to customize an itinerary to maximize all the excitement of our central location. Just 30 minutes north of Chicago, take advantage of attractions like Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor. We also offer 60 hotels, three resorts, more than 75 lakes and beaches, and beautiful spaces perfect for picnics. Choose Lake County for family friendly fun.

I’m ready to help. Email me at kimberly@lakecounty.org or visit LakeCountyReunions.com.

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in this issue Departments front Words – 4 ALUM & I – 6 Reunion on the news by Jan Wendling Vidor Class of 1969 meets every five years by Brenda Keasler German exchange student visits 40th reunion, Charitable reunions, Monessen Oldies reunion, man walks to reunion (149 miles), social media, class reunion mementos

BRANCH OFFICE – 10 5 tips to jumpstart your research by Juliana Smith Acadia of the Lands and Forests DNA match leads to family reunion, 13-million-member family tree, Zap the Grandma Gap and new ancestor books for kids

Scrapbook – 14 Reunion School Hospitality Answerman by Dean Miller Family travel in the electronic age by Alisa Abecassis Reunions: JFK staffers, Boy Scouts, riverboats, Family Motor Coach Association Review: The All-Girl Filling Station’s Last Reunion by Fannie Flagg

Masterplan – 20 The Browns take Destin by Lois Baisden Reunions repeat @ Capon Springs by Jim Van Metre My first Haitian family reunion by Micki Morency Ingersol Family Reunion by Starla Ingersol Ellis-Spencer Family Reunion by Marvin Ellis “Coming Home” by Daisy Stroud From Ninety-Six, South Carolina, to Maryland by Joan Wiggins “Cohen Fest” in Pigeon Forge by Jeff Tasch

REUNION VENUES & FEATURES – 33 Reunion cruising Interview with cruise specialist, Brian Forrester Cruising tips Reunions on the high seas … Keahey, Graab, Rodriquez, Gant, Bly, Parker, van Vonno, Allen, Bordona Reunion communication Generate buzz by Lisa Alzo Reaching your reunion attendance goals Social media tips for successful reunion promotion A family that blogs together . . . How many reunions communicate … invitations, newsletters, emails, facebook, web pages and, oh yes, good old snail mail and phone calls!

Military Reunion News – 41 Military reunions love Laughlin Served with Pride, Doolittle Raiders, WWII reunions dwindling

Reunion Resources – 49 A directory of reunion-friendly places, services, vendors and products On the cover Peters Family Reunion at YMCA of the Rockies. Photos by Dill, Estes Park, CO.

February/March/April 2014 Volume 24 • Number 3 Publisher / Editor in Chief Edith Wagner Travel Editor Jacky Runice Art Director Jennifer Rueth Senior sales account manager Marion Liston Operations Manager Karla Lavin Web Wizard Josh Evert special projects Casey O’Brien Administrative Staff Nicole Dettmering Ksioszk hospitality answer man Dean Miller Contributors Alisa Abecassis • Lisa Alzo • Mike Amtower Lois Baisden • Donald and Carol Bly Keonsha Bernard • Roxie Branch • Joe Condrill Shirley Connally • Endrick Crenshaw Anna Marie Fosser • Brian Forrester Barbara Hinkelman Dorgelo • Marvin Ellis Richard R. Gallmeyer • Lauri Hassinger Starla Ingersol • Helen Jackson • Alfreda James Francene Johnson • T.D. Jorgensen Brenda Keasler • Tasha La Touche • Ceci Manns Paulette Miller • Micki Morency • B.Jean Niblack Merideth Parrish • Oliver Peters • Gale Pinkston Charlotte Reed • Sylvia Robinson Mahalia M. Simmons • Juliana Smith • Daisy Stroud Rosetta Square • Jeff Tasch • Ruth Thomas Jim Van Metre • Susan van Vonno Courtenay Wade • James Warren Jan Wendling • Joan Wiggins R eunions magazine , I nc . (ISSN #1046-5 s 235), is published 4 times per year. Send correspondence, queries, submissions, subscriptions, advertising to R eunions magazine, PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727. Written permission from the publisher is required for reproduction of any part of this book except pages which encourage sharing. Please explain your intended use when requesting permission to reprint. Email: editor@reunions mag.com or fax 414263-6331. Tear sheets of reviews and reprints required. Reunions magazine, Inc., will not be liable for information presented as facts contained in any of our advertising, byline stories or materials. We reserve the right to edit and/ or refuse any material submitted for publication. We solicit participation and take responsibility for submitted materials. Unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE), submissions and photos will not be returned. All materials sent for purposes of publication become property of Reunions magazine, Inc. Subscriptions: US and Canada $9.99/yr, $17.99/2 yrs. All other addresses, call for rates. Back issues available for $3 each plus postage. Payment must accompany requests for subscriptions, back issues or other items for sale. Advertising rate information available from Reunions magazine, Inc., PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727; 414-263-4567; fax 414-263-6331 | e-mail editor@reunionsmag.com reunionsmag.com. © 2014 Reunions magazine, Inc. FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 3

FRONT WORDS

Be in touch! Spring into action

Mail to Reunions magazine PO Box 11727 Milwaukee WI 53211-0727 call 414-263-4567 visit www.reunionsmag.com fax 414-263-6331 e-mail editor@reunionsmag.com

ime to spring into action—right now, if you haven’t already— because reunion chores completed in the spring make a whole lot of difference when tasks begin piling up closer to reunion time. Are your invitations/fliers/newsletters out? Reminders and registration underway? If you’re creating a cookbook, is it being assembled and ready for the printer? If you’re making a quilt, do you have all the pieces? Is someone assembling those? Are your t-shirt orders coming in? Remember that all these things need to be prepared early enough so they can be completed and delivered in time for your reunion. If you’re a newbie / just starting out

Have you registered for a reunion planning workshop? Have you listened to reunion planning podcasts on reunionsmag.com? Are you forming committees, talking to convention and visitors bureaus, and sharing lots of ideas about how you hope your reunion will turn out? You’re engaged in something that will be a great and generous gift for your family, classmates, buddies or friends; and though it is perhaps frustrating from time to time, it can also be very satisfying when you reach your goal of a successful reunion. View this magazine and our companion workbook as the basis for your planning. Also explore the thousands of pages of material at reunionsmag.com and on our Pinterest page (reunionsmag). Reunion videos

We would like to add your reunion videos to our web and facebook pages as examples of what happens at reunions. We know that can mean lots of Electric Slide but that’s always fun, so bring ’em all on! Send your video or a link to your video to: reunionsmag@gmail.com. And reunion pictures

Many reunions send pictures, but lately many of them are taken with phones, which are just not sufficient for publication. We urge you to add pictures to any reports you send, but pictures must be high resolution (300 dpi or higher) for publication and taken with a camera. Pictures should be sent to reunionsmag@gmail.com. That’s also where you send pictures you want added to our picture gallery online or for consideration for facebook or newsletter covers. We love seeing your pictures!

4 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

Do you get our newsletter?

On the first of every month (including holidays or weekends) you can receive reunion news and reminders that will help you stay on track, if your reunion is this summer. You also could get news that will be old by the time our next issue goes to publication. For example, last month TV production companies were looking for lost loves to reunite, people who wanted DNA tests done, and reunion feasts. The deadlines for all of them were short, so the newsletter was where you would’ve found them. If you don’t get the newsletter, visit reunionsmag.com and click on “sign up for e-newsletter.” It’s free and it’s only about/for reunions.

Want to go cruising?

We’ve teamed up with Brian Forrester, a very experienced Cruise Group Specialist, who personally can make all the arrangements you want for an amazing reunion cruise. See our interview with Brian on page 33. He knows how to get the best deals and how to make your reunion cruise a success. He will work with you to organize deposits, payment plans, announcements, and special arrangements. Contact him at 480-998-1112, 800-998-1228, or brian@hcttravel.com. Tell him you learned about him in Reunions magazine, and use the promotion code Reunionscruise to guarantee special treatment! Please help us

If you move or no longer plan your reunion and prefer not to receive Reunions magazine, please notify us so we can add someone else to our list. You may also wish to transfer the magazine, if there is someone else in your group who would benefit from receiving it. Travel trending

According to Candyce Stapen in USA TODAY, the hot family travel trend is multigenerational vacations. Multigenerational travel is special times together that create powerful bonds. Does that sound like family reunions? Stapen also writes that successful multi-age travel includes flexible pace and activities to do together and apart. Three suggestions offered as idea multigenerational travel are cruises, city safaris and theme parks. Sure sounds like reunions, doesn’t it? Come see me!

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Reunion on the news

he Garfield Heights (Ohio) High School Class of 1969 had Cleveland WKYC TV news crew come to their picnic reunion to shoot a short video. It was shown to surprise their classmate, Bruce Kalinowski, a weatherman at the station, who had to work that night. See the video on Reunions magazine’s facebook page. The class has had reunions for three years. There was a 60th birthday reunion when everyone turned 60, then a casual picnic reunion, and finally a clambake. Clambakes are common in the fall in the Cleveland area, so lots of classmates come from out of town. The class works together, but mainly one person handles finances with the approval of at least one other classmate. They have an account into which they place money made at each reunion. Occasionally they get help from classmates and volunteers who have special skills like decorations, etc. Jan Wendling works closely with Metroparks in the area to determine discounted times and dates throughout the year. They look for features like electricity, bathroom

conveniences, and parking. Metroparks takes reservations in January and they fill up fast. The reunion wants to get first chance at a good pavilion that meets their needs. Communication is via website, word-ofmouth, mail, email, newspapers and facebook. The website is for future information and updates about upcoming reunions. Reunion-goers receive name tags

bearing their pictures from high school. They play a game or two, have a white elephant exchange, get updates about classmates, and always have a cake. They toast to another year of being together, and they toast those who have passed on. The next reunion will be a pig roast. Reported by Jan Wendling, Maple Heights, Ohio

Class meets every five years

idor (Texas) Hight School Class of 1965 has an ice breaker on Friday night 6 till, at someone’s house, the main reunion on Saturday night from 6 until midnight, and another get-together Sunday at a local park – a bring-your-own-lunch kind of thing. They have a dinner and dancing and social time; the older they get, they seem to want to visit more than they want to play games. After planning the previous reunion by herself, Brenda Keasler, Vidor, Texas, is working on their 50-year reunion, two years in advance, with a couple of other classmates. The planning group has lots of ideas and they don’t want to wait until the last minute. The reunion invitation letter is organized and mailed out six months in advance. Now, with facebook, they will be encouraging

classmates through social media. They charge a fee, and already know they will have to raise the price this time due to the rising cost of everything. To break the ice, eating helps: “We like our food,” according to Brenda. She usually walks around talking to everyone; some take the hint, but some will just not get up to mingle. So she goes to them. They also have a group that started with four women – and now sometimes numbers 30 – that meets once a month for lunch. They’ve done this for 30 years, and as they retire and have free time, more and more are coming to the luncheons. They call themselves “The Lunch Bunch.” Reported by Brenda Keasler, Vidor, Texas.

German exchange student visits for 40th class reunion

r. Guenter “Fred” Schmid, a former exchange student from Germany, attended the 40-year reunion of Lexington (North Carolina) Senior High School Class of 1973. He enjoyed reflecting on memories that helped shape his life, opened his eyes and gave him insight to another culture. He considers his time in Lexington the highlight of his life so far. “To meet people from other countries is the most important thing you can do for yourself to bring self-awareness. It’s very important to brighten your horizon.” Schmid came to North Carolina at age 17 6 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

through the American Field Service (now AFS-USA), a nonprofit that offers international and intercultural learning experiences to individuals, schools and communities in more than 40 counties around the world. His host family was John Fuller Harman, Jr., and Helen Harman and their three children – Susan, a freshman in college; Jack, a junior at LSHS; and Jim, a freshman at LSHS. John Harman has since passed away. “We just had a great year,” Helen Harman said. “He was very popular. He arrived with perfect English and picked up Southern slang. I’m proud of his

accomplishments.” At school, Schmid played football and tennis. His favorite American food was corn on the cob. Schmid is a doctor who specializes in internal medicine, diabetes, sports and emergency medicine. He encourages Americans and people from other countries to take advantage of opportunities to learn about other cultures. He said it breaks down walls and helps throughout your life. From a story by Deneesha Edwards in the Lexington Dispatch, Lexington, North Carolina.

Charitable reunions An encore of success

he Monessen (Pennsylvania) High School’s Oldies dance and reunion drew 230 people from 1950s and 1960s classes. Oldies music helps people relive great record hops, dances, and unforgettable lunchtime tea dances at the high school. The dance floor was crowded as songs rekindled fond memories. There was special recognition for class members who were celebrating 70th and 75th birthdays, and for classes who were observing their 50- and 55-year reunions. A Moment of Silence was observed to honor the memory of deceased graduates, and there was a special tribute to those who served or are still serving in the US Armed Forces. Planners always are looking for something new to enhance the dance. A new feature was a collection of cutout figures of Monessen High School athletes, cheerleaders, band members, and majorettes. There was a steady line waiting to have pictures taken. From a story by Ron Paglia in the Pittsburgh Tribune Review, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Green Bay man walks to reunion

im Whittaker, Green Bay, Wisconsin, walked about 149 miles to his 50-year high school reunion in Rhinelander, Wisconsin. Because his walk was featured on TV, he was a celebrity at the reunion. Besides getting to Rhinelander for the get-together, he also was raising money for the “Feed My Starving Children” initiative along the way. He raised about $3,000. As he journeyed north, people kept stopping and donating. He won’t deny that he reached his destination a little sore. But sore or not, he said he had a lot of catching up to do. From a story on MyFox, Wausau, Wisconsin

Six decades celebrated

ore than 22,000 students passed through Robbinsdale (Minnesota) High School during its six decades of existence. Robbinsdale opened in 1936, when Big Band swing was the thing. It grew into one of the state’s largest high schools by the 1960s, when rock ’n’ roll was the rage. The District consolidated the school with other schools in the area in 1982 — right around the time disco died. All those eras and all that music were celebrated at Robbinsdale High’s All-Class Reunion. Organizers spent more than two years planning the event, which was so big it turned into a community party. Thousands attended, including at least one member of the first graduating class. Festivities included a tour of the old high school building and sports Hall of Fame inductions on Friday; memorabilia, a storytelling session and dedication of the old building as a historical landmark on Saturday afternoon; an all-school dance with a live band on Saturday night; and a pancake breakfast and vintage car show on Sunday. From an article by Shannon Prather in the Minneapolis Star Tribune, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Class of ‘73 donates

he Libby (Montana) High School Class of 1973 celebrated their 40th reunion. The class totaled 196 students, but they’ve lost 24 members since they graduated. Representatives of the class chose to give back. They presented a $3,500 check to the Libby Food Pantry as their way of paying forward for the success they’ve had. It’s something they all wanted to do. They challenged all classes to match them or do more. Classmates talked of other ways to assist the food pantry; they learned that the pantry has nine deep freezers, but that a walk-in freezer would be more efficient. A classmate had a contact to help purchase a used walk-in freezer. The class spent Friday and Saturday evening raising another $2,873.73. Another $500 went to the Lincoln County Veterans Memorial Foundation. The total given to the pantry was $6,373.73. One classmate added extra to get the final 73 dollars and 73 cents – a reference to the Class of ’73. From a story by Alan Lewis Gertstenecker in The Western News, Libby, Montana

Class reunion raises $2,000 for scholarship

he Westmont (Pennsylvania) Hilltop High School Class of 1963 held its 50-year reunion. They haven’t forgotten the good start the school provided students. The class raised money for a scholarship fund started by members of the Class of 1960. A total of $2,000 was collected. “If we can make one student’s journey to success a bit easier each year, we will have helped fulfill the scholarship fund committee’s goal to give back to our community in perpetuity,” a classmate explained. From a story by Frank Sojak in The Tribune-Democrat, Johnstown, Pennsylvania

Class of 1973 pays it forward

s a tribute to all the support they received during their years at St. Jude Educational Institute, Montgomery, Alabama, the Class of ’73 stepped up to pay it forward during their 40th reunion. They were delighted to see former teachers Rosa Wright Glover, Mable McGhee Pryor, Betty Gilmore, and Elba Shires Morton there, as well as former coach James Durry. Their plans included activities to reminiscence after four decades, to initiate a service project, and to take a significant step to support current and future students attending their alma mater. A Sunday morning mass concluded the reunion weekend. At the location where they had received blessings and diplomas four decades earlier, they presented a $2,000 check to establish the St. Jude Educational Institute’s Class of 1973 Scholarship. The scholarship will be awarded annually to provide tuition assistance. From a story by Deborah Hayes Moore in the Montgomery Advertiser, Montgomery, Alabama FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 7

alum & I

Short takes The class reunion is good medicine, indeed, wrote Mel B. Yoken, PhD, on SouthCoastToday.com, New Bedford, Massachusetts. Reunions can be classified as therapeutic, as they do have salutary benefits and advantages. And, most of all, they bring out how much we mean to each other. And always will. ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ Making the most of class reunions

The real magic of reunions, it seems, is that they allow us to revisit certain chapters of our lives to see whether our memories are accurate or need some revision. Reunions have helped me see myself as a more fluid, flexible, forgiving (and forgiven) person than I ever thought myself to be. From a story by Louisa Kamps on MarthaStewart.com ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ From: Laughing is ageless at the class reunion

I am pleased to report that attendance for the recent reunion of the New Auburn (Wisconsin) High School Class of 1983 came in at over 50 percent, or an even dozen of us populating the group photos now riding around in our respective cell phones, a technological development the kindergarten version of us certainly never anticipated as we beamed from the monochromatic wallet prints of yesteryear. As far as our classmates unable to attend, we pieced together what we knew, and what we last heard, thus they were present, too. The bulk of us spent every one of our 13 school years — kindergarten through graduation – in the same class. You do that amount of time in proximity, you develop familial-level connections that survive all intervening time and change. Posted on 77Square.com by Michael Perry, a Wisconsin author, humorist and amateur pig farmer whose bio, books and recordings can be found at sneezingcow.com ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ Remember when …

Remember your freshman year of college, year you married (or divorced)? Go to Port.fm to stream a radio station from that year. Just tune the site’s radio dial to the era of your choice (anything from the 1920s through today). ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ 8 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

Social media promotes alumni reunions

here is something unstoppable about high school reunions. Social media keeps classmates informed about other’s lives, but high school classes still meet. The Lubbock, Texas, Monterey High School assistant principal says, “We are not in charge of reunions in any way, shape or form.” But the school does cooperate. Since 1956 they have kept a box with each class name on it and collected stuff — newspaper articles, pictures of homecoming queens, a boys’ basketball media guide, whatever. Reunion organizers can check out the box and arrange a building tour. Reunions grow in importance, if not in numbers, as we get older and lose people. Some who have never been to a reunion before come, because time is limited. Estacado High School in Lubbock, Texas, makes Homecoming a week-long event each year, and promotes it through social media. The Class of 2003 had their 10-year reunion and participated in homecoming festivities. Estacado has a homecoming parade on Thursday. The Class of 2003 participated in the parade. It’s a tradition. Members of the class of 2003 spoke at the senior breakfast at Estacado homecoming, and gave two $500 scholarships to seniors. They use facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The Facebook page is maintained by a principal at Estacado. He uploads announcements and keeps it going for kids, parents and alumni. The prevailing opinion about social media seems clear: facebook is great, but sitting across the table from a former classmate is greater. From a story by RayWestbrook on LubbockOnline.com, Lubbock, Texas

Facebook can’t match face to face

hen I got the postcard inviting me to the Richmond (Indiana) High School Class of 2003 10-year reunion, I almost threw it out. Don’t I already know too much about my peers from facebook and other online social networks? Now we can watch transformations into adulthood take place in real time thanks to status updates and profile pictures. Michael Silva, who plans reunions as owner of California’s Great Reunions, said he reminds younger classes that it’s not likely all their classmates use online social media, and face-to-face interactions are more meaningful than virtual chats. In the end, a friend persuaded me to attend the reunion. A couple beers in, conversations flowed. I shared laughs so hard my stomach hurt. It was inspiring to see some peers becoming hometown leaders as police officers or well-respected teachers. It was comforting to share real space, not just digital space, with people I’ve known since grade school. The whole experience was fulfilling in a way a friendly facebook comment never has been. From a story by Michelle Manchir in the Chicago Tribune, Chicago, Illinois

Class reunion mementos

lass reunion mementos need not be expensive, but just a reminder of a fun reunion. Pens, backpacks or magnets imprinted with the school’s logo or mascot are some possibilities. Make bookmarks in school colors and include reminders of important milestones from your graduation year: TV shows, top songs, major world events. A compilation of favorite songs from your high school era on CD is another easy idea. Add your own label with class reunion details. Other ideas include customized candies, lollipops, or cookies in the shape of the class mascot.

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5 tips to jumpstart your research

re you looking for that next exciting “find,” but not sure where to turn for it? These five tips will have your research firing on all cylinders.

1. Take your records out to play!

Ancestors’ stories don’t always jump out at you. Sometimes details in the records get overlooked, and sometimes you need to read between the lines. Look at a census record for one of your ancestors. Look at every field and think about the implications of each. What do they tell you about the family in that time and place? What do they suggest about the next steps that can take your research further? 2. Side-stepping to research a sibling, a cousin, or in-laws can be helpful.

Researching your ancestor’s travel companions, neighbors and associates can reap big rewards. Additional evidence comes into play when we see other familiar surnames on a manifest, baptismal certificate or property lease. All these little pieces of evidence point to associations. So next time you’re stumped about your ancestor’s origins, investigate extended family, neighbors and other people who interacted with your family. Create a working tree to sort out relationships. Attach records for associates who don’t fit into your family tree. Besides being useful for organizing details, ancestry.com will send you hints about individuals in your working tree so you can build on what you know about them. 3. Connect with family.

When you share your family tree, relatives who previously showed no interest may become engaged. Your online tree also can connect you with family branches who may have drifted away over the generations. These connections can be incredible sources for research insights. Find others who are researching your tree by clicking on the Ancestry Member Connect tab on that family member’s profile page in your tree at ancestry.com. You carry links to other family members in your DNA. DNA testing can uncover those connections. When you take an 10 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

AncestryDNA test, they compare your sample to every other sample in their database. They use statistical probability to determine how likely it is that two people are related and how close that relationship might be. Even if we don’t find one common ancestor, ancestry.com provides tools to help you compare the surnames and places in your family trees to look for commonalities. 4. Know what’s available.

To find records that may hold more of your family’s story, it’s helpful to: (a) know what collections are available, and (b) search them directly. Ancestry.com has two tools to help explore relevant information. The Card Catalog can be searched or browsed. Entering search terms in the keyword field searches both the title and the collection’s description. Another option for viewing collections is Place Pages. At the bottom of the page is a map where you can view the top databases available for a particular state or country. 5. Dive into times and places.

Your ancestor’s story is more than just names and dates. History was unfolding

around them – locally and nationally. Bringing in that history adds interest to your family story and helps you better understand your ancestors and provide clues for new aspects to research. Many tools available on Ancestry.com can help you better understand your ancestor’s place in history. Ancestry.com is home to a large collection of local and family histories. Use Place Pages to browse Stories, Memories & Histories specific to the state where your ancestor lived. Once you locate a title of interest, you can search for the surnames of ancestors who lived in the area. Search collateral family members because your ancestor may not be included, but there may be a sketch of a brother or cousin that gives the family origins in another state or in the old country.

About the author Juliana Smith works for Ancestry.com. This is from a much more detailed article you’ll want to review (Google 5 tips to jumpstart your research). Used with permission.

Acadia of the Lands and Forests

cadia of the Lands and Forests Congress is held every five years, drawing Acadians from around the world for three weeks of reunions and cultural, historical, musical, theatrical, scholarly and athletic events. Important among those celebrations are 120 family reunions taking place during the Congress – set for August 8-14, 2014 – throughout the St. John Valley in Maine, northwestern New Brunswick and the Temiscouata region of Quebec, known collectively as Acadia of the Lands and Forests. Visitors are expected to travel from more than 40 countries, for an anticipated economic impact of more than $55 million. At the 2009 World Acadian Congress in New Brunswick, there were 89 family reunions, two of which had 3,000 participants and at least one had 2,500. The location for each reunion for this

summer was decided by applicant families who applied for planning grants in 2011. Each of the first 61 families named was eligible for $500 in reunion planning seed money. Families of Acadian descent living in or out of the region, or any families living in the region, were eligible. Even if they weren’t Acadian, but lived in the geographic region (in Allagash), they could apply. Some family reunion organizers

specified a larger region, as in the case of the Gagnons, who requested their reunion be in Maine. Congress organizers held quarterly meetings with family reunion organizers to discuss logistics and challenges of hosting large numbers of participants. For background and history, visit http:// www.acadian-cajun.com/hisacad1.htm From articles in the Bangor Daily News, Bangor, Maine

DNA match helped lead to family reunion

harlotte, North Carolina, resident Vivian Y. Stuart is one of four family historians. She hosted distant cousins found through DNA testing. Stuart spent years communicating with cousins across the country whom she had never met, because they discovered they share a DNA match. Their relationships solidified through a mutual love of family history and countless phone calls, emails and facebook posts. In 2010, Stuart had a DNA test to see whether there were family members she didn’t know. The first test was through the National Geographic Genographic Project. But it was through Family Tree DNA that Stuart found a match. She sent in a cheek swab for the mtDNA test, which uses mitochondrial DNA to find genetic cousins along the direct maternal line. The match was the Rev. Dan W. Tullis, Sr., who lived in

California and had DNA that matched Stuart’s. She emailed to establish contact and heard from his daughter that Tullis had died in 2009. The daughters began communicating with Stuart. Tullis’s daughter had done a DNA test in 2006 which led to another cousin in Atlanta and one in Kentucky. While they don’t know how closely they are related, Stuart said, their DNA all matches to Dan Tullis. For three years the “family historians” stayed in contact. The more they got to know one another, the more family they found. Stuart hosted six distant cousins so they could get to know more about each other and their shared history. Cousins came from California, Kentucky, Georgia, Washington, Ohio and New York. They called it a family reunion, but for most, it was actually their first meeting. From a story by Hilary Trenda in The Charlotte Observer, Charlotte, North Carolina

Genome hacker finds 13-million-member family tree

sing data pulled from online genealogy sites, a renowned ‘genome hacker’ has constructed what is likely the biggest family trees ever assembled. Computational biologist Yaniv Erlich and his team plan to use the data – including a single uber-pedigree comprising 13 million individuals, back to the 15th century – to analyze the inheritance of complex genetic traits, such as longevity and facial features. In addition to providing the invitation list to what would be the world’s largest family reunion, the work could provide a new tool for understanding the extent to which genes contribute to certain traits. Erlich and his team at the Whitehead Institute in Cambridge, Massachusetts, have stripped the names from the data to protect privacy. The structures of the trees themselves could provide interesting information about human demographics and population expansions. But more interesting is the possibility that

such data may one day be linked to medical information or to DNA sequence data as more people have their genomes sequenced and deposit the information in public databases. Pedigrees provide clues about genetic inheritance. By comparing an individual to their more distant relatives on the family tree, the change in frequency of a given trait, such as fertility, can indicate to what extent the trait has its roots in genetics. But it takes years to assemble genealogical data. In the past, researchers gathered data from church records and individual volunteers. Erlich and his team collected data from more than 43 million public profiles on the genealogy website geni.com. The profiles typically included birth and death dates, as well as locations and, occasionally, photos. The team assembled the data into family trees that ranged from a few thousand to 13 million people. From an article by Heidi Ledford in Nature news FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 11

branch office

ANY-SIZED FAMILY. ANY-SIZED BUDGET. WE ACCOMMODATE BOTH. You have a big family. We have something for everyone and every budget. From fine dining to family casual, from easy-going hotels to uptown luxury, we’ve got your budget covered. And with a world of fun for all ages and interests, Fairfax County is tailor-made for your reunion. Let us help you plan your family’s reunion. Visit FXVA.com or call 703-790-0643

Children’s family history activity books!

anet Hovorka, author of Zap The Grandma Gap: Connect To Your Family By Connecting Them To Their Family History and Zap The Grandma Gap Power Up Workbook, announced new activity books for kids. Studies show that knowledge about family history strengthens and empowers kids by creating self-esteem, resilience and a greater sense of control over their lives. Learning about the family’s past also strengthens the relationships between family members by creating a shared experience and core identity that no one else can duplicate. My British Ancestor, My Civil War Ancestor, My Swedish Ancestor and My German Ancestor are 52-page activity books designed for 6- to 14-year-olds, containing puzzles, activities, games and recipes combined with questions and learning opportunities about specific ancestors and the culture that surrounded them. Timelines, paper dolls, coloring pages, maps, fairy tales, music, dot to dots and crossword puzzles combine to give youth the full picture of what their ancestors’ lives were like. Sample pages from the books can be viewed on the website and blog at ZapTheGrandmaGap.com. Books are available at zapthegrandmagap.com ($9.95, 52 pages, 8.5x11, paperback).

anet Hovorka has offered a full set of her Zap The Grandma Gap, Workbook and new activity books for kids ($72 value). Enter the giveaway through April 10, 2014 in Contests and Sweepstakes on reunionsmag.com. Enter now!

Remember how we used to send a change of address when we moved? Well, the need has not changed but the practice has. If you move or are no longer planning your reunion and prefer not to get Reunions magazine, please notify us so we can add someone else to our list. You may also wish to transfer the magazine, if there is someone else in your group who would benefit from receiving it. Notify editor@reunionsmag.com.

Moving? 12 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

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scrapbook Most of these events are sponsored and presented by convention and visitors bureaus. Most take place on Saturdays unless noted and, for the most part, are for people planning reunions in their area. All prefer or require advance reservations and are free or at nominal cost. For information about new events – added online, as soon as we learn about them – visit reunionsmag.com and click on workshops, conferences and seminars. Alliance of Military Reunions

Dekalb County, Georgia

Contact J.D. Sumner at jdsumner@albanyga.com | 229 317-4760

February 22, March 15, March 22, April 12, May 17, June 21, July 19, August 16, September 20, November 15, 2014 Contact Carol Murray, 800-999-6055, 770-492-5000 visitatlantasdekalbcounty.com

Alpharetta, Georgia

Detroit, Michigan

Contact Skip Sander, 412-367-1376 | MilitaryReunions@aol.com AllMilitaryReunions.org Albany, Georgia

Contact April Cochran, 678-297-2811 april@awesomealpharetta.com

September 20, 2014 Contact DMCVB 313-202-1985 | reunions@meetdetroit.com

Atlanta, Georgia

Douglasville, Georgia

Contact Chantel Ross Francois, 404-521-6647 crossfrancois@atlanta.net | atlanta.net/reunionworkshop

March 15, 2014 Contact 770-947-5920 | visitdouglasville.com

Augusta, Georgia

Dunwoody, Georgia

Feb 15, June 14, October 11, 2014 Cousin” Michelle, 1-800-726-0243, 706-823-6600 mbovian@augustaga.org Baltimore, maryland

Baltimore CVB, 800-343-3468 Greater Birmingham, Alabama

June 21, October 4, 2014 Contact Tara Walton, CTIS, 205-458-8000, ext 206 walton@birminghamal.org Branson, Missouri

Monday-Thursday, August 11-14, 2014 Contact Julie Peters, 417-334-4084 | jpeters@bransoncvb.com www.explorebranson.com/groups/reunions Cabarrus County, North Carolina

Contact Carrie Hendrickson, 704-456-7969 Carrie@visitcabarrus.com | visitcabarrus.com Chesapeake, Virginia October 18, 2014

Contact C. Jeff Bunn, 888-889-5551 | jbunn@cityofchesapeake.net Chicago Southland, Illinois

Contact Jane Bushong, 888-895-8233 jane@VisitChicagoSouthland.com Clayton County, Georgia

Contact 678-610-4242 | beth@visitscarlett.com

Contact Andy Williams, 678-244-9804 AndyW@CVBDunwoody.com Estes Park, Colorado, YMCA of the Rockies

November 7-9, 2014 Family Reunion University Contact Family Reservationists at 888-613-9622 familyreservations@ymcarockies.org Fairfax County, Virginia

February 15, 2014 Speaker: Edith Wagner, Reunions magazine editor Contact Dean Miller, 703-752-9509 | dmiller@fxva.com www.fxva.com Flint, Michigan

Contact Courtney Irish, 810-232-8902 | cirish@flintandgenesee.org Fredericksburg, Virginia

March 8, 2014 Guest speaker, Pamela Williams, veteran reunion planner Contact: Kimberly Herbert, 800-260-3646 ksherbert@fredericksburgva.gov Grand Rapids, Michigan

Heidi Schmitt, 800-678-9859 ext 3557 | hschmitt@experiencegr.com Greenwood, South Carolina

Contact Lindsay Burns, 864-953-2464 Lindsay.Burns@cityofgreenwoodsc.com Gwinnett County, Georgia

Cobb County, Georgia

Contact Melissa Legaux, 800-451-3480 | mlegaux@travelcobb.org

Friday, March 21, 2014 Contact Cricket Elliott-Leeper, Gwinnett CVB, 770-814-6049 cricket@exploregwinnett.org

Columbus, Ohio

Kalamazoo, Michigan

October 4, 2014 Roger Dudley, 614-222-6136, 800-354-2657 CbusReunionSeminar.EventBrite.com 14 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

Military Reunion Planners Contact Jennifer Williamson, 269-488-0057 jwilliimason@discoverkalamazoo.com

Kissimmee, Florida

Tuesday, April 29-Friday, May 2, 2014 Military Reunion Planner Conference September 20, 2014 Contact Jadeine Shives, 407-742-8255 jshives@experiencekissimmee.com Lake County, Illinois

Contact Kimberly Ghys, 800-Lake-Now | lakecountyreunions.com Lee County, Florida (fort myers-sanibel)

Contact Candice Cocco, 239-338-3500 | CCocco@leegov.com Louisville, Kentucky

February 22, May 17, August 9, November 8, 2014 Contact Darlene Starks, 502-379-6110 | dstarks@gotolouisville.com Macon-Bibb County, Georgia

August 16, 2014 Contact Robin North, 478-743-1074 ext. 114 | rnorth@maconga.org Memphis, Tennessee

Contact Lisa Catron, 901-543-5337 | lisacatron@memphistravel.com Minneapolis, Minnesota

Contact Casey Kluver, 612-767-8106 | caseyk@meetminneapolis.com Newport News, Virginia

Contact Barbara Kleiss, 888-493-7386 | bkleisse@nngov.com

Peachtree City, Georgia

Contact 678-216-0282 | visitpeachtreecity.com Prince George’s County, Maryland

Prince George’s Community College, Largo Campus Contact Family Affair, 301-322-0797 | www.pgcc.edu Rock Hill, South Carolina

Visit www.visityorkcounty.com/ Sandy Springs, Georgia

Contact Will Carlson, 770-206-1445 | will.carlson@sandyspringsga.org Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana

February 8, 2014 Contact Kevin Flowers, 800-551-8682 ext. 111 | kflowers@sbctb.org YMRC – Your Military Reunion Connection

Conferences begin on varied days

Contact Ymrcusa@gmail.com | yourmilitaryreunions.com

FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 15

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Hospitality Answerman by Dean Miller

Q: A:

My brother and I have just decided we need to plan a family reunion and we don’t know where to start. We haven’t even decided where to have it. Half of the family is in Maryland and New Jersey, and the other half is down south.

We’ve tackled this question before, but it’s always worth revisiting. Selection of the site for your reunion will most definitely impact attendance, so you want to choose wisely. In a nutshell, the best location for any group will be determined by the number of group members and their needs and interests. Start by asking yourself the following questions: n How easy (or difficult) will it be for people to get there? How expensive will it be? Can most folks drive? If they fly, is an airport nearby with ample flights and reasonable fares? The less it costs folks to attend, the better your attendance will be. In this case, you may want to “meet in the middle” by selecting a reunion site halfway between the two extremes, so no one has to drive or fly too far. n What do we want to see and do? You can get together with your relatives in any hotel ballroom anywhere. Likewise, you can have a picnic most anywhere. You’ll want to select a location with interesting and fun activities that everyone will remember and that will make the reunion special! Do most of your folks like the beach? Some folks do, some don’t! Do they want to ride roller coasters? Visit museums or historic sites that have meaning for your family? Go shopping or out to eat? Play golf? n What are the ages of your attendees? Things that delight young children may bore teenagers and vice versa. Riding the “Roller Coaster of Death” at the amusement park may be great fun for the 16- year-olds, but not for those over 40. If there are lots of young children, having ample things for them to do is a must; if they’re bored and restless, they’ll be sure to let their parents know it! n How expensive are hotels? Staying at a four-star resort is a wonderful experience, but is this what your members are looking for? What sorts of rates are they willing to pay? At many beach resorts, summer is peak season, and rates are high. You may want to look at getting together at a location in their “off season” – the hotel or the local CVB can tell you when “off season” rates apply. You’ll be staying in the same hotel, but at much more attractive rates! Meals are another big expense. Are there “family-friendly” restaurants in the area? Does the hotel offer refrigerators in guest rooms where folks can store simple staples (juice, milk, sodas, etc.)? Does the hotel include breakfast in their rates? All these things help attendees control the cost of attending your reunion. n The “how expensive” question also applies to local attractions and sightseeing. If the only attraction around is a theme park and tickets are $85 per person, that’s a $510.00 expense for a family with four children! (And that’s before they buy their first hot dog!) Consider places near state or local parks, museums, galleries, historic sites and other activities that are either free or can be enjoyed at minimal cost. Next, narrow your list of possible locations to a select few that you can seriously consider. Start by calling the Convention and 16 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

Visitors Bureau (CVB) in each location you’re considering. The CVB is your very best source of information about all you’ll need to consider when deciding where to meet: access, activities, lodging, restaurants, prices, best times to visit, and much more. And virtually every CVB in the country is eager to assist you free of charge! Reunions magazine features a directory of cities/destinations in every issue and online that have demonstrated they are eager to host your reunion. Start with this list and go from there! Ask the CVB representatives you speak with these questions: n Why would my family have more fun if we get together in your city/destination than if we go somewhere else? n

e’re looking for nice places to stay that can W provide rooms for $ ___ in the month of ____. What are our options likely to be?

hy have other reunion groups met with you? W What did they like best about your city? Was there anything they didn’t like?

Once you’ve spoken to CVBs in a number of locations and received their information, narrow your search to a select few (probably no more than three or four) destinations that you’re seriously interested in and call those CVBs again. Ask them to collect bids from their hotels that meet your needs. You’ll need to tell them the number of rooms you’re likely to need, the number of days you’ll need them, when you’ll need them, and the rates you’re willing to pay. Include hotel features that are important to you – for example, a pool, a ballroom for your banquet, a hospitality room for your group, a restaurant, parking, and so on. The CVB will respond to you with the bids they receive from hotels that are interested in hosting your reunion, and will review these with you. They’re happy to arrange a visit to their city so you can see hotels and the area’s attractions first-hand. The CVB representative truly is your very best friend in whatever city your group chooses for your gathering. Good luck with your reunion!

About the Hospitality Answerman

Dean Miller, national sales director for VisitFairfax (fxva.com), the convention and visitors bureau in Fairfax County, Virginia, is a great friend of reunions. If you are planning a reunion in the Washington, DC, area, consider nearby, conveniently located Fairfax County and contact Dean at 703790-0643; dmiller@fxva.com. Also see details for the VisitFairfax Family Reunion Planning workshop, February 15, 2014, where Reunions magazine’s editor, Edith Wagner and Dr. Ione Vargus, Emeritus Professor and Founder of the Family Reunion Institute at Temple University, will be speaking.

An alternative way to travel

M A frica n A merica n H is t o ry m o n t h

California African American Museum

he California African American Museum (CAAM) is a prominent cultural institution located in Los Angeles. Presenting about 13 exhibitions and hosting more than 80 public programs annually, their focus is the history, art and culture of African Americans in California and the Western US. Admission is free. Visit www.caamuseum.org.

JFK White House staffers remember golden years

f all the events commemorating the half-century since the Kennedy assassination, a reunion of John F. Kennedy’s White House staff was an important one. The point of the gathering of about 100 old friends was not the president’s death but his life – and their lives when they worked for him. No matter what they went on to achieve, reaching for the moon was hard to top. No other president has called people to public service like Kennedy did. With the beginning of the Peace Corps in 1961, recent college grads all over the US quit their jobs and came to Washington to join. A theme that the guests kept coming back to was what we have to do to get Americans once again asking what they can do for their country: “If you don’t like this Congress,’’ one suggested, “then run for the state legislature and vote on redistricting!” From a story by Melinda Henneberger in the Washington Post, Washington DC

egabus makes bus travel “a cool thing.” Customers look for ways to stretch their hard-earned dollars, and Megabus provides a safe, convenient and affordable travel option. A subsidiary of Coach USA, Megabus serves approximately 100 cities across North America. The first city-to-city, express bus company with fares from $1, megabus. com has served more than 30 million passengers. In addition to affordable fares, megabus.com offers state-of-the-art, green-certified, double-decker buses with free Wi-Fi, power outlets, seat belts and restrooms, and wheelchair accessibility. Megabus hubs are Atlanta, Chicago, Cleveland, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, San Francisco, Texas Triangle (Dallas, Houston, San Antonio), Washington DC, and Toronto. Visit www.megabus.com for a list of cities, additional information about service, schedules, arrival and departure times, and fares.

Megabus.com in Houston, Texas.

Scouts 50-year reunion

lashing the Boy Scout sign (right arm raised with three fingers extended) is a time-honored way Scout masters hush rambunctious 11- and 12-year-olds. It works for octogenarians, as well. Within seconds, 63 men were standing in silence, hands raised. For years – mostly in the 1940s and early 1950s – they spent summers at the 12,000-acre Ten Mile River Boy Scout Camp in upstate New York as Scouts, and later as staff members. They call themselves Arrowheads, Boy Scouts from Brooklyn who have gathered every year since 1964 to relive their summer camp days. They arrived from as far away as California to celebrate their 50th reunion. It was a nostalgic, three-day

stay at the camp near Narrowsburg, New York. They slept in plain bunk beds, practiced Scout skills learned as kids, and participated in a solemn ceremony to consecrate a bond forged a halfcentury earlier. Even Arrowheads with arthritic hands can still tie knots, as demonstrated in one of the reunion competitions. They also remembered 72 who have died. Arrowheads take seriously the values in the Scout Law to be “trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent.” When these Arrowheads were first selected for The Order of the Arrow, it was a secret society with its own code words, oaths and dramatic induction ceremony. A

re-enactment of that ceremony was the climax of the reunion. About half of the 63 Arrowheads are also Eagle Scouts. When the first reunions were held in the 1960s, the Arrowheads were in their 20s and 30s, and they went horseback riding and canoeing, and camped out. “Now, we mostly sit around and talk,” said one. The Arrowheads have donated $93,000 to the camp since the late 1980s. This year’s donation was used to purchase two new sailboats to revive the camp’s sailing program. Arrowhead funds also helped create Ten Mile River Camp museum, an impressive on-site facility that helps tell the story of the camp that opened in 1928. From a special by John Hanc in Newsday FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 17

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Family travel in the electronic age

hould kids be allowed to be connected electronically when the family travels? How much is too much? What limits are appropriate? As a mom of three teenagers (ages 17, 15 and 14), I have watched my kids get sucked into the vortex of social media. Kids and adults are tethered to their smartphones. When I was in my teens, any communication that wasn’t done face to face was done over the phone. Today the world is a completely different place. Every impression can be posted instantly, liked, commented on, shared with friends, tweeted, re-tweeted, and instagramed. And that’s just for starters. What’s truly mind-boggling for a parent is how knowledgeable and proficient kids are in all of this. So the question is: do we let kids stay connected electronically on a family trip, or force them to shut down and reconnect the old-fashioned way? What place, if any, do electronics have on a family road trip or at a reunion? A little down time is OK; kids need to learn to entertain themselves. I like to use travel time in the car to talk about what we’ve seen or where we’re going, listen and sing along to music, and look at the landscape we are passing. Being on the road is not just about stops and fun activities; it’s also understanding similarities and differences as we drive from place to place. It’s impossible to disconnect completely, but it’s important to set limits. As kids have gotten older they spend more time connecting and engaging over their smartphones. As a parent, I have always

preached moderation. I want my kids to learn how to set their own limits. I don’t allow cell phone use during meals. I don’t allow cell phone use during activities when we travel unless they are sharing something they have learned or find really interesting. I explained that burying themselves in their cell phones is disrespectful to me, the person who planned and paid for the activity. My kids get that, but that’s because I’ve made a point of having a conversation about it. Embrace the technology; it could be your kids who come to your rescue. On our most recent summer road trip to New England, I found myself relying more and more on my kids to help navigate, even finding our way back in a sticky situation when we were lost. Technology is the future, there is no denying that, but what’s important is making sure your kids know when it’s appropriate to use it, and when it’s not. As parents we also need to understand that is the norm for how kids communicate.

About the author

After Alisa Abecassis’s marriage ended, she decided to strengthen her family’s bonds and personal history by traveling and gaining a better appreciation of all 50 United States. Her website, www.Exploreall50.com, is filled with resources for family and group travel.

How are you preserving your reunion stories?

ately we’ve been receiving information from a number of businesses who purport to aid in storytelling and the preservation of family stories and history. We’d be interested in learning who is using the services/software/apps and how you feel about the services. In light of the recent demise of a long-time favorite, Voice Quilt,

So much free for your reunion online!

think we just take it for granted and don’t remember often enough to remind you that we have so much free on our web site. Pages and pages of freebies from Reunions magazine and from many other sources as well. It’s information overload if you tried to read from front to back, so the web page is organized to hit the major questions and dilemmas we know come up as you plan your reunion. Or if you’ve been planning a reunion forever and you’re looking for some fresh ideas, they’re there too. Go to reunionsmag.com

18 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

we are wondering just how valid or longlived any of the others will be. They all promise eternal storage and continuous access but now we know that’s a promise that might not stick. The ones we have heard from are Reel Genie, Storylava, StoryWorth and Very Special Photos (who is selling an app to store pictures and stories). NPR’s

Story Corps also has been mentioned as a storage medium but it’s not one that you can make and add to in the comfort of your own home. We know these services can all be of interest to reunions, but we’d like to learn how they’re working for those of you who are using one or more of them. Email editor@reunionsmag.com.

Family Motor Coach Association’s 89th Family Reunion

amily Motor Coach Association (FMCA) is an international organization for families who own motorhomes. Each year they host reunions focused on the motorhome lifestyle. Upcoming events start at “Passport to Perry,” March 17-20, 2014, at the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter, in Perry, Georgia. The expansive list of activities for motorhome owners includes RV seminars, entertainment, motorhome exhibits, fishing tournament, pedal boat races, a golf cart driving-skills contest, best-dressed pets and geocaching contests,

card bingo, and a bean-bag baseball tournament. The passport game challenges participants to collect stamps for their passports before time runs out. “Purses For A Purpose,” a silent auction, features bags filled with RV-related items. All proceeds are donated to an organization that supports military families. More than 2,500 motorhomes and their owners are expected in Perry, Georgia. Future FMCA reunions include the association’s 90th Family Reunion in Redmond, Oregon, August 13-16, 2014. Another reunion is planned for March 26-29, 2015, in Pomona, California. Visit FMCA.com.

Riverboat Heritage celebration

ouisville will host the Centennial Festival of Riverboats October 14-19, 2014. This historic gathering and celebration of American riverboat heritage will honor the 100th birthday of the Belle of Louisville. Festivalgoers will be able to cruise on the Belle of Louisville (named a National Historic Landmark in 1989) as well as special event cruises on eight other vessels gathered from around the country. The nine riverboats will cruise the Ohio River during the six-day festival, which also will include concerts, bourbon tastings, artistic pavilions, fireworks shows and storytelling. Visit www.festivalofriverboats.com.

The All-Girl Filling Station’s Last Reunion

(Random House, 2013; Hardcover, $27, 368 pages; also in paperback, ebook and audiobook)

new novel by Airforce Service Pilots – to ferry military Fannie Flagg – planes from the factory to their point of author of Fried Green departure for various fronts. Tomatoes at the Whistle Sookie’s search for answers takes her to Stop Cafe, Can’t Wait California, the Midwest, and back in time to Get to Heaven, and I – to the 1940s, when the irrepressible Still Dream About You Fritzi takes on the job of running her – is a comic mystery family’s filling station. Soon truck drivers novel about two women are changing their routes to fill up at the who are forced to All-Girl Filling Station. Then Fritzi sees re-imagine who they are. an opportunity for an even more groundPrivileged Sookie Poole of Point Clear, breaking adventure. As Sookie learns Alabama, discovers, by about the adventures of accident, a secret about the girls at the All-Girl her mother’s past that Filling Station, she finds This is one of the funniest calls into question herself with new inspirabooks I’ve read in a long time. tion for her own life. everything she ever Can’t wait to read it again. thought she knew about The All-Girl Filling Longtime Reunions magazine herself and her family. Station’s Last Reunion Operations Manager, She learns she is the showers a few women with Karla Lavin. child of a Roman surprises that turn out to Catholic, Polish, unwed be happiness bombs, mother named Fritzi, with an leaving them richer and wiser in every way. unpronounceable last name. During World From a review by Carolyn See War II, Fritzi joined the WASPs – Women’s and a book synopsis.

Wow!

San Diego’s Reunion Specialists Host your special reunion at the Holiday Inn Bayside overlooking beautiful San Diego Bay. • Selected as “One of the Top 10 great places to hold a Reunion,” as seen in USA Today, June 2010 • Beautiful and spacious guest rooms • Tropical courtyard with heated pool, spa, shuffleboard, billiards • Family style restaurant and cocktail lounge • Non-smoking and disabled access rooms • 9-hole putting course, exercise room • Free parking and airport transfers • Kids eat and stay free program

Special Reunion Features • Complimentary one-night stay for reunion planner with site inspection • Complimentary hospitality suite • Complimentary Welcome Amenity • Senior discounts in our restaurant • Special reunion rates

4875 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92106 619.224.3621 • 800.650.6660 • Fax: 619.224.3629 Email: Jodie@holinnbayside.com • holinnbayside.com B artell Hotels…San D iego’s U n forgettable Lo cat ion s

What’s on your reunion video?

e are always collecting stories told on reunion videos. Several years ago, videos from the Beckley, Brolra and Walker Family Reunions all were featured on TV. Each video told a story: the Beckleys’ youth recognition ceremony and talent show, Brolras’ Beach Olympics, and Walkers’ re-creation of their ancestors’ covered wagon trek. If your family reunion video has special stories to tell, please share the videos with us. We will add them to our website and facebook page. Think: ice breakers, auctions and raffles, displays and exhibits, kids’ (and

adults’) games, cooking with the crowd, recreations, sports and talent shows – always with people having a great time! Be creative! Your family may be featured on TV or on our web page, but not unless we know about your videos. Email them to reunionsmag@gmail. com with the reunion name in the subject line. Follow us on facebook or check media alerts on reunionsmag.com to learn about new requests for stories, video, and photos. Lately casting companies have contacted us about pilot TV shows – within days or weeks, rarely enough time for us to include

them in the magazine (though we will, if there’s time, include them in our monthly newsletter). Just since January 1, 2014, we’ve posted requests for stories about reunions of lost loves, about making and celebrating food at reunions, and a search for people who are willing to do a DNA test and share the results. We are the only outlet for these requests, and if it is related to reunions, you’ll find the announcements on our facebook page (reunionsmagazine) or web page (reunionsmag.com/media/index.html). FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 19

masterplan

The Browns take Destin

ur Brown Family reunion chose Destin, Florida, and what a great choice. We stayed at the Emerald Grande, overlooking Harborwalk Village and “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” We started on Thursday night with fireworks right next to our condo, so we just stepped onto our balconies to watch. We gave out tickets and one lucky person won a gift bag filled for the beach. The second day we rode the glass bottom boat in search of dolphin; it was so relaxing that some rode again the next day. Some went deep sea fishing, and others just relaxed, which is what made it so enjoyable: do what you like. There is so much here to do. Each person was asked to bring a game prize valued at between $10 and $20. This is such a good icebreaker when playing games. Games were Family Feud, Couples Game, Taboo, Bingo, and guessing games (how many skittles or seashells in the jar). We paid per person and picked up food, which allowed us to gather in the afternoon. After dinner younger members decided

to Zip Line and try the 7D ride. On our final day, some of us took a painting class in nearby Fort Walton Beach. Some went to the Track to ride go-carts, some shopped, some went to the beach. That night we had our food catered by Jim and Nick’s BBQ. It was fantastic. We recognized the youngest and who traveled farthest, and gave the oldest a statue that looked like an Oscar. We recognized graduates from pre-K to college. In playing games, we also recognized the youngest, with an arch card from McDonalds. This was how we made sure everyone was involved. For kids it could be something as simple as coloring. Emerald Coast Convention and Visitors (emeraldcoast.com) provided bags, balls and brochures. We had such a great time that we are making plans to return in 2015. Reported by reunion coordinator Lois Baisden, Ellenwood, Georgia.

Brown Family Reunion. Note: Everyone signed the banner as they came in to our meet and greet.

Now we can put the “re “in reunion

Contests & A sweepstakes You have to enter to win! We’re always in search of contests and sweepstakes whose prizes are reunions or cash to use for your reunion. Check the page on reunionsmag.com regularly to see what new has been added … and enter.

Everyone’s looking for something free. And, why not? If it’s free you want to know about it. Many pages of freebies on reunionsmag.com. Explore the pages now! 20 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

t the most recent bar mitzvah, my husband suggested it would be nice to get the family together for something that didn’t involve a rabbi. Thus was born the plan: My husband’s extended family would go on a week-long vacation, with no formal event to observe and no agenda other than enjoying each other’s company. We wanted our children to know their family – not a few hours with relatives, but serious time with them to develop bonds that will hold fast for years to come. My husband had grown up with a “cousins club.” I had lived near my cousins and remember spending endless, hilarious hours with them. We couldn’t give our children that kind of regular contact, but we wanted to start the conversations. And so, after a year of planning, 20 of us from three generations came to two neighboring rental houses in an eastern

Oregon vacation spot beloved by a core group of West Coast relatives. There was uncertainty. Would we get along? Would we have things to talk about? Would we grow closer? We talked. We laughed. We cooked. We ate. We drank good wine. We biked. We hiked. And when I saw our grown daughters laughing with cousins in their generation, age differences meaningless, the bonds effortless, the week’s success was crowned. Our younger daughter arranged to collect and preserve the family’s history. She interviewed the three members of the older generation who grew up together hearing about how their parents came to America. The tape will preserve the story, as well as the week when the story was passed along. From a story by Barbara Brotman in the Chicago Tribune, Chicago, Illinois

Reunion repeats @ Capon Springs

e just enjoyed a reunion of 20 family members at Capon Springs, West Virginia. Capon Springs is a family-run resort just west of Winchester, Virginia, an easy drive from Washington, DC, and Baltimore, Maryland. My first visit to the resort was in 1948 when I was 14 years old. Subsequently, my wife and I honeymooned there in 1960, then celebrated our 25th and 50th wedding anniversaries. Our four children have married and collectively have ten children. This year, for the first time, we had all 20 of us together at the same time. Capon Springs (CaponSprings.net) is a unique resort. It provides lots of activities, yet guests feel unhurried and relaxed. Breakfast is always right after flag raising and singing our national anthem at 8:30 AM. Lunch is at 1 PM, dinner at 6 PM. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed

outside of guest rooms or porches. Curfew is at 11 PM sharp. Therefore, the resort is very family- and especially kid-friendly. Family groups tend to gather on the same week every year, so become good friends with one another, and kids of all ages mix together. There are hiking trails, as well as golf, tennis, badminton, volleyball, shuffle board, ping pong and lots of other outdoor and indoor recreation. Capon Springs has a beautiful spa offering massages, facials and hot baths. Each week a lunch and two dinners are served outdoors “on the hill,” with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains. Our kids and grandkids can’t wait each summer for this special week, which goes by too quickly. Capon Springs has been operated for about 80 years by the wonderful Austin family, now in its third generation. Reported by Jim Van Metre, Alexandria, Virginia

Short takes ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ A family reunion is good heart medicine

Families are like fudge: mostly sweet with a few nuts. The person who originated that observation is unknown, but my guess is that was inspired by a family reunion in Kentucky. As I reflected on this month’s family reunion, I found myself agreeing with George Santayana, the Spanish-American philosopher who wrote that family is one of nature’s masterpieces From Keith Kappes in the Journal Times, Grayson, Kentucky ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ Fosser Family Reunion

Everyone’s name is on a wooden clothespin, which is pinned to a napkin and placed randomly around the table at mealtimes. This mixes family members to increase socializing. There is a “chores chart” listing people in charge of different tasks; many are geared toward the kids, such as setting tables, ringing the dinner bell, etc. Reported by Anna Marie Fosser, Bremerton, Washington ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶

Manns Family Reunion

ur Manns Family Reunion is in the toddler stage, and attendance is small. Our grandparents lived in Florida and later moved north. Most of us were born in New York City, so there’s no homestead per se. We visit different cities of interest: Williamsburg, Virginia; Ocean City, Maryland; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Las Vegas, Nevada. In a family meeting at our second reunion, we decided to try something different for future reunions. Family members would pick their own hotel to accommodate their budget, then we would share the information. Our reunion days are Monday to Thursday (instead of weekends) and we meet in June. Some tours and places are open only during the weekdays. We eat together at lunch time instead of dinner and do a daytime activity together. It frees up night life for family members. Reported by Ceci Manns, Richmond, Virginia

Photo requirements

Pictures for our picture gallery or covers for our newsletter and facebook page do not require the same level of resolution as pictures for publication in this magazine. Pictures in the magazine MUST be high resolution (300 dpi or higher) and MUST be taken with a camera. Pictures taken with phones can be considered for online placement only. Send pictures to reunionsmag@gmail.com. FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 21

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My first Haitian family reunion

aitians do not typically have family Virginia was a central location. The reunions. We have well attended Great Wolf Lodge was a great venue. It had funerals, weddings, graduations, baptisms, attractions for the younger kids in birthdays and anniversaries. Thus, we joke particular. But the selling point for me was that our family had many reunions over the that I could put a maximum of six people in years. However, I successfully planned our a room to keep costs down. first official Francois Family Reunion, and Money was a great factor. Some it was no small feat. members are wealthier than others, ranging The reunion was of the maternal side of from medical doctors to janitors and the family. The concept was unfamiliar to everything in between. Some members were many older members, mostly octogenarian. going through foreclosures, some had been When they received the “Save the Date” 18 unemployed for long periods, and some had months before the reunion, many called me more kids than others. to ask: Who’s getting married? Whose My fundraising strategy was for affluent graduation is it? Who’s going to die? They families to donate to a general reunion fund Micki Morency (upper left) and her immediate family could not understand why we would gather for a drawing to financially sponsor for “no reason at all.” struggling families. It was not a surprise Our family is large. Haitian culture has no word for nuclear that the wealthy families were very generous. We always help family. A typical Haitian family includes parents, grandparents, each other. I made a list of members I knew were having financial children, siblings, aunts, uncles, first and second cousins, cousins hardships. A committee of three elders picked the families who many times removed, the neighbor you grew up with, the friends needed financial assistance most. Haitians are very proud people. who became godparents to your children and, of course, the in-laws. They do not like hand-outs, but they will accept a prize. I did not We had 152 attendees at the first reunion. That was a great announce the winners, but notified them that they had won a free success, for a first reunion and for such a novel idea. spot at the reunion. No one at the reunion knew who was I should have planned it at least two years before. The sponsored or who paid their own way. Members could also pay feedback I got from members who did not come was that they small installments for 18 months. needed more time for saving, planning and traveling. Attendees The attendance fee was $250 per person, with a sliding scale came from Haiti, Canada, Martinique, and throughout the US. fee for children five and younger. The fee covered two nights and I picked Virginia, because no family lived there. Haitians love three days, including room and board. The hotel provided breakfast to travel to places where they have relatives who can offer them a and dinner. I asked everyone to bring healthy snacks for lunch, and place to stay. It has nothing to do with financial means; it is more to bake their family’s favorite pastry to share, along with recipes. cultural. In my family, we carry sleeping bags everywhere. At age 90, my mother is the matriarch, and with her surviving When we go to a family event in another town, state or country, siblings and cousins represented the first generation. My six we call relatives in the area to reserve a “spot “on floors, couches siblings and dozens of first cousins are the second generation. and occasionally in bathtubs. We all want to be in the same place. We Our collective children, who number in the hundreds, are the talk all day and night, catching up. Haitians are great storytellers. third generation, and their children the fourth. The drawback is that you can’t get anyone to arrive on time. So First generation speaks only Haitian Creole, our native I figured that if we were all in the same hotel, I could knock on language. Second generation speaks Creole and English. Third doors. It worked. generation understands Creole, but speaks English. Fourth

Francois Family Reunion.

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Ingersol Family Reunions

generation only speaks English. Programs were written in English with Creole translation. The theme was to showcase our culture through language and music. There are a lot of teenagers in our third generation. During “Meet and Greet,” they were texting, talking or playing games on their mobile phones, instead of interacting. On the spur of the moment, I asked everyone to turn off their devices and leave them in their rooms during activities. They complied. I had their full attention for the rest of the reunion. We had a band of musicians from the second generation. They played Haitian music from first- and second-generation eras with Creole lyrics, which I printed so everyone could sing along. Third and fourth generations were very enthusiastic. They participated in the singalong and asked the meaning of the words. I purposely printed no English translation to encourage interaction. Generations three and four showed great interest in the folklore of the songs. First generation was the smallest group. Each recounted the event that led to the death of a sibling or cousin who the rest of us did not know. The purpose of recounting past death events was not to have a “seance macabre,” but to be collected by a generation two member. That was how I started a family medical history handbook. I also recorded current medical information from first generation members who were present. My goal was to get the family together to spend time with each other, and start a tradition. When we met at weddings or funerals, the focus was always on the event and the family that was experiencing it. A family reunion gave each member equal attention and focused on the whole family. Our next family event after the reunion was Thanksgiving – our adopted holiday. I noticed a dynamic shift had taken place within the family. There was no longer that segregation by age group that had seemed to naturally occur. All the generations were mingling, talking and laughing at the newly acquired Creole accent of the younger members. Since the reunion, they had all been trying to speak Creole among themselves and with the elders. And I was truly moved when everyone turned off their cell phones before sitting down to dinner. A new tradition had been born. Reported by Micki Morency, St. Petersburg, Florida

e’ve had Ingersol Family Reunions every other year since 1999, the latest in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Most of us live in Chicago, but we plan reunions around travel. After each trip we elect new officers, choose the next place to visit, and spend the next 22 months collecting money, assigning committees and agreeing on a project. This year we added some non-family members who were going at the same time so we got a better hotel rate. We usually have about 20, but the friends kicked up our number closer to 40. Through the years we’ve produced a calendar, quilt, cookbook, short story compilation built around a single theme, favorite song CD, a 10th anniversary year-book, and a DNA/ ancestry search complete with an accompanying play! In addition to meeting in Chicago, we’ve also traveled to Los Angeles, Las Vegas (one month after 9/11), St Louis, and Cancun, Mexico. The Ocho Rios reunion itself was great fun. Although we did have a few minor problems with the resort, we all enjoyed it immensely. After a month or two of rest, we are back at it; eagerly planning the next trip in 2015. Reported by Starla Ingersol, Chicago, Illinois

This year’s project was a jigsaw puzzle. It was a fruity take on the family tree theme. We put photos of everyone on or under an apple tree. I started by collecting photos, which was a slow process because people took their time sending pictures. I discovered they were much more likely to post to facebook, so I trolled their pages and downloaded photos that way. The tree had to change a couple of times because my 15-year-old designer couldn’t fit everyone on the tree. We decided to put departed members in the clouds and the youngest kids on the ground. All in all, there are about 70 apple faces. In addition to one large puzzle, which will go into our archive, every family member got a small puzzle of their own. Our other guests received a postcard of the puzzle, along with our drawstring goodie bags. I think the puzzle turned out to be really special. Everyone really loves it and they are asking me to order more. Some of our earlier projects are on the table as well.

Ingersol Family Reunion

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Ellis-Spencer Family Reunion

he Ellis-Spencer Family Reunion took place in New York City (Queens). The present-day Ellis-Spencers are the descendants of the late William Ellis and the late Maud Spencer Ellis of Christiansted, Sainte-Croix, Danish/US Virgin Islands. Genealogical charts/family trees were constructed by the grandson of William and Maud, Marvin Elliott Ellis, tracing the family history from the present-day seventh generation descendants back to circa 1830-1840 Barbados, via ancestors Joseph Spencer and Mary Elizabeth Dowling. Various branches of the family were in attendance from St. Croix, Miami, Georgia, Texas, Maryland and New York for the first Ellis-Spencer Family Reunion. It was a marvelously joyous time. Family members

Learning a traditional Virgin Island dance, the Quadrille of African-European Creole origin. Cousins Mya Williams (6) and Nicholas Ruffin (6) in front, Prudence Vance and Marvis Ellis behind.

and friends participated in an immersion experience of their Antillean Creole Cultural Heritage via Crucian history, language, music, song, dance and attire. Great fun was enjoyed as we learned a traditional Virgin Island dance, the Quadrille of African-European Creole origin. The Ellis-Spencer Family Reunion was dedicated to and honored the family’s 92-year old matriarch, Rosalie “Rose” Rebecca Ellis (a daughter of William and Maud) and Ron Weaver (a grandson of William and Maud). The next EllisSpencer family reunion be in the ancestral island home of Sainte-Croix. Rosalie “Rose” Rebecca Ellis Reported by Marvin Ellis, Miami, Florida.

“Coming Home”

y goal for the “Coming Home” CookGoings-McGraw Family Reunion was for each of us to love on one another like it may be our last time to do so. I prayed and asked family to join me in celebrating one another and maintaining a spirit of unity, love and fellowship as a family and that our reunion be a time of remembering, rejoicing, recreating, renewing, and – most important – connecting and reuniting! It was all of that and more. Sixty-five direct descendants of Al and Susie-Bolton Goings, along with extended family and friends, attended. Activities included a pre-reunion fish fry for early arrivals on Thursday, the official

meet-and-greet, family picnic, late night bowling, Sunday worship, Niagara Falls tour and semi-formal family gala. A souvenir reunion book and family directory included a narrative of six generations of Al and Susie Bolton-Goings family history, welcome and proclamations from the City of Buffalo, New York, proclaiming the Cook-GoingsMcGraw Family Reunion Weekend. We started planning two years ahead with a family conference call the first Saturday of every month at 7:30 PM EST. I set rules for phone etiquette (taking turns speaking, no interrupting the person speaking, using the mute button to cancel out background noises etc.). The monthly

calls fostered a genuine feeling of family connecting, which created momentum and excitement. I proposed a schedule of events for the weekend and invited family to add their suggestions. Once this was set, I gathered costs for scheduled events and all things related to making the reunion weekend a reality. Basically, I made all the plans and handled all the details, and my family showed up and had a wonderful time. It was a lot of work for one person, but the weekend was priceless. Would I do it again? Yes, I’ve already started the planning for 2015! Reported by Daisy Stroud, Manning, South Carolina

Cook-Goings-McGraw Family Reunion

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From Ninety-Six, South Carolina, to Maryland: 30 years of family unity

he newsletter is written, reunion materials have been put away and all the bills are paid as we end the 30th Fletcher Family reunion. But how did it begin? In 1984, Wilhelmina Robinson and the late Calvin Marshall organized the first reunion in Ninety-Six, South Carolina, home of our ancestors Hazel and Mary Fletcher. We honor them by meeting every year for three days in cities along the East Coast. The reunion is paid by fees charged per person, and additional funds are given to the Fletcher Scholarship Fund. Over the past 30 years we have enjoyed cruises, picnics, tours, museums, historical centers, silent auctions, limousine rides and shopping. And, of course, we end our reunions with a worship service. For the 30th anniversary, we met in Belcamp, Maryland. Our Friday activities included a crab feast on the hotel patio. Can you imagine teaching those who have

Fletcher 30th Family Reunion

never eaten crab to find that delicious crab meat? In past years, we have participated in Friday evening games such as Jeopardy, Family Bingo and Family Trivia. Prizes were awarded for correct answers, but we really enjoyed the fellowship. At this reunion, descendants came from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland and South Carolina. We make an effort to vary reunion locations between northern and southern cities from year to year. On Saturday, the family traveled down I-95 from Harford County (Belcamp, Maryland) to Howard County (Columbia, Maryland) to visit The clap is a rhythmic clap of 13 beats with sixteenth notes and dotted the African American Cultural rhythms. The final beat is fun because someone invariably claps on the Museum, where we also took our wrong beat. We repeat it several times until the family has the clap annual group photo on the grounds of perfect. We all clap in unison. I don’t know the origin or where Cousin Sallye found it but she introduced it at the first reunion in 1984 and we the museum. Following the tour, we enjoyed one of our favorite reunion performed it each time. She called it the “Chautauqua.”

activities, shopping at the Mall of Columbia. The Saturday evening event was a catered family banquet, during which we were serenaded by music from the jazz band “Straight Up.” The banquet program included PowerPoint presentations of the past 30 years and honoring our deceased relatives, choral singing, family recollections and a business meeting. We have a tradition in our family of ending with a family clap: The Chatauqua; it was led by the founder’s granddaughter, and we clapped enthusiastically. Sunday morning meant service at the local church followed by boxed lunches catered by Panera Bread. With all the photos, games, food, banners, memorabilia and song, the Fletchers made Hazel & Mary Fletcher proud at this 30th Reunion. Reported by Joan Wiggins Maryland Host and Family Historian, Belcamp, Maryland

inkelman Family Reunion at Lincoln Park in Stevensville, Michigan. This was the family’s first reunion in 43 years, and it was a huge success. At the end of the reunion each attendee received a copy of the family’s genealogy, including names and information about family connections. There are 725 names in our family history. Reported by Barbara Hinkelman Dorgelo, Stevensville, Michigan

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“Cohen Fest” in Pigeon Forge

he Cohen Family Reunion, “Cohen Fest,” took place in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. We have been celebrating family since 1995, enjoying groundwork laid by David and Yetta Cohen, who married in Philadelphia in 1901. They soon started raising a family of nine children, eight of whom grew to adulthood and remained a pretty tight-knit group. That tight-knit attitude has been handed down through the generations and keeps us focused on being a family. This year was especially tough for me, because

my father, Martin (third generation), passed away the previous year. Many thoughts had been going through my mind and I found myself wondering whether I even wanted to go. My wife, Lisa, and I packed our five children into the minivan and made the trek. Family members outdid themselves with moving tributes to my father, in both pictures and video. I could not help but feel he was with us, and happy that this tradition – which he so loved – would continue. The tradition has continued as we have How my dad felt about the reunions circa 2009.

Cohen-festers in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

traveled to many places: North Carolina, Connecticut, Alabama, Vermont, South Carolina and Tennessee. Our next venture will be back where David and Yetta started, in Philadelphia. Thursday arrival time is 3 PM. After dinner we share stories and wait till 2 AM for the last arrivals. Friday we played Family Feud, which has become a staple. Saturday includes Family Photos, a poker tournament, our famous softball game, rafting down the river, picnic lunch, and horseback riding. It was especially fun to see we had grown into a sixth generation. Our family is continuing to grow and it is imperative we teach them about David and Yetta, and my dad, and all who came before. Reported by Jeff Tasch (fourth generation), Farmingdale, New York

Man provides for his heirs, but there’s a condition

lbert Ravenholt, the oldest of nine children, fortune to lure his extended family back together. endured the Great Depression and a sheriff’s Albert’s trust stipulates that every two years, in eviction from the family’s farm near Luck, Wisconsin. August or September, his nieces and nephews must He spent months pondering details of the Ravenholt meet for a reunion in Polk County, Wisconsin. Fail Family Reunion, knowing he would not be there. to show and you’re cut off for the next two years. Instead he was buried in the family plot at the West He told the lawyers how he wanted it to work. Denmark Cemetery near Luck. No one gets rich off the checks they receive from Albert’s 25 nieces and nephews all know the story of Albert’s trust. The latest distribution was just over Albert’s world travels and shrewd property investments, $1,100. But fail to show up for one reunion and amassing a fortune of several million dollars. forfeit the next two checks. They’re not eligible for Before he died in 2010, at the age of 90, Albert payments again until they attend a reunion. made a will – with a clause specifying that, in order to One of two missing was starting a new job and receive their share of Albert’s wealth, his nieces and forfeited her checks. The other has an ongoing nephews are required to attend the reunion. illness, which is allowed under the terms of the Allbert Ravenholt Not one of his nieces and nephews had settled in trust, and gets his check. Luck, instead spreading out across the country. Albert’s generosity extended to Luck’s new library and museum. Albert watched as they moved away from their Polk County “My uncle was a special man. All families should be so roots and from each other. Some cousins hadn’t been in touch lucky,” said a niece. with the rest for as long as 30 years. Albert’s wife had died earlier From a story by Boyd Huppert, an AP Member Exchange and they had no children. So Albert decided to use part of his shared by KARE-TV of Minneapolis, Minnesota FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 29

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My Family Story

ur ancestors were wise to recognize a vision of the upcoming one. We usually vote at one reunion family unity that would continue for generations. where the next one will be held. I make phone The same bond that keeps us united in dedication, contacts and send meeting minutes by email to commitment, faith and love continues the vision of each representative. This keeps communication our ancestors. I love my family unconditionally. open. We also make suggestions to the fundraising We are from Roanoke, Alabama, a small country committee president to plan fundraisers to fund the town. My grandmother had nine children; two are reunion. Family Slogan still living – Andrew Ellis, Jr., and his youngest I contacted the Greater Birmingham Convention brother, Reverend C.L. Ellis. & Visitors Bureau for assistance in making this This reunion was organized in 1984 by Andrew Ellis, Jr., reunion a success. Naomi Satterwhite and me. These celebrations were held at what A family reunion is a special time to reconnect and share we call the home place. My grandmother and my aunts cook experiences. While some members keep in close contact all year, enough food to feed everyone. Everything was homegrown and many others may not have the opportunity to see each other very homemade. The real highlight back then was eating watermelon. often; but they can keep in touch by phone or email. I’ve been Oh, I remember such happy times. The Ellis Family Reunion able to get closer to some family members by connecting on is held in August – close to my grandmother’s September birthday. facebook, and use it to send messages to set up family meetings. In the 30 years since the first official reunion, we have come a My grandparents, Andrew W. Ellis and Naomi Banks-Ellis, long way and have had many celebrations for new additions to the passed away years ago, and we had lost contact with her side of family through marriage and birth, to mourn the loss of family the family. I identified some of these members just by looking at members and, of course, our bi-annual reunions. We are a old obituaries, then was able to make contact. Christian family who has endured tragedies, trials and triumph. I follow up behind the planner, making sure everyone travels There have been many challenges over the years but by God’s safely and has no problem checking into the hotel. I make sure amazing grace we have kept this family reunion going. I the children are safe by the pool and in the park. Also, after the remember my Grandma saying that family should stay together reunion I check that every family member arrived home safely. It and help in a time of need. We should keep that connection at all is a job, but more than anything it is a joy and a privilege to have times, from generation to generation. We lose sight of who we a group of people I can call my family. really are when that chain is broken. It gives me great joy when I The next will be our first family reunion in the beautiful see families celebrating their family heritage. As a family, we are historic city of Birmingham, Alabama. My utmost goal is to bridge a testament to strength, determination, pride and resilience the gap by getting the younger generation involved in the family inherited from our ancestors and reinforced by our parents. reunion planning to learn the importance and meaning of having In 2014, we will be having our first banquet. family gatherings. This will keep the legacy alive. I have been the secretary for the family reunion for 30 years, Thanks to the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors and also have planned the reunions for 30 years. In the beginning Bureau for their assistance. I started by sending a letter informing family members where the I am determined to keep this family reunion going for as long next reunion would be, followed up with a phone call. Now I send as the Lord will allow. quarterly newsletters highlighting the last reunion and planning Reported by Rosetta Square, Birmingham, Alabama The Ellis-Banks Family Reunion

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“Where there is Unity there is Strength”

he Peters Family celebrated their 40th reunion at Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia. Sporting their special commemorative t-shirts, the 39 attendees gathered for a week filled with fun, games, boating, and just hanging out together. Shared by Oliver Peters, Leesburg, Virginia.

Family reunion a tradition that bridges time and distance

his was the 75th Denney family reunion – or, more precisely, one branch of a family so extensive there are few people in Carroll County, Georgia, who cannot claim kinship with one of them. This reunion is for the descendants of Cullie Mitchell Denney (1860-1935) and Mary (Mollie) Yates (1866-1939), who had 14 children, ten of whom lived to adulthood. They lived a life which is totally alien to the 21st century, regulated by the seasons, in poverty offset by food they produced themselves. Cullie and Mollie’s children produced 41 grandchildren, who went on to raise many great- and great-greatgrandchildren. In 1938, four years after Cullie died, the family began the tradition of meeting every second Sunday in August, at Emmaus Church in Carroll County, Georgia, where Cullie and Mollie are buried. The reunion is hosted each year by the family of one of Cullie

and Mollie’s children, in order of their birth. Even though only a few at current reunions have a living memory of these ancestors, they are still referred to as “uncle” or “aunt.” This year, Aunt Lola’s family hosted the event. A grandson makes welcoming remarks, then goes around asking each family for updates: who has died, who has married, and what new descendants have been added? Each family is asked to stand up to see how many are there. Then everyone sings Amazing Grace. The reunion is a tradition that has survived long beyond its origin, and continues with all its customs intact. It is an event that bridges time and distance, connecting each generation to their common place of origin. It is a homecoming, in every sense of the word. From a story by Ken Denney in the Times-Georgian, Carrollton, Georgia

124th annual Gowing Family Reunion

he Gowing family met for their 124th reunion in Round Pond, Maine. There were 45 people from Massachusetts, New York, Maine and California. The weather was perfect and everyone had a delightful time. A picnic lunch was held under a large tent on the spacious lawn overlooking the ocean. Descendants of Robert Gowing (b. 1618, Edinburgh, Scotland) began meeting in 1887 in Wilmington, missing only two years since then. Reunions always have featured a picnic lunch followed by a short business meeting. If you think you may be a Gowing descendant, we would love to hear from you. Contact Dorrie Verdy (dverdy@verizon.net) or Andrea Houser (andhou56@aol.com).

124th annual Gowing Family Reunion

Submitted by the family from Woburn Daily Times, Woburn, Massachusetts FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 31

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The Anderson-Stokes Family Reunion

ngineers; teachers; pastors; social workers; small business owners; construction workers; university faculty and administrators; retired factory workers; pension fund managers; pre-school, elementary, high school and college students; skilled craftsmen and the unemployed were all at the 61st celebration of the Anderson-Stokes Family Reunion. We laughed and reminisced about life in the segregated Arkansas Delta before our families migrated to Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Flint and other Midwestern cities in search of a better life. In 1952, when my maternal grandfather died, my mother and her six siblings

vowed to commemorate the life and legacy of their parents, Isaac Stokes and Corrie Anderson, by holding an annual family reunion. Although my mother and her siblings are deceased, their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren have continued the tradition that gets stronger each year. To ensure the future of the event, ten years ago older members of the family voted (reluctantly) to cede the planning of the event to a younger generation. Annual attendance averages 125-150 participants. This year, we gathered at a resort not far from Chicago. As I experienced this year’s family interactions, laughter and

hefty hugs, I could not help but smile, because I knew that our ancestors were with us and their prayers were in the process of being answered. I knew they would be proud that we have done well and that the world is a better place because of the foundation they laid. The moral of this story is twofold. First, we are standing on the shoulders of our ancestors, known and unknown. Second, we have an obligation to secure the future of successive generations through the investment of ourselves and our resources. The best time to start is NOW! From an article by Charlie Nelms, EdD, in the Huffington Post

Go west for your reunion!

eople who take responsibility for organizing a major multigeneration family reunion are heroes. Looking for a resort to accommodate a large group on a budget ends at the world-renowned YMCA of the Rockies at Estes Park, Colorado. Estes Park is a mecca for summer escapes, with some of the best natural surroundings. Rocky Mountain National Park is literally the Y’s back yard. At the YMCA you can have a reunion that is affordable, organized and fun for everyone. Large high-end cabins accommodate dozens of family members. There is everything a family needs for a relaxing mountain reunion, including huge, fully stocked kitchens, wide open living rooms, plenty of beds and bathrooms, outdoor grills, and ample parking. Group lodge/ hotel rates can include three meals a day in the YMCA’s all-you-

can-eat buffet, as well as meeting space and access to endless activities and WiFi. There is truly something for everyone, young and old, active or relaxing, indoors or out. Hundreds of activities are included: hiking, swimming, fishing, skating, mini-golf, volleyball, and arts and crafts. There is also a library, game room and chapel. Available for a small additional fee are horseback riding, zip lining, rock climbing, ropes course, rafting and archery. The YMCA of the Rockies at Estes Park is taking reservations for now until 2015; 2016 reservations open in June. It fills quickly, as this is one of the most sought-after reunion destinations in the West. To make reservations or learn more about a family reunion at the YMCA of the Rockies, visit www. ymcarockies.org

Larsons Family Reunion at the YMCA of the Rockies, Estes, Colorado. Photo credit: Photos by Dill, Estes Park CO

32 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

cruising

Cruising with an expert!

rian Forrester is Vice President of Sales at Holiday Cruises and Tours in Scottsdale, Arizona. He has been in the Cruise Travel Industry for over 20 years and specializes in group cruise reunions. Most recently he planned cruise reunions for the Stinson 65th Birthday Bash with Friends and Family on Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) Jewel out of New Orleans and the Sarafolean Lobster Boil Family Reunion on NCL’s Gem out of New York.

Q? A!

We asked Brian what made him decide to specialize in reunion groups and what type of groups he has assisted in the past. I have had the pleasure of dealing with a variety of group types, but mostly military and family reunions. The biggest success for any family or military reunion is the shared experience and terrific memories that are made. Second would be the ship or destination that offers a wide variety of activities to suit everyone and is affordable and meets most people’s needs and wants. Over the past five years we’ve seen a tremendous increase in the number of family reunion cruises. I attribute that to value and affordability, which plays a huge part in the family reunion group’s decision to take a cruise. The upfront price includes all meals, onboard activities and entertainment. We know how those costs can add up at a traditional reunion. Another big factor is that cruises offer so many ways to entertain the entire family, particularly with enhanced kids and tween programming.

Q? A!

We know Brian has been on many reunion cruises as the group leader. We wanted to know if he has a favorite and, if so, why. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is one. I was just on the Norwegian Jewel. The family group I escorted had a good mixture of kids and tweens, and I spent quite a bit of time with the ship’s counselors to update my experience with their programs. NCL’s trademark “Freestyle Cruising” offers flexibility so everyone, including the kids, gets to do exactly what they want to do. What I really noticed on the Jewel was how well-trained the counselors are (the individuals who staffed the children and teen programs). They have age-based offerings from kid-friendly learning sessions, tween parties and video arcades, to the Guppies program (sensory-based interaction for parents with children six months to three years). The newer ships have plunging waterslides, a two-story Wii™ Wall and special recreation programs that include supervision. These programs allow Moms and Dads to enjoy time at the spa, a tour on shore, gaming in the casino, or even a romantic dinner for two. Most families like the idea of the floating resort where the scenery changes daily but they only unpack once. They can enjoy nightly entertainment and dine as a family or with friends. So much is included: a wide range of accommodations, delicious dining options, award-winning entertainment, exciting onboard activities, a variety of stateroom amenities and more. I found Norwegian to be, first and foremost, a family-centric cruise line. They have won awards for their Splash Academy daily activity program designed for children ages 3 to 13, the Entourage program designed specifically for teens, and a multitude of onboard entertainment and dining options. There is truly something for everyone. I also found that from the minute you board, the crew and staff make it their personal mission to be sure you and every member of your family have the most memorable experience possible.

The perfect family for a Norwegian Cruise Line reunion cruise would be an active family who wants to experience a relaxing, fun-filled, casual, yet entertaining vacation.

Our conclusion is that, if you are considering a cruise reunion, you should contact a cruise group specialist immediately. Cruise group specialists are familiar with the cruise lines, their family onboard programs and policies and will know the ships that will best suit your reunion needs and wants. Cruise group specialists can also make special arrangements onboard for any meeting space required,. They can also get the best fares, make sure everyone has the proper documents, arrange for shore excursions, dinner assignments and special requests. Using a group cruise specialist will save you time and money. S/he will handle all the coordination it takes to get everyone onboard. What else do you suggest? Choose an itinerary. Do you want an active reunion or just relaxation? Is everyone mobile? Can a wheelchair or stroller easily navigate the roads? Your cruise specialist will get the best deal and amenities. Probably the most expensive part of your trip will be airfare. Ask about pre- and/or post-cruise hotel packages. Spend time at your embarkation or debarkation port. Getting to your port city in advance will ensure you arrive ready for fun.

Of course, we recommend Brian Forrester, who is a Cruise Group Specialist and is eager to help make your reunion memorable. Contact Brian at Holiday Cruises and Tours, 480-998-1112 or 800-998-1228 or brian@hcttravel.com. Brian will ask questions to understand your needs and present what works best for your family. He knows how to get the best deals and how to make your reunion cruise a success. He will work with you to organize deposits, payment plans, announcements, and special arrangements. Relax! He will handle all the details.

orwegian Cruise Line offers plenty of great places to shop onboard. The Freestyle Daily includes shopping seminars and special sales. State-of-the-art fitness centers offer high-energy Zumba®, boxing at Fight Klub™, Pilates, pumping iron or ocean view yoga class. Outdoor Sports Complexes offer basketball, rock climbing walls, mini-golf or shuffleboard. Norwegian has been rated “Best Cruise Line Casino” for seven years by readers of Casino Player magazine. Their casinos offer the only certified slots at sea and all your favorite table games. The Players Club offers great rewards for everything from luxurious spa treatments to complimentary cruises. FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 33

cruising

Parkers set sail

he Parker family decided to do something a little different for our reunion. Usually we have a very structured reunion, including picnic, outing, and banquet. We decided on a cruise, and then we decided to make it laid back and relaxing: a five-day cruise to the Bahamas. We chose Royal Caribbean cruise line. Family members had cruised with them and recommended them highly. We used a Royal Caribbean travel consultant. A bonus we learned about is that you lock in your rate, and if that rate comes down you get the lower rate. Some- times you can get a better room and floor for less than the original rate. I paid $300 less with a three category upgrade. All our dinner tables were grouped together, so even if we did not see each other throughout the day, we had dinner together. You’d be surprised how often you see each other on a ship that carries over 2,000 people. The feedback about the cruise was excellent. Everyone loved it. The ship had so much to do. It was as busy or relaxing as you made it. Since rooms on the ship are in categories, you could adjust your budget. More of our younger family members participated because they could stay in inside rooms on low floors for a lower price. Cruising is less stressful for the planner because, once on the ship, you don’t have to worry about caterers, banquet halls or transportation. Overall, we think that cruising is a nice break between regular reunions. We can’t wait for our next one. Reported by Sylvia Robinson, Ypsilanti, Michigan

Cruise of a lifetime

ob and Phyllis Bordona, Oakdale, California, celebrated their 50th anniversary with their family aboard the Royal Caribbean Voyager of the Seas, on a seven-day excursion originating in Spain, with stops in Italy and France. Ron Bordona, the couple’s only biological child, added the American Field Service (AFS) students whom the family hosted in high school and with whom the family maintain contact and whom they regard as their children. Ranging in age from 33 to 38, five AFS students are from Switzerland, Panama, Finland, Spain and New Zealand. Now the “children” have added spouses and their own offspring to the family fold. Phyllis first shared the couple’s dream of taking this trip with their children years before, when the group gathered in Panama for a Bordona Family Reunion. The Panama reunion was described as a dream come true for Bob, who had a great desire for the family to reunite. The computer proved to be a valuable tool for coordinating travel plans around the globe. They emailed each other and shared which stops interested them. Planning began one year before departure. Onboard activities were plentiful, including rock climbing, ice skating, in-line skating, Casino Royale, golf simulators, a 9-hole miniature golf-course, swimming pools and a water slide. “The very best gift of all,” Phyllis said of their 50th anniversary trip, “was that all of us gathered in the State Room and they all decided they wanted another reunion in Oakdale, California!” From oakdaleleader.com, Oakdale, California 34 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

ue’s 70th birthday and family reunion, all in one wonderful cruise! Susan van Vonno, Melbourne, Florida, celebrated with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who all came together on a cruise from Florida to the eastern Caribbean. It worked out well because there was something for all ages, including shows, rock climbing, ice skating, shopping (mostly for the ladies), miniature golf, and much more.

Should you book cruises early or late?

ruise travelers who know exactly where and when they want to go, and on what ship, typically book six to 24 months in advance so they can travel on the cruise they want. Book early if: 1) you can only travel on specific dates, 2) you are traveling with a group, or 3) you want to take advantage of special early booking savings. Anyone who requires an accessible cabin also should book early to ensure one is available. If you can book early, you can hold some cabins without names, allowing time to gather enough people. Put your cruise on vacation lay-away and make manageable monthly payments. You can cancel or change plans within a certain timeframe and receive a full refund, minus a change or cancellation fee charged by most agents.

Cruising tips

• Be sure you know your cruise line’s policies about cruising

while pregnant. Otherwise you could be turned away at the pier; most cruise lines do not allow travel for mothers-to-be who are farther along than 24 weeks. Most cruise lines have a minimum age for children to sail; minimum ages range from 3 months to 12 years, depending on the cruise line. • Some cabins have been specially designed to sleep four or more. • Special suites also are available for the disabled and folks who want more room and luxury amenities. • Purchase a travel insurance policy. On some policies, optional pre-existing medical coverage is available within 14 days of initial deposit. With many people involved in a family reunion, there is a chance something could happen that would require one or more members to abort the get-together. • You will need a passport to disembark from the ship. Some countries require a six-month expiration period for all passports.

• Cruising is an easy reunion to plan. Seating everyone together for

meals is no problem. Ships arrange special events (sometimes for free), private cocktail hours and photo sessions. And they all give discounts. The standard tends to be one person free for every 14 to 16 cabins. • The biggest challenge is finding the right ship. If you’re couch potatoes, you want a destination like the Caribbean. If everyone’s active, think about Alaska. • Ask your cruise specialist about the ship’s atmosphere. Ask your specialist about everything. Cruise agents book nearly all cruises and they know the ships. Three- or four-night sailings are popular because they cost less. • All cruise lines are accustomed to handling groups, though a few have attractive selling points for big families. Some offer points that can be used for a private cocktail party, poker chips, or photo sessions with a pro. Some arrange onboard scavenger hunts and trivia contests. On some you can earn extras such as unlimited soft drinks, free snorkel gear, movies and 24-hour buffets.

Reunions on the high seas

he Keahey Family Reunion was held aboard Carnival Cruise ship Holiday, sailing five days to Mexico from New Orleans. On our Reunions magazine forum we learned that a Graab Family & Rodriquez Family Reunion from Lake Forest, California, took a cruise … a first for many of them. According to Mahalia M. Simmons, Huger, South Carolina, the 9th annual Gant Family Reunion, South Carolina, took a four-day Caribbean cruise. They visited the islands of Key West, Florida, and Cozumel, Mexico, aboard Carnival’s Destiny. Donald and Carol Bly, who live in Greece, the Bly family – parents, children, children’s spouses and 11 grandchildren – spent seven days sailing the Caribbean aboard the Carnival’s Legend. Each of their staterooms included a private balcony overlooking the ocean. Highlights of the cruise included visiting Grand Cayman Island, Cozumel, Belize and Isla Roatan. They enjoyed parasailing and snorkeling. Some even swam with dolphins. They spent two restful days at sea, taking in many fun events on the ship. The highlight of each day was when all 19 met for dinner and enjoyed fabulous cuisine and nightly entertainment. Some family members participated in some of the shows. Best of all, we were all together creating some of the most magical memories to last a lifetime. The Allen Family and Friends Reunion Cruise selected Carnival Cruise Lines from Tallahassee, Florida, to Nassau. Planner Alfreda James, Tallahassee, Florida, a frequent traveler on Carnival ships, used her own company – To Your Convenience

Party and Wedding Consultants – to coordinate the reunion. Twenty attended the cruise reunion. It was a small group compared to the number that normally participates in reunions, but participation by family from California, New York, Japan, and many

first-time cruisers made this special. Carnival’s activities for children were excellent, providing interactive programs for 3-, 5-, 6-, and 12-year-olds. Excitement carried over to everyone and made it even more special!

FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 35

communication

Reunion communication

eing and staying in touch with reunion members is essential to a reunion’s success. In fact shouting about it will get you a lot further than being reserved and hoping members will get

the message. Assertive messages are called for to be sure everyone’s on the same page, or to make sure everyone shows up at the reunion.

Generate buzz

here’s no point in planning a reunion if nobody shows up. In addition to paper or email invitations, take advantage of technology to get the word out about your event. You can keep everyone informed with a private, password-protected family website on MyFamily. com, a MyHeritage family page, a Google Site or a Weebly site. Or use a facebook page or Google+ group. Blogging is another route. Start a blog for free with blogger or WordPress. Then register it with GeneaBloggers (a site listing more than 3,000 genealogy- and family historyrelated blogs). Build excitement on facebook or Twitter with posts and tweets about the venue, food, and activities, and remind people about RSVP and other deadlines. “Social media can increase reunion attendance because members continue the conversation they’re having online,” Edith Wagner, Reunions magazine editor, says. It’s also a tool for gauging relatives’ preferences. “[You can] get more input so those who do come are more likely to get what they want at the reunion – golf, shopping, lots of stuff for kids, etc. After the reunion there can be discussions about that reunion and the next one. And it’s a great place to share all the pictures taken at reunions.” You don’t have to use all the social networking sites – choose those that will work best for your family and situation. From “Rock Your Reunion” by Lisa A. Alzo, in Family Tree Magazine©. See September 2013 issue, available at ShopFamilyTree.com. More about Lisa Alzo at lisaalzo.com. Reprinted with permission.

Social media tips for successful reunion promotion

ocial media is an important part of your reunion promotion mix. Tweeting, facebook, email and electronic invitations and event pages can engage your members. These tips will help boost attendance and buzz for your next reunion. 4 Develop a schedule of messages and reminders on all your social media channels before, during and after the reunion. 4 Use short, consistent messages: invitations, reunion website, follow up emails and event listings including Reunions magazine’s upcoming reunions. 4 Tease your reunion’s program before; guest blog posts, contests and giveaways. Offer freebies or incentives. 4 Encourage two-way dialogue before, during and after the reunion. Before, ask attendees what activities they want. After the reunion, ask what activities they liked best. 4 Regularly post about the reunion on your facebook wall – always include the event’s hashtag. 4 Promote the reunion through local blogs and calendars. 4 Hire or designate a photographer and/or videographer, if your budget allows, to capture the reunion and share photos and videos through all your social media channels after. 4 Post photos on Instagram and Pinterest and upload video highlights to YouTube. From a blog by Sasha Cohen on Grassfed Media

Freeprintablestationery.net offers stationery and flier designs

ree stationery and flier designs come in a wide variety of themes and there is surely something you can find for your communications. FreePrintableStationery.net offers over 400 designs to choose for your reunion letters. Some of the stationery even has matching business cards. Most of it is full-color. Everything at FreePrintableStationery.net is free to download and print. You can choose from lined or unlined stationery and type directly into it using Microsoft Word or another DOC-compatible word processing program.

Reaching your reunion attendance goals

he internet plays an important role in reaching your members in an efficient and cost-effective way. Online promotion makes it significantly easier to reach members, but you must be organized. In an article by Geoff Beers on About.com Guide, he says to make sure your website is ready to promote your reunion. This means having a landing page that tells the benefits of your reunion and providing easy access to registration information. Direct all your promotions on the website to this landing page. Use many communication channels to announce your reunion, including email lists, blog readers, facebook friends and Twitter followers. These members should be your easiest sign-ups.

A family that blogs together . . .

ow well do you know your family? Nancy Benac wrote in the Canton (Ohio) Repository that she can find (almost) all she needs to know from a computer screen. She spent a week at a family reunion with 60-some relatives and did a lot of catching up. But later she realized she could learn far more about their lives by spending an hour or so online reading their blogs. Steve Jones, communications professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago, said family blogging is still emerging, but he sees it as a trend that’s sure to grow. So far, he said, “it’s more common to see a horizontal connection than a vertical one – cousins of the same age are blogging.” See copies of reunion invitations and newsletters at reunionsmag. com, Getting started, Getting the word out. FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 37

communication

How many reunions communicate

eonsha Bernard, Houston, Texas, describes how she communicates with the Wiley-Jefferson Family Reunion: a family website, facebook events, letters emailed and/or mailed, postcards, fliers, word-of-mouth, and listing on Reunions magazine’s website. Keonsha also made invitations to include with each mail-out to family members. Members are encouraged to give the invitations to people who are related but may not feel comfortable just showing up or who don’t know many of the family. She says they invite new members to come as guests without having to pay. She had business cards made from VistaPrint to hand out with her contact information and family website. That way, anyone needing to visit the website or contact her with information or questions had a handy card.

✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ Tasha La Touche, Mount Holly, North Carolina, stays in touch with La Touche Family Reunion on facebook, geni.com, email, phone calls and via snail mail. Geni.com is a collaborative site where you can share a tree with an unlimited number of family members. They can connect to new relatives easily to collaborate and share research. ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ Ruth Thomas, West Fork, Arkansas, says the Clough/Penny Family Reunion has three reunion websites they use for communication. Two are used regularly. They also have a free online reunion newsletter put together every quarter on one of the reunion websites. ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ Lauri Hassinger, Wabasha, Minnesota, has a Hassinger Family Reunion newsletter that comes out three times a year. Some of the family are facebook friends. They also have a directory that is published with the newsletter. ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶

Merideth Parrish is planning the Neal Family Reunion in Kansas City, Missouri. She has made introducing her city to her family a primary way of promoting the reunion. She regularly adds new posts, which means her family members are constantly being reminded that the reunion is coming up. ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ B.Jean Niblack, Decatur, Goergia, planned the Garrett/ Witherspoon Family Reunion. She mails postcards to each previous attendee in December the year before the next reunion. Postcards, newsletters and email are their continuing forms of communication. ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ About a year before each Brandon Family Reunion, Francene Johnson, Kent, Washington, mails about four letters keeping everyone in the loop with the latest updates. She tries to keep letters enjoyable so members will want to read them. She makes them funny and always ends them with a nice quote, scripture or food for thought. ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ Courtenay Wade, East St. Louis, Illinois, polls the Barber Family Reunion asking questions about making things better. She also blogs. ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶

Helen Jackson, Brush Prairie, Washington, says she uses a different theme each year and invitations reflect the theme. She hand-makes their invitations, trying to use a picture of where the reunion is held on the front. Helen says she believes people tend to pay more attention if you put personal touches on your invites. She also encloses a letter with the invites, with information about hotels, a map, food and general information she feels might help make the attendees’ stay more enjoyable. A Jackson Family Reunion newsletter and invitations are mailed to everyone, and emails are sent throughout the year. She says she also likes to personally talk to family members. ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ As new Warren family information is received/obtained, it is sent by mail/email to report events such as graduation, achievements, deaths, funerals, etc., according to James Warren, Tyler, Texas. Regular notices about the availability of the family website and the fact that Warren Family Reunion members can input information onto the website are sent. ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ Charlotte Reed, Melfort, Saskatchewan, Canada, says she and her committee decided to call Melfort High School classmates rather than try to do it by email this time. They divided the class list among committee members and phoned to make personal contact and get email addresses. From there they set up a website and sent emails to everyone. They maintain their website and post info from the reunion on it for those who couldn’t attend. It will also make it easy for contacting people for their next reunion. ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶

Shirley Connally, Richmond, Texas, sends newsletters, maintains a phone tree, and posts on an Adams/Dorsey/Porter/ Savoy Family Reunion website.

Each committee member of the Strong Family Reunion is responsible for communicating with their family branch and encouraging involvement year round according to Gale Pinkston, Lakeland, Florida.

✶✶✶✶✶✶✶

Copies of some of these newsletters and invitations are online at reunionsmag.com, Getting started, Getting the Word Out. 38 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

Vernon family newsletter

aulette Miller, Gainesville, Georgia, wrote when she was in her fifth year of preparing the Vernon Family Newsletter. She’d received such encouragement from the family that “it makes it all worthwhile.” Particularly the elderly and homebound appreciate it, as they feel the newsletter keeps them connected to the family even though they cannot be with us physically. Her favorite part of the newsletter is a highlight about a family member from each of the lineages each quarter, so they continue to become familiar with one another. Endrick Crenshaw, Houston, Texas, produces a monthly newsletter for the Washington-Nichols Family Reunion. The newsletter’s significant feature is many family pictures, which keep members engaged. ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶

✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ Newsletters are how the Brown Family keeps everyone in the KNOW. A newsletter is sent three times a year. Articles are sent by family members ranging from ideas for the next reunion theme to births and graduations. The family also has a website for members. For one newsletter they used a game as an icebreaker. They also used the family puzzle at a reunion as auction pieces, and one of the puzzles went for a high bid of $30. That being said, it can be used as an icebreaker and then as an auction item. Proceeds were used as part of our start-up fund. Reported by Roxie Branch, Charlotte, North Carolina ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ Question from Reunions editor Does anyone send out invitations anymore? I just realized that I’ve seen very few mailed invitations to reunions lately. When I do workshops I urge electronic communication as swifter and cheaper. But I’m beginning to think that no one is “sending” invitations any more. Prove me wrong! Please put Reunions magazine (PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211) on your invitation list so we can see how you are engaging your members. FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 39

communication Editor’s note:

We found this intriguing final message for an upcoming reunion on facebook!

here will you be one week from tonight? Deep in Thomas Hollow, under the shade of the walnut trees, nestled up against the cool waters of Shoal Creek, that’s where. So, raid your change jar for scat quarters, get the pails and shovels out so your kiddos can scavenge for craw dads, and work on your best fishing and hunting lies …er, um, I mean stories. The Brattin Family Reunion is coming. We are looking forward to our most progressive year ever with the recent addition of bathrooms (with flushing toilets, showers, and hot water), updated electricity, an improved volleyball

court and running water. That’s the good news. Now, we need to replenish the kitty and put some money back in the savings account. It sounds like there is a strong interest in having an auction to help raise money in addition to the donations that are given each year. If you would like to purchase new items, or bring like-new items, that would do well in an auction (think hunting, tools, housewares, cookware, or homemade goods), we will try to have either a live auction or silent auction on Saturday after lunch. With as many people as we have in

the family, we should be able to replenish the savings account for park maintenance and improvements. There hasn’t been any talk about trying to put together a dinner for Saturday night, as we have the past few years. If some of you want to try to plan that, go ahead and post something here. We will have extended volleyball games now that we have some serious volleyball poles and lights on the court. It should be a good time. Travel safe as you make your way down to the park and we will see you Friday night or Saturday morning/afternoon.

Save the date message From: Karen Scott [email] Subject: Scott-West Family Reunion 2014 – SAVE THE DATE Date: August 21, 2013 8:22:55 PM CDT Greetings Family from the DC/Maryland Planning Committee, e look forward to showing you a grand time in our Nation’s Capital next year, so get ready! Please note that we have mailed W “Save the Date” postcards to family for whom we have mailing addresses, but no e-mail address. SCOTT-WEST FAMILY REUNION 2014 July 17-20, 2014 Washington, D.C. SAVE THE DATE ✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ QUESTIONS TO: [email] MORE DETAILS COMING SOON Thank you, DC/MD committee

40 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

military reunion news e

Overseas BRATS love Laughlin

he 27th annual national reunion of Military/Overseas BRATS was held in Laughlin, Nevada, with 84 attendees representing 94 overseas schools/bases/ communities. These are the “children” who accompanied their parents on overseas military assignments, where they attended American schools. BRAT comes from the term British Regiment Attached Traveler. Talk to any military BRAT and a common theme emerges: their families moved frequently, often with little notice, from one military outpost to another. That thread of commonality binds this group. Very few BRATs knew each other during their school years, yet they all shared the same basic experience. Of the nearly 15 million military dependents since WWII, about five million lived and went to school outside the US. The relationship with the Laughlin CVB (officially the Southern Nevada Regional Office of the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority) began three years prior to the 27th reunion.

Cherie Westbrook of the CVB went out of her way to get to know the organization. With her supervisor, Meg McDaniel, and assistant, Kathy Fie, Cherie worked hard to help with sponsorship and underwriting the reunion – vital to making the national event work. Consequently this reunion was one of the most successful and problem-free events ever! “Cherie, Meg and Kathy became involved with us at a level I don’t normally see with some CVBs. Laughlin is definitely a ‘happening’ location – in part because of their outstanding team,” raved Joe Condrill, president of Overseas BRATS. Visit overseasbrats.com Reported by Joe Condrill, Wichita, Kansas. Joe was an Air Force BRAT who attended Department of Defense elementary and high schools in Germany, France, Thailand, Iran and Hawaii, and lived in 21 homes in four foreign countries. Also some information from a story in the Laughlin Times.

Korean Vets meet

he 18th Korean War Veterans Reunion was held in Laughlin, Nevada. The Welcome Breakfast held in the Tropicana Hotel’s “Veterans Pavilion” featured displays of artifacts, combat photos, and 32,208 names, addresses, phone numbers and units served, and sales items. Sales items raised funds for searching for and communicating with buddies, and subsequent reunions. A tour of the casino and area shopping centers followed. The dinner program included honors, awards, music, entertainment, prizes and dancing. A Memorial Service honored long-lost Korean War Veteran brothers and sisters. Browse http://koreanwarveteransonline .com to see activities in which the Korean Vets are involved. Most important is their dedication to finding all “Combat Buddies” who served during the Korean War. To date they have found over 32,000 veterans, and are growing daily. Contact retired MSGT Richard R. Gallmeyer, 800-523-4715.

Alaska Teamster Retirees reunion

27th Military/Overseas BRATS reunion

he Alaska Teamster Retirees held their 30th annual reunion in Laughlin. By popular demand, they returned for the next year. The activities schedule allowed members to spend more time with old friends and enjoy the surrounding area, action-packed gaming, and entertainment along the banks of the Colorado River. Teamster retirees enjoyed a trip to Oatman, Arizona, a former gold mining center and authentic town giving visitors a look back into history and showing the Wild West as it really was. They also enjoyed Don Laughlin’s Classic Car Collection, a jet boat tour to London Bridge in Lake Havasu, and a tour on the Colorado River on USS Riverside.

Sign up for Reunions E-newsletter @ reunionsmag.com Brats LOVE the calling for another “YMCA” communal dancing experience! Photos credit: T.D. Jorgensen, Nürnberg Alumni Association, Inc.

FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 41

e military reunion news

Heavy Haulers head to Laughlin

ike Amtower, organizer, says that the Heavy Haulers Gathering has been heading to Laughlin every other year since 2007. Heavy Haulers are Marines who were involved with the Sikorsky CH-53 heavy lift helicopter from all eras. This reunion is organized by members of Marine heavy lift squadron, HMH-463. Marines involved with any CH-53 model from all eras and squadrons are always invited to attend.

“Laughlin is a great place to gather. We ALWAYS have good weather in late October. And every time we do it, more folks show up. Nearly 90 attended the 2013 reunion,” said Amtower. Amtower also reports that they had a record surplus of funds from the reunion. They split it into thirds, and sent two portions to the Semper Fi Funds East and West, and the last third to the Burn Center

at the Brooke Army Hospital in San Antonio, Texas. “The very reason we do these Gatherings,” Amtower said, is that “three former members during Tet in 1968 reunited again after not seeing each other for 45 years. Two years ago we had folks who hadn’t seen each other in 43 years. Each time we do this, we get folks to attend for the first time.” Visit www.hmh-463-vietnam.com

Heavy Hauler attendees, October 2013, Colorado Belle Casino, Laughlin, Nevada.

Defenders Lodge

he Pentagon Federal Credit Union Foundation (PenFed Foundation), a nonprofit working to meet the unmet needs of military personnel and their families, will be opening the nation’s largest free hotel for veterans undergoing medical care. The Defenders Lodge, made possible through a generous donation by Lee and Penny Anderson, is being built for guests in Palo Alto, California. “For years, veterans and service members getting treatment at a major VA hospital struggled to find an affordable and comfortable 42 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

place to stay,” said Col. (Ret.) Robert Siegert, chair of the PenFed Foundation board. “Now they will have a brand new, handicapped-accessible hotel with state-of-the-art amenities. And the best part is it’s free for them and their caregivers.” The new Defenders Lodge is expected to serve – annually – up to 20,000 veterans who travel to Palo Alto for treatment. The PenFed Foundation volunteered as primary sponsor to construct the hotel, in partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Visit www.defenderslodge.org.

Little did you know “VIP” stood for Very Important Planner.

Give people a dinner party and they’ll probably give you a smile. Give people a dinner party overlooking the Colorado River and a chartered dinner cruise, kayaking, waterskiing, championship golf 300+ days a year and spa facilities, all at an incredible value, and they’ll write a song about you. Plan a winning get-together by calling our Laughlin sales staff or filling out an RFP at VisitLaughlin.com/meetings/rfp.

e military reunion news

Served with Pride

laudia Bartow at yourmilitarystory. com has developed Served with Pride: A place to record your service, share your military memories and leave a legacy (Your Military Story, Marysville, Ohio, paperback, $17.95), a book veterans can make as a keepsake for their families. It was developed by Bartow, an Army and Air National Guard veteran, as a way to

guide and encourage veterans whose common excuse is, “I don’t have any stories.” Examples of stories from others and questions to “get you thinking” help resurrect memories that should be shared. Lt. Col. Kenneth L. Bonnell, US Army Retired, says he’s recording his 24 years of active duty, including two tours in Vietnam, for his many grandchildren. Individuals might consider giving this book as a memoir; reunions should consider buying them as mementos for members or as a fundraiser for the reunion; and everyone should look at Served With Pride as a way to preserve more stories before they are lost. The book is available at several military museums, or contact author Claudia Bartow, 937-537-1227, cbartow@ columbus.rr.com, yourmilitarystory.com. Web page: reunionsmag.com Call: 414.263.4567 Fax: 414.263.6331 e-mail: editor@reunionsmag.com Write: PO Box 11727 Milwaukee, WI 53211-0727 44 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

Doolittle Raiders’ Final Toast

he US Air Force hosted the famed Doolittle Tokyo Raiders’ final toast to their fallen comrades during an invitationonly ceremony in November at the National Museum of the US Air Force at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio. On April 18, 1942, 80 men achieved the unimaginable when they took off from an aircraft carrier on a top-secret mission to bomb Japan. Known as the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders, they were led by Lt. Col. James H. “Jimmy” Doolittle. The Doolittle Raid marked the first combat use of strategic bombardment by the US Army Air Forces in World War II. Today, just four men survive. In 1959 the City of Tucson, Arizona, presented the Doolittle Raiders with a set of 80 silver goblets, each bearing the name of one of the men on the mission. At each of their past reunions, the surviving Raiders

conducted their solemn “Goblet Ceremony.” After toasting the Raiders who had died since their last meeting, they turned the deceased men’s goblets upside down. More than 600 people, including Raiders widows and children, descendants of Chinese villagers who helped them, and Pearl Harbor survivors, attended the invitation-only ceremony. The survivors decided at the 71st anniversary reunion in spring in Fort Walton, Beach, Florida, that it would be their last and that they would gather for one last toast together instead of waiting, as had been the original plan, for the last two survivors to make the toast. Other events included a wreath-laying ceremony at the Doolittle Raiders memorial and a flyover of B-25 aircraft. The Air Force Museum Theatre showed Doolittle Raider- and World War II-themed films. Visit www.nationalmuseum.af.mil.

Lt. Col. Richard E. Cole, Ret. (98), opens the 1896 bottle of cognac during the Doolittle Raiders’ Final Toast ceremony at the National Museum of the US Air Force on Nov. 9, 2013. Three of the four surviving Doolittle Tokyo Raiders made a final toast to their fallen comrades during the ceremony. The other two survivors at the reunion are Lt. Col. Edward J. Saylor and Staff Sgt. David J. Thatcher. Lt. Col. Robert L. Hite was not able to attend. US Air Force photo by Niki Jahns.

Air Force Museum expanding

he new site will house four major elements of the Air Force story: Presidential Aircraft Gallery, Research and Development Gallery, a new Space Gallery, and the Global Reach Gallery. The new building will provide dedicated educational areas for programs based in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The National Museum of the United States Air Force, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio, is the service’s national institution for preserving and presenting the Air Force story from the beginning of military flight to today’s war on terrorism. It is free, and features more than 360 aerospace vehicles and missiles, and thousands of artifacts in more than 17 acres of indoor exhibit space. For information contact Mona R. M. Vollmer, Col, (Ret), Chief Development Officer, AFMF, 937-656-9258; mvollmer@afmuseum.com. Visit www.nationalmuseum.af.mil.

IT’S SO AMAZING THE INFLUENCE ONE LITTLE HOUSE OF MUSIC

HAS ON PEOPLE ALL

OVER THE WORLD. – ALLEN RAWLS

CEO, MOTOWN MUSEUM

The Motown Museum preserves the birthplace of a musical legacy and the story of a Detroit entrepreneur who — with a dream, an $800 family loan and homegrown talent — created “The Sound of Young America.” Detroit holds many more stories of influence, like the Rosa Parks bus at The Henry Ford, honoring the heritage of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History; and other cultural influences from the Arab American National Museum to Mexicantown, Greektown and beyond.

Be part of America’s great comeback city. View Allen’s whole story at MeetDetroit.com/Comeback-Stories

FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 45

Atlantaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s DeKalb County is the Family Reunion Capital of the South!

Reconnect with your loved ones. DeKalb Convention & Visitors Bureau offers FREE Reunion Planning Workshops and Services. 1-866-633-5252 ext. 1118 | AtlantasDeKalb.com

46 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

DeKalb Convention & Visitors Bureau

military reunion news e

WWII reunions are dwindling

ccording to the Department of Veteran Affairs, just a little over one million WWII veterans in their 80s and 90s remain and many are infirm or fragile. So reunions, when they are held, are more sparsely attended – yearly reminders of the passing of the Greatest Generation. • When veterans of the Battle of the Bulge gathered in Kansas City this summer, only 40 came, according to organizers, down from 63 last year and 350 in 2004. • Of the 80 Doolittle’s Raiders in 1942, 73 survived; only four remained 71 years later. • A half-century ago, the 30th Infantry Division landed at the beaches of Normandy and fought across France and Germany. Their reunions once numbered 1,000 veterans. • As Pearl Harbor Day approached, the last reunion of survivors of USS Arizona was held in Tucson, Arizona. As a result of the attack on December 7, 1941, 1,177 officers and crewmen died, and there were 334 survivors. 10 are still alive; and only two felt well enough to make the trip. There will be a final USS Arizona reunion next year in Hawaii. • As many as 11,000 people served in the 57th Bomb Wing that flew missions over German-held Europe from North Africa and the island of Corsica during most of the war. Hundreds survived,

according to wing historians and reunion organizers. Only nine veterans made it to this fall’s event. Age has taken its toll. A lot of members have passed away, and many of those left have health conditions that prevent travel. So why persist? “It’s a matter of camaraderie,” Army First Lt. Frank Towers said. “We spent a year or more together through hell or high water. We became a band of brothers. We can relate to each other in ways we can’t relate to (anyone else). You weren’t there. These guys were there. They know the horrors we went through.” One vet said, “All of the people you ran around with are on the wrong side of the grass. You wonder why you’re so lucky.” Some veterans fear their service will be forgotten. Some have written memoirs, and many reunion groups now have websites, magazines and other publications in which they recount their stories. One veteran said, “You just hope that young people appreciate it. It was very important, if you wanted to continue the freedom that we have.” From stories by Dan Sewell in the Nordonia Hills News-Leader, Nordonia Hills, Ohio, and Barbara Grijalva in Tucson News Now, Tucson, Arizona. USS Arizona Memorial, Pearl Harbor, Oahu, Hawaii.

DYNAMIC. DIVERSE. DISTINCT.

From cultural attractions and shopping to historic tours and delicious coastal cuisine caught fresh from the Chesapeake Bay, Norfolk is a dazzling destination for reunions of all kinds. Plan your perfect escape today! visitnorfolktoday.com/reunions | 1-800-368-3097

FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 47

What does an armadillo feel like?

Where does fun run in the family? Finding something for everyone isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t easy. But with canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t-miss festivals, nationally ranked attractions and unbeatable shopping, Columbus is full of things your whole group will love. Find out more about this affordable, easy-to-get-to destination at experiencecolumbus.com/reunions or by calling 800-354-2657.

Where do family reunions become family events?

CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES

Welcome to Reunion Resources! We encourage you to tell the listings you contact that you learned about them from Reunions magazine. And if at any time you find any info that is inaccurate or e-mail or web links do not work, notify us immediately at editor@reunionsmag.com; PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727. And by all means, feel free to comment and/or suggest changes and additions you’d like to see in this section. Reunions magazine will not be held liable for information presented as facts in these ads. We reserve the right to edit and/or refuse any material submitted for publication.

ALABAMA GREATER BIRMINGHAM CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

2200 Ninth Ave. North, Birmingham AL 35203 Birmingham is becoming one of the most celebrated reunion cities in the southeast. There are lots of details to see to – good planning is hard work. The Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau is here to help. For more information regarding reunion services, please contact the Convention Bureau at 205-458-8000 or 800-458-8085 | fax 205-458-8086 twalton@birminghamal.org | www.birminghamal.org SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 1

CALIFORNIA PALM SPRINGS VISITOR CENTER

Palm Springs, California guarantees blue skies and sunshine for your reunion. A collection of new hotels, boutique inns, and vacation home and condo rentals are available to host large and small groups. Visitors the world over are lured to Palm Springs for its storied Hollywood legacy, Native American heritage and stellar collection of mid-century modern architecture. Palm Springs is less than 2 hours from Los Angeles or San Diego. The Palm Springs International Airport offers direct flights from major cities all across the U.S. and Canada. Palm Springs. Like no place else. Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism, 277 N. Avenida Caballeros, Palm Springs CA 92262 760-778-8415 | www.VisitPalmSprings.com

HOLIDAY INN SAN DIEGO BAYSIDE

4875 N Harbor Drive, San Diego CA 92106 Host your reunion at the beautiful Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside across from San Diego Bay. Our experienced staff will assist you in creating a very special event. Complimentary hosp suite and special reunion rates. Beautiful guest rooms, heated pool, spa, shuffleboard, ping-pong and billiards, exercise room, family restaurant and cocktail lounge, free pkg, in-room movies, coffee makers, refrigerators, hair dryers. 619-224-3621 | 800-650-6660 | fax 619-224-1787 dos@holinnbayside.com | www.holinnbayside.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 19

COLORADO BEAVER VILLAGE CONDOMINIUMS Our condos are clustered in a campus style layout making it easy for us to group your rooms close together. The condos have 1,2,3, or 4 bedrooms, so couples, families extended families can find the right fit. We have a meeting room (100 pp max), catering kitchen an outside deck with grill. Our team works closely with the group leader to honor special requests. In town location close to hiking, biking, rafting and more. 800-824-8438. Visit: www.beavercondos.com For Group Info visit: http://bit.ly/YLxyPz. KEYSTONE RESORT

Colorado’s best kept secret for Reunions. Rafting, fly fishing, boating, golf and more. Over 30 dining venues and unlimited lodging options for every budget. Horseback riding, boating on the beautiful Keystone Lake, tennis, biking, and endless activities for children. Plus, play for free when you stay 2 nights or more, which includes a free gondola ride for children 12 and under, 9 holes of golf on afternoon of arrival, guided

hikes, and children’s theater on Friday afternoons. Visit www.keystoneconferences.com or call 800-326-2270 for more information! SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 5

fax 321- 329-4001 | jcooper@floridaysorlando.com www.FloridaysResortOrlando.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON THE BACK COVER

YMCA OF THE ROCKIES has two Colorado resort

All-suite, 2013 Gold Award Winner, 100% smoke free hotel offering free deluxe breakfast buffet, located 2 miles from downtown Disney, minutes from shops and restaurants. All suites sleep up to six, feature two queen beds, fully equipped kitchenettes, sleeper sofa, two flat screen TV’s, free Wi-Fi. Some popular amenities include an outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, business center, board room, meeting rooms, fitness center, jogging trail and guest services. 8200 Palm Parkway, Orlando FL 32836 | Group reservations 800-370-9894 ext 501 | www.qualitysuiteslbv.com sales@qualitysuiteslbv.com

destinations-Estes Park and Winter Park-where your family can reconnect, relax and enjoy group activities. A variety of affordable lodging is available, from individual lodge rooms to a 16-bedroom cabin. Activities include zip line, horseback riding and guided hikes. 800-777-9622 | www.ymcarockies.org SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 36

COLORADO VACATION DIRECTORY: Make your search for the perfect family reunion destination easier! FREE FAMILY REUNION DESTINATION LOCATION SERVICE: www.TheCVD.com/ groupsreunions/GRSearch.html and click on “EMAIL US your Request for Group Vacations in Colorado.” We will then send your requirements to Cabins, Vacation Homes, Lodges, Motels, Condos, B&Bs, and Campgrounds that can accommodate your desires; each one will email you directly with additional information. OR download our FREE Colorado Vacation Directory to compare reunion locations, which includes Places to Stay & Fun Things to Do. www.TheCVD.com/ OrderForm.html

FLORIDA THE BEACHES OF FORT MYERS & SANIBEL

2201 Second St., Suite 600, Fort Myers, FL 33901 Share a tradition of timeless beauty and endless opportunity for togetherness. Whether on the pristine sands of beautiful beaches, on t he glistening waters of the Gulf of Mexico, or in countless charming towns, your family comes together when you get away here. To begin planning your reunion, visit FortMyersSanibel.com for more information. TELEPHONE: 239-338-3500 | U.S. & Canada: 800-237-6444 www.fortmyers-sanibel.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGES 26 & 27

EMERALD COAST CVB - DESTIN - FORT WALTON BEACH FL - OKALOOSA ISLAND

1540 Miracle Strip Parkway Fort Walton Beach FL 32548. Get a little sand in your soul. Have your next reunion in Destin, Ft. Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island, the Heart of Florida’s Emerald Coast. These legendary beach communities on the Gulf of Mexico are a reunion planner’s dream year-round. Your group will enjoy 24-miles of sugar-white sand beaches and emerald-green water, there’s something for everyone on your guest list here. Find out what our expert team can do for you at EmeraldCoastFL.com

CROWNE PLAZA HOLLYWOOD BEACH

4000 South Ocean Drive, Hollywood FL 33019 954-454-4334 | sales@cphollywodbeach.com www.cphollywoodbeach.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 46

STAR ISLAND RESORT

5000 Avenue of the Stars, Kissimmee FL 34746 Located just 4 miles to Walt Disney Theme Parks. Our gated all suite resort & spa offers spacious mini suites, 1 & 3 bedroom Villas with full kitchens and kitchenette’s that can accommodate up to 8 guests. Enjoy tennis, basketball, pools, putting green, mini golf, paddle boats, pool bars, beach volleyball, game room, fitness center, children’s activities, BBQ grills and much more! Indoor & outdoor function space available to rent. Free reunion tee shirts through our partners at Experience Kissimmee. Group rates for 8 or more units. For group quote call 800-789-0715 or email jmoquin@star-island.com. Visit our web site at www.star-island.com. We look forward to hosting your reunion!

FLORIDAYS RESORT ORLANDO

12562 International Drive, Orlando FL 32821 Located just two miles from SeaWorld and Disney on International Drive, offers spacious two-and-three bedroom Grand Suites, with room for everyone. The free shuttle to the attractions and the I- Drive trolley makes it easy to get around town. With two heated swimming pools, game room, fitness center, and poolside bar and grille, you’ll want to spend quality family time right here at the resort. 321-329-4026

QUALITY SUITES LAKE BUENA VISTA

HYATT PLACE SARASOTA AIRPORT HOTEL

Great discounted summer rates! 950 University Parkway, Sarasota FL 34234. We are the perfect designation to plan your next family reunion and perfect hotel to take care of your family and friends while in town. Located in North Sarasota and directly adjacent to the airport circle of Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, the Hyatt Place Sarasota/ Bradenton Airport hotel is centrally located to popular area attractions including the Siesta & Lido Key Beach, Ringling Museum of Art, and shopping at St. Armand’s Circle. 941-554-5800 | fax 941-952-5679 dana.scott@hyatt.com www.sarasotabradenton.place.hyatt.com

GEORGIA ATLANTA PERIMETER HOTEL & SUITES

111 Perimeter Center West, Atlanta GA 30346 Find sanctuary in 121 deluxe guest rooms and 154 fantastic suites complete with the W Signature Bed, Bliss&trade; Sinkside Six amenities and balconies in all rooms. Suites feature a full kitchen. Free shuttle service within a 3-mile radius, which includes Perimeter Mall and MARTA stations. Banquet spaces with full catering available. For reservations, call 770-396-6800 | fax 770-394-4805 | GMWAtlantaPerimeter@whotels.com www.whotels.com/atlantaperimeter SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 48

CROWNE PLAZA ATLANTA PERIMETER at RAVINIA

4355 Ashford Dunwoody Rd, Atlanta, GA 30346 Located in Central Perimeter area nestled on a 45 acre park, with waterfalls, terraced gardens, facilities for gatherings of 10 to 1,000. 495 guestrooms, 33 spacious suites. Featuring a three-story greenhouse atrium lobby, fitness center, indoor pool with sundeck. Across from the Perimeter Mall. Free shuttle to area restaurants, parks and MARTA station for downtown attractions. Visit www.cpravinia.com | call 770-3957700. Mention this listing for 10 % off reunion banquet pricing. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 48

CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU OF DUNWOODY, GA

Just 10 minutes outside Atlanta in DeKalb County, Dunwoody is the best location for your next reunion. Minutes away from Stone Mountain Park, Georgia Aquarium, the MLK Center and more! Home to five excellent hotels with tons of meeting space and all within walking distance to Perimeter Mall and shuttle services to MARTA! Call today to plan your reunion: 678-244-9800 | visit www.cvbdunwoody.com/ SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 24

EMBASSY SUITES ATLANTA PERIMETER CENTER

1030 Crown Pointe Pkwy, Atlanta GA 30338 770-394-5454. All suite, upscale, renovated hotel located in beautiful Dunwoody, just steps away from Perimeter Mall, Perimeter Shoppes and more than 30 area restaurants/dining facilities. Hotel features complimentary amenities such as: cooked-to-order breakfast, Manager’s Reception, area shuttle, parking deck, indoor pool/sun deck, Precor fitness center and business center. Hotel offers an onsite restaurant with Starbucks cafe, meeting space and wireless internet throughout. Flat screen TV’s in all suites. Easy access to downtown via MARTA. Hilton Family Hotels. Book us at www.atlantaperimetercenter.embassysuites.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 48 FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 49

CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES STAYBRIDGE SUITES PERIMETER CENTER EAST

4601 Ridgeview Road, Atlanta-Dunwoody GA 30338 Staybridge Suites is an All-Suite Hotel and offers a premier location in the Dunwoody – Perimeter Area within walking distance to some of the best Restaurants and Shops Atlanta has to offer. Minutes away from attractions like Stone Mountain, Six Flags, Zoo Atlanta, Hartsfield Airport and the Georgia Dome. Fantastic amenities like Free Full Breakfast, Free Shuttle within a 3-Mile Radius, Free Internet, Free On-Site Fitness Center and Guest Laundry! 678-320-0111 Fax: 678-320-0250 | Reservations: dos.atlpr@wm. staybridge.com | www.staybridge.com/atlanta-pr SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 48

ATLANTA AIRPORT MARRIOTT

4711 Best Road Atlanta GA 30337 You enjoy the family. We’ll do the rest. Getting together for your next family reunion is more convenient than ever at Atlanta Airport Marriott®. Take advantage of our Stay and Play package, it’s everything you need to plan an unforgettable reunion and it’s all included in one perfect destination. 404-209-6818 fax 404-209-6838 | e-mail aaryn.willis@marriott.com http://atlantaairportmarriott.com

ATLANTA MARRIOTT PERIMETER CENTER

246 Perimeter Center Parkway NE, Atlanta, GA 30346 The Hotel is located adjacent to Perimeter Mall and the Dunwoody MARTA station offering easy access to all city attractions. Amenities include onsite restaurant and lounge, room service, indoor/outdoor swimming pool, meeting and banquet space for up to 350 people and complimentary hotel shuttle within a 2-mile radius. Ask about our special reunions packages. Call 770 394-6500 or visit www.atlantamarriottperimeter. com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 48

DOUGLASVILLE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

6694 E. Broad St. Douglasville, GA 30134. With a great location near Atlanta and over 1,800 hotel rooms, Douglasville, Georgia is a great location for your next reunion! For details on complimentary services, including welcome bags and name badges, contact the Douglasville CVB today and let us help plan your next reunion. For more information call us at 1-800-661-0013 or email us at info@visitdouglasville. com. www.visitdouglasville.com

SANDY SPRINGS HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM

5920 Roswell Rd., Suite A-118, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 | 866-511-7742 | hospitality@sandyspringsga.org www.visitsandysprings.org Sandy Springs, conveniently located minutes from Atlanta, boasts more than 50,000 feet of meeting space and offers 20 upscale hotels. For your reunion, choose us!

DEKALB CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Atlanta’s DeKalb County is the Reunion Capital of the South and the most culturally diverse county in the Southeast. You’ll find the best accommodations with convenience to Stone Mountain Park, The King Center, Sweet Auburn District, Fernbank Museum and much more. Contact DeKalb CVB at 1-866-633-5252 ext. 1118 or visit us at AtlantasDeKalb.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 46

ILLINOIS Plan an unforgettable reunion in Lake County, Illinois – We’ll work together to help you plan an event that lets you explore all the excitement of Lake County. From entertaining attractions like Six Flags to our convenient, centralized location close to Chicago, there are so many reasons to choose Lake County for family friendly fun. For free Reunion Planning Assistance call or email us with your reunion planning questions. 800-LAKE-NOW | tourism@lakecounty.org www.lakecounty.org SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 2

MARYLAND The BEST WESTERN PLUS HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER

5625 O’Donnell St, Baltimore MD 21224 We are the perfect location for your next Reunion. We offer free parking, a free scheduled shuttle, indoor 50 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

pool and free hot breakfast. Our room amenities include a microwave/refrigerator, hairdryer, and coffeemaker. Two ballrooms able to accommodate 50-400 guests. Get a complimentary hospitality suite when your book your Banquet with us. Call 410-6339500 or email Janet@bwhotelbaltimore.com. Visit our website at www.bwhotelbaltimore.com

WISP RESORT in Deep Creek Lake, MD, is the true

4-season mountain destination that’s easy to get to yet miles from ordinary. The mountainside Wisp Resort Hotel offers 169-rooms and flexible meeting space to accommodate groups of all sizes. With an almost endless list of year-round recreational activities including the unique Mountain Coaster, the 3 Canopy Tours, skiing, snow tubing, golf, lake activities and more, groups can experience adventure at all levels. On-site Catering Services can create meals and menus for all budgets. 296 Marsh Hill Road, McHenry MD 21541. 301.387.4000 | info@wispresort.com www.wispresort.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 52

MASSACHUSSETS GRAFTON INN FALMOUTH CAPE COD - OCEANFRONT 10 bedroom house

261 Grand Ave, Falmouth MA 02540 This unique, fully equipped oceanfront Victorian 10 BR/11 BA in Falmouth Heights, Cape Cod comfortably sleeps 20+ (private full BA in each BR). Magnificent direct views of Vineyard Sound, a popular beach 30 feet away, and many amenities make it a perfect vacation spot. For more information, please contact Felicia Schecter-Emrich at 917-533-1821 graftoninnfalmouth@yahoo.com http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p118390

MICHIGAN DETROIT METRO CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Bring your family reunion to Detroit, America’s great comeback city. We’ll help create itineraries, find accommodations and more. Detroit has lots of fun family attractions like The Henry Ford, Detroit Zoo, museums, festivals and outdoor spaces. Learn more at our free Family Reunion Planning Seminar this fall. For more information, contact the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau at reunions@meetdetroit.com or call 313-202-1985 | meetdetroit.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 45

WORRY-FREE REUNIONS AT CRAGUN’S RESORT

11000 Craguns Dr, Brainerd MN 56401 800-CRAGUNS (272-4867). Since 1940 Cragun’s has taken pride in creating memorable reunions...here’s why: 1) trained coordinator will help plan it all, 2) arrival “Welcome” and registration areas with planned activity agendas, 3) activities including golf outings, lake cruises, picnics, fishing contests, horse drawn trolley rides and more, 4) indoor facilities to ensure you a “weather-proof” reunion, 5) private gathering areas, 6) special celebration meals, 7) professional group photos, 8) and best of all, enjoy a safe, secure friendly environment. Come to Cragun’s for your reunion. Named “One of MN’s ideal locations to hold a Reunion.” by AAA. Call for FREE Reunion Planning Packet or visit: www.craguns.com/family-reunions/ MINNEAPOLIS SAINT PAUL is the perfect location for your next reunion. Meet Minneapolis represents the entire MSP metro area with over 17,000 hotel rooms. Use our FREE service and hotels will compete against each other for your business. We also provide your group with FREE guides, maps, and coupons along with tour ideas, group friendly restaurants, and sample itineraries. Let us help you plan your next reunion to Minneapolis Saint Paul. 612-767-8106 caseyk@minneapolis.org | www.minneapolis.org

MISSOURI THE BRANSON/LAKES AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Located in America’s heartland, Branson, Missouri is the perfect destination for your next reunion because we offer so many choices of live music shows and family entertainment, lodging, attractions, dining and more. Remember, in Branson, our value is unrivaled,

our scenery breathtaking and our authentic Ozarks hospitality inviting. Call us toll-free at 800-214-3661 417-243-2117 or visit our website at ExploreBranson.com and request a Reunion Planner Sales kit. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON THE INSIDE FRONT COVER!

NEVADA GOLD COAST HOTEL & CASINO is located just minutes west of the Las Vegas Strip, directly across from The Rio and The Palms. This friendly resort personifies all that is best about Las Vegas and features 712 rooms and suites, 30,000 square feet of conference space, full-service casino, Bingo Parlor, six restaurants, showroom/lounge, 70-lane bowling center, race/sports book, a poolside fitness center, and shuttle service to the heart of The Strip. 4000 W Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89103 | 702-251-3560 800-331-5334 x 400 | www.goldcoastcasino.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 13 SAM’S TOWN HOTEL & GAMBLING HALL

5111 Boulder Highway, Las Vegas NV 89122 Sam’s Town boasts 646 elegantly appointed rooms and suites which surround the Mystic Fall Indoor Park. This popular hotel and casino has over 2,700 slot and video poker machines as well as 40 table games. In addition, Sam’s Town has 30,000 square feet of meeting space, multiple restaurants, food court, 18 movie theatres, RV Park, Bowling Center and much more!!! Sam’s Town offers a courtesy shuttle to the Strip and Downtown. 702-454-8120 www.samstownlv.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 13

SOUTHERN NEVADA REGIONAL OFFICE

Located just 90 miles south of Las Vegas, Laughlin is an amazing spot to host family gatherings, reunions and getaways no matter what the size. Laughlin offers casual to fine dining as well as concerts, shows, activities and events for every age. And the Colorado River provides a great backdrop for your group photos. To contact the Laughlin sales staff, call 1-877-685-2845 or go to www.VisitLaughlin.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 43

ATLANTIS CASINO RESORT SPA RENO

3800 S Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89502 Atlantis is Reno’s Newest Hot Spot for Reunions! Atlantis boasts 50,000 SF of flexible meeting space. Stay in Reno’s newest resort rooms, featuring pillow-top mattresses and 42” HDTV’s. Dine in eight distinct award-winning restaurants. The Atlantis Steakhouse proudly serves Allen Brothers USDA Prime steaks. Network at the ten captivating bars and lounges. Escape to Spa Atlantis winner of Spa Finder “Readers’ Choice” award! Sales Department 800.994.5900 sales@AtlantisCasino.com | AtlantisCasino.com

NORTH CAROLINA Wilmington, N.C., and three island beaches offer extraordinary experiences from the river to the sea. From the historic river district anchored by a scenic Riverwalk and 200+ shops, cafes and vibrant nightlife to a new Ocean Front Park and beachside boardwalks. Get together in NC’s most accessible coastal destination. For group itineraries & events: NCCoastalMeetingsReunions.com | 800-650-9064, ext. 113

OHIO EXPERIENCE COLUMBUS

800-354-2657 | www.ExperienceColumbus.com/reunions Columbus is ranked one of the top value destinations in the country. With four downtown entertainment districts, annual festivals, the #1 rated Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, and an array of outdoor parks to choose from, you won’t want to have your family reunion anywhere else. Planning a reunion in Columbus is easy. And we’re here to help. Plus, all of our services are free. We will assist you with finding hotels, local attractions and more. And when the time comes, we’ll provide you with Visitors Guides, Visitor Maps, plastic bags and pens. Contact Kari Kauffman 614-222-6136 KKauffman@ExperienceColumbus.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 48

CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES south carolina SEA MIST OCEANFRONT RESORT- MYRTLE BEACH SC 1200 South Ocean Blvd., 29577 REUNIONS MADE EASY! Specializing in reunions from military to family at the most affordable rates in Myrtle Beach. Sea Mist’s premier oceanfront location is near shopping, theaters and golf courses. Over 600 of our 800 units have been completely remodeled, restaurants, miniature golf, 10 pools, Jacuzzis, fitness room, 17,000-sq.ft. of versatile meeting space and much more! 800-200-8687 | groupsales@seamist.com www.seamist.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON THE BACK COVER!

TENNESSEE CHATTANOOGA AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

We are ready to host your next family or military reunion. Our Staff works closely with the hotels, attractions, tour companies and you to provide exactly what you need to have a great reunion. Contact Christina Petro at 800-964-8600 ext. 3017 or by e-mail at chrisp@chattanoogacvb.com to begin planning your next reunion! www.ChattanoogaMeetings.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 51

PIGEON FORGE, TENNESSEE We’re a gold mine for

reunions. Need attractions? Try Dollywood, Titanic Pigeon Forge, Zorb and the action-packed Parkway. Want nature? Great Smoky Mountains National Park is next-door. Want entertainment? More than a dozen theaters await you. Hungry? We’ll feed you well. Details: 1-800-285-7557 or visit pigeonforgereunion.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 52

TEXAS Pearland Convention & Visitors Bureau

11200 Broadway, Suite 1390, Pearland, TX 77584 713.436.5595 | Fax: 713.436.5017 | visitpearland.com Email Kim Sinistore ksinistore@ci.pearland.tx.us Pearland – A Perfect Pick to stay and meet in the Gulf

Too Big.

Coast of Texas. Pearland, ten miles from downtown Houston and Hobby Airport, offers eleven hotels with 859 rooms and 15,000+ square feet of meeting space. Perfect for a family, military or class reunion, or group meeting. We offer planning assistance, referral services, itineraries and hotel contracting.

PLANO CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Located just minutes from Dallas, Plano is the perfect place to stay. You will find unique and entertaining attractions, a multitude of restaurants for every taste and style, and all the shopping you could ever want, as well as a variety of hotel and lodging offerings. Let Kay at the Plano Convention and Visitors Bureau assist you in all your travel planning needs. kays@plano.gov 800-81-PLANO | visitplano.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 9

UTAH PARK CITY LODGING, INC. represents over 150 vacation rentals throughout Park City’s three world-class resort areas: Park City, Deer Valley and Canyons. Choose from a large variety of accommodations, ideally suited for your reunion, wedding or special event. Our knowledgeable staff is here to assist you in creating a memorable family experience in the mountains of Park City, Utah. Call 855-263-7793 destinationspecialist@parkcitylodging.com www.ParkCityLodging.com | Let our knowledgeable staff assist you in creating a memorable mountain experience.

Subscribe! Call 1-800-373-7933

VIRGINIA VISIT FAIRFAX / FAIRFAX COUNTY, VIRGINIA

Enjoy everything that Northern Virginia has to offer. From the monuments and memorials of nearby Washington, DC to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center to George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens, Fairfax County is an ideal location for your military or family reunion. Call us at 703-790-0643 | visit our website today at www.fxva.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 12

Too Small.

PO Box 335428 North Las Vegas NV 89033 800-654-2776 • reunions.com narm@reunions.com

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Just Right.

The right place for your reunion. Chattanooga. Where else can you find family friendly hotels, world-class attractions and fun at every turn ... all within a few blocks and all within your budget? Time and time again, reunions find a perfect fit in our not-too-big, not-too-small city. And to top it off, our top-notch CVB services rival what you’ll find in a bigger city with the personal touch of a small

town, and the can-do spirit to help you every step of the way. Find out for yourself: book your next reunion in the right-sized city with the right attitude. Contact Christina Petro at chrisp@chattanoogacvb.com or (423) 424-4417 or visit ChattanoogaMeetings.com FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 51

Our five miles are packed with more ways to bring your loved ones closer together. More live shows. More roller coasters. More down-home cooking. More craft exhibitions. More horses and lumberjacks. And more mountain views. Which means more spine tingles, goose bumps and unforgettable moments for anyone at any age. Welcome to the place that turns family ties into unbreakable knots.

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CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES FREDERICKSBURG

TIMELESS. That’s the perfect description of the Fredericksburg region. Visitors to the area encounter the richness of the American experience, and walk in the footsteps of presidents and generals. They feel the joy of discovery in the Fredericksburg area’s unique present and entertaining past, in its historical attractions and battlefields, shops, galleries, beautiful wineries and chef owned restaurants. To book your reunion, please contact Kim Herbert, Conference Sales and Services Specialist at 540-372-1216 or 800-260-3646 | ksherbert@fredericksburgva.gov. www.VisitFred.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 15

NEWPORT NEWS Get closer to ships, history and the great outdoors with one

central destination: Newport News. Get all this, plus Williamsburg and Virginia Beach, too! Whether getting together with old classmates, shipmates or relatives, Newport News provides the perfect location and services to make your reunion a success. We offer the best value and plenty to see and do! Let Newport News make your next reunion a memorable one. Call Barb Kleiss at 888-493-7386 | or email her at bkleiss@nngov.com to book your reunion. www.newport-news.org

VisitNorfolk

232 East Main Street, Norfolk VA 23510 Norfolk’s beautifully revitalized waterfront, rich military heritage, walkable downtown and Coastal Virginia location make it the ideal destination for your next reunion. Home to such attractions as the Battleship Wisconsin, MacArthur Memorial, Hampton Roads Naval Museum and the world’s largest naval base. See why American Heritage named Norfolk “A Great American Place.” Offering over 5,000 committable hotel rooms in various price ranges. Call 800-368-3097 | dallen@visitnorfolktoday.com www.visitnorfolktoday.com | SEE OUR DISPLAY AD PAGE 47

Kingsmill Resort, Williamsburg, VA

A relaxing riverside setting, where everyone finds freedom to have fun! Choose spacious guestrooms or suites with fireplace, full kitchen and washer/dryer. Celebrate indoors or out and enjoy 3 golf courses, pool with lazy river, Kids Kamp, spa, sports club, watersports, shuttle to Busch Gardens and Colonial Williamsburg. Call 800.832.5665 for a reunion they’ll rave about!

WEST VIRGINIA CAPON SPRINGS & FARMS

PO Box 0, Capon Springs, WV 26823 Come home to Capon, where good food, good friends and good fun meet! For three generations, our family has been welcoming guests to our award-winning all-inclusive mountain retreat. Relax and enjoy organized activities for all ages within a restored historic resort. Featuring: golf, spa w/mineral baths, hiking, spring-fed pool, tennis and more on 4,700 forested acres. Open May 1-Nov. 1 with 100 rooms in a variety of lodging. Two hours from DC. Call or email year round, reunion planner: Jonathan Bellingham: 304-874-3695 | caponsf@mountain.net www.caponsprings.net | Read more about us on page 21.

CRUISES Personal cruise planning services

Cruise Group Specialist, Brian Forrester, offers personal cruise planning services and is eager to help make your reunion memorable. Contact Brian at Holiday Cruises and Tours, 480-998-1112 | 800-998-1228 brian@hcttravel.com. Brian will ask questions to understand your needs and present what works best for your reunion. He can get the best deals and knows how to make your reunion cruise a success. He will work with you to organize deposits, payment plans, announcements, and special arrangements. Relax! He will handle all the details. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 35

T-SHIRTS CUSTOMINK

Create amazing reunion shirts online in our fun & easy Design Lab! Choose from name-brand apparel and 40,000+ images, or upload your own art. No hidden charges or set-up fees. Guaranteed delivery dates. FREE shipping and FREE design help 7 days/week. Save $10 on 6 or more shirts with voucher code: reunion (expires 3/31/14). Call us toll-free at 877-803-5887. We love to talk tees! Or visit us online at customink.com/reunion. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 9

Buy reunion supplies! www.etsy.com/shop/reunionsmagazine

Subscriptions! Workbooks! Save the Date & Time is Running Out postcards

PRODUCTS & SERVICES All of these products can be purchased through Reunions magazine. Please call 414-263-4567.

BOOKS

Family Reunion, by Mary Quattlebaum, Illustrated by Andrea Shine. Thoughtful and fun, this book gives glimpses of family togetherness and tradition through various poetic forms, including free verse, a sonnet, haiku, a ballad and more. $16 + s/h. The Miles of Smiles: 101 Great Car Games & Activities, by travel writer Carole Terwilliger Meyers. May be the ultimate solution for back seat squabbling” on the way to your reunion. Keep kids entertained all the way there. $8.95 + s/h. THE FAMILY REUNION SURVIVAL GUIDE: How to Avoid Problems With Your Family Without Avoiding Your Family by Laurence A. Basirico. (2003, Identity Publishing, $11.95). A book about relationships at family reunions and how to enjoy them. Based on original research. 2106 Coy St., Burlington, NC. (336) 584-1442. The Pick A Party book set, by Patty Sachs, party-planning expert. Book #1: Pick a Party, The Big Book of Party Themes and Occasion, 100 theme party plans for holidays, milestone occasions and special events. Book #2 Pick-A-Party Cookbook, Includes menus, recipes and table decoration ideas for the 100 theme parties in Book #1. Regularly $20 for the set, only $16.00 + $2 s/h) for Reunions magazine readers. Secrets of Successful Family Reunions, by Robert W. Wolfe a.k.a. Uncle Bob A how-to-book for successful family reunions. Whether simple or elaborate it helps those who wish to pass their values to the next generation. 2008. $16.99 + s/h. Treasure and Scavenger Hunts (3rd ed.) How to Plan, Create, and Give Them, by Gordon Burgett Communications Unlimited, 2007, 134 pp. $15.95 + s/h or $12.95 digital. Your Living Family Tree: Keeping your family together forever through print, photos, sound and video, by Gordon Burgett Communications Unlimited, 2008, 174 pp. $17.95 + s/h or $15.95 digital.

FOOD PREPARATION

How Many?! How Much!?, A Step-by-Step guide to cooking for a large group, by Jennifer Cole. This book will help you with menu planning, recipe costing, recruiting helpers, budgeting. Spiral bound, 73 pp.$19.95 plus $4.95 s/h.

MAGAZINE

Subscribe to Reunions magazine Ensure a full year of reunion planning advice plus workbook. Subscribe now. Send $9.99/yr or $17.99/2 yrs to Reunions Magazine, Inc., PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727. To charge to credit card call 414-263-4567.

MUSIC

The Malone Family Choir: A Family Reunion is an original gospel CD opening with a song you’ll want to play to say Welcome to Our Family Reunion! at your family reunion. CD $15 or tape $10 + s/h.

Postcards that make your reunion point!

Send

save the date

when you’ve set it!

Send

TIME IS RUNNING OuT when it is!

Custom Printing – $45 p/hundred; 50¢ each Fill-in cards $15 p/hundred; 20¢ each plus shipping & handling Send message, check & request to: Reunion postcards PO Box 11727 v Milwaukee WI 53211-0727 To charge, call 414.263.4567 FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2014 v Reunions 53