Reunions Magazine Volume 25, Number 3. February/March/April 2015 (SOLD OUT)

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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.

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in this issue Departments

front Words – 4 ALUM & I – 8 Golden grads go back to school by Janet Park The Fantastic Jubilee by Gwen Davis Kettles Another grand 50th celebration! by Melodee Leven Currier Forecast for Fairfax County … it’s raining Brats! by Dean Miller A moveable reunion from Barstow, CA to Laughlin, NV

BRANCH OFFICE – 16 A Family Affair by A.J. Jacobs Invitation to The Global Family Reunion Wilmington’s African-American Heritage, Reinen Reunion

Scrapbook – 18 Reunion School Virtual Family Reunion Planning Workshops Summer giveaway boxes Global Family Reunion Branch Parties, Cruising with kids and more Book review: Reunion by Hannah Pittard

Masterplan – 25 Reunion in San Diego Thompson/Campbell/Osgo Family Reunion by Sybel Higgins Great reunions at a resort called Reunion!

Miller Century Farm celebration by Deb Haugen Adkins Family Reunion by Bruce Johnson Smith Family celebrates 34th reunion by Matthews Smith & Mary S. Ellis Welch Family Reunion by Mary Alice Welch There are lots of Woodworths! by Lowell Woodworth Payne Family Reunion by Kim Bickham Dunbar-McCreary Family Reunion by Deborah Smiley Owens “Kindred Connections” by Ernest L. Owens Jr. Tales of two reunions by Jessie Larson James-McCutchen Family Reunion by Barbara Jean Graham A happy reunion at Wisp Resort Branson sweepstakes winner, Caveye Family

REUNION FEATURE – 35 FOOD Hospitality Answerman – How do I plan the reunion’s “big“ meal?

Many reunions talk about their food Dutch oven cooking for camping by Anne Chlovechok Stories about barbecue parties, potlucks, farmers markets, meal/food plans Ross Family Reunion by Patti Sanders-Smith, EdD Coming Soon! Real Reunion Recipes (RRR)

Military Reunion News – 42 Don’t forget your red coat! from the VP48 Reunion “Sky Soldiers” reunion by Raymond C. Ramirez USS Enterprise Fire Reunion Alaska Cruise by Mike Neville Combining groups by Dave Blake National Museum of the US Army, Veterans History Project, “Big Red One,” US Army Officer Candidate School, Wyoming Vietnam Veterans, Veterans, Vietnam-era combat engineer class, Alabama All Veterans Reunion, D-Day Veterans

Reunion Resources – 46 A directory of reunion-friendly places, services, vendors and products On the cover This issue is the third of our 25th volume. Part 3 of our history starts on page 4.

February/March/April 2015 Volume 25 • 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 Kirsten Holmes Casey O’Brien Administrative Staff Nicole Dettmering Ksioszk hospitality answer man Dean Miller Contributors Carole Bailey • Kim Bickham • Dave Blake Kathleen Bogart • Jim Chambers Anne Chlovechok • Wambi Cook Melodee Leven Currier • Jerre Curry Mary S. Ellis • Kimberly Ghys Buddy and Charlotte Glover • Victor Graves Barbara Jean Graham • Deb Haugen Sybel Higgins • A..J Jacobs • Bruce Johnson Gwen Davis Kettles • Terri Kramer Jodie Langhammer • Jessie Larson Duwan M. Mason, Sr. • Mike Neville Ernest Owens, Jr. • Janet Park Raymond C. Ramirez • Patti Sanders-Smith, EdD Deborah Smiley • Matthews Smith • Janice Wade Mary Alice Welch • Joan Wiggins Lowell Woodworth 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@reunionsmag.com or fax 414-263-6331. 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 R eu n ions maga zi n e , I nc . 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 414-2636331 | e-mail editor@reunions mag.com | reunionsmag.com. © 2015 Reunions magazine, Inc. FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2015 v Reunions 3

FRONT WORDS

What’s new?

Thinking about a cruise reunion?

W

e launched a whole new, improved and easier-to-use home page on www.reunionsmag.com.

Our aim is to present as much reunion planning information as we can and make it as easy as possible for you to find. Can you find your way around? Is it easy to navigate? Also explore our Pinterest and facebook pages for even more ideas!

What’s in this issue?

Dean Miller’s Hospitality Answerman introduces our food feature with some very helpful information for planning and ordering food for your reunion.

Then there are lots more food ideas for your consideration. A Barstow, California, class reunion finds Laughlin, Nevada, a wonderful place for a reunion, while a high school for military dependents finds Fairfax County, Virginia, perfect.

New in the Reunion School listings are Virtual Reunion Planning Workshops by We Build Legacy. Find out how you can join; spaces are limited. And, of course, many family, class and military reunions will provide inspiration.

The Global Family Reunion June 6, 2015, in New York City

More and more reunions are enjoying cruises and you should too. Brian Forrester, who specializes in cruises for reunion groups, also organizes familiarization (FAM) cruises for reunion planners so you can experience a cruise ship to make your decision about whether cruising is the right choice for your reunion. If you’re interested in joining a cruise FAM, which usually costs a lot less than a cruise but is limited to two representatives per reunion, contact Brian (480-998-1112 or Brian@hcttravel. com) to let him know you are interested in being contacted when a new FAM is set. Also tell him a little about your reunion group.

Summer giveaway boxes!

If you are one of Reunions magazine’s facebook friends, you know we’ve offered giveaway boxes filled with reunion prizes in the past. This year we’re getting an earlier start and will choose prizes earlier. Many of the boxes have themes (family, kids, military). Check the giveaway page on our website or facebook for details and deadlines. More details on page 20.

Also coming soon, we’ll begin collecting Real Reunion Recipes, by reunion planners for reunion planners! We will announce the collection on our website, our facebook and pinterest pages, and in newsletters.

Billed as “the biggest, most inclusive and most fascinating family reunion in history.”

In this issue, learn more about its Do you get our monthly newsletter? creator, author A.J. Jacobs on page 16.

Our newsletter arrives on the very first day of each month.

Just a few of his cousins are Abraham Lincoln, Newsletter subscribers also get occasional announcements Albert Einstein, George H.W. Bush, and reminders of special things coming up. And it’s free, like Daniel Radcliffe, Henry Louis Gates, a lot of other freebies for your reunion you’ll find on our free and comedians Ricky Gervais and Nick Kroll. stuff pages.

Also learn about Global Family Reunion Branch Parties Postcards and t-shirt designs on page 22, being arranged around the Our web wizard, Josh Evert, has country for those who cannot come to designed postcards and t-shirt logos that New York City for the main event. can be personalized, and you can have as And the big news: The official program Mail to many printed as you want.

See all of them for The Global Family Reunion will be Reunions magazine on our Etsy page at etsy.com/shop/ included in our summer issue, the final PO Box 11727 reunionsmagazine. issue of our 25th volume, coming in May. Milwaukee WI 53211-0727 call 414-263-4567 visit www.reunionsmag.com fax 414-263-6331 e-mail editor@reunionsmag.com

Be in touch!

4 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

Parade of Covers Volume 13

reunions magazine history continues …

C

lass and military reunions seem to follow pretty consistent formulas, which really work well for them. Discovering and featuring unique class and military reunions became a goal. I had already attended reunions of my high school class and discovered that much of what we do is pretty standard fare: Our nametags had our high school pictures on them. We had an informal Friday night gathering where, typically, mostly only classmates attended.

On Saturday there was a tour of the school, some played golf, and in the evening there was a formal party where significant others were included. Sundays varied, with picnics mostly. Those reunions were ten years apart, with the exception of the 32nd anniversary, the year we all turned 50. Now that we’re a whole lot older a different group has taken on the challenge of planning annual picnics, with some bigger event to be held when we get to the next milestone year.

Military reunions, we discovered, also use some pretty set programs, although they often are held during the week rather than on weekends, and they occur in the fall rather than summer. They take advantage of visiting new locations to enjoy touring during the day, including places of special military interest. They have well-established memorial services to remember their fallen brothers and sisters, and they do a lot of reminiscing about their shared, harrowing wartime experiences.

Some personal notes …

Indulge me as I share some personal experiences from the past 24+ years of publishing Reunions magazine. We are a very small group working all sides of the box to get the magazine out. We have a masthead in each issue that is packed with names.

But, don’t forget: the magazine is readerdriven, and the list of contributors is the list of readers who have contributed. If you look closely, some of the same names appear over and over again: they’re the active readercontributors and they are our life-blood.

These people are true reunion fans.

Who would have guessed that some of the following would occur? While most of these things happened to me, they happened first

to the magazine. Early on, we were in the right place at the right time, when the hospitality industry discovered reunions as a good and viable source of income.

This all started out because I love to edit, so the idea of a magazine hit the spot for me.

Our first serious area of concentration was reunions of adoptees and birthparents. At the time, the Phil Donohue and Oprah Winfrey shows broadcast these tear-jerking reunions, which fueled some of the energy for our project. The idea was met with mild interest in the adoption search community, but elsewhere reaction to the idea consistently followed the lines of, “Adoption reunions sounds interesting, but let me tell you about my reunion …” Whereupon I learned about many class, family and military reunions.

Writing, editing and storytelling – fun and satisfying as they may be – I need bread so I had to start thinking about how this publication would support itself. Of course, like all other publications, with advertising.

This was not my first foray into the world of publishing and advertising.

The magazine’s actual evolution can be followed by tracking all the issues, well over 100 by now. In an earlier issue we discussed how advances in electronics and technology have pushed us in directions we never could have imagined. Nor could we have foreseen that the industry to which we would deliver an audience was hospitality and travel. So we became the vehicle for many convention and visitors bureaus (CVB), hotels, resorts, ranches, cruises, and vacation homes, to reach a market they wanted to entice. Many CVBs in particular have taken on a prominent role in their areas to package and present considerable resources to reunions.

Many have reunion specialists ready, willing and able to take reunions under their wings, all in the interest of helping a reunion planner produce a memorable event.

Volume 14

Volume 15

Be prepared for unforeseen and unintended consequences!

Who could have ever predicted that producing an audience for any industry would have other interesting consequences?

For many summers early on I spent many hours each day talking with reporters from continued on page 6 FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2015 v Reunions 5

Parade of Covers, cont.

FRONT WORDS

continued from page 5

Volume 16

Volume 17

Volume 18

6 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

newspapers, other magazines, radio and TV shows. When print media was still a force in our society, Reunions magazine was highlighted in many articles as a fine resource, and this built our audience for both reading and submitting material as we continued to grow.

During the first 10 years of the magazine’s existence, I often was hired to represent other companies, sharing their message in the context of reunions. I traveled all over the country for local (mostly) morning TV interview appearances to talk about reunions, and slipping in a little message about fried chicken, hotdogs, portable furniture for picnics, and the importance of genealogy to reunions. It looked glamorous, but was exhausting; however, it did add a little feather in my cap and provided extra bucks for Reunions magazine! These assignments included lots of radio and print interviews, as well. Thanks, Reunions magazine!

Another unforeseen opportunity was press travel! Yes, I was invited on trips to learn about places and opportunities for reunions.

While there were several trips that required a lot of imagination for how they would be a really good idea for reunions, I mostly chose invitations from places that were very obviously great places for reunions. Someday I’ll count all the trips I took, because without exception they were educational and fun, and I met many friends I cherish still. What an incredible bonus! Perhaps I should have a reunion with all the people I’ve met and traveled with on these trips!

I’d like to set a press travel myth aside.

There was a time when these trips were seen as paid vacations – and in the getaway sense, they were that. But no longer did a spouse/ “photographer” come along on the trip. By the time I started press travel, we had to guarantee and produce assignments.

We were expected to show up for all events, which often started at 7 AM and lasted late into the night at fancy dinners. I love press travel and hope I haven’t fallen off all the invite lists. Thanks, Reunions magazine!

There’s been even more travel to present at reunion planning workshops. I limit my appearances to those involving supporters/ sponsors of the magazine, as a bonus for their devotion to reunions. Most workshop sponsors have been convention and visitors

bureaus, though I did several at YMCA of the Rockies’ Family Reunion University and have appeared at genealogy society meetings and conferences. Workshops are a particular pleasure because I get to meet many of our readers, and there are groupies who show up at more than one workshop, which forces me to change my schtick regularly. So in the workshop realm, I deal with a number of subjects/shows/concentrations. … and finally,

Reunions magazine is a place where reunions can celebrate themselves, where planners can share their ideas and triumphs, and where reunion members can rejoice at seeing their family/class/military/group in the spotlight.

We can’t recall every reunion we’ve met on these pages, but we will commemorate every reunion we’ve met in the Reunions Hall of Fame – coming in the next and final issue of our 25th volume: a quarter century of reunions! The Reunions Hall of Fame is a list of every reunion that has appeared in Reunions magazine or on our website over a quarter century.

When we began, some asked, “Why?” They were mostly the people who had not experienced a reunion, because those who had were quick to share their stories. And the stories were always happy and good and gave a shiny patina to the word reunion, because it was a positive experience. Over the years those feelings have only intensified, and many more reunions have been formed and are meeting, often annually.

Reunions have their detractors and I acknowledge them only to assuage any idea that I’m living in a fantasy world. There are families, for example, who have no business reconvening to relive some sad past reality.

There are classmates whose experience in school did not form the kind of memories that would make them want to revisit. There are military comrades who choose not to revisit thoughts of war or battle. For all of them, I say, I’m so sorry you can’t experience the happiness of reunion. I know it’s more complicated than that, but the complications we’ve dealt with are the stresses and joys of planning a memorable reunion. EW … to be concluded …

FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2015 v Reunions 7

alum & I

Golden grads go back to school

O

Pauline Rice and Barbara Forsberg, two grads from the class of 1946, are happy to see one another again – and to pose for the camera.

nce a year, Lake Washington High School in Kirkland, Washington, opens its doors to former students. This popular Saturday afternoon event is called “Golden Grads’ Day.” Those who graduated 50 or more years ago are invited, and are eager to visit with old friends once again.

On a recent Golden Grads’ Day, more than 100 people flocked into the school’s reception room, many wearing the school’s traditional purple and white colors. The Class of 1961 was in charge, helping with registration, decorating tables (with balloons and “year of graduation” signs), and serving refreshments.

There was no set program. Instead, the room buzzed with chatter. Everyone simply enjoyed talking, catching up on the latest news, and recalling their school days. Typical conversations included: “How have you been?” “What are you up to these days?” “Whatever happened to Bill Smith [or some other classmate]?”

And finally, as the afternoon drew to a close, “Hope to see you again next year.”

Reported by Janet Park, Seattle, Washington

The Fantastic Jubilee

T

he Waynesboro High and Industrial School Alumni Class of 1964 celebrated their “Golden Anniversary” at Coradell’s Wedding Chapel in Waynesboro, Georgia. The theme was Remembering the Past, Celebrating the Present, and Embracing the Future.

We had decided at the 45th reunion that we would meet every five years. But after this phenomenal event, the reunion committee is proposing another reunion in two years and then again in three years for our 55th. Dr. Eleanor G. Hopson, the 2014 chairperson, will survey our class for a majority.

The program included our Class President; Cobb County, Georgia, County Manager; the Mayor of Waynesboro; Commissioner of Burke County, District 1;

8 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

invited faculty members; trimmed porcelain and a guest speaker. commemorative plate During our Meet & depicting our high school Greet, we shared previous was the special keepsake group photos and to mark the occasion. A mementos, a slide show, plate and a display rack an “Authors’ Corner” and were presented to each a “Gone but not Forgotten” classmate. Classmates classmates section. who were unable to attend To honor his many years could also purchase a of dedicated service to students plate. Our speaker/ of Waynesboro and Burke A commemorative plate depicting Waynesboro classmate received a High and Industrial School was the special County, our late principal, special plaque of keepsake presented to each classmate.

Mr. Robert E. Blakeney, appreciation/pride for his Sr.’s, silhouette was highlighted inside our global contributions. maroon and white (school colors) program, A former teacher invited us to visit the symbolizing his continuous watch over the school – now being used for Head Start – progress made during the years. to read to the students and see what Head A 10-inch maroon and white, goldStart is doing.

Sadly, we lost one of our original reunion committee members during our 50th class reunion planning.

Effie Proctor Ruffin’s photo was displayed in memoriam, along with those of 30 other classmates. Her widower was one of our special guests and received her certificate of appreciation, and a memorial fund from her classmates.

At the reunion, Waynesboro Mayor Pauline W. Jenkins proclaimed WH&I Class of 1964 Day and gave the class the key to the city. In response, the class presented her a commemorative plate in memory of her sister, our classmate, Charlene Williams Mayes.

From a report by Gwen Davis Kettles, Fort Washington, Maryland.

Waynesboro High and Industrial School, Class of 1964

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alum & I

Another grand 50th celebration!

T

Photo credit by Tom Weber, Smile Photography

he Pompano Beach, Florida, Senior Grand Ballroom. Besides a drink ticket, High School (home of the Golden each guest was given a program detailing Tornadoes) Class of 1964 held its 50th evening events, names of the reunion reunion in Deerfield Beach, Florida, at the committee and the menu. There was a Embassy Suites. Classmates came from all program honoring our military, firefighters, over the US to reunite with classmates police and EMS, as well as a Memorial they may not have seen in 50 years.

DVD with photos and names of classmates The event Friday evening was a who have died. Fun prizes were given to “Welcome!” Cocktail Party on the Patio. classmates who were the same size, traveled Guests were given drink tickets and farthest and had the most grandchildren. clip-on blue-and-gold name badges The Sophisticats, led by a classmate and bearing their senior pictures. One of the his wife, provided dance music for the classmates was DJ for the outdoor event evening. About 140 classmates and guests All guests received a drink ticket and a clip-on blue-and-gold name by the ocean, where we enjoyed hors attended Friday and Saturday events. badge bearing their senior pictures. d’oeuvres.

On Sunday, a sumptuous brunch was On Saturday morning, 80 classmates took a tour of the school. held at a restaurant on the ocean, where we said our goodbyes Many hadn’t been back for 50 years. An assistant principal gave after a fabulous weekend, hoping to reunite again soon. Visit www. an amazing two-plus hour tour which everyone loved. pbshs1964.classquest.com.

Saturday evening’s event was a Dinner/Dance in the hotel’s From a report by Melodee Leven Currier, Dublin, Ohio

Pompano Beach Senior High School, Class of 1964

10 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

ABOVE ATLANTA | BEYOND MEMORABLE It’s a feeling of excitement that lasts long after the last family member leaves. It’s a new discovery among countless attractions that deepen the bond you share. It’s a moment when you realize, times like these are all that really matter. It’s Dunwoody. Just 10 miles above Atlanta, Dunwoody is far beyond memorable.

E-mail SarahS@CVBDunwoody.com to start planning your reunion and visit CVBDunwoody.com for more information.

ABOVE + BEYOND FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2015 v Reunions 11

alum & I

Forecast for Fairfax County … it’s raining Brats!

Y

ou may know the term “Brat” is a common Some of the Eagles enjoyed a festive evening at reference to sons and daughters of American a local restaurant, where their private dining room military personnel. But did you know that it truly is was turned into a German beer hall serving German a term of endearment? It refers to children who schnitzel (sausage) and featuring accordion music have endured frequent moves, school changes, provided by classmate Silvia Eberly. friends left behind, and long absences of their Other Eagles enjoyed seeing the local sights on parent(s) on deployment. both land (with a Segway tour of downtown The origin of the term comes from the British Washington, DC), and water (with a cruise on the Army; it once stood for British Regiment Attached Potomac River).

Traveler. Over the years, it has come to refer to children of any According to reunion co-chair T. D. Jorgensen, a truly military or foreign service member, especially those deployed memorable highlight of the weekend was the attendance of a overseas. In fact, so many American high schools located in former teacher, Joe Serino, fondly remembered by many alumni. foreign countries and operated by the He taught art at the school for more US government now have their own than a quarter century from the 1960s alumni associations, that there is an through the 1990s. umbrella group, Overseas Brats Then! one month later, more than (overseasbrats.com), who help organize 500 alumni and guests from the and plan activities and reunions.

Madrid-Torrejon High School, located Fairfax County, Virginia, just across outside of Madrid, Spain, converged on the Potomac River from Washington, the Sheraton for their “El Grande DC, was proud to host two major Brat Reunion.” Many of the Knights reunions last summer. In June, over attending noted it was the first time 350 alumni, spouses, and guests from they had visited the National Capital the Nurnberg American HS, in area in more than 40 years! Alumni classmates enjoying a sightseeing cruise on Nurnberg, Germany, set up shop at the Nurnberg American High School came from as far as Spain and France. the Potomoc River.

Sheraton Tysons Hotel for a four-day One pair of sisters – Barbara Woodring “Gathering of Eagles” reunion. The school, for dependents of Bunch and Debbie Woodring Cottrell – decided at the last minute American military stationed in Germany during the Cold War, to attend, and drove through the night from Kentucky to make the was in operation for almost 50 years, from 1946 through 1995. reunion on time!

Organized activities included a golf tournament (Fairfax County has fourteen public golf courses to choose among!), and a visit Rockland Farms Winery in nearby Poolesville, Maryland, owned by classmate, Greg Glenn.

Some classmates used Fairfax County’s central location as a jumping off point to explore museums, monuments, and memorials of Washington, DC, as well as other attractions in the Mid-Atlantic region. Many enjoyed dining on authentic Spanish cuisine at one of the several Spanish restaurants in the area. (Tapas and paella, anyone?)

Report from Dean Miller, National Sales Director at VisitFairfax.

Nurnberg American High School classmates dancing the night away.

One of many highlights of the Madrid-Torrejon High School weekend’s festivities was posing for the official group photo in the hotel’s indoor pool, with many in the group holding copies of the August 2013 issue of Reunions magazine, which had featured the group on the cover!

12 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

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alum & I

A moveable reunion

K

athleen Bogart, planner of the Barstow, California, John F. Kennedy High School Class of 1973 reunion, declared their 40-year reunion in Laughlin, Nevada, wonderful! A committee of four class members from Las Vegas, Utah, Northern California, and Bogart from Barstow, emailed and “met regularly” by teleconference. For the first time, they decided to have the reunion away from Barstow, and chose Laughlin, Nevada. Not everyone in the class agreed, but enough did and the committee proceeded with their decision, which Kathleen declared a great choice.

To add numbers in order to get better rates from vendors, they invited members of classes three years before and three after 1973. About 12 people from other classes were added to their final number of 75 attendees.

Bogart contacted Meg McDaniel at the In Memoriam display to classmates who have passed away.

Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) in Photo credit Cindy Franey, Barstow, California Laughlin, who sent a Request for Proposal to Laughlin hotels and shared responses with Bogart for additional choices. Later the CVB provided coupon more accommodating; without missing a beat, they relocated books so attendees could save money while in the party inside. Then, during the day on Saturday, “a bunch Laughlin. Several committee members met in of the men” arranged an early morning golf game while others Laughlin to check out facilities and hotels, and visited the casino.

Bogart and committee members met a second time The Saturday evening banquet was the highlight of four months before the the reunion. Bogart brought decorations and set up one reunion to work out table as an example. The hotel staff did the rest and details. decorated for the evening party. Bogart says, “The hotel They started staff did an excellent job decorating.” They chose a Six-foot-tall Sammy Spartan Friday evening sit-down, served dinner and enjoyed dancing afterward, John F. Kennedy High School mascot, with a cocktail with music provided by a DJ. “attended” the Class of 1973 reunion. party, which had Finally, Bogart told a story that will certainly strike the been planned for hearts of other reunion planners. At the end of the Saturday night the Edgewater Hotel/Casino’s outside event, while class members were already dancing, she spied patio.

But it was very hot and too windy, three boxes in the corner of the room. She realized those were the The gift bag that almost and the hotel staff could not have been welcome gifts that had never been distributed! So she and did not get distributed! another classmate distributed leather messenger bags embroidered with “John F. Kennedy, Class of 1973 – 40th Reunion” in their school colors of black and gold, to every chair in the banquet room! She was glad she found them before she was faced with mailing 75 bags after the reunion!

Many members left on Sunday, but some stayed an extra day to enjoy Laughlin, Nevada, before returning home.

Class of 1973, John F. Kennedy High School, Barstow, California, 40th reunion in Laughlin, Nevada.

14 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

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branch office

A Family Affair

This is from an article on mentalfloss.com by A.J. Jacobs, creator of The Global Family Reunion, explaining the project.

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’m one of the thousands of researchers tackling the biggest challenge in the history of ancestry: We are building a family tree of the entire human race. All seven billion members.

It’s an ambitious project: countless hours online, billions of obscure records, and unprecedented numbers of DNA tests. The world family tree includes some 77 million people on all seven continents including Antarctica, all connected by blood or marriage A.J. Jacobs, founder of The or both.

Global Family Reunion Then, along came the internet and the Photo credit: Julie Jacobs Wikipedia model. Several sites – including WikiTree and Geni (owned by MyHeritage) – have revolutionized the field with a collaborative, crowdsourced approach to family-tree planting. Geni’s Big Tree is 77 million and WikiTree’s is 7 million.

Gilad Japhet, CEO of MyHeritage and Geni, says, “In a decade or less, I believe we’ll have a single tree that will include most of the people living on earth.”

One big challenge is accuracy. Forest Rangers, a corps of volunteer experts, verify connections and make sure they’re well-documented. There is also a privacy issue. Geni and WikiTree obscure the names of living persons.

The mega-tree will be world-changing. First, the scientific value: A team of MIT scientists is already gaining insights into the heritability of longevity. Second, it might make the world a kinder place: Humans are biased to treat family members with more consideration. The cliché of “We’re all one big family” is true.

Another powerful tool is DNA testing.

The Global Family Reunion will be the biggest and most remarkable family reunion in history. Every member of the human family is invited. Visit globalfamilyreunion.com.

Wilmington’s African-American heritage

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ilmington, North Carolina, is among the most historically significant African-American regions in the US. African-American ancestry is traced back to the 1700s, and although much important history left no visible landmark, several historical sites still exist, such as the Cape Fear Museum, Bellamy Mansion, and Thalian Hall. The City of Wilmington’s free African American Heritage Guide includes religious, educational, social and cultural sites; copies are available at tinyurl.com/WilmingtonAAHeritageGuide.

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You’re invited to the

Global Family Reunion Saturday, June 6, 2015

on the site of the 1964 New York World’s Fair Those with a proven connection to the world’s biggest family tree can take part in the largest family photo in history.

The Global Family Reunion is inspired by the work of author A. J. Jacobs.

The Global Family Reunion genealogy partners are MyHeritage, FamilySearch, 23andMe, FamilyTreeDNA and WikiTree and documentary producer, Morgan Spurlock.

We are all part of one gigantic family of humans.

Join the Family. $20 per person admission goes to battling Alzheimer’s.

Visit www.globalfamilyreunion.

Reinens celebrate Norwegian heritage

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our generations of the Reinen Family Reunion (ages one month to 99-1/2 years) celebrated love of family and pride in their Norwegian heritage. The day was spent enjoying traditional Norwegian food, good company, entertainment including Norwegian joke-telling, and revisiting the family tree.

The Reinens are descendants of brothers Andreas and Anders Reinen, who bravely left home and family in Sogndal, Norway, in the early 1880s in search of a better life in the US. Anders changed the name to Rein, married and raised six children.

Andreas kept Reinen, married and raised three sons.

The Reinens have celebrated family reunions since the 1970s and have researched their family history back to the 1600s in Norway. They stay in contact with family members who own and live on the land in Sogndal, Norway, where Anders and Andreas were born and raised.

From a report by Mary Ann Stoikes on hngnews.com, Wisconsin.

The Reunion Destination For Every Generation 800/964-8600 ext. 3017

chrisp@chattanoogacvb.com

www.ChattanoogaMeetings.com FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2015 v Reunions 17

scrapbook Most of these events are sponsored and presented by convention and visitors bureaus. Most take place on Saturdays and, for the most part, are for people planning reunions in their area. All prefer or require advance reservations and most 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 Reunion Workshops & Conferences.

Alliance of Military Reunions

Chicago Southland, Illinois

Albany, Georgia

Clayton County, Georgia

Contact Skip Sander, 412-367-1376 | MilitaryReunions@aol.com AllMilitaryReunions.org February 7, 2015 Contact Jenny Collins, 229 317-4760 | Jollins@albanyga.com Alpharetta, Georgia

April 18, 2015 Contact Layne Mitchell, 678-297-0102 layne@Awesomealpharetta.com

Contact Kristy Stevens, 708-895-8299 Kristy@VisitChicagoSouthland.com March 7, 2015 Contact Tangie Carter, 678-610-4242 | tangie@atlantastruesouth.com atlantastruesouth.com/meeting/family-reunion-workshop/ Cobb County, Georgia

Contact Melissa Legaux, 678-303-2635 | mlegaux@travelcobb.org Columbus, Ohio

Athens, Georgia

Contact Athens CVB, 706-357-4430

October 3, 2015 Roger Dudley, 614-222-6136 experiencecolumbus.com/tours-reunions

Atlanta, Georgia

Dekalb County, Georgia

Visit http://www.atlanta.net/reunions/ Atlanta, Georgia

March 14, 2015 Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Perimeter Center Contact Georgette Lake-Hill, 404-504-0425 Georgette.lake@hilton.com Visit http://hgiatlperimeter.eventbrite.com Augusta, Georgia

Contact “Cousin� Michelle, 800-726-0243, 706-823-6600; mbovian@augustaga.org Baltimore, Maryland

410-244-8861

Greater Birmingham, Alabama

Contact Tara Walton, CTIS, 205-458-8000, ext 206 twalton@birminghamal.org Branson, Missouri

Military Reunion Planners Conference Aug 3-6, 2015 Contact Julie Peters, 417-334-4084 | jpeters@bransoncvb.com www.explorebranson.com/groups/reunions Cabarrus County, North Carolina

February 21, March 21, April 18, May 16, June 20, August 15, September 19, October 17, November 14, 2015 Contact Penny Moore, penny@dcvb.org | 770-492-5018 atlantasdekalb.com Detroit, Michigan

Fall 2015 Contact DMCVB, 313-202-1985 | meetdetroit.com/reunions Douglasville, Georgia

Contact Kimberly Bridges, 678-449-3172 bridgesk@douglasvillega.gov | visitdouglasville.com Dunwoody, Georgia

March 28, 2015 Contact Sarah Steadman, 678-244-9804 sarahs@cvbdunwoody.com Fairfax County, Virginia

February 14, 2015 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

Contact Carrie Hendrickson, 704-456-7969 Carrie@visitcabarrus.com | visitcabarrus.com

March 7, 2015 Contact: Kimberly Herbert, 800-260-3646 ksherbert@fredericksburgva.gov

Chesapeake, Virginia

Grand Rapids, Michigan

October 17, 2015 Contact C. Jeff Bunn, 757-382-1352| jbunn@cityofchesapeake.net Chicago Northwest, Schaumburg, Illinois

Contact Melinda Garritano, 847-278-3445 mgarritano@chicagonorthwest.com 18 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

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

April 24, 2015 Contact Cricket Elliott-Leeper, Gwinnett CVB, 770-814-6049 | cricket@exploregwinnett.org Kalamazoo, Michigan

Contact Jennifer Williamson, 269-488-0057 jwilliimason@discoverkalamazoo.com Kissimmee, Florida

Military Reunions April 21-25, 2015, Tuesday-Friday Family Reunions October 24, 2015 Speaker: Edith Wagner, Reunions magazine editor Contact Jadeine Shives, 407-742-8255 jshives@experiencekissimmee.com Lake County, Illinois

Contact Kimberly Ghys, 800-Lake-Now | lakecountyreunions.com Lee County CVB, Florida

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

Rock Hill, South Carolina

Visit www.visityorkcounty.com/ Sandy Springs, Georgia

October 17, 2015 Contact Will Carlson, 770-206-1445 will.carlson@sandyspringsga.org Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana

Contact Kevin Flowers, 800-551-8682 | kflowers@sbctb.org

February 21, May 16, August 15, November 14, 2015 Contact Darlene Starks, 502-379-6110 | dstarks@gotolouisville.com

REUNION FRIENDLY NETWORK

Macon-Bibb County, Georgia

Seattle North/Snohomish County, Washington

August 15, 2015 Contact Robin North, 478-743-1074 ext. 114 | rnorth@maconga.org Memphis, Tennessee

Contact Lisa Catron, 901-543-5337 | lisacatron@memphistravel.com Newport News, Virginia

May 30, 2015 Speaker: Edith Wagner, Reunions magazine editor Contact Andrea Moran, 888-493-7386 | amoran@nnva.gov Peachtree City, Georgia

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

Fall 2015 Prince George’s Community College, Laurel Contact Mary Jane Shearer, 301-322-0797 | shearemj@pgcc.edu

Military Reunion Planners Conferences (ConFAM©) April 12-17, 2015 Portland, Oregon | April 19-24, 2015 Nashville, Tennessee | May 2-7, 2015 Prince Georges County, Maryland (DC area)

Sept 7-12, 2015 Chattanooga, Tennessee | Oct 18-23, 2015 One-day Basic Training Classes Everett, Washington | April 13, 2015 Portland, Oregon | April 20. 2015 Nashville, Tennessee | May 3, 2015 Clinton, Maryland | Sept 8, 2015 Chattanooga,Tennessee | Oct 19, 2015

Contact, Sharon Danitschek, 425-501-1430 sharon@reunionfriendly.com | www.reunionfriendly.com

YMRC – YOUR MILITARY REUNION CONNECTION

Military Reunion Planners Conferences Myrtle Beach, South Carolina | February 8-13, 2015 Columbus, Georgia | March 3-7, 2015 Reno, Nevada | March 17-20, 2015 Birmingham, Alabama | April 10-13, 2015 Portland, Maine | May 15-18, 2015 Dayton, Ohio | June 18-22, 2015 Portland, Oregon | August 2-5, 2015 DC area - Manassas, Virginia | November 1-4, 2015

Contact Debbie Stewart, 417-593-4234 Ymrcusa@gmail.com | yourmilitaryreunions.com Virtual Family Reunion Planning Workshops

Fairfax County, Virginia, Family Reunion Workshop

March 14, May 16, July 18, September 19, October, November, December 2015 Contact Niko Cook, 847-873-2271 | webuildlegacy@gmail.com FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2015 v Reunions 19

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Did you notice something new in Reunion School?

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hanks to Niko Cook of We Build Legacy, virtual family reunion planning workshops have been added to the lineup. Niko doesn’t live near any workshops and realized many of you don’t either, so she developed her plan to provide virtual workshops and chats for any reunion planner anywhere. You participate by phone. The first workshop – about 75 minutes long – in January was very successful, with great questions on twitter that generated lively discussion. As you can see on page 19, More virtual workshops are planned every two months throughout the year; the next is March 14th. Niko also will be hosting google group chats monthly. We will include details in upcoming newsletters and, of course, on our facebook and web pages. Workshops are free, but you must register in advance, and places are limited. Contact Niko at webuildlegacy@gmail.com.

She’ll send you a registration form and you’ll receive call instructions after you’ve registered.

Reunion

Reunion by Hannah Pittard. Grand Central, hardcover, 288 pages, $25

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massive storm grounds Kate’s flight home to Chicago.

Kate has three phone messages. The third delivers the news that her father is dead. He walked into the condo he shared with his fifth wife and shot himself in the head.

While Pittard’s earlier novel, The Fates Will Find Their Way, leaned slightly toward nostalgia, Reunion succeeds because Kate is sharp and perceptive about everyone – except, of course, herself. She is a failed screenwriter who blew through the income from a previous success, now in debt, sustained only by the generosity of her husband, who is leaving her. Then her father dies, leaving behind Kate, her brother, her sister, five ex-wives, and a bunch of half-siblings who all converge to put him to rest.

The book is in short chapters – like scenes in a film, with titles like “Things come to a head in the kitchen” or “The ex-wives explained.”

Ultimately, Kate focuses her truth-telling gifts inward and begins to realize that the lies she has told herself might have been the most dangerous of all. “Self-reliance seemed to be what was valued in our family. Popularity was for the common man.

We were individuals. We needed one another and our minds,” she thinks.

From a review by Elizabeth Taylor in the Chicago Tribune, Chicago, Illinois

Summer giveaway boxes!

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f you’ve been a facebook fan for a while, you know that in recent summers we’ve offered giveaway boxes filled with reunion prizes. This year we’re getting an earlier start and also will choose prizes earlier. Many of the boxes have themes (family history, kids, military). Check the giveaway page on our web site or facebook for details and deadlines.

Much of the boxes’ content is from advertisers on these pages, offering samples of what convention and visitors bureaus offer reunions. But many other companies have also provided donations.

Cat not included!

Family Box

You can enter once for each box (any subsequent entries will be disqualified). The number of boxes we give away will depend upon the donations we receive. We will post links to the boxes and entries on our facebook page regularly, or you can go directly to the Giveaways and contests pages on reunionsmag.com These are just the generous contributors to date.

We thank them and winners will too.

Claudia Bartow, Chesapeake (Virginia) Parks, Recreation & Tourism, Jennifer Cole, Meg Cox, Familius Publisher, Family Chartmasters/ ZapTheGrandmagap.com, Family Reunion Helper, Lake County (Illinois) CVB, Melissa & Doug (games), Newport News (Virginia) Visitor Center, Page Street Publishing and Plano (Texas) CVB. Thank you all!

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The GOLD COAST and SAM’S TOWN are all set to welcome your military, family or alumni reunion members. Here are some Impressive reasons to hold your reunion with one of us: • One complimentary room per 35 utilized room nights, upgraded to a one-bedroom Executive Suite • Five Free Room Upgrades • 5% off catered lunch or dinner • 15% off in-house a/v rental, excluding labor • Group welcome on our marque • Catering gratuity only 18%—lowest in Las Vegas • Shuttle to the Strip • Complimentary 24x24 dance floor for dinner and banquet • Complimentary podium, wired microphone and riser • For Military Reunions, a $2.00 per room night rebate to the War Memorial of your choice on behalf of reunion group and the Hotel For more information, please contact Group Sales at Gold Coast 800-331-5334 or 702-251-3560 e-mail: gcsales@boydgaming.com Sam’s Town Las Vegas 800-897-8696 or 702-454-8122 e-mail: stlvsales@boydgaming.com Offer based on minimum of 35 rooms and 50 attendees, for new Groups only. This offer is available through December 23, 2016 based on availability of seasonal room rates.

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Broward hospitality workers honored

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roward County, Florida, hosted 14 million visitors who spent $11.4 billion in 2014. The Broward County SUNsational Service Courtesy Awards recognize and encourage SUNsational service and excellence. More than 150 workers were nominated for the award,

including a hotel employee who made scrapbooks for a special family reunion.

After learning about a first-time reunion at her hotel of two brothers separated as young children, Maggie Martino, who was separated from a stepsister at an early age, felt compelled to do something to mark the special

occasion. Martino, guest service manager at Aqua Hotel in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, presented scrapbooks she purchased and filled with pictures family members took throughout their stay.

In a press release from the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Host a Global Family Reunion Branch Party!

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he Global Family Reunion will, in fact, be Global.

They’re helping organize branch parties all over the world on June 6, 2015. (Get it? Branches, as in family tree?). Just a few of the locations planning branch parties include: the Family History Library in Salt Lake City, Utah; the Clayton Library Center in Houston, Texas; Allen County Public Library in Wayne, Indiana; and the Midwest Genealogy Center in Independence, Missouri.

The Global Family Reunion will provide support, including a live-stream of the New York City event, so local attendees can watch The Global Family Reunion on Saturday, June 6, 2015.

List your Branch Party on the Global Family Reunion website; globalfamilyreunion.com.

They will provide tools and tips for marketing local Branch Parties, building partnerships and seeking sponsors; they also will provide a kit of suggested activities and a pre-recorded welcome message from AJ Jacobs and other notable cousins that can be downloaded and played at local events.

To get involved, read the Branch Party FAQ and complete the Branch Party Interest Form at globalfamilyreunion.com/ volunteer/branch-party-faq.

Attractive incentive program for planners

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roups from five to 5,000 or more qualify for incentives, if their reunion is new to The Palm Beaches in Florida and will utilize both the Palm Beach County Convention Center and a hotel room block within the county. Planners can choose from more than 50 hotels in all categories to qualify for this group incentive program. Incentives start immediately and are applicable through 2020.

Discover The Palm Beaches also offers on-site registration and

visitor information assistance, welcome bags, promotional items, information about area, President’s Welcome Letter, locally made chocolate delicacies for VIPs, referral and recommendations to local support services such as dining, attractions, audio visual, transportation, spousal excursions, and offsite activities and events, airport “Meet and Greet” service and much more. Call 800-722-2821 or visit palmbeachfl. com/incentive

Cruising with kids!

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hat’s the best possible vacation for the entire family? A family cruise would be my answer!

It’s important that everyone has fun at your reunion, and cruise ships make that possible. Family-friendly ship services and facilities keep kids of all ages engaged, with everything from supervised playrooms with arts and crafts, games and storytelling to action-packed arcades and teen clubs.

Modern ship amenities like movie theaters, rock climbing walls, skating rinks, miniature golf courses and basketball courts complement the onboard experience for kids – and adults, too.

Family cruise ships have lots of dining choices. Meals and snacks are included in the price, so when and where to eat is answered with ease. Choose among buffets, hamburger and hot dog grills, pizza stands, ice cream bars and

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offerings in the main dining rooms.

A family cruise also teaches kids about the world first-hand. Perhaps you have a budding marine biologist, artist, archaeologist, historian or geologist in your family. Faraway cultures and destinations they read about in school come alive on a cruise.

You just make the decision about where you want to go. Brian Forrester specializes in cruises for reunion groups. He is also organizing familiarization (FAM) cruises so you can experience a cruise ship to make the decision about whether or not it’s the right choice for your reunion. If you are interested in joining a FAM, contact Brian (480-998-1112 or Brian@hcttravel.com) to let him know you’d be interested in being contacted when a new FAM is planned. Also tell him a little about your reunion group.

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masterplan

Reunion in San Diego

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e hosted our family reunion at the Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside and were given a great group rate for the holiday weekend. We had our own hospitality suite the entire weekend. Our banquet room had a beautiful view of the harbor. The family had access to many activities, including hanging out by the pool, shuffleboard, table tennis, a 9-hole putting green and even free bike rentals! The staff was great, from our event coordinator to the front desk staff, and the gentlemen who hosted our bar and attended to our needs for the banquet and hospitality suite. All around it was a great experience. We would definitely consider them first for any future events.

The McCloyn Family Reunion at the Holiday Inn Bayside in San Diego, California.

– by Tara B. on Yelp (San Diego, California) for the McCloyn Family Reunion Shared by Jodie Langhammer, CMP, CGMP, Holiday Inn Bayside, San Diego, California

Thompson/Campbell/Osgo Family Reunion

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hese suggestions are from Sybel Higgins, Monroe, Michigan, who planned her Thompson/Campbell/Osgo Family Reunion.

We have between 160 and 225 people attend from over the US. Book the hall/venue/park one to five years in advance. If you like the venue, you’re good for five years, if the owners will let your security deposit ride.

Prepare several reunion flyers throughout the year to hype the event and what’s planned.

Include maps and photos in your final two fliers prior to the event.

Have a guest book. Ask everyone to sign and update information you need to keep them informed.

Conduct a follow-up survey one week after the reunion.

Have activities scheduled. Pre-publish schedules. Throughout the event, encourage attendees to offer ideas to make it better.

Have horseshoe tournaments, and award trophies. Don’t have so many events that people don’t have time to visit. We do an hour in the morning and two hours in the afternoon just before we start the fundraisers.

Raise funds with live and silent auctions for nice donated or handmade items and heirlooms; 50/50 raffles; pie auctions; sales of memory DVDs of past reunions and family photos.

We have a video/photo committee. We rent a 60-inch TV and play a DVD presentation of the previous year’s photos set to music.

Great reunions at a resort called Reunion!

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t Reunion Resort near Orlando, Florida, Kids don’t get bored and adults don’t have there is truly something for everyone. It to worry about keeping kids entertained. The is ideal with plenty of activities and accomResort features a five-acre water park that modations for the perfect gathering spot for includes a zero-entry pool, waterslides, and all types of reunions. lazy river. Kids will also like Kids Crew, a The Boyd Family Reunion appreciated the special supervised club just for kids ages attentiveness of the resort’s staff saying, “We 4-12. They can look forward to scavenger could not thank you [Reunion Resort] hunts, nature hikes, crafts and pool time. enough. My family and I were very impressed Reunion Resort also features awardwith the attention that all the staff gave us winning golf and tennis facilities including during our stay.” Reunion Resort’s responsive six lighted courts, and group instruction and staff helps make planning a breeze. three golf courses, with group instruction for Lazy River at Reunion Resort The Hill Family Reunion’s experience both adults and juniors. was highlighted by the accommodations they enjoyed during their Reunion celebrations can be at your private residence or atop stay. “The reunion was fantastic. Everyone enjoyed the resort and of the Grande tower at the rooftop restaurant, Eleven, to view the accommodations. We will use the resort again – even if we don’t Disney’s nightly fireworks display or enjoy a family-style meal in have a reunion planned.” the warm atmosphere of the Forte.

From various types of accommodation to event lawns and When it’s time to explore the Orlando area, Reunion Resort is banquet halls, there is no shortage of space or entertainment just 10 minutes from Walt Disney World, 25 minutes from when it’s time for everyone to come together.

Universal Studios and SeaWorld and 30 minutes from downtown Reunion Resort boasts accommodations from multi-bedroom Orlando and Orlando International Airport. villas to private vacation homes. Each is equipped with full The 2,300-acre AAA Four Diamond-rated Reunion Resort is kitchens, multiple bathrooms, living and dining areas, and some the ideal location to reconnect with loved ones and friends. Visit homes feature swimming pools. www.reunionresort.com or call 866-880-8563.

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masterplan

Miller Century Farm celebration

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ne year ago my husband and I agreed to host a century farm reunion for my family.

Our three-day reunion was a wonderful experience.

Reflecting on the weekend, I pondered the question: What made our reunion unique, and why would anyone be interested in hearing about it? My answer (to myself) was: Our reunion was special because committee members had such a variety of talents and passions. Each person contributed great ideas and rallied to make their dreams of an Reunion hostesses (l to r): Tammy Johnson, her husband ideal Miller Century Robb hosted the Friday night campfire; Deb Haugen hosted the reunion Saturday and Sunday breakfast with Farm celebration come true. Family members her husband Keith; and Cheryl Miller and her husband Scott hosted the Miller Museum. were able to take their

In the back ground are old photos hung by clothes pins on twine and “Miller Farm” stenciled onto a piece of barn wood from the original Farm – everyone took one home as a special memory of the reunion.

passions and run with them to make the Miller reunion their own.

Friday night we enjoyed a bonfire, homemade MILLER BEER and hot dogs. Saturday featured a parade (old tractors, cars, and motorcycles), grilled turkey and Miller Museum. We finished off the weekend with pancakes and homemade ice cream from a 100-year-old ice cream maker. One hundred fifty family members had the time of their lives!

To take things over the top, 12 relatives from Germany joined us. They traveled to our rural Minnesota town eager to learn more about their family roots. They brought a priceless program, and a copy of the family crest.

We had family trees, interviews, old stories, family photos, a genealogy timeline, a family heritage booklet, lots of old motors and other old “stuff,” a beautiful setting that spanned several family yards located on the original farm land, cool decorations and great food, and everyone went home with a piece of 100-yearold barn wood!

From a report by Deb Haugen, Great Granddaughter of A.R. Miller, German relatives’ visit made the reunion so extra special! They presented a fun skit, which included music, Roseau, Minnesota a video and a copy of the family crest!

With 56 parks, 22 Irish experiences, the closest hotels to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and the largest 3-day Irish Festival in the world, your family will be green with anticipation to reunite in Dublin.

For free planning assistance, visit www.IrishisanAttitude.com or call 614.792.7666

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masterplan

Adkins Family Reunion

by Bruce Johnson

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everly Adkins Johnson organized reunions the way she raised her family – with perseverance, attention to detail, and a lot of love. Bev was my wife, so I had a front row seat for this odyssey of family togetherness.

Beverly’s paternal grandparents, Enoch and Luella Adkins, raised five children, who in turn raised 16. Bev’s father, Vic Adkins, was one of the five, and Beverly was one of the 16.

In the 1980s, when her father became the surviving sibling, she decided that a gathering celebrating his longevity, and encouraging the second generation descendants to stay in touch, would be a grand family investment. It turned into a quartercentury familial fraternity.

Thirteen biennial reunions followed over the next 26 years. In 1986, 14 of the 16 third-generation cousins attended that first gathering. In 1988, 14 also attended. The two cousins who missed the 1986 reunion were present in 1988. So, the whole third generational clan was represented at the first two events.

By the time the 16 cousins had families, their children numbered 54. And those children had children, and that generation numbers at least 101. And so on.

In 2010, the 13th reunion was held, two months before Beverly’s cancer was detected and eight months before her death.

Our eldest daughter, Diane decided to continue the reunion in 2012, and her second was in 2014.

The celebrations are held in Mt. Ida Township and Fennimore, Grant County, Wisconsin, where many of the Adkins clan still live. The reunion lasts two days, the last Saturday and Sunday in June because five family members celebrate birthdays that week.

Saturday is usually a picnic in the yard of the original farm where cousin Claire, Jr., and his wife Janet live. It is followed by a hayride over the hills and through the fields of two Adkins farms.

The main celebration Sunday is at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Fennimore. A potluck of considerable proportions is the feature.

Of the 16 third-generation cousins, seven are still alive. The first member of the fourth generation died this spring. There are

now well over 150 in the Adkins line, and 40 to 65 descendants have attended recent gatherings.

Through the decades, as each family develops its own line and the memories of earlier family recede, it becomes more difficult to hold the original family unit together.

Beverly’s formula of perseverance and attention to detail was simple enough: write personal letters, make telephone calls, extend invitations, and make personal contacts where possible.

We made many visits to cousins’ homes across the country.

Beverly’s love of family sustained her. There has to be a hint of magic in that. She convinced more than one cousin that love is the important ingredient in family cohesion. A quarter century of family unity is a very good thing, and thanks to our daughter, Diane Foster, family celebrations continue.

Another strong force in sustaining the Adkins story is Janet Adkins, wife of Claire, Jr. She has also performed family magic. Her research allowed family members to learn the dimensions of the Adkins legacy. Genealogical magic is the only way to describe it.

Documentation and display of her work is a Sunday celebration attraction.

Janet’s first comment about reunion memories was: “Learning about a family I never had.” Janet’s contribution to the family has been considerable, even essential.

Adkins cohorts have come from California, Florida, Texas, Minnesota, Kentucky, Pennsylvania and Illinois.

Here are impressions of past reunions that our daughters have noted.

Dorie recalled “Mom’s time and energy to put the reunions together and how important they were to her.”

Debbie remembers “my mom’s devotion to organizing reunions. She never had to tell us to go. We wanted to go because it meant so much to her.”

And our wheelchair observer, Denise remembered “Mom getting things ready for the reunion. She would have me put stamps on envelopes.”

Diane summed it up: “The reunions have been the perfect reflection of her life and dreams for her family. Potluck and hayrides reflect her very traditional family values.”

A key to the success of Adkins reunions appears to relate to an innate inner quality of kinship. In the Adkins family, siblings give some priority to their relationships to each other. And if you add perseverance and love to the mix, you have Beverly, leader of the Adkins odyssey of family togetherness.

About the author There is always a hayride over the hills and through the fields of two Adkins family farms.

This lovely tribute to his late wife, Beverly, is by Bruce Johnson, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. He is also involved with the Johnson and the Knapp-Napp Family Reunions.

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Smith Family celebrates 34th anniversary reunion

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he enduring legacy of William Bradley and Rosaline (Daley) Smith lives on through the fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh generations. This year marked the 34th family reunion that saw their progeny gather from Thursday through Sunday to rekindle relationships with an array of activities. The family gathered Thursday night at the Ramada-Lafayette Conference Center, Lafayette, Louisiana, for a “Reunion Kickoff Family Mixer,” highlighted by an opening prayer for God’s guidance by Charles Smith, Sr., and the reiteration of the Reunion’s theme: “Blessed by God’s Grace and His Promises,” taken from 2 Corinthians 12:9.

The annual spelling bee competition for children from grades K-12 was a huge educational event. Then there was bingo for the ladies, and a Karaoke show and plenty of food and drink and down home southern hospitality.

A bounce house was a big kiddie attraction.

On Friday morning and into the afternoon, family fun day events included basketball, tennis, golf, and a pool party at the hotel, with family DJ Earl Smith, Jr. Friday night, the family held its Education and Achievement Recognition Banquet. The Smith Family Reunion Education Program reflects the Smith Family’s high regard for educational excellence. They award scholars and academic achievers who have demonstrated a strong desire to continue their education. Erica Kessee received the $500 Smith Family Scholarship, provided through the Foundation. Brooke Smith received a $250 Smith Family Stipend. The Family also recognized and awarded certificates to youth, high school Earl Smith, Sr., soothed the appetite of melon eaters by cutting several achievers, college students, and red-ripe watermelons.

others for their excellence in education and professional achievements (i.e., honor roll, dean’s list, graduation, promotions, retirements). The family recognized and awarded certificates to several members who have given tirelessly in many capacities to help make the reunion what it has evolved into today.

The reunion is governed by a multitiered executive committee whose umbrella boasts of two co-chairpersons, two vice-cochairpersons, and two assistant vice-chairpersons, with many committee directors whose value is immeasurable.

Saturday more than 300 descended upon The “Old” John Andrus Farm in Garland, Louisiana, to celebrate their 34th family reunion picnic. Two American flags and Family Reunion flags waved in the cool summer breeze as members arrived at the farm’s gate entry with the message, “Welcome Home.” There was a kiddie bouncer and a bungee jump. The thrill of

The thrill of the opening ceremony was a children’s balloon lift-off symbolizing thankfulness to God for a great day ahead.

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Welch Family Reunion

the opening ceremony was a children’s balloon lift-off symbolizing thankfulness to God for a great day ahead. Family and friends sat in tents under pecan trees. The picnic program opened with a prayer by Charles Smith, Sr., for God’s favor over the reunion’s activities and featured the Smith Reunion praise dancers, an historical overview by Deidra Charles and Oliver L. Smith, praising the contributions of Dave Smith, Sr., and Richard Smith to the enduring legacy of William Bradley and Rosaline (Daley) Smith.

The fabulous picnic meal included an array of entrees, BBQ brisket, pork ribs, chicken, and links, with sides of rice dressing, potato salad, green beans, and corn on the cob. The dessert table was filled with a scrumptious variety of homemade cakes, pies, and pecan candies, and there were beverages of every mix and water for the really thirsty.

The afternoon’s activities included kiddies games, board games, dominoes and checkers, short distance running races for all ages and the annual grudge matches – the TexasLouisiana softball game and the grueling battle of the tug-of-war. In between, Earl Smith, Sr., soothed the appetite of melon eaters by cutting several red-ripe watermelons for all to enjoy! The afternoon’s festivities were concluded with the awarding of medals, certificates and trophies; raffling of many door prizes for kids, teens and adults; the election of the 2016 Smith Reunion Executive Committee Chairpersons; and choir rehearsal.

On Sunday, the family gathered at Chimneyville Missionary Baptist Church and had a praise-worthy time at the home church.

The Smith Family Choir sang songs of praise and several spiritual numbers. A special Family Memorial Service tribute was given

by Chief Master Sergeant Charles R. Smith (USAF-Ret.), honoring family members with a candle lit in their memory. Special presentations were made to the church and to the Pastor. At the close of each reunion, a monetary contribution is made to the church in memory of William Bradley Smith (who was a founding member and President of the Board of Trustees) and his descendants. After services, the family had refreshments at the Lloyd and Rosa Lee Johnson Center on church grounds, after which family and friends said their goodbyes until 2016!

From a much larger report by Matthews Smith, Port Arthur, Texas, and edited by Mary S. Ellis, Broussard, Louisiana On the cover: See Smith Family Reunion members, Zalah Vallien and Arieana Moore with their sports awards.

T

he 30th Welch Family Reunion this year returned to Sky Camp on Possum Kingdom Lake, near Graford, Texas. Most of the family wanted to be on a lake.

They meet every year on the second weekend in September. Approximately 50 to 75 attend annually.

Children in their 30s, 40s and 50s are involved the most. The 60s and 70s generation offer ideas and information. Planners are chosen by majority vote at the family business meeting on Sunday, after the raffle drawing. Planning is also passed from one branch to another. The family votes for who will handle the reunion for the following year and they take care of the money, which is $1,000 to $1,500.

Fundraisers make money to pay for the meeting room or hall and for at least two to four meals. Fundraisers include a Wheel of Fortune (members pay $1 a spin to win a 50-cent item), a raffle of about five nice items, 50/50 drawing, Washer and Horseshoe tournaments (where they throw toilet seat bottoms instead of horseshoes).

They made a video during the reunion to sell copies. They have a Cake Walk before lunch on Saturday that costs $1 a try. Wheel of Fortune uses a homemade frame.

Their traditions include a potluck lunch, all of the fundraising games and Texas Hold ’Em Poker late on Saturday night (with a portion going into the reunion fund).

They have a goofy photo booth, using props and an old picture frame (size that would fit over a sofa). They stay in touch with one or two newsletters per year, phone, facebook and email.

From a report by Mary Alice Welch, Euless, Texas

There are lots of Woodworths!

L

owell Woodworth, Fairborn, Ohio, didn’t know there were so many Woodworths.

And ever since he found out, he’s been “collecting” Woodworth Family Reunions!

Their membership is over 400 strong, from all across the US and Canada and a few from England. Lowell intends to meet many of the Woodworths at the various reunions over the years to come, but it appears his facebook group is just scratching the surface of the numbers. Woodworth set up a facebook group and says there are no member dues or fees. He says he’s happy to provide this free group for all Woodworths to communicate. Visit facebook.com/groups/WoodworthFamilyAmerica The New York Woodworths meet every other year for three days at a location in the eastern US. The next reunion is June 7-10, 2015. Contact Diane Woodworth Liebert at diane@woodworthfamily.org The Dale, Texas, Woodworth Reunion meets annually on the last Saturday in June (June 27, 2015). Contact Dan Woodworth, facebook.com/dan.w.woodworth.

The Illinois Woodworth Reunion is held annually (next July 26, 2015) at the American Legion Hall in Mendon, Illinois, at noon! Group and family photos are taken after they eat. Bring tableware, your favorite dish and meat to share. Ice tea, soda and water are provided. Games for kids and adults. No dues or fees, but donations are welcome. The Hall is air-conditioned and there is access via a handicapped ramp into the building (although restrooms are not accessible for wheel chairs). If you have time to stick around and help put tables and chairs away, that will be great! Or come early and help put them up. The extra help last year in cleaning up and getting everything put away really helped our two-man show! For information and to make sure you’re on the mailing list, contact Paul Woodworth, 217-219-0272 or Janice (Woodworth) Marks, 480-452-6729; jan1693@adams.net.

The California Woodworth Family Association, Inc., meets every other year (next June 18, 2016) at the Jack Tone Ranch in Stockton, California. A few months before each reunion they send flyers to everyone on the mailing list. Help is needed with check-in, setting up tables and chairs, and cleaning up after the reunion. A genealogy table will be set up; please bring family history or genealogy to share or information about your family. Check-in begins at 10 AM. Lunch is served around 1 PM for those who have purchased it. We have our popular raffle. If you have anything handmade you can donate, please bring it. Contact Carl Webb, carlwebb3@gmail.com If you know of other Woodworth reunions, held regularly, where all Woodworths are welcome to attend regardless of location of residence or genealogy line, contact Lowell Woodworth at lgwdwrth@roadrunner.com.

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Payne Family Reunion

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he Payne Family Reunion has seven “founding states” to which the majority of their ancestors migrated years ago. The reunion, held the third weekend of every July, rotates among those seven states. The mailing list is passed from state to state after each reunion. Each state has a team of people and each “founding state” manages its own budget.

Kids are not involved in planning, but this year they had a craft room and it went over very well!

The older generation is used to coming. They’re interested and

always participate. They’re working on engaging the younger generation by including them in planning.

Friday is a mixer/meet-and-greet. Saturday there is a picnic and family business meeting. Sunday is worship service and dismissal.

Our challenge right now is getting people to realize the importance of reporting their family information for the family tree.

The reunion is financed by registration fees: $80/family or $40/individual.

From a story by Kim Bickham, Fresno, Texas

59th annual Payne Family Reunion in Roanoke, Virginia

Dunbar-McCreary Family Reunion

I

t’s always nice for family to get together. But this year was exceptional for me. This was my first time hosting the DunbarMcCreary Family Reunion. With fear and uncertainty, I took on the task. The reunion was a great success.

It was held in Pensacola and Pensacola Beach, Florida. This was a combination of my father’s and mother’s ancestries. My father, Ulysee Dunbar, was so excited. He was the only one of his siblings to be able to enjoy four generations of children, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

“What a blessing,” he says.

Friday night’s event was held at the Pensacola Improv Event Center with dinner, games and dancing. Saturday’s event was a

dinner and beach party at Castaway’s on the sugar-white sands of Pensacola Beach. What fun we had. We competed in a water balloon and water gun competition that made bystanders envious.

On Sunday we gave thanks for our many blessings at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church.

I encourage families to get together at least once a year and make sure small children and teens know the importance of keeping the legacy going on and on for years to come.

The Dunbar Family Reunion is an annual event that will be held in the Hardeeville, South Carolina/Savannah, Georgia, area in 2015.

Submitted by Deborah Smiley, Pensacola, Florida

Dunbar-McCreary Family Reunion in Pensacola, Florida

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Owens “Kindred Connections” Family Reunion

N

ine years ago I assumed the lead responsibility from New York for organizing the first Owens Virginia Family Reunion. With the help of a committee of cousins in Virginia, we held the reunion in a local park area. Each family was asked to bring food. Last year my sister from South Carolina, who was on active military service and unable to attend that reunion, requested my assistance in planning a second family reunion.

Reunion inquiries were mailed and emailed to family members, in addition to posting on Facebook. Based on the positive response, the decision was made to hold the reunion close to many attractions in and around Richmond, Virginia.

Family members were greeted in the hospitality room, where they picked up a t-shirt and socialized. Each family was provided one free raffle ticket, entitling them to a gift selection and the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for $25, $50 and $100 gift card drawings. Family photo albums and history items were on display throughout the weekend. Saturday evening was a casual family gathering with entertainment, food and socializing in the hospitality suite.

To commemorate the family reunion, one old and four new traditions were established. At the first family reunion, one cousin created the “Owens Family Tree quilt,” which contains all the related surnames. New this year, we received a letter from President Barack Obama. We created one large personalized “In Loving Memory Memorial Remembrance” candle surrounded by individual flickering battery- operated tea light candles.

Deceased family members also are memorialized with a photo on the “In

Loving Memory Memorial Poster.” Another cousin created a living family tree. Each member attending was asked to attach his/ her name to a branch of that tree.

To recognize the eminent senior female

Mrs. Jamie Ferguson Hunt designed and created this family tree quilt.

and male family members at the reunion, a “Family Elder Award” was created. A blue blanket with gold lettering designated the oldest female and male relative as the 2014 Family Reunion Elders.

One cousin broke down in tears when I presented her with a collection of historical documents, including the US Census from 1870 to 1940. She was enumerated as the 6-month old daughter with her family in the 1940 Census.

Group and individual family and candid photos were added to the family photo scrapbook and record. One cousin videotaped some of the events. The photographs and videos are on the family’s facebook page for all to enjoy.

The highlight of the entertainment was a musical battle of youth (generations X, Y, and Z) versus seniors (Baby Boomers). It was a name and sing that song contest.

Each group had to sing or rap the popular song of each other’s generation.

Because of the medical condition of one young cousin, and lack of knowledge of familial illnesses and conditions, family members agreed to start a “Family Health Tree/Portrait” to track what medical conditions have been and are now experienced by family members.

Sunday morning, after a prayerful period of praise, reflection and “farethee- well” good-byes, family members started their return travels to their homes in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Michigan, New Jersey and New York.

Reported by Ernest L. Owens Jr., Brooklyn, New York

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James-McCutchen Family Reunion Celebration

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t was agreed 20 years ago to hold the JamesMcCutchen Family Reunion Celebration in odd years in the home state of South Carolina. The 40th reunion will be in September 2015. Other state chapters host in their territory in even years. The New York Chapter hosted the last event in New Jersey.

Host Chapters are identified a minimum of two to four years in advance of their host date. The Host Chapter is responsible for an event or program soup to nuts. Host Chapters have a minimum of monthly meetings with additional committee meetings held as necessary.

Traditionally they hold a banquet, North/South baseball game, bingo for seniors and worship service.

Kids determine an event they want to own and run with it. Activities include a banquet, sports activities, bingo, ice cream social, North/South baseball game and worship service.

Individual families finance their own expenses and dues with an eye toward more fundraising activities in the future. The hope is that fundraising might offset dues for those who want to attend but are financially unable.

From a report by Barbara Jean Graham, Society Hill, South Carolina, President, SC Chapter

A happy reunion at Wisp Resort

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he sales team at Wisp Resort in McHenry, Maryland, received this testimonial from happy reunion planner, Victor Graves of Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

Two years ago, I was awarded the task of planning the King-Mitchell Family Reunion. I knew this task would be a challenge for me and for the family’s DC connection. After checking hotels in the area without good results, my sisters and cousins told me we should wait another year until we’d had more time to plan. But I’m no quitter. I remembered several good times I’d had on vacation in Deep Creek, Maryland, so I called the nearby Wisp Resort and the blessings started! Andrea Fitzwater started the ball rolling and told me what I needed. Andrea took all my family information and set up room reservations. She made sure I got the deposit in on time and sent me all the information I needed in a timely matter. I felt that alone was a true blessing. Then Wendy Friend contacted me to get menus together. I began to feel that both ladies were part of the family, calling and texting for information about what, when, and how to get it done!

In August, I arrived at the Wisp Resort and the front counter staff treated me and my family like we were the only people in the building.

Maintenance staff treated us the same way, were very courteous, and kept our rooms so very clean that we could have eaten right off the floor!

When family members arrived for the reunion, they were met with the same respect. They kept complimenting me on what a great location this was and how nice the staff was, which made me so happy and proud to have come to the Wisp Resort. Each and every staff member was great.

MUCH LOVE, and I hope to see all of you again.

Tales of two reunions

J

essie Larson, Mesa, Arizona, shared stories about two separate three-day family reunions.

For the reunion of descendants of her deceased father, everyone is responsible for his/her own lodging, and they divide the cost of meals. Everyone is in charge of an activity for kids, with games by age group.

They charge a per-person fee which covers food (adults and children over 12 one fee, 3-12 a lesser fee, under 3 free), and sell t-shirts, caps, and donated items.

Members get nametags color-coded according to branch of the family.

The John A. Whetten Family Reunion are descendants of Larson’s deceased grandfather. Many reunions are in Greer, Arizona, though the last was in Colonia Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico. We visited ancestral villages and made hygiene kits and quilts for needy families in Mexico.

For my grandfather’s large family, we choose a location with nearby hotels, camping facilities and a large common area and kitchen. This accommodates all income groups. We all eat together and all are assigned a meal to prepare.

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We were holding reunions every three years, but it has been more than that since we’ve had one, because the last few years we’ve gathered for quite a few funerals.

I have five cousins who live within 20 miles of me. We get together and plan. We have tried to pass the job to groups of cousins in other cities, but others don’t follow through and one person ends up having to do it all. So we figured out that if it’s going to happen, we are the ones who need to do it.

We inherited reunions from the previous generation. We took it over, telling our aunts we needed a reunion but did not want them to have to do it. My mother (age 87) lives with me and usually thinks up ideas. And since she lives with me, I’m elected to make them happen.

We made up plays (in advance) about our ancestors from stories in their lives.

We felt it was our opportunity to teach people about their ancestors, but tried to make it enjoyable. My mother made a fancy quilt we raffled off to earn money for genealogy research.

Activities at reunions include visiting

the cemetery to take flowers to all five generations of ancestral graves. We cleaned the cemetery. This year I’m writing a 12-page book with photos and half-page stories about who is in the graves we take flowers to, so the children will know something about them. It will include photos of all the grandchildren from the previous reunion at the cemetery, and family historical sites.

We use emails to tell stories about ancestors, and to report family members’ major illnesses and ask for everyone’s prayers on their behalf.

Reunion traditions include t-shirts, caps, books, photos, service projects, educational programs and singing.

Each mother is asked to come up with an activity for the kids – sometimes it’s an art project and sometimes it’s taking the kids to the playground. We also have an educational program talking about one of the ancestors. My mother makes quilts and draws names (of her grandchildren) out of a hat to give them to.

From a report by Jessie Larson, Mesa, Arizona

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Johnny Cash boyhood home, Dyess

Group tours in Arkansas can start in a microbrewery and end in a real diamond mine (where you can keep what you find). Or maybe go from canoeing to a presidential library. Or from a paddlewheel cruise to Arkansas’s tallest Native American mounds. The adventures just never stop here. FIND OUT MORE BY VISITING ArkansasGroupTravel.com OR CALLING 1-800-872-1259.

FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2015 v Reunions 33

masterplan

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

Branson prize winner!

D

o you enter sweepstakes and then wonder who wins? Well, the Caveye Family Reunion, whose planner Janice Wade, Yutan, Nebraska, is a Reunions magazine reader, won Branson’s 2015 Family Reunion contest. Wade and her eight siblings and mom – up to 20 members – will enjoy an expense-paid reunion this summer.

Wade’s brother-in-law, Jim Babcock, Omaha, Nebraska, wrote this poem that enticed the judges and won the family its reunion prize!

Let us all go to Branson together as one, with so much to do we will certainly have fun.

As a family together we will do it all, it is the perfect destination to have a ball.

Branson has shows, a railway and so much to do, our family being together is long overdue.

For eight Caveye sisters and one brother – Rick, Mom and our spouses will pass the time quick.

A family partying like in our youth, we just like each other and that is the truth.

Branson has the stars we know so well, which ones will we see?

Oh, please do tell.

Guys will find golf courses to play till they’re sore, while the ladies will shop for knickknacks galore.

We will wine and dine, see sites, do go-carts and rides, go to a theme park, see pirates and go down slides.

We don’t want Disney, Six Flags or similar park, Branson is the destination for us to embark.

Nine siblings, spouses and mom all in tow, know Branson is the place for us to go!

Congratulations to the Caveye family, and our best wishes for having the fun you anticipated in your poem entry. Send pictures, please.

Caveye Family Reunion

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food

How do I plan the reunion’s “big” meal?

Q:

I’ve been tasked with planning the “big” meal at our family’s reunion next summer. Because I’m a pretty good cook, everyone assumed that I was the perfect person to be in charge. I know it’s one thing to cook a large family dinner for Thanksgiving or Christmas at home, and another to organize an event at a hotel, where there are professionals doing the cooking and everything is expensive. Where do I start?

A:

The best place to start is by deciding what sort of meal your family members would like.

Do most of your folks want a formal sit-down meal with plated service, where everyone “dresses up” (suits and ties for the gentlemen and dresses for the ladies)? Do you want (and do your attendees want to pay for) a dinner? A luncheon? A breakfast? A barbecue? A themed event? Knowing what sort of event will please everyone will make your planning much, much easier.

There’s nothing to compare with a formal event in a hotel ballroom, especially if an important family milestone is being celebrated (a patriarch/matriarch’s birthday, a significant anniversary, or some noteworthy achievement). Many groups elect to hold their “fancy” dinner the final night of their reunion, and many include music, dancing, a talent show, a presentation of the family’s history, or some other entertainment.

This will likely be your most expensive option, however.

These are some tips to help keep the cost of your meal in line with your budget.

A Saturday evening dinner is usually the most expensive option in many hotels. If you can hold your fancy dinner on Sunday evening, the cost usually comes down.

As an alternative, consider holding a fancy luncheon (or even a fancy breakfast or brunch) on the final day of the reunion (typically Sunday).

When selecting your menu, keep in mind that beef and seafood are more expensive, while pork, chicken, and pasta are less expensive.

Ask the hotel’s catering manager what seasonal menu items may be plentiful and less expensive at the time of your reunion – strawberries in June, as an example.

As an alternative, there may be nearby restaurants that have private banquet rooms large enough to accommodate your group and offer cost-effective options.

Generally speaking, a buffet meal will be slightly more expensive than a similar plated meal because additional

cost is incurred by the hotel to prepare food for the buffet which will go uneaten.

Perhaps your attendees would rather have something less formal.

Many hotels can provide you with less fancy food options, and these are frequently a lot of fun, in addition to being more budgetfriendly. For example: an indoor barbecue or picnic; baseballthemed event with hot dogs, sno-cones, and boxes of popcorn; a beach party by the hotel’s pool on a warm summer evening, with fried fish and clams washed down with syrupy blender drinks; a Hawaiian luau; a Mexican fiesta; a German Oktoberfest.

And of course, if there is a favorite family dish that has special meaning like Aunt Edna’s special recipe crab dip that everyone raves about, provide the hotel with the recipe in advance so that they can prepare it for you.

If a special milestone is being celebrated, a cake is a must.

Ask if the hotel can provide this for you. It may be less expensive to purchase the cake from the hotel than to purchase it from a bakery and have to pay the hotel an additional service charge.

Another great dessert idea is a “make your own” ice cream sundae bar, which allows everyone to top their sundae just the way they like it. Younger children, in particular, love being able to make their own choices among the various toppings, and everyone appreciates being able to get up from the table to stretch their legs to get their sundaes, especially if there’s a presentation or entertainment scheduled to follow the meal.

The good news is that, regardless of the menu you choose, or which meal you decide to make your “big” meal, you’ll be able to relax, enjoy yourself, and join in the reunion festivities, because the hotel or restaurant staff will set up, cook, and clean up for you! Have fun!

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. Call him when you are planning a reunion in the Washington, DC, area. Contact Dean at 703-790-0643; dmiller@fxva.com.

He also wants you to know that Fairfax County is now served by the long-awaited Metrorail which can connect you from Fairfax County to the Washington DC region. Visit www.wmata.com/ for details.

FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2015 v Reunions 35

food

Many reunions talk about their food

C

arole Bailey reported that the Majure Family Reunion gathered, at the home place in Madden, Mississippi, for a fried chicken dinner with fresh vegetables, cornbread, yeast rolls, all kinds of desserts, including cobblers, pies, caramel cake, and sweet tea, of course. Very Southern and delicious.

The annual Ransom-Sease family picnic in Charlotte, North Carolina, featured a menu of fried fish, pulled pork, BBQ beef brisket, hot dogs, hamburgers, baked beans, red slaw, and potato salad. There was also a lovely, tasty reunion cake. In keeping with one of the themes, people were served in order, starting with the eldest members and ending with the youngest. Buddy and Charlotte Glover, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, declared “Age does have its privileges!”

Jerre Curry reports that at Rembert Family Reunions, Fridays are traditionally the biggest eating day. They serve old-fashioned meals that include barbeque ribs, fried fish and chicken, potato salad, macaroni and cheese, corn on the cob, sweet potato pies, cakes, watermelon, and on and on.

On Saturday evenings, they have a formal or semi-formal banquet, depending upon the reunion theme. This year all family members dressed for the theme “Express Yourself.” After a one-hour greet-and-meet happy hour, members were seated for a program that included a welcome by the host family, a Dwight Kirksey, Milwaukee, song and blessing of the food.

Wisconsin, enjoying the Rembert Family Reunion Sunday morning On Sunday morning, members wore Unity breakfast. family reunion t-shirts for the annual Unity Breakfast. Before eating, they started with a worship service. The farewell breakfast meal included bacon, eggs, grits, sausage, pancakes, toast, assorted fruits, hash browns, coffee, juice and milk.

Duwan M. Mason, Sr., El Paso, Texas, wrote that the Coleman Family Reunion Sunday afternoon cookout is called the Signature Family Cookout because that’s when they enjoy all of their traditional family dishes: barbecued ribs and chicken, fried chicken, pigs feet, fried fish, collard greens, corn on the cob, potato salad, cornbread, macaroni and cheese, watermelon, sweet potato pie, and the list goes on. In an attempt to work off some of 36 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

Coleman Family Reunion

the food, they also participate in physical activities with tournaments of basketball, football and horseshoes. Mason said, “Our reunion consists of a lot of eating because we love to eat. Many family members say they eat healthy until our reunion (smiling).”

Mary Alice Welch, Euless, Texas, described meals at the Welch Family Reunion. They had a Weiner Roast (weiners cooked on a rake over the fire) on Friday. Breakfast tacos were served Saturday morning. There was a picnic lunch, and dinner consisted of a hamburger cook-out with Moon Pies for dessert.

Dudley Threats grilling burgers for the Sunday picnic with Derwin Threats

The Threats Family Reunion banquet dinner in Lake County, Illinois, included a children’s talent show and dance party following the dinner service, which offered a choice of steak or chicken. Following Sunday morning worship service at Shiloh Park in Zion, the family enjoyed a picnic, which included many activities for all age groups.

Family reunions are a tradition across the country, but there is something unique about a Southern reunion. Writing about the Denney Family Reunion in Carroll County, Georgia, Ken Denney of the Times-Georgian said that many, like this one, take place at an old church, in a pavilion out back with long, rickety wooden tables. As folks arrive, they load tables with coolers and covered dishes. Doing the math, if everyone brings a dish, there will soon be over 150 items of food on that table. By some telepathic coordination, there is always a wide variety of food, not just one long row of potato salad and fried chicken.

Judy Gou described her reunion on The Dollar Stretcher. “Last year we roasted a pig outside. Other times we have barbecued burgers and hot dogs and asked people to donate any garden produce they have available. We did all our cooking with signup sheets for KP duty.”

Audra Myerberg recalled her reunion in Raising Needham on Patch.com.

Fortunately, there are awesome cooks on both sides of my family, so this is often the highlight of the reunion. … My husband’s family plans meals ahead (that e-mail got my mouth watering), and different members have their night. Family from San Francisco hosted a Mexican night, and my husband fixed his now-famous BBQ ribs. Of course, there was a themed cocktail each night, too. OK, maybe that was the best part of the trip. My point is: delegate.

Karen Boughton wrote about cooking up family favorites for the Fourth of July in The Tribune in Atascocita-HumbleKingwood-Lake Houston, Texas. She attends two reunions in the Fairlawn, Ohio, area. One is the Boughton-Smith Family Reunion, held every year since 1912 at the family farm and farm house (built in 1861). The other is the Kariotis-Manoussadakis Family Reunion held every year since 1994.

Karen flew with a large tray of baklava. “It seems they only have baklava at the reunion when I attend and make it,” she said.

Her Fourth of July Potato Salad is a favorite, as is Kokkinisto Greek barbecue red sauce for beef, pork, or chicken. They also had Greek burgers, venison sausage and chicken souvlaki. The colorful “Kim’s Cherry Almond Delight” dessert was made by Karen’s sister.

Nancy Calhoun writing in the Muskogee (Oklahoma) Daily Phoenix said even the food reflects the heritage of the family. My grandmother’s family always had cornbread, chicken and beans in some form, while my father’s almost always included stewed apples, apple cake or applesauce. When I hosted a family reunion for my Scott cousins, the menu I prepared included many family recipes acquired from different family members. It included traditional stewed apples, my mother’s homemade dinner rolls with apple butter from Virginia, my aunt’s gourmet potatoes, cousin Mary Virginia’s Italian Cream Cake, and a country ham brought back from a Virginia visit.

The Wayne County Outlook in Monticello, Kentucky, announced the Slaven, Slavin, Slavy, Slavey family reunion at the Sand Hill Camp shelter house in McCreary County, Kentucky. It said to bring enough food and drinks for your family and a little extra to share with others for a “pitch in dinner.” All plates, cups, napkins and silverware were furnished.

Each guest of the families of G.W. and Nancy Turner was given a t-shirt imprinted with the Turner Family emblem over a barbecue scene, depicting a whole hog being roasted over an open flame. The reunion theme was a real “southern” flavor, with a whole hog barbecue on Saturday night, as guests went “Hog Wild.” The noon meal was hamburgers, hot dogs and boiled peanuts. The evening meal was a feast of the “whole hog,” with all the trimmings and plenty of desserts.

Found in the Moultrie Observer, Moultrie, Georgia

According to a story by Diane K. Bert on Hometownlife.com, Suburban Detroit, Michigan, the Van Wagoner family celebrated its 108th reunion in Bloomfield Township, Michigan. In the early farming days, people came by horse and buggy. A bountiful buffet was brought to the reunion by guests. Certain families have traditions of bringing special foods. The Maloneys are famous for their baked beans. Another family brings six-cheese macaroni.

For many years one family brought a large quantity of lemons for fresh lemonade.

Strawberry cake made from Mamaw’s recipe was a favorite at the 103rd Mills Family Reunion. There was a potluck feast of fried chicken, brisket, beans, just about every kind of casserole imaginable and numerous homemade desserts.

Fletcher Family Reunion crab feast and 30th reunion cake in Belcamp, Maryland.

Photos from Joan Wiggins, Belcamp, Maryland

FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2015 v Reunions 37

food

Dutch oven cooking for camping

by Anne Chlovechok

U

sing a Dutch oven is a fun and traditional method of campfire cooking at Mullen Family Reunions! Our pioneer ancestors carried these treasured and valuable cast-iron pots with them when they settled the new world. The pots come in many sizes, ranging from small enough to prepare a singleserving meal, to large enough to feed a crowd of 20. The average camping family will do fine with one or two Dutch ovens in the #10 or #12 size range. These are large enough to prepare a meal or dessert for a large family, and still small enough to lift. Get a camping oven, with feet to set over hot coals and a lip around the lid, also to hold coals.

There are many recipes available for Dutch oven cooking online and in cookbooks dedicated to the subject. I enjoy Dutch Oven Stew as a main course, and everyone loves Dump Cake, which works very well in a Dutch oven.

Prepare coals, either by waiting for your campfire to die down to a glowing bed, or starting charcoals in a charcoal chimney to burn until they are glowing cherry red. I prefer the quickstarting match light coals, for convenience.

If you want to get really technical, look up cooking temperatures online which may be achieved by using different numbers of hot coals above and below the oven.

Dutch Oven Stew

Place a #10 or #12 Dutch oven over the coals. Brown two pounds of stew beef. Add enough water to fill the Dutch oven up to a couple of inches below its rim. Add cut potatoes and vegetables, such as carrots, onions and green beans.

Canned veggies and the liquid from the cans works well for cooking water. Season with salt and pepper, cover, and place hot coals in a checkerboard pattern on top of the lid. Allow to simmer for about an hour. Use an iron lid lifter to check the meat and potatoes for doneness. Careful! The lid is hot and heavy. Serve with bread and butter or dumplings you drop in the simmering stew to cook until done.

About the author

Anne Chlovechok , Cambridge, Ohio, is editor of a weekly newspaper in Caldwell, Ohio, and a monthly magazine, Around the Square.

Dutch Oven Dump Cake

Grease your Dutch oven to prevent sticking. Spread two cans of cherry pie filling in the bottom of the pan. Over that, spread two cans of crushed pineapple. Dump one white or yellow cake mix over that, spreading evenly. Finally, cut up a stick of butter, and place the squares evenly over the cake mix. Fruit below and butter above moistens the cake mix. Cover, placing more hot coals on the lid in a checkerboard pattern, and allow to cook for half an hour before carefully lifting the lid to check for doneness. When ready, the cake will be a lovely golden brown. Be patient; this could take an hour or more, depending on the heat of the coals.

For supper we all enjoyed eating the results of the Dutch Oven Cookoff. I made dump cake for this, and won first place, dessert. Yum!

Another camping reunion

K

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

Please pass on or recycle this magazine when you’re finished!

38 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

arylon Hallmark Russell wrote in the Llano News, Llano, Texas, about food at a camping reunion.

The main meal was Saturday night and the menu was ALWAYS fresh fried catfish, caught by family members in Lake Buchanan or the Llano River.

Side dishes included homemade cold potato salad, coleslaw, lots of fresh garden vegetables, especially tomatoes and cucumbers, pickles, onions, and home-style cooked vegetable dishes. Bread was simple and plain, usually what the old-timers called “light bread.” There was also every kind of dessert imaginable – cakes, pies, cobblers, and cookies. Everything was made from scratch.

Sometimes, we had homemade ice cream prepared in wooden, hand-cranked freezers.

food

The Great American Family Reunion Cookbook

T

he Great American Family Reunion Cookbook by Lori Nawyn. (Familius, $19.95, 250 pages, soft cover; foreword

by Edith Wagner, Editor of Reunions magazine) “Reunions are stories in the making,” says author Lori Nawyn who credits her grandmother Esther for teaching her that having a purpose is important to planning successful family gatherings. Nawyn interviewed people from each state and collected more than 150 recipes for The Great American Family Reunion Cookbook.

The bulk of the book is divided into six recipe topics: appetizers; dips, sauces and breads; breakfast and brunch; main dishes, side dishes and burgers; soups, stews, salads and sandwiches; and snacks, treats and desserts. Lists of tools, pantry basics, kitchen tips and serving ideas are offered to assist reunion planners.

Nawyn lays out her idea of family reunions with two chapters: “Why Have a Reunion?” and “Making Your Reunion Great.” She includes advice and activities to help organize and host an unforgettable family reunion. Following recipes is a section about reunion ideas and activities that include suggestions for fashion shows, family history activities, games and ice-breakers for all ages. A special section features menus for themed family reunions, such as: “State Fair,” “Picnic,” “Guys-Do-All-the-Work Cook Out,” “Frontier,” “Mountain Campout” and “Festival.”

Note: Copies of The Great American Family Reunion Cookbook are among the prizes in summer giveaway boxes. Check Giveaways page at reunionsmag.com.

The 13th bi-annual Ross Family Reunion

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he Ross Family held its 13th Bi-Annual Family Reunion at North Topsail Beach, North Carolina. They spent quality time on the beach reminiscing, reflecting and renewing relationships. A Fiesta by the Sea was held on Saturday night with a bonfire on the beach and s’mores. A Sunday morning Breakfast Brunch ended the weekend activities, along with a memorial service and planning for the 2016 family reunion.

From a report by Patti Sanders-Smith, EdD, Greenville, North Carolina

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 a rt e l l H o t e l s … S a n D i e g o ’ s Unforgettable Locations

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Fire Pits (828) 772-5454 ● TheCampNC.com FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2015 v Reunions 39

food

Potlucks are perfect for reunions

P

Wilfer Family Reunion cake

option at your main meal so that registered carnivores and confirmed vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions or allergies feel as though their food choices

are important and valued. The grill can accommodate both hamburgers and vegetable kabobs. Drinks can include an array of choices from soda pop to organic sun tea. And desserts can include at least one suitable for diabetics; a wheat-, gluten- and dairy-free choice; and an organic apple pie made with unrefined sweeteners.

Plan a unifying project that allows everyone to contribute. For example, lay out a large unbleached muslin tablecloth and ask everyone to sign his/her name with permanent fabric markers. Then use the tablecloth for the main meal and save it for future reunions.

Found on great-group-activities.com.

Photos by Edith Wagner.

otlucks where each person or family contributes one item can save significantly on food costs.

Add a theme to the potluck and the challenge makes food planning more fun.

Themes can celebrate the season, the reunion destination, or the range of ethnicities that make up the family. Ask relatives who are traveling to bring something lightweight, non-liquid and nonperishable. Ask very busy ones to bring pre-made drinks such as sparkling juices. Ask those nearby to bring home-cooked main dishes, side dishes, munchies, desserts or barbecue, or to be the chef-in-charge.

Plan more than one main dish, more than one dessert, and more than one drink

Wilfer Family Reunion potluck (x 2) with Terri Kramer, West Bend, Wisconsin.

Coming soon! stay tuned on facebook and

&

reunionsmag.com

Real Reunion Recipes (RRR) Recipes enjoyed and tested by real reunions!

40 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

Share your most popular reunion recipes

W

hat foods make your reunion members happy? What do they look forward to at your reunion? What are your reunion’s favorite munchies, sweets, snacks, beverages, barbecues, slow-cooker dishes, pies, cakes, or cobblers?

Share your reunion recipes, the ones that evoke yummy happiness and pleasant memories every time your reunion members think about them.

Recipes must serve larger groups of 12 or more, with the exception of baked goods (because there are always many and varied desserts at reunion potlucks, and a pie can be just so big). Reunion caterers are welcome to add their recipes, as well.

Each recipe added to the collection must identify the reunion(s) that enjoy the dish, and be accompanied by a story or anecdote about the recipe at your reunion or gathering.

Recipes will be added to our online collection, and readers will be urged to test the recipes and submit online reviews of individual recipes. We’ll encourage your members to add their memories of the food to reviews.

We will create a Pinterest board for pictures of reunion foods to encourage testing and reviews.

Send recipes to editor@reunionsmag.com or submit them online when set up.

WELCOME TO A PLACE THAT TURNS FAMILY TIES INTO UNBREAKABLE KNOTS Our five miles are packed with more ways to bring your loved ones closer together. More live shows. More roller coasters. More craft exhibitions. More down-home cooking. 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 where families come together.

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DISTINCTLY NORFOLK.

Museums, dining, maritime history, waterfront cruises and shopping make Norfolk a distinct destination offering a variety of itineraries for your group to enjoy. With so much to see and do, the possibilities are endless. To learn more, visit us online or contact Melissa Hopper, Associate Director of Tour & Travel.

Planning a tour is easy at visitnorfolktoday.com/reunions.

1-800-368-3097 FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2015 v Reunions 41

e military reunion news

Be a part of Army history

Don’t forget your red coat!

(NAPSI) – Whether you’re a soldier, Army veteran, or supporter, you can inscribe a personal message on a brick that will be permanently laid somewhere in the outdoor pathways and plazas at the National Museum of the United States Army in Fort Belvoir, Virginia.

The Museum will feature a memorial garden, amphitheater, and parade ground.

Messages commemorate soldiers, Army families, Department of the Army civilians, Army supporters, Army units, and relatives and loved ones. Mesabi black granite bricks are available in two sizes: 4"x 8" and 8"x 8."

The Army Historical Foundation is leading the campaign to build the museum.

Visit www.armyhistory.org/bricks.

Save the Date

T

he US Army Officer Candidate School and its Alumni Association are planning the annual US Army Officer Candidate School Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, Patterson Award Dinner, and US Army OCS Reunion to be held April 25-29, 2015, at Ft. Benning/Columbus, Georgia. Established in 1958, the Hall of Fame honors Infantry Officer Graduates of the Officer Candidate School Program who distinguish themselves in military or civilian pursuits. Visit www.ocsalumni.com

The VP48 “Red Coat Club” (left to right) Pete McKay, Charley Hahn, Ken Carter, Alan Hardie, Arnold Fox, Jim Chambers and Cliff Henne.

I

t started when guest speaker Ken Carter came to the stage in a brocade red dinner jacket and told the tale about how he bought that very jacket in Hong Kong when he first was in VP48 Patrol Squadron. So at the next VP48 reunion, a bunch of guys came in their “red coats.” So if you ask how you can become a member of the “Red Coat Club,” the answer is: buy a red coat and wear it to the banquet.

Military reunions are a time to remember and reacquaint ourselves with old friends and memories. The crewmembers of Patrol Squadron 48 flew seaplanes (PBMs, P5Ms, transitioning to P3 Orions) during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. The VP48 has a reunion every two years at locations throughout the US. They have met three times at Holiday Inn-Bayside in San Diego, California.

A memorial service was held at the Veterans Memorial, high above La Jolla at Mount Soledad. This is a one-of-a kind Veterans Memorial site, 900 feet above sea level, with a 360-degree view of San Diego and the blue Pacific. A flowered wreath on a stand bore the legend “VP48,” there was a color guard, names of departed shipmates were read, and Taps was played. Following the service, the group visited the Stephen Birch Aquarium and La Jolla Riviera for more spectacular views.

Found in the Pigboat Express, newsletter of the VP48 reunion

“Big Red One” Reunion What is your reunion story?

We would like to learn about your reunion to include in this magazine and our web pages.

Send a report about planning your reunion, a reunion summary and/or about special things you did at your reunion, preferably as an attachment to editor@reunnionsmag.com.

If you’re sending photos they MUST be high resolution (300 dpi or higher).

We look forward to meeting your reunion!

42 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

V

eterans of the Army’s renowned 1st Infantry Division, the Big Red One, will hold their 97th Annual Reunion in Lombard, Illinois, from June 17-21, 2015, at the Westin Lombard. The reunion will be conducted by the Society of the First Infantry Division.

The 1st Infantry Division is the Army’s oldest and arguably most famous division. It served with great distinction in World Wars I and II, Vietnam, and the first Gulf War, as well as in Germany and the US during the Cold War. Elements of the 1st Infantry Division have participated extensively in Operation Iraqi Freedom and in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. The 1st Infantry Division has also trained and deployed thousands of Military Transition Team members to Iraq and Afghanistan.

Over 700 Big Red One veterans and their guests attended the 96th annual reunion.

The Commanding General of the Division and a solid contingent of leaders and young soldiers serving in the Division added a fresh and exciting dimension to the reunion.

Visit www.1stID.org or contact 215-654-1969 or SFIDPA@gmail.com.

military reunion news e

“Sky Soldiers” reunion of their deployment 50 years ago

T

he 173rd Airborne Brigade was activated on Okinawa, Japan, in 1963. The “Sky Soldiers” conducted many training parachute jumps into South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and the Philippines, and experienced jungle warfare training and even training with submarines.

The “Sky Soldiers” of the 173rd Airborne Brigade were the first US Army ground combat unit to be deployed to Vietnam in 1965 for Temporary Duty (TDY).

They were based at the Bien Hoa Air Base and soon helped other US Army units arrive safely in RVN and helped set up their base camps.

The TDY soon was changed to a Permanent Change of Service (PCS).

The 173rd Airborne Brigade served 6 years and 4 months, operating in four Corps areas of South Vietnam. Thirteen “Sky Soldiers” were awarded the Medal of Honor, and many were “fallen.” The unit was deactivated in January 1972. In 2000, the colors were unfurled in Vicenza, Italy, the 173rd was activated, and new “Sky Soldiers” were serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

We are now “spreading the word about the Herd” and inviting all the “Sky Soldiers” to attend a reunion May 2-6, 2015, in San Diego, California. Contact Wambi Cook, 626-664-0219; wambicook@aol.com.

Reported by Raymond C. Ramirez, Whittier, California

Veterans project

T

o commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, the Veterans History Project will highlight collections from this era. Visit www.loc.gov/vets/stories to see photos and videos of veterans. A surname search can be made in the Veterans Database for veterans in all US wars, from World War I to Afghanistan and Iraq.

Honoring Wyoming’s Vietnam Veterans

M

eeting and sharing experiences is a great way to overcome the past. Wyoming enacted the Welcome Home Day law, yet many Vietnam veterans still feel the sting of rejection.

The Wyoming Veterans Commission will host the Wyoming Vietnam Era Veterans “Welcome Home” Reunion June 4-7, 2015, in Casper, Wyoming. Family members sign up and encourage your veteran to attend.

Learn about the agenda at http://wvvr.wyo.gov and on Facebook (search WVVReunion). Email wyovet@wyo.gov for more information.

From an article by Lee Alley, vice chairman of the Wyoming Veterans Commission, in the Casper Journal, Casper, Wyoming.

D-Day veterans recall invasion

S

urviving members from the World War II 296th Engineers gathered in Springfield, Massachusetts, for what may be their final reunion dinner.

These men, many in their early 90s, took part in the June 6, 1944, D-Day, the largest invasion in history. They fought their way through Europe and into Berlin.

Dr. Frank Sacco, son of Francis (Kelly) Sacco of the 296th, has come to 15 reunions and brings his family. He said, “I have made it my life’s mission to try to understand what these guys went through from when they landed on the beaches of Normandy.”

Dr. Sacco’s son, Frankie, has been coming to reunions since he was nine years old.

“We look forward to it every year,” he said, and described the spirit of the men from the 296th as ‘so strong’ but the numbers are getting smaller every year.”

From an article by Idris Alderson in The Republican – masslive.com, Springfield, Massachusetts

C

laudia Bartow is author of Your Military Story and 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). She served in the Ohio Army and Air National Guard for ten years. Bartow created a website (yourmilitarystory.com) where any veteran or his/her family can share military memories, stories, and more.

She says that when she invited veterans to the website, she heard comments like, “I didn’t do anything,” “ I didn’t go anywhere,” or (her personal favorite) “I don’t have any stories.” With all due respect, if you wore a military uniform you DO have stories, memories and more that your loved ones and others would love to hear. Record it for posterity before it’s too late. Share memories and photos on yourmilitarystory.com.

FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2015 v Reunions 43

e military reunion news

USS Enterprise Fire Reunion Alaska Cruise

O

verall, the cruise was great. The itinerary we chose aboard Norwegian Sun afforded us a wide variety of experiences and views of Alaska’s beauty and wildlife and we lucked out with some very accommodating weather.

My wife and I have been on only one Caribbean cruise before, on Royal Caribbean. The size and configuration of the two ships are comparable.

Within that context I cannot say whether the differences in quality we observed are a factor of different cruise lines, an industry-wide change in quality over the years, or a combination of both.

Even though Norwegian is renowned for its “Freestyle” dining, we were most pleased with the arrangements made for us by our cruise agent, reunion specialist Brian Forrester (480-998-1112 or Brian@hcttravel.com), to have the option of dining together each evening, if we chose. This was ideal for those who wanted the camaraderie that reunions are meant to have.

This cruise was the first on Norwegian Sun for Captain Borg. We learned from staff that he had quite a bit more experience with the Alaskan itinerary than his predecessor. This became very apparent with his expert ship handling while cruising the fjords. He was very personable and his appearance and comments at the memorial service were appreciated.

Everyone was very complimentary about Forrester’s handling of their reservations and bookings. It has been a real pleasure working with him on this reunion and its success is due in large part to his efforts. Bravo Zulu (“well done”).

Reported by Mike Neville, Sparks, Nevada.

USS Enterprise Fire Reunion aboard the Norwegian Sun on an Alaskan cruise.

Combining reunion groups

M

ore groups, especially WWII and Korea eras, should consider this. We’ve made many new friends who shared the same experiences, says Dave Blake, Bonner Springs, Kansas, reunion committee chair for the 461st Bombardment Group (H) 1943-1945.

Blake is a second-generation member of the veterans association. As attrition takes its terrible toll on our WWII veterans, he says, “We have found it advantageous to add [similar] groups to our mix. We started by adding a sister group in

2011 and for the reunion held recently, we added two additional groups. Despite a couple minor hiccups merging groups, this concept has been very well received. It has also doubled our attendance to levels exceeding what we had for one group in 2007. I would encourage you all to consider expanding the invitation to [similar] groups. We all know how a larger group can generate interest among potential vendors and double your numbers from one year to the next, and they WILL sit up and take notice.

The combined 451st, 455th, 461st and 484th Bombardment Groups in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

44 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

THE TREASURES

INSIDE ARE ONLY MATCHED

BY WHAT YOU

CAN FIND OUTSIDE. – JANICE McCORD

INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS VOLUNTEER DETROIT INSTITUTE OF ARTS

Few things compare to walking into the Detroit Institute of Arts’ sun-soaked Rivera Court, and those that do can be found amidst the DIA’s massive art collection. After you’ve explored the museum, discover everything else Detroit has to offer. Grab a bite at American Coney Island before catching a game at Comerica Park, sample Angelina’s Italian Bistro before seeing a show at the Fisher Theatre and much more. Whatever you choose, The D is an experience unlike any other.

Be part of America’s great comeback city. View Janice’s whole story at meetdetroit.com/janice.

FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2015 v Reunions 45

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!

ARKANSAS ARKANSAS has meeting facilities large and small.

In cities and towns and on riverbanks and mountaintops. With activities ranging from paddleboat cruises to zip lines. Great food, breweries, wineries and shopping. FIND OUT MORE BY VISITING www.ArkansasGroupTravel.com FOR SITE LOCATIONS OR EMAIL GroupTravel@Arkansas.gov.

SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

CALIFORNIA VISIT OCEANSIDE CVB

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!

COLORADO VACATION DIRECTORY

Make your search for the perfect family reunion destination easier! FREE FAMILY REUNION DESTINATION LOCATION SERVICE: http://www. coloradodirectory.com/groupsreunions/groupform. html 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 DESTIN • FT WALTON BEACH FL • OKALOOSA ISLAND

1540 Miracle Strip Parkway SE Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32458 Let’s go Emerald Coasting! Have your next reunion in the Heart of Florida’s Emerald Coast. Emerald Coasting is sugar-white sand beaches, great golf and fishing. It’s fresh seafood and rich military history. Find out why we’re “one of Florida’s favorite meeting venues.”

850-651-7647 | MyEmeraldCoastEvents.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!

PARK INN by RADISSON RESORT & CONFERENCE CENTER

928 North Coast Highway, Oceanside, CA 92054 A classic SoCal beach town, Oceanside is a familyfriendly community featuring 3.5 miles of sandy beaches, California’s longest wooden pier, a Cape Cod-style harbor village, historic Mission San Luis Rey, museums and unlimited outdoor activities. Oceanside is conveniently located between Los Angeles and San Diego, bordering Camp Pendleton. For easy reunion planning contact Dana Higgins at dana@visitoceanside.org or toll-free at (844) 269-6551. www.visitoceanside.org

3011 Maingate Lane, Kissimmee, FL 34746 Contact Jennifer Cardin, Jennifer.cardin@parkinn.com 407-396-1400 | fax: 407-396-1171 http://www.piresortorlando.com/family-reunions.htm

HOLIDAY INN SAN DIEGO BAYSIDE

STAR ISLAND RESORT

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!

COLORADO THE HIGH LONESOME RANCH

Find your inner cowboy, enjoy rustic Rocky Mountain scenery, and leave with your family bonded as never before. Ford streams, ride through cottonwoods, live the western lifestyle. Riding lessons, cattle drives, trail rides, western obstacle course & more. Culinary greatness, western luxury, and 5-star hospitality.

970-283-9420 or e-mail info@thehighlonesomeranch.com www.thehighlonesomeranch.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! 46 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

REUNION RESORT

The AAA Four Diamond-rated Reunion Resort in Orlando features luxury accommodations, awardwinning golf courses, water park, rooftop dining with views of EPCOT’s nightly fireworks, a multitude of gathering space perfect for reunions of all types. Visit www.reunionresort.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! 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 mini kitchens that can accommodate up to 8 guests. Enjoy tennis, basketball, pools, putting green, mini golf, paddle boats, putting green, 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!

PALMS HOTEL AND VILLAS

3100 Parkway Blvd. Kissimmee, Florida 34747 Ideally situated off Interstate 4, 5 minutes from Walt Disney World Resort, our condominium-style hotel puts you within close proximity to all the Kissimmee/ Orlando area action! Our 1 and 2 bedroom units come with living room, kitchen and sleeps between 6-10 persons. We are a Good Neighbor Disney

property located 1.5 miles from Disney World. We offer shuttle service to the parks, Free hot breakfast buffet, free WIFI, activities on site include basketball courts, pool, game room, fitness center and bbq grilling areas. Special group rates, comp room for the organizer and welcome reception.

Please contact 407-396-2229 ext 2205 or e-mail palmshotelandvillas@gmail.com to check rates and availability. www.palmshotelandvillas.com

VISIT PANAMA CITY BEACH

Soft, white sand and the beautiful Gulf of Mexico form the perfect backdrop for your reunion in Panama City Beach. We’re easy to get to, with many shopping, golfing, boating and dining opportunities, and plenty of family friendly entertainment. Bring your reunion to America’s Real. Fun. Beach! For planning help, call us at 1 800 PCBEACH or visit us online at www.

VisitPanamaCityBeach.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

THE RESORT AND CLUB AT LITTLE HARBOR

611 Destiny Dr. Ruskin, FL 33570 Your Caribbean-style island resort on Tampa Bay awaits you! Experience a tropical getaway with features such as water view rooms, restaurant, lounge, tiki bar, beach, deep water marina and so much more. Nestled between Tampa and Sarasota, we feature a wide range of suites all perfect for your reunion. Contact Mai Perez; LHReservations@littleharborflorida.com 813.922.6000 | www.staylittleharbor.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™ 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!

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 770-395-7700. Mention this listing for 10 % off reunion banquet pricing.

SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

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!

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‚ Äì 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

CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES 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!

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 | visit www. atlantamarriottperimeter.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

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!

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 |kimberly@lakecounty.org | LakeCountyReunions.com

LOUISIANA HYATT REGENCY NEW ORLEANS

601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113 Contemporary guestrooms, flexible meeting space, eight unique dining options, along with easy access to the interstate and a prime location on the Loyola Streetcar Line makes Hyatt Regency New Orleans the perfect destination for families and groups of all sizes.

Enjoy incredible amenities like Self Check-In, Bywater Pool, StayFit 24-hour gym and Le Jardin in-room spa services. Walking distance to the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, Champions Square, Smoothie King Center and the Arts & Warehouse Districts. Within one mile of some of the city’s most famed attractions including the historic French Quarter, Mississippi Riverfront, WWII Museum, Aquarium of the Americas and much more. Tel: 504-613-3900 | Fax: 678-320-0250 Reservations: hrno.sales@hyatt.com neworleans.hyatt.com

MARYLAND INNS OF DISTINCTION Perfect Reunions. Perfect Locations — Pennsylvania and Maryland Whether you’re planning a Family, Military or Class Reunion, gather your friends and come stay with us!

Our collection of Historic Hotels, inns and unique properties are perfect for your next Reunion. And, many include free breakfast & WIFI, complimentary hospitality suites and a host of items you will appreciate! Plus, you will love our prime locations; they’re easy to get to, priced right and offer plenty of fun attractions nearby.

Maryland Reunions: innsofdistinction.com/reunions Pennsylvania Reunions: innsofdistinction.com/reunions Or if you prefer, call Randy at 610-357-2221 WISP RESORT, in Deep Creek Lake, MD, is a 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. 888.974.0492; info@wispresort.com; www.wispresort.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

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 | 313-202-1985 meetdetroit.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

MINNESOTA 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 welcome bags, visitor guides, maps, along with tour ideas, group friendly restaurant suggestions, and sample itineraries. Let us help you plan your next reunion to Minneapolis Saint Paul.

612-767-8106 | caseyk@minneapolis.org www.minneapolis.org The Kahler Hospitality Group provides heartfelt

service, in the heart to downtown Rochester whether it’s for a one night stay or a week-long conference.

With over 50,000 square feet of indoor meeting space ideally located in downtown Rochester as well as full catering options we can make your vision a reality.

With a wide range of amenities and easy access to local attractions like the Veterans Memorial, outdoor activities and much more, the Kahler Hospitality Group has what you need to make your reunion memorable. Call 1.800.533.1655 to book today!

20 SW Second Avenue, Rochester, MN 55902 www.kahler.com | 1.800.533.1655 mseppmann@kahlerhospitalitygroup.com

MISSOURI THE BRANSON/LAKES AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU awaits to assist you in finding your

lodging for your next reunion in America’s heartland!

Branson, Missouri, the ideal destination, offers live music shows and attractions where family values and budgets are honored! Branson’s breathtaking scenery and authentic Ozarks hospitality warms you any time of year! Call us toll-free at 800-214-3661 or visit our website at ExploreBranson.com and request a Reunion Planner Sales kit. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

NEVADA GOLD COAST HOTEL & CASINO is conveniently situated on the edge of America’s most exciting boulevard, Las Vegas Strip. Just across the street from the Rio and the Palms, and one-half mile from Chinatown, our proximity to Interstate 15 makes Gold Coast an ideal destination for reunions looking for a premium location at a value conscience price. 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! SAM’S TOWN HOTEL & GAMBLING HALL

5111 Boulder Highway, Las Vegas NV 89122 Sam’s Town boasts 645 elegantly appointed rooms and suites which surround the Mystic Fall Indoor Park.

This popular hotel and casino has over 2,300 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!

SUNCOAST HOTEL & CASINO

9090 Alta Drive, Las Vegas NV 89145 Suncoast is an elegant gaming resort located on the picturesque western edge of the Las Vegas Valley. The stylish 427-room hotel is near three championship golf courses and has scheduled shuttle bus service to and from McCarran International Airport. Among the Suncoast attractions are 25,000 square feet of convention space, nine restaurants, a 64-lane bowling center, a 16-screen movie complex, a pool and a 500-seat showroom. 702-636-7050; www.suncoastcasino.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

THE ORLEANS HOTEL AND CASINO blends the

glamour and excitement of Las Vegas with the festive flavor of New Orleans. The 88-acre full-service resort has 1,886 rooms and suites, 40,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit space, 12 exceptional restaurants and an oasis-like swimming pool. Attractions also include a spa and fitness center, a 70-lane bowling center, an 18-screen movie complex, a 900-seat showroom and 9,000-seat arena.

4500 W Tropicana Ave., Las Vegas, NV 8910 702-365-7050 | 888-365-7111 X 7050 www.orleanscasino.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

SOUTHERN NEVADA REGIONAL OFFICE

Laughlin, Nevada 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!

ATLANTIS CASINO RESORT SPA RENO

3800 S. Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89502 Have your reunion in Four Diamond luxury. Atlantis showcases 50,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space, perfect for reunions large or small. Stay in Reno’s only Concierge Hotel Tower. Discover eight award-winning restaurants from gourmet to buffet. Enjoy an actionpacked casino floor with the newest and hottest slots, table games, Race & Sports Book, Keno and poker.

Experience exquisite treatments at Spa Atlantis, voted top ten in the world as SpaFinder’s Readers’ Choice award recipient for Best Casino Spa. Atlantis is the home of Reno reunions. Sales Department 800.994.5900 | sales@AtlantisCasino.com AtlantisCasino.com/reunions FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2015 v Reunions 47

CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES NORTH CAROLINA

OREGON

THE CAMP

BANDON BEACH VACATION RENTALS

2420 Middlefork Rd., Hendersonville NC 28792 828-772-5454 | info@TheCampNC.com www.TheCampNC.com The Camp is the ultimate destination for family reunions and multi-family getaways. Private and gated estate on a 150-acre property near Asheville, North Carolina. Four separate homes sleep up to 62. Rustic Bunk- House sleeps an additional 60. Plasma TVs and wifi. Heated Pool, Heated Water Slide, Hot Tub. Social Hall, Dining Hall Commercial kitchen. Game Room and Arcade. Indoor/Outdoor Basketball, Exercise Room, Tennis court, Athletic Field, Fishing Pond, and multiple Fire Pits. Pet-friendly, open year-round.

SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

MOUNTAIN LODGE & CONFERENCE CENTER OF FLAT ROCK, NORTH CAROLINA

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and convenient to Asheville, Historic Hendersonville and I26. The perfect place for your family to enjoy time together and the montage of local activities and attractions including; Biltmore Estate, Blue Ridge Parkway, Chimney Rock State Park, Dupont & Pisgah National Forests, NC Arboretum, Flat Rock Playhouse, Apple Valley and the world famous downtowns of Hendersonville and Asheville! Western NC’s only ALL-SUITE Lodge with award winning in house chef, indoor pool, nature trail, s’mores bonfire, waterfall courtyard, fitness & business center, basketball & more!

Visit www.mountainlodgeflatrock.com or call 828-693-9910.

OHIO DUBLIN OHIO CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

9 S. High Street, Dublin OH 43017. Dublin is located in Central Ohio and is home to the PGA Memorial Tournament and one of the largest Irish Festivals in the world. Experience our European settings, impeccable golf courses and charming Historic District. With the closest hotels to a top rated zoo in America-The Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, a safe suburban setting, free parking, and 56 accredited parks, Dublin makes a fun and affordable reunion destination. Learn about our 22 custom experiences. Contact Amanda Mikkelson: amikkelson@IrishisanAttitude.com; 1-800-245-8387; www.IrishisanAttitude.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

HOCKING HILLS TOURISM ASSOCIATION

13178 State Route 664 S, Logan, Ohio 43138 The Hocking Hills are Ohio’s natural crown jewels and the perfect location for reunions. The region is a mecca for nature based recreation. World class hiking, eco-adventure tours and more than 50 ziplines. Luxury lodges provide private resort amenities for groups of three to thirty. Located just 50 miles southeast of Columbus. 740-385-2750 | fax 740-385-1146 http://ExploreHockingHills.com Contact: Karen Raymore kraymore@explorehockinghills.com

4 vacation homes on one property. Located on Scenic Beach Loop. Sleeps 1-31. For groups larger than 31, we also manage other properties in Bandon. Great for family reunions or group retreats. Located across the street from the Pacific Ocean, on 2 acres of land. Lots of grass area to meet and play. Each home has a full kitchen, washer/dryer and BBQ. Come to Bandon to play golf, charter fish, go crabbing, shopping, dining or just to play on the beach. 888-441-8030 info@bandonbeachrentals.com www.bandonbeachrentals.com

PENNSYLVANIA INNS OF DISTINCTION Perfect Reunions. Perfect Locations — Pennsylvania and Maryland Whether you’re planning a Family, Military or Class Reunion, gather your friends and come stay with us!

Our collection of Historic Hotels, inns and unique properties are perfect for your next Reunion. And, many include free breakfast & WIFI, complimentary hospitality suites and a host of items you will appreciate! Plus, you will love our prime locations; they’re easy to get to, priced right and offer plenty of fun attractions nearby.

Maryland Reunions: innsofdistinction.com/reunions Pennsylvania Reunions: innsofdistinction.com/reunions Or if you prefer, call Randy at 610-357-2221

SOUTH CAROLINA SEA MIST OCEANFRONT RESORT - MYRTLE BEACH

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!

TENNESSEE CHATTANOOGA AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

on planning a family or military reunion in Chesapeake, VA, call 888-889-5551 or go to www.visitchesapeake.com

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VIRGINIA

3702 Pender Drive, Suite 420, Fairfax, VA 2203 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 the ideal location for your military or family reunion. Call Visit Fairfax at 703-752-9509, and Dean Miller, our reunion specialist, will go to work for you! dmiller@fxva.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

NEWPORT NEWS — Looking for the perfect place to

“drop anchor” during your reunion in Virginia? Look no further than Newport News! Minutes from Williamsburg and a short drive to Virginia Beach, Newport News provides the perfect location and services to make your reunion a success, whether you’re getting together with old classmates, shipmates or relatives. We offer the best value and plenty to see and do. Let Newport News make your next reunion a memorable one! Call our Visitor Center at 888-4937386 or email amoran@nnva.gov to book your reunion today. www.newport-news.org

VISITNORFOLK

232 East Main Street, Norfolk VA 23510. Norfolk’s beautifully revitalized waterfront, rich military heritage, and walkable downtown make it the ideal destination for your next reunion. Norfolk is home to the nationally-renowned Chrysler Museum of Art & Glass Studio, 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.” The City offers thousands of hotel rooms in various price ranges.

Call 800-368-3097 | dallen@visitnorfolktoday.com www.visitnorfolktoday.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

CRUISES PERSONAL CRUISE PLANNING SERVICES

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 | email at chrisp@chattanoogacvb.com to begin planning your next reunion! www.ChattanoogaMeetings.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

Brian Forrester, 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 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.

PIGEON FORGE, TENNESSEE We’re a gold mine for

SPECIAL EVENT

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!

The Global Family Reunion – June 6, 2015

TEXAS 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!

VIRGINIA CHESAPEAKE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 1224 Progressive Drive Chesapeake, VA 23320 Can you hear it? That voice inside, beckoning you to get together. Reconnect with friends, families and memories. The refuge, the waterways, the beach — so close you can enjoy them all. For more information 48 Reunions v reunionsmag.com

At The New York Hall of Science in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, New York City, Queens Reuniting the 70 million cousins of A.J. Jacobs. Learn all about it at globalfamilyreunion.com $20 donation to Alzheimer’s charities.

T-SHIRTS CUSTOMINK

Create amazing reunion shirts online in our fun & easy Design Lab! Choose from name-brand apparel and 60,000+ images, or upload your own art. No hidden charges or set-up fees. Guaranteed delivery dates. FREE shipping and FREE design help 7 days a week. 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!

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.

n bringing Discover a place that’s bee nce, well, forever. people together si

With miles of white sand beaches and tons of attractions, Panama City Beach isn’t just what everyone wants in a reunion destination … it’s a whole lot more.

visitpanamacitybeach.com | 800.PCBEACH (722.3224) FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2015 v Reunions 49

P.O. Box 11727 v Milwaukee WI 53211-0727 f e b r u a ry m a rc h a pr i l 2 015

www.reunionsmag.com TM