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in this issue Departments front Words – 4 ALUM & I – 7 McHenry Class of 1971s 45th by Geri Barrath Tokay 10-year reunion by Ilene Baker Class of 1975 meets every decade by Joycelyn L. O’Neal Attending in spirit by Kathleen Casper
BRANCH OFFICE – 11 Global Family Reunion Preserving your reunion memories by Oliver Peters, Jr. Deamer/Deemer/Demer Family Reunion by Anita Haney Mixson Family Reunion by H.J. Macklin
Scrapbook – 16 Reunion School Human Family Reunion
Masterplan – 18 Holmes Family Reunion by Melissa C. Taylor Moore/Roberts Family Reunion by Karla (Dotson) Legere Martins long reunion history by Kimberly T. Fears Dettmering Family Reunion by Nicole Dettmering Ksioszk Gragg Ross Tripp Family Reunion by Tracey Michele Edwards Smiths planning ahead by Sarah Smith Waymarking in Salem, Massachusetts by Delphine Steficek Conrad-Roland Family Reunion by Therese DeSanto
REUNION VENUES & FEATURES – 26 Making cruise plans Where? To have a reunion Charting a new course by Rhonda H. Wilson Hoo Yah Deep Sea and testimonials for Holiday Inn Bayside Threats Family Reunion by Kimberly Ghys Chattanooga CVB helps rescue family reunion Reunions in Newport News Hospitality Answerman by Dean Miller Kissimmee, Florida, is the family-friendly gateway to fun
Military Reunion News – 34 Reunion of military reunion planners USS/USCG Edisto Reunion by Glenn Smith Welcome home, Vietnam Veterans! Reunions: Iwo Jima, Tuskegee Airmen, WWII Veterans, And more … Air Force Museum Foundation, Veterans History Project, donate your war letters
Reunion Resources – 40 A directory of reunion-friendly places, services, vendors and products On the cover This issue marks the first of our 25th volume. See history starting on page 4.
August/September/October 2014 Volume 25 • Number 1 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 Stephanie Abrams • Bertha (BJ) Anderson Ilene Baker • David Ball • Geri McCall-Barrath Kathleen Casper • Therese DeSanto Tracey Michele Edwards • Kimberly T. Fears Kimberly Ghys • Anita Haney Nicole Dettmering Ksioszk • Karla (Dotson) Legere Dane Linehan • H.J. Macklin • Jeff Lee Manthos Joycelyn L. O’Neal • Oliver Peters, Jr. Glenn Smith • Sarah Smith Delphine Steficek • Jean Strauss Melissa C. Taylor • Rhonda Wilson R eunions magazine , I nc . (ISSN #1046-5 s 235), is published 4 times per year. Send correspondence, queries, submissions, subscriptions, advertising to Reunions m agazine, PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727. Written permission from the publisher is required for reproduction of any part of this book except pages which encourage sharing. Please explain your intended use when requesting permission to reprint. Email: editor@reunions mag. com or fax 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; 414-2634567; fax 414-263-6331 | e-mail editor@reunions mag.com | reunionsmag.com. © 2014 Reunions magazine, Inc. AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 v Reunions 3
FRONT WORDS
Be in touch! Mail to
This is the first issue of our 25th volume.
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Reunions magazine
they seek the first chapters in their own lives. My words about the early days of reuniting with my birth mother and her family in the late 1980s reflect how difficult it was to search for birth family members a quarter century ago, and how complicated the early reunion could be at times. There were few books on search and reunion, and even fewer places to turn for help. Today, the landscape of postadoption issues is far different, with the Internet playing a central role in helping people find each other, and with fourteen states now providing access to original birth certificates. We are in an era when the issue of access to information for adoptees is “tipping,” and there is much greater understanding about their need to know their origins and their medical background. We can finally foresee a future in which the vast majority of America’s adopted citizens and their families no longer will be coping with secrecy as a barrier to their relationships. Personally, I no longer can remember what it was like not to know my birth family, for they have become an integral part of my life. I have now known my birth mom, Lee, for
PO Box 11727 Milwaukee WI 53211-0727 call 414-263-4567 visit www.reunionsmag.com fax 414-263-6331 e-mail editor@reunionsmag.com
hat’s 108 magazines, in case you’re counting. To celebrate this milestone, we will engage in a little history-telling in each of the volume’s four issues. The idea for Reunions magazine originated when I heard a radio discussion about a reunion. I contacted the interviewee and began to research reunions. Our original focus on “reunions” between birthparents and the children they had surrendered for adoption. The audience was limited, and there was no apparent way to support a magazine. Everyone we told about the idea had stories of their family, class, military, and other reunions, so the direction of “reunions” changed over the next few years until adoption reunions were rarely a part of the mix. Two years before the first issue of Reunions magazine. Jean Strauss, the person interviewed on the radio, also told her story in a four-part series in the first four issues of Reunions magazine. Recently I asked Jean to summarize where she is/we are now. From where we started
Twenty-five years ago, I had the privilege of sharing the story of finding my birth family, in the very first issue of Edith Wagner’s wonderful (and now, long-lived) Reunions magazine. The magazine has evolved over the years to become the comprehensive and Lee Porter Beno delightful news source about all kinds of and Jean Strauss on reunions that it is today, but at its inception, the Premier Issue of Reunions magazine. Reunions also was a repository for the stories of people touched by adoption, and for the stories of searches and their outcomes. These founding roots are significant to remember at this auspicious anniversary, for it was the first chapter in the life of the magazine. First chapters are important. When adoptees seek their origins,
Three generations. Jean Strauss (first row, left) next to her grandmother, Mary Brown and Jean’s birthmother, Lee Porter Beno on her husband Don Beno‘s lap. The others are Jean’s found family of Iacarella brothers, sisters, and their spouses.
About the Parade of Covers
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ver these next four issues, we are going to parade all 24 years of covers with the 25th volume covers on the actual issues. You’ll see our progression from a two- to four-color publication and a nice variety of reunion subjects. A few famous people have appeared on our covers. James Brolin had just begun hosting a TV show called Reunion
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– so he, of course, had to be on the cover. Former Presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton (and future president, Hillary Clinton) all have graced our covers. Otherwise, cover girls and boys all have been anonymous until that very moment and pretty much remain anonymous today – except for that moment of glory being on Reunions magazine’s cover!
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over two and a half decades; I have watched her heal from a lifetime of wondering whether I was all right, and saw her reunite with her own birth mother, Mary. The reunion between them was one of the most powerful events I have ever witnessed. They had not seen each other for sixty years, but they went on to develop a very special friendship. The three of us – three generations originally severed from one another – called ourselves the Triumvirate. We had annual meetings (aka family reunions) and shared adventures across the country, from Washington, DC, to Oregon. I cringe to think I might have missed all of that, might have missed knowing them, and loving them. And I cannot comprehend what it would be like not to know my siblings. I found seven brothers and sisters when I found my birth mom – and each one holds a special place in my heart. When our brother Bobby died at the age of 39, I was holding his hand. That moment defined our relationship. I had not been able to hold his hand when he was a small child, crossing the street. But as his big sister, I could be there for him as he took his last breath. Who on earth would have denied us that moment together? And then there is the next generation, my 15 Jean with her Mom and Grandmother nieces and nephews, who not only give me joy and love, but also do the same for my two sons. My nephew Reed – the first of my nieces and nephews to be born after I found Lee – spent the past Christmas with us while he rehearsed to be part of a Broadway play. I will be traveling to Minnesota in October for the marriage of my niece Madesyn. If I had not found my birth mother long ago, I would have none of this. People may argue that, well, if I’d never found them, I wouldn’t know what I was missing. But I do know them. I can see the empty space that would have existed. I know what would have been lost. Twenty-five years ago, when Reunions magazine started, people feared that adoptees reuniting with birth parents would damage their bonds with their adoptive families, that adoptees could be emotionally hurt, and that birth parents would lose their privacy. It was thought that it was best to leave well enough alone. Experience suggests otherwise. As complicated and overwhelming as birth family reunions can be, it is much better to live life “in the light,” with knowledge of one’s past and present. Openness has empowered me. It has given me more people to love and so many wonderful things to learn
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about life and family. Edith Wagner and Reunions magazine were with me at the beginning of this journey. How lucky I was! And so, today I celebrate them, and applaud them for all the variety of reunions they have shared with the world. About Jean Strauss
In the last 25 years, in addition to raising her two sons, she has written five books – three about adoption, two about “The Sound of Music,” and she has made three dozen short films, and two feature documentaries, all at JeanStrauss.com. Evolution of Reunions magazine
When we started developing this idea over 25 years ago, the world was very different and reunions were not a segment of business as they have become during that time. Reunions have, in fact, become a significant segment of business for the hospitality industry – which has, thankfully, supported our idea from the beginning. Reunions continue to grow unabated and while many skeptics say facebook will kill reunions, facebook is best at connecting and encouraging reunions. After all, you can’t get a hug on facebook, but you can expect plenty at your reunion! The idea for Reunions magazine started in 1988 with two years of research and planning before a sample issue in spring of 1990 to get a feel for the response. Our premier issue came out in September 1990. As noted, we evolved from focusing on one kind of reunion to many kinds. We appeared just as some business travel was being curtailed and hotels were looking for weekend business to make up for lower weekday occupancy. Reunions were a perfect filler. Business travelers check out Friday morning; reunions check in Friday afternoon, then leave on Sunday, making way for business travelers who arrive again on Monday. At about the same time, convention and visitors bureaus were seeing the rise in reunion business, as many reunions were expanding from a Sunday afternoon picnic to full weekends of activities and fun in many places. And there is a pretty well-defined reunion season. Family and class reunions happen between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Military reunions gather after school starts until mid November. But for the sake of our readers, reunion planning is year-round because from autumn to late spring, planners are putting all their plans into operation for a smooth and flawless reunion. Our only business is to serve reunion planners. Our only audience is reunion planners. continued on page 6
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FRONT WORDS
continued from page 5
Our focus is on challenges reunion planners face and to provide resources, ideas, solutions and answers to questions they’ve not even learned to ask. Reunions magazine is reader-driven. We use experience and stories from reunion planners themselves to inspire others by sharing their triumphs. We know there are sometimes reunion disasters but we rarely hear about them, and when we do, we are interested in the lessons they learned, often related to a lack of thorough planning. And no reunion yet has found a way to control the weather. Our surveys show that our family reunion planner audience skews older and is 85% female, well-educated, and financially comfortable. Family reunion planners often maintain their reunions as a hobby that benefits their entire family. Class and military reunion planners are equally devoted to their groups, and often are in charge for many years. And how our world has changed!
The real significant change in the past 25 years has been the rise of technology in ways that have affected enormously how we do business. When we started, each issue went to the printer “on boards” and took two weeks of preparation before we saw our first draft. Now the magazine is “uploaded” one night and the printer has a copy for review one to two days later. We went from two-color content to a glossy four-color format after almost four years. In fact, our first color cover is a picture of a parade – at President Bill Clinton’s first inauguration – on a bridge across the Potomac, renamed Reunion Bridge. Clinton crossed the bridge to Arlington, Virginia, to ring the Reunion Bell in his Call to Reunion as he began his first term on January 17, 1993. We went from sorting, labeling and mailing every single magazine by hand for many years to an all automatic setup done right at the printer. We went from hand-work to automation in all aspects of what we do. The speed of communication is also a wonder to behold. Letters (snail mail) and phones were our main mode of communication back then. Now it would be hard to live without email, google, facebook, Pinterest, the internet. You name it: life is different. In looking back over 24 years of issues, I notice that many things have not changed. Our departments have always included Branch Office (genealogy/family history), Alum&I (class reunions), Masterplan (family reunions) and Military Reunion News (self explanatory). In earlier days, Scrapbook was called Clipped Notes. Many of the departments and regular features in early
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issues eventually migrated to reunionsmag.com as the web began to grow and flourish. The web’s advantage is that changes and updates can be made as soon as we get them and are up to the moment as we know it. Reunion Reveille became separate listings of upcoming reunions online. Contests and Research became Giveaways and Contests, Reunion Retreats and classifieds became Reunion Resources, RSVP became a much livelier version of samples of reunion invitations, programs and newsletters online. We could not have done it alone!
We have, over the years, had many loyal readers who are also the people who share their stories and encourage others to plan reunions. Meeting reunion planners on my travels has been a singular joy that I could have never imagined at the beginning. The steady rocks behind the scene who have maintained this magazine for many years have made producing the magazine a (joyful) adventure. Karla Lavin (operations manager) has been here since the very beginning, and shortly after, Marion Liston (senior sales account manager) started. Our art director, Jennifer Rueth, started when her son was a baby and he’s already 22. Over the years we have enjoyed the company of many others who sold ads or were involved in magazine production. We’ve hosted a number of student interns from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Currently, Brian Dettmering keeps us on the straight and narrow, and Josh Evert is our web wizard extraordinaire. Twenty-five years ago, Mary Thiele Fobian was our first editor. When we planned the first issue, she was pregnant, and Max is, of course, 24. Even after Mary moved to California, we stayed in touch, and for many years, when the magazine copy is completed, I send it to her for a final check. Many names come to mind – those who helped, supported, and cheered us as we became a voice for reunions. The inclusion of military reunions would not have happened without LtCol Bill Masciangelo, USMC (Ret); LtCol Richard Johnson, USA (Ret); and Gil Gilstrap. Paula Sheagley was instrumental in bringing the National Association of Reunion Managers into our orbit! Jacky Runice, then family travel writer at the Chicago Tribune, became our travel editor. Genealogists Sharon DeBartolo Carmack, CGRS, Maureen Taylor, and the late Marsha Rising, CG, CGL, provided expert material for genealogists and family historians. There are countless others who have passed through our doors and touched the content and success of Reunions magazine, and we thank them all for their contributions. EW … to be continued …
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alum & I
McHenry Class of 1971s 45th
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eri McCall-Barrath reported about the McHenry Between reunions we communicate by email and by High School Class of 1971 reunion in snail mail for those who – still – don’t have email. We Schaumburg, Illinois. inform classmates whenever someone has passed Many classmates still have relatives in town, away. Periodically I email a few pictures directly so we keep the reunion local. We chose the to classmates, attaching photos that include lots venue because of cost. Looking ahead, we of classmates, and we share pictures on our want to make sure it’s handicapped facebook page. We’ve already let everyone accessible (no stairs). The venue has know about the 2016 reunion. changed over the years, but I think we’ll We charge a small admission – $25 for the keep it at a community club. At our 40-year two most recent reunions. We ask for donations reunion, we had a breakfast, high school to cover the cost of the band ($1,800) and the tour, golf outing and day-after picnic. cost for any classmate who cannot afford to We usually have reunions every five come. There is an “early bird” admission years, but we’ve held a few events – picnics price; you pay that amount if you pay two and our 60th Birthday Bash (60th BB) – in months in advance. We add $5 if you pay only between. We went “crazy” bowling at our 60th one month in advance. If you pay during the Birthday Bash. month of the reunion, you pay $10 more than the I think we’re set on two days: On Friday night “early bird” price. We also charge a $10 cover fee we meet for icebreaker cocktails at a local bar. for anyone who comes after the food has been served. Saturday is busy – breakfast, decorating the hall, some Planners are chosen when someone indicates s/he We chose a king and queen at our 60th BB by other activity such as Crazy Bowl or golf, and wants to be on the committee, and the old drawing names out of a hat. This went over very then the big event. committee says, “Have at it.” A group of friends well, so we’re going to do it at our 45-year reunion. Kids from six grade schools went to our high organized all the reunions through the 35-year school. We always take a picture of each group, along event. A new group, who started out as with the class photo. We have a slide show with acquaintances, has now taken over. The close to 2,000 images that display in a continuous committee numbered nine for the 60th BB, loop. We add more photos after each reunion. We but we have added three new people since also set up a laptop to display a memorial tribute to then, along with four long-distance classmates who have passed on. committee members, bringing our total As door prizes, we raffle off items such as committee to 16. bottles of Boone’s Farm wine (popular in our day) For our upcoming 45-year reunion we have and we give away an inexpensive souvenir, such as enlisted about a dozen people who are going an ornament. to call their grade school classmates and Live music is a must. The band Shadows of encourage them to attend. Since the new Knight had a huge hit in the late 1960s called “Gloria;” we hired committee took over in 2009, attendance has increased, and their lead singer, Jimy Sohns, to come in and sing a set with the we’ve seen people who have never attended a reunion before. Of band. The band itself included a former member of The Cryin’ course we spent at least 50 man hours locating everyone (we have Shames – a huge band in the Chicago area in the ’60s and ’70s. current contact info for 457 out of 486 classmates), some of whom People who never had come to a reunion before showed up just told us they’d never been contacted before. We do our best to to see the band & Jimy. The dance floor remained busy all night. make everyone feel included. Needless to say, we plan to hire them again for our next reunion. Reported by Geri Barrath, Schaumburg, Illinois
McHenry High School, Class of 1971, 40-year reunion in Schaumburg, Illinois.
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Remember this cover?
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t’s of the Madrid-Torrejon American High School Association reunion in Fairfax County, Virginia. So recently the same group came back to Fairfax County where Dean Miller, National Sales Director, supplied them with copies of Reunions magazine with their pictures on the cover. Photo credit: Chris Paulis, CP
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
And here they are at the Sheraton Premiere at Tysons Corner.
Tokay 10 year reunion
I 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 …Sa n Di e g o ’s U n f o r g e t t a b l e L o c a ti o ns
Please recycle this magazine when you’re finished!
lene Baker, Stockton, California, writes: “10 years ago I would have been voted least likely to plan a high school reunion. … I stepped in to plan the 10-year reunion for Tokay High School Class of 2004, located in Lodi, California. Our class president was supposed to organize it; however, she asked for a volunteer to take her place. The first classmate who volunteered had no luck, running into financial walls left and right. I knew about a venue I could secure for no cost as long as we purchased dinners. They also booked a band for us for free, and I stepped up to fill the position as organizer. The country & western-themed Whisky Barrel Tavern ties closely to the culture of my classmates. It is a classy, country-chic steakhouse with a full bar and banquet room, very close to our high school. We are promoting our 20-year reunion at our 10-year reunion. We will have a 50/50 raffle, with 50% of the proceeds to be
banked for a deposit on a more upscale venue, and the other 50% constituting a grand prize for a classmate. The raffle tickets are $1 each, or $15 for an arm’s reach in tickets. An additional door prize raffle will feature prizes donated by local businesses. I financed the startup. Our reunion will be attended by roughly 200 people. (For a larger reunion, I would recommend having a second person involved to manage finances.) We use a hosting site to collect ticket funds. The site allows us to pull money out periodically to purchase supplies and give companies deposits when needed. We are using facebook for icebreakers! Both our facebook group page and our ticket hosting site feature a blog and picture-sharing options. At the reunion we’ll have a photo booth, slideshow, memorial, no-host bar, live band and dancing.
Class of 1975 meets every decade
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he A.H. Parker High School, Class of 1975, in Birmingham, Alabama, meets every 10 years. The 30-year reunion was held in Birmingham at a hotel and included a picnic in the park. I would like a memorable reunion, more age-appropriate … no more picnics. We’re in the talking stage for our 40-year class reunion in 2015. We would like a venue where we can end with a dressy dinnerand-dance celebration. I am pushing for a cruise for those who want to go after the reunion – not a long one if we’ve already partied the weekend. I will present several ideas to the committee. 8 Reunions v reunionsmag.com
We have had a get-acquainted night, picnic, banquets, morning worship, memorial service, farewell gathering, souvenirs, entertainment, food, speaker and tours. A committee was formed. People were placed on various subcommittees. To finance the reunion, each classmate contributes their share. We keep members involved by maintaining a sign-in log (email and addresses), yearly mailed newsletters and social media (classmates.com.). Reported by Joycelyn L. O’Neal, Anniston, Alabama
3No matter how your taste buds roll, you’ll fiNd your heart’s desire .4
The good, the great, the delicious and the down-home are all on the menu here waiting for you to place your order.
facebook.com/planocvb
14-PNO-0901 Ad_Reunion Mag.indd 1
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Attending in spirit by Kathleen Casper
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Kathleen Casper with her father on her wedding day.
Dear Lynn, Thank you. It was a very sad thing to lose our dad but he did live a good life and he loved life very much. Your message means a lot to us. I’m so glad to hear he is being remembered. … I’m sure he would have really enjoyed seeing all of you and making it to the 50th reunion. Hugs to all of you. Lynn invited us to join their facebook reunion planning page. My inbox started filling up with the fun messages they shared: updates on the great things many of dad’s classmates were doing, high school photographs, and lots of memories.
I posted a note on the class’s reunion page: Thanks to Lynn Yawn for reaching out to our family to let us know about your reunion. Our dad, Phil Coombs, died in 2001. We miss him every day but know he would have loved to be a part of your reunion. It means so much to us to be able to see how you all are doing and to know he is being remembered. He enjoyed adventures, solving complex systems problems, traveling the world, and spending time showing his children how things work. He liked to take things apart and figure out how they worked and then put them together again, something I remember since I was a little kid! Thank you for including us in your reunion. The comments started rolling in from people who had known my dad as a teenager, remembered funny things he did, cared about him, and wanted to tell us they were sorry he was gone. Every comment meant the world to us. And then it got even better. His classmates posted photos, reunion plans, and their progress with schedules and activity and menu ideas. It was like we were right there with them. Thank you so much, Cocoa (Florida) High School Class of 1964, for including us in your adventure. Kathleen Casper Photo credit Ann Collins
his year is my dad’s high school class’s 50-year reunion. When a parent dies, you miss out on facts like this. I remember his birthday and think about him a lot on mine and on my children’s birthdays, and, of course, on Phil Coombs as a teenager Christmas and Easter and all the holidays we celebrated together. My dad loved a big party and always was up for a family event. My dad was a technology guru, fascinated by its uses in communications and records storage and retrieval. (He would be thrilled about facebook and iPhones!) He had been the state archivist and one of the creators of our state government’s internet search tool. To commemorate his life, I created a Wikipedia page. Then I created a facebook page where we could display photographs and stories about him, and where his friends could share memories with us. I hoped his friends would find him, and sure enough, I received an email about a new message on the facebook page. Hi ... so sorry to see your Father’s passing. I was a high school classmate and we are planning our 50th reunion. We have your Dad on our memorial list but when I found this FB page I first thought we’d made a mistake. It looks like he made a fine man. God Bless. … Lynn Yawn I responded:
Cocoa (Florida) High School, Class of 1964
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branch office
Preserving Your reunion memories by Oliver Peters, Jr.
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n 1970, my father started our yearly week-long Peters Family Reunions. Each year, we’d gather at a lake on the east coast for a week of catching up, food, water sports, more food, and just plain FUN. That same year my father started a reunion “scrapbook,” in which he subsequently documented each year’s reunion with pictures and, at that time, a hand-written summary of who attended, what the weather was like, and what we did that week – a time capsule for every reunion year. There are now four reunion scrapbooks. They are entrusted to me, to bring to our reunions each year for everyoae to spend some alone time looking back at our 40+ years of reunions. What would happen if those books were damaged or, worse yet, destroyed? It might be possible to reprint pictures, but the hand-written documents are irreplaceable. In 1999, I began to digitize every single picture and document in those reunion books – a daunting task, indeed, but one that needed to be done. Over a period of six months (at
My OneDrive’s “Landing” screen.
Clicking on the “Past Reunion” box brings me here. Inside the past reunion folder, I’ve created 40 more folders, one for each of our 40 years of reunions.
OneDrive requires is that you create a Microsoft e-mail address (Hotmail, MSN Mail, Live Mail, etc.). You do not get bombarded with spam emails. As a matter of fact, the only thing I get with my MSN e-mail is updates and info relating to OneDrive itself. OneDrive is a basic file-folder view, meaning that you create individual folders, then (as you do on your PC) fill the folders with pictures and documents. OneDrive does not post advertising or other “stuff” on your site, so there are no distractions. But it is a simple design. If you are looking for fancy, eye-catching webpages, you’ll not find them here. If you look closely at the lower left side of the above Now, inside the folder labeled “2008 Reunion,” there are pictures from that reunion, a written summary of the reunion, and a special letter from then-President George W. Bush. photo, it says I have 5.79 gigabytes of space available on my OneDrive. That’s after I’ve uploaded pictures, documents, and videos from 40 reunions! Granted, some of the a leisurely pace), using a flatbed scanner, I saved everything onto year folders contain as few as 20 pictures, but other year folders my personal computer. hold well over 150 pictures. Now, armed with all the digital files and folders, I found an In fairness, many other websites offer ways to tell your reunion inexpensive way to post the pictures and documents for all the story. OneDrive is only one option from which you can choose. I family to enjoy in their jammies in the privacy of their own looked at nearly a dozen web-hosting services, ranging from a homes. I created Peters Family webpages, some for free, some real webpage complete with fancy graphics and hyperlinks, to with annual costs. All required lots of “computer-ese” to services that walk you through the process of writing your own maintain. So now everyone was able to see and download all our reunion story, complete with audio, video and photos to enhance reunion memories and they are safely stored offsite. your written piece. Creating and maintaining webpages requires computer skill The Peters Family always, always enjoyed looking through and, in some cases, money. I needed something that would not those reunion scrapbooks, so it was just a matter of finding a way only store our “stuff” online, but that would do so at no cost, and to make those pictures and videos available to everyone to enjoy, that would be easy to maintain. at any time – and not only to enjoy by themselves, but to share Microsoft to the rescue! with their friends, too. In 2007 Microsoft offered “Skydrive” as a free cloud storage Reported by Oliver Peters, Jr., Leesburg, Virginia site. Skydrive, now known as “OneDrive,” offers seven gigabytes https://onedrive.live.com/?cid=72912e728ac8e00e of free cloud storage space. There are options for additional space Contact Oliver at crisperjr@msn.com for a fee. But seven gigs is a lot to work with. The only thing that AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 v Reunions 11
branch office Have you heard about The Global Family Reunion?
June 6, 2015 New York Hall of Science in Queens, New York (site of the 1964 World’s Fair)
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estselling author A.J. Jacobs has been researching his genealogy and claims a family tree of 77 million. Every one of A.J’s 77 million relatives on planet earth is encouraged to join him at The Global Family Reunion. Learn all about it at http://ajjacobs.com/global-familyreunion/. Cousins who have a proven relationship to A.J. will get a bracelet and take part in the record-breaking Largest Family Photo.
Deamer/Deemer/Demer Family Reunion
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escendants of late brothers Ned Deamer and Griffin Deemer met for their first Deamer/Deemer/Demer Family Reunion in Hammond, Louisiana. It started when my two sisters, Earline Bentley and Cheryl Looney, decided to contact family who lived in and around Baton Rouge. I had found a telephone number for Robert C. Deamer, Sr. Though nervous, I made the call and spoke with Robert, who was very accommodating and happy to hear from someone who could possibly be a relative. Robert gladly provided telephone numbers of others who could provide additional information. These additional conversations were a great help. My genealogy research uncovered variant spellings of the surname. In August 2011, my sisters and I decided to visit Baton Rouge to meet the family. Dianne Deemer coordinated the meeting. We met in a local park, and more than 50 family members attended. At this meeting we decided to join forces for the first family reunion. It was also the first time many of the family members
had been together. They talked, made connections and found how we were related. It was a great day for the family. We decided the reunion would be held in Hammond, Louisiana, on the property of cousins Johnnie and Felicia McVay. I was selected Chairperson, and Melva Deamer of Louisiana was selected as the Co-Chair. Reunion activities were divided. The Kansas City family was responsible for the Meet/Greet, the Kansas City and Louisiana family shared responsibility for the banquet, and the Louisiana family was responsible for the family cookout. A short banquet program highlighted how everything came together for the reunion. We showcased family accomplishments and had a raffle. I spoke about the progress of my genealogy work and indicated that the family tree is in the process of being constructed, but that it would take time. Family came from Missouri, Illinois, Georgia and California. The reunion was a great success and worth all the hard work. Reported by Anita Haney, Kansas City, Missouri
Deamer/Deemer/Demer Family Reunion
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branch office
Mixson Family Reunion
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he 1850 census enumerates members of the Harriet Beck and Billy Mixson (b. 1815) family in Barnwell County, South Carolina. According to censuses, family members also lived in the Barnwell County communities of Great Cypress, Kline, and Barnwell. However, oral history states family also lived in Prospect, Beldoc, and Livingston. Around 1975, family leaders hired a South Carolina genealogist to produce a Mixson family document. Recently, using computer resources, family members found that Boiling Spring Quarter is where slave family members were housed in the early 1800s. In the early 1910s, some Mixsons moved and congregated in Jacksonville, Florida. They brought their family members, with hope, faith in God and dreams of a new beginning. To survive, they lived in neighborhoods surrounded by family and welcomed others coming from South Carolina.
Second cousins, the late Henritta Cave and Diana Patterson.
Jacksonville in 1920 was a growing seaport community with jobs and a need for services. Mixson family members became entrepreneurs. In the late 1930s and early 1940s, without formal education,
cousins provided for their family. Today, in 2014, with education, the Mixson family includes doctors, lawyer, educators, businessmen/women, artist, musicians, as well as entrepreneurs. Since 1955, the family has gathered for annual weekends in Kline, South Carolina, and Jacksonville, Florida. Later, when connections were found in the north, reunions were held in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. In 2013, the family met in Amelia Island, a Jacksonville, Florida, beach community. We found a “slave cemetery” dating back to the late 1700s, but no Mixsons. It became important to incorporate the family as a non-profit organization in each state (South Carolina, Florida and Texas). The Texas “western organization” will host the next reunion in San Antonio, Texas. Reported by H.J. Macklin, whose signature says she’s an experienced community volunteer, for which we salute her.
Mixson Family Reunion
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scrapbook Most of these events are sponsored and presented by convention and visitors bureaus. Most take place on Saturdays unless noted and, for the most part, are for people planning reunions in their area. All prefer or require advance reservations and are free or at nominal cost. For information about new events – added online, as soon as we learn about them – visit reunionsmag.com and click on workshops, conferences and seminars. Alliance of Military Reunions
Cobb County, Georgia
Contact Skip Sander, 412-367-1376 | MilitaryReunions@aol.com AllMilitaryReunions.org
Contact Melissa Legaux, 800-451-3480 | mlegaux@travelcobb.org
Albany, Georgia
October 4, 2014 Roger Dudley, 614-222-6136, 800-354-2657 experiencecolumbus.com/tours-reunions
Contact J.D. Sumner at jdsumner@albanyga.com | 229 317-4760 Alpharetta, Georgia
Contact April Cochran, 678-297-2811 | april@ awesomealpharetta.com Athens, Georgia
Contact Athens CVB, 706-357-4430. Atlanta, Georgia
Contact Chantel Ross Francois, 404-521-6647 crossfrancois@atlanta.net | atlanta.net/reunionworkshop Augusta, Georgia
October 11, 2014 Contact “Cousin” Michelle, 1-800-726-0243, 706-823-6600 mbovian@augustaga.org Baltimore, Maryland
September, 27, 2014 Baltimore Family Reunion EXPO 410-244-8861 | info@BaltimoreReunionExpo.com www.BaltimoreReunionExpo.com Greater Birmingham, Alabama
October 4, 2014 Contact Tara Walton, CTIS, 205-458-8000, ext 206 twalton@birminghamal.org Branson, Missouri
August 11-14, 2014, Monday-Thursday Contact Julie Peters, 417-334-4084 | jpeters@bransoncvb.com www.explorebranson.com/groups/reunions Cabarrus County, North Carolina
Contact Carrie Hendrickson, 704-456-7969 Carrie@visitcabarrus.com | visitcabarrus.com Chesapeake, Virginia
October 18, 2014 Contact C. Jeff Bunn, 888-889-5551 | jbunn@cityofchesapeake.net Chicago Southland, Illinois
Tuesday, September 23, 2014 Contact Kristy Stevens, 708-895-8299 Kristy@VisitChicagoSouthland.com 16 Reunions v reunionsmag.com
Columbus, Ohio
Dekalb County, Georgia
August 16, September 20, November 15, 2014 Contact Penny Moore, pennym@dcvb.com | 770-492-5018 visitatlantasdekalbcounty.com Detroit, Michigan
September 20, 2014 Contact DMCVB, 313-202-1985 | www.meetdetroit.com/reunions Douglasville, Georgia
Contact Kimberly Bridges, bridgesk@douglasvillega.gov 678-449-3172 | www.visitdouglasville.com Dunwoody, Georgia
Contact Andy Williams, 678-244-9804 AndyW@CVBDunwoody.com Estes Park, Colorado, YMCA of the Rockies
November 7-9, 2014 Family Reunion University Contact Family Reservationists, 888-613-9622 familyreservations@ymcarockies.org | ymcarockies.org 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@visitflint.org Fredericksburg, Virginia
Contact: Kimberly Herbert, 800-260-3646 ksherbert@fredericksburgva.gov Grand Rapids, Michigan
Heidi Schmitt, 800-678-9859 ext 3557 hschmitt@experiencegr.com Greenwood, South Carolina
Contact Lindsay Burns, 864-953-2464 Lindsay.Burns@cityofgreenwoodsc.com
Gwinnett County, Georgia
Peachtree City, Georgia
October 17, 2014 April 2015 Contact Cricket Elliott-Leeper, Gwinnett CVB, 770-814-6049 cricket@exploregwinnett.org
Contact 678-216-0282 | visitpeachtreecity.com Prince George’s County, Maryland
October 15, 2014, Wednesday Contact Mary Jane Shearer, 301-322-0797, shearemj@pgcc.edu
Kalamazoo, Michigan
REUNION FRIENDLY NETWORK
Military Reunion Planners Contact Jennifer Williamson, 269-488-0057 jwilliimason@discoverkalamazoo.com or Contact Lisa Kukulski, 269-488-0056 lkukulski@discoverkalamazoo.com
Military Reunion Planners Conferences begin on varied days. Louisville, Kentucky | August 3-8, 2014 Kissimmee, Florida | September 8-12, 2014 Albuquerque, New Mexico | October 12-17, 2014
Kissimmee, Florida
September 20, 2014 Speaker: Edith Wagner, Reunions magazine editor Contact Jadeine Shives, 407-742-8255 jshives@experiencekissimmee.com
Contact, Sharon Danitschek, 425-501-1430 sharon@reunionfriendly.com | www.reunionfriendly.com Rock Hill, South Carolina
Visit www.visityorkcounty.com/
Lake County, Illinois
Contact Kimberly Ghys, 800-Lake-Now | lakecountyreunions.com
Sandy Springs, Georgia
Contact Candice Cocco, 239-338-3500 | CCocco@leegov.com
October 18, 2014 Contact Will Carlson, 770-206-1445 will.carlson@sandyspringsga.org
Louisville, Kentucky
Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana
Lee County CVB, Florida
August 9, November 8, 2014 Contact Darlene Starks, 502-379-6110 | dstarks@gotolouisville.com Macon-Bibb County, Georgia
August 16, 2014 Contact Robin North, 478-743-1074 ext. 114 | rnorth@maconga.org Memphis, Tennessee
Contact Lisa Catron, 901-543-5337 | lisacatron@memphistravel.com Minneapolis, Minnesota
Contact Casey Kluver, 612-767-8106 caseyk@meetminneapolis.com Newport News, Virginia
Contact Andrea Moran, 888-493-7386 | amoran@nngov.com
Contact Kevin Flowers, 800-551-8682 | kflowers@sbctb.org YMRC – Your Military Reunion Connection
Conferences begin on varied days Virginia Beach, Virginia | November 2-5, 2014 Charleston, South Carolina | November 9-12, 2014 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 Portland, Oregon | August 2-5, 2015 DC area - Manassas, Virginia | November 1-4, 2015 Contact Ymrcusa@gmail.com | yourmilitaryreunions.com
A Human Family Reunion
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he annual Wyandotte County, Kansas, Ethnic Festival is called A Human Family Reunion. The festival is a way for people in the community to experience how diverse food, music, art and dance generate a healthy, optimistic sense of shared well-being. It serves as a way to bring the community together. “The Human Family Reunion is designed to foster a climate of inclusiveness, promote better human relations and educate each other about our cultural differences,” said Karen Hernandez, founder of the festival. “People want to come out to try the food from different countries, but it is also an opportunity to celebrate our common humanity.” More than 50 organizations, countries and ethnicities from Wyandotte County were represented. Visit freewebs.com/wycoethnicfestival/ From the Kansas City Kansan, Kansas City, Kansas
Photo credit Bettse Folsom
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Holmes Family Reunion
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have eight brothers and sisters, died, so did family reunions. and am a wife, a mother to five, As I grew older, I thought and grandmother to eight. When I about all the good times I shared was young, my mother instilled in with cousins. I even wondered me love and compassion for just how many cousins I really family. During my childhood had. I interviewed my mom and years, I never wondered where we grandmother and learned how vast were going for the Fourth of July. my family was. My mom had 76 My mom always took us to her first cousins and many lived right grandmother’s house for a great here in the Hampton Roads area. Holmes family matriarch, big cookout and to watch Over 10 years after my great Hope Harrison, who keeps fireworks. I didn’t know at the grandmother died, I planned a everyone together and time that my great-grand-mother reunion in 1997. I was surprised connected. Ruth, who had 10 children, used when over 150 family members the cookout as her way of having a family showed up. Some I knew, many I didn’t. reunion for all her children and grandFor the next 10 years, I planned reunions children. All I knew was it was wonderful for descendants from my great grandseeing all my cousins, aunts and uncles. parents, James and Ruth Barnes. It was Sadly, she died in 1987, and when she hard to remember everyone’s name. So I created a family history book which led me on my ancestral journey to find out about my roots. In researching and interviewing my parents, grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles, great aunts and uncles, I found out that love for all my family members was in my DNA. I learned my great Uncle Howard Holmes had that same love for all his family members. He was the butler and chauffeur for the CEO of The youngest member, Sonny Cooper, with his mom, Chantiel Cooper. Sonny was General Mills Cereal in New four months old at the reunion and could not stop looking at his big gift. York City back in the 1960s.
Reunion visit to Shirley Plantation.
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He was a trusted and devoted employee, so when it came time for him to retire, his employer asked what he wanted for a retirement present. He said he wanted a family reunion. He wanted to see his 12 brothers and sisters (my great-grandmother was his sister), their descendants and their respective families. The CEO planned the event, which was held at the Lake Wright Hotel in Norfolk, Virginia, on June 6, 1970, attended by over 250 family members – and the local newspaper. This year’s family reunion was special because it included members of my Barnes Family Tree, but down to my Holmes Roots. In the past, reunions were attended by family members in the Hampton Roads area. This year, I reached out, and back, and down, to find as many people on that family tree as I could, so it could be a reunion like my great uncle had. People came from Texas, Indiana, Florida, North Carolina, Rhode Island and California. Embracing Our Holmes Heritage
We met at Oakwood Cemetery in Norfolk, Virginia, to visit the burial place of our ancestors (my great-great-grandparents), and graves of Colored Civil War soldiers. The following day, we met at the Berkley Recreation Center in Norfolk for the Grand Style Family Reunion. On Sunday we traveled to Charles City, Virginia, to tour the Shirley Plantation, where I had traced our Holmes slave ancestral roots. Reported by Melissa C. Taylor, Windsor, Virginia
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 v Reunions 19
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Moore/Roberts Family Reunion
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ur family reunion in Hill City, Kansas, was great fun and a rousing success. We celebrated with 59 family members and nine friends. Our crew arrived back home in Kansas from six states. Arriving in Hill City a day early, my sister Arlene and I made the trip to our mother’s birthplace, Tasco, Kansas, which is now pretty much a ghost town. The old school house is still there, an old grain elevator, and the carriage house. We visited with an old farmer who has lived in the area for a long time. The stories he told! When the rest of the family arrived the next day, the principal of the junior high school gave us a tour of the building, which used to be the high school, and we saw all the old photos of our family members who graduated from the school.
Later the same day we visited the Memorial cemetery and viewed new headstones placed for family members long passed away. We wanted the youngest members of the family to know who their ancestors are and where they are buried. Headstones give a lot of information. The highlight of the reunion was the family dinner and games. Male family members grilled meats and the women supplied side dishes. A cousin made and decorated a beautiful family reunion cake. A family newsletter was sent to those who were unable to attend or who chose not to. We hope our reunion will continue to grow and get better with each passing year. Reported by Karla (Dotson) Legere, Enid, Oklahoma
The Moore/Roberts Family Reunion t-shirt reads “Heredity: Everyone loves it until it’s their kid that acts a fool.”
Martins long reunion history
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he Martin Family Reunion has been meeting annually for 77 years. There are 14 nuclear families (14 first-generation siblings) who work as multi-generational committees. The host family creates a seed money account, and registration fees for attendees are based on cost. The host family chooses the reunion location and finances the reunion. The reunion rotates among east coast locations, where the host family lives. The last was in North Carolina, the next will be in Virginia. Kids are absolutely involved. Host family children are responsible for hosting their age groups. Teenagers are responsible for decorations/ signs/mailouts. Young adults supervise children’s activities throughout the weekend, and do note-taking on monthly planning conference calls. All children and teenagers are recognized during awards ceremony. Annual activities include early bird arrival contests, meet and greet opening, family scavenger hunt, memorial, worship service, genealogy presentation, multi-generational interactive games, Passing the Branch activities, Family Scholarship Fund Annual Meeting (43 years), cultural/historical tours and Empowerment Workshops (Wealth Building and Estate Planning). The family communicates by email, e-blasts, family phone tree (directory), facebook group, and eventbrite. Reported by Kimberly T. Fears, Norcross, Georgia 20 Reunions v reunionsmag.com
Gragg Ross Tripp Family Reunion
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ragg Ross Tripp Family Reunions are held annually in various locations to enjoy different cities and cultures. The host family determines what the reunion will cost, based on what is planned for the event. A price is set for each person and the people who attend pay their way. We plan locations two years out. To break the ice, we introduce ourselves to each other and we tell how we are related so each generation will see the ties. We always include time for a business meeting, time to talk about family history, and a memorial along with a worship service. We play games involving family history and our roots. The older family members usually have their way of doing it, uniquely. The younger generation keeps in touch on social media and they do not always see the point of having reunions when they can talk online. For them the only reason to go is to visit a place they have never been. The children see reunions as a chance to see relatives in a neat city. They might never make the effort unless their parents encourage them. Reported by Tracey Michele Edwards, Dayton, Ohio
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Dettmering Family Reunion
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he decision to start having regular family reunions began with the death of Robert Dettmering in 1987. Bob’s siblings (Esther, Karl, Roger, John and Wes) started thinking it might be nice to gather together as a family someplace other than at funerals. The idea of regular Dettmering Family Reunions was born. The first reunion was planned by Esther Heier and Karl Dettmering in 1992 at Pewaukee Park in Pewaukee, Wisconsin. The family planned to host reunions every five years after that first one, with each branch taking turns. In more recent years, the decision was made to hold reunions every three years. Initially, word was spread by the eldest generation to their children, who in turn shared the information with their children, and so on. Recently, the family has begun to use email and facebook as a method to spread the word. Of course, word-of-mouth is still used. The Dettmerings have taken full advantage of Wisconsin summers by planning reunions at state or local parks in late June or early July. The state in which the reunion is held depends on which family is hosting that year. State and local parks are equipped with rentable shelters, grills for cooking, and activities for kids and adults alike. This year, family members as young as one and as old as 85 came from all over the country to celebrate at Illiniwek Forest Preserve on the Mississippi River in Illinois. A rainy start to the summer had flooded the river, but despite climbing water levels, family converged on the site. Some were able to camp right on the grounds, while others stayed in a local hotel on the other side of the river in Iowa. The reunion lasts just one day – meaning the Dettmerings have to cram three years of catching up into a few short hours! The cousins share stories, the elders pass along family history, and the young children discover new friendships with cousins they never knew. A group of
Playing washers at the Dettmering Family Reunion; left to right Jacob Ksioszk (6), Jeffrey Sizonen, coaching Jacob, Madelyn Ksioszk (9) and their dad, Ryan. The flooded Mississippi River is in the background.
boys of all ages put together a quick baseball game in the grassy area near the shelter and played until rain forced them to take cover. But the rain didn’t keep the kids under the protection of the shelter. Bubbles floated through the air from “bubble guns” and they filled water balloons and splashed each other until their shoes squished when walking. Photos of this reunion will be shared among family members via email and in a private family facebook group. Since the last reunion, two elder siblings have passed. With everyone growing older,
the family decided to hold reunions more often – every two years. Everyone wants to enjoy each other’s company for as long as possible! The more frequent reunions will also signify a changing of hands. The elder generation passing the reunion planning along to their children. A rumor is floating around that the 2016 Dettmering Family Reunion might be hosted by the Karl Dettmering family at Milwaukee’s annual German Fest on Lake Michigan. Reported by Nicole Dettmering Ksioszk, Port Washington, Wisconsin
60 years of family reunions
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he Nichols Family Reunion of St. Charles, Michigan, marked their 60th consecutive annual reunion. “Sixty years ago, my mother got sick,” said one of nine children. “We had a Mother’s Day dinner, and she told us, ‘I don’t care if you kids ever see each other during the year, but I want you to get together once a year and have a reunion.’ And that’s what we’ve done.” Their mother succumbed to liver cancer that year. This year’s reunion will be a Renaissance theme because it’s
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going to be about the coat of arms. A niece by marriage scrapbooked personalized heritage albums for each of the nine siblings. There are 35 grandchildren, some in St. Charles and others across the country. “To my notion, a commitment to family, even when time and distance stretch those ties, is beautiful,” said one of the children. From a story by Jodi McFarland in The Saginaw News, Saginaw, Michigan
Smiths planning ahead
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will host the 2015 descendants of David and Phillis Smith (of Alabama) Family Reunion in Rochester, New York. Suggestions for where the reunion should be held are made from year to year, and the family votes. The reunion chairperson has been the organizer since the inception of our family reunion. She has been asked to continue organizing until she is no longer able. I believe the day will soon come when the younger generation will have to take over. We look forward to the traditions of the family worship service and family dinner. They bring the family closer and there is a special connection when we all gather as one body. The family communicates through letters, emails, facebook and word of mouth. We hope to develop a website. The reunion is financed by fees paid by each family member. We encourage participation by all family members, children included. We ask each member to introduce themselves and tell how they are related. Our younger members participate in the program by singing, dancing, telling jokes and reciting poetry. Activities can include a meet and greet, water park, picnic, church service, family dinner, games, giveaways, raffles and auctions. Reported by Sarah Smith, Rochester, New York
Smith Family Reunion
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Waymarking in Salem, Massachusetts
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y daughter, Dana, hosted our 37th Annual “Willie Branch” Harris Family Reunion in Salem, Massachusetts. With so many traveling great distances to attend, she wanted everyone to visit the most historic sites the area has to offer. Our reunion theme was “Born in the
USA,” and our colors were, of course, red, white, and blue. Just about everyone travels with their GPS and other sophisticated guiding systems these days, and they were put to an additional use for our event’s Waymarking activities.
Harris Family Reunion Born in the USA t-shirt
A Harris Family Waymarking team
is celebrating the red, white and blue.
Sugar-white sand. Emerald-green water. Legendary fishing and golf. Flexible meeting space. Have your next military reunion or event at the Heart of Florida’s Emerald Coast.
MYEMERALDCOASTEVENT.com 24 Reunions v reunionsmag.com Untitled-4 1
800-4UEMERALD 7/21/14 3:57 PM
Waymarking is a method of increasing awareness of local points and a type of scavenger hunt for unique and interesting locations. This was a great way to see one of the nation’s oldest cities with history lessons included! Salem was a great place for just this kind of activity. Coordinates were researched and acquired for Salem sites such as Corwin House, House of Seven Gables, Salem’s tall ship – The Friendship, and The National Park Service Visitor Center. Family members entered coordinates into their guidance device to tour the city. Family members were divided into three teams: red, white, and blue. The plan was to have the teams photograph the site once they located it. The first team to locate all points and present photos were the winners. Since our reunions are held nationwide, we enjoy touring areas we are visiting. The family was very excited to get started with sightseeing. With instructions, cameras and coordinates in hand, everyone set off on their quests. The one gadget we had not taken into account was the cell phone! My daughter was bombarded with picture texts by the teams, all vying for first place. As my daughter and I walked through Salem, we’d catch a glimpse of team members on their search. A young man stopped us and asked about our t-shirts. We had to take a picture with him because he happened to be wearing red, white, and blue! His name was Will, and as we talked, he was inspired to attempt his own family reunion. The winning Blue Team received prizes, and everyone got bragging rights. We had wonderful weather and great fun in Salem. Our next reunion will be in Cleveland, Ohio. Reported by Delphine Steficek, Sussex, New Jersey
Conrad-Roland Family Reunion
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arranged a 100th birthday party for my grandmother, My grandmother told stories about her ancestors. Her who was born March 30, 1914. She is remarkably own grandfather escaped from a Confederate prison in well, living in her own home, and planning on the 1863 at Point Lookout and was thought to have died next milestone of 101. Her own mother was just (he died 50 years later, in 1913); her grandfather was four months shy of 101 when she died. I had given with Lee when he surrendered. She also is her a 99th birthday party, then the 100th. All her descended from family who were the first who came three sisters and one brother are deceased. But I to Virginia and Maryland. She is a member of the was able to find her oldest sister’s only living Daughters of the American Revolution. As the daughter and most of her sisters’ living Grand Regent of the Catholic Daughters at the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. time, she was the first woman to lay a wreath on Remarkably, one of the grandchildren brought a John F. Kennedy’s tomb at Arlington Cemetery. family album of a 97th birthday party given for Now I am trying to plan a much larger family my greatgrandmother, with all our photos when reunion (beyond my we were young. I was only seven at the time. grandmother’s sisters’ My grandmother’s name is Marion Roland grandchildren) in Conrad. Her ancestors are the Lee family (Robert Alexandria, Virginia, E. Lee was a cousin of Marion’s mother and her where she lived until age grandmother 93 when she sold her home attended school at of 50 years and moved to Arlington House Virginia Beach. Grandmother Marion Roland (Arlington Reported by Conrad in 1942 with her Cemetery) with Therese DeSanto, husband Jimmy and children Norris and Lucille. Robert E. Lee’s Virginia Beach, Virginia Edward and Arlington House children). Marion tells amazing stories of what it was like to live through the Depression, of how all her sisters’ husbands went to Four generations
war, how her oldest sister (20 years older than she) donated her hair to the war. Most intriguing to me are stories she tells of her brother, Norris, who was a lawyer but chose to own his own carnival. He owned the original chimp that played “Cheetah” in the Johnny Weissmuller Tarzan movies.
Dixons: Ed, Keith and Ann
Great Grandma’s 100th birthday
Conrad-Roland Family Reunion
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where?
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ne of the most significant and important questions you must answer in planning a reunion is “where?” As you’ll discover, there are many ways to answer that question, and just as many ways to select where your reunion will be. The range may surprise you because, bottom line, almost anywhere that can accommodate a vacation can also be a good choice for a reunion, so long as it’s large enough to accommodate your group. These choices range from a cruise ship to vacation homes, as well as hotels and resorts. Read about the choices of other reunions.
Hoo Yah Deep Sea
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he 2014 US Navy Divers Association Reunion was a resounding success, according to organizer David Ball, San Diego: “We had 115 attendees at the banquet/auction. The Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside (HIB) was outstanding in every aspect. The hospitality space was phenomenal, as were the catering manager and his crew, who kept the room spotlessly clean and kept us well supplied with ice, water and anything else we requested. The hotel provided a one-hour welcome reception with heavy hors d’oeuvres and an open bar – all complimentary. “The banquet and auction went better than I could ever have imagined. The food service was perfect and all the dishes were very tasty and nobody went away hungry. Holiday Inn Bayside is an excellent property for reunions. Cannot say enough good things about the property.” Visit www.holidayinnbayside.com
Making cruise plans
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ore family reunions are being held on cruise ships. Some families even book entire small ships or riverboats. Cruise ships offer something for everyone and virtually everything’s included in the fare: accommodations, food, children’s programs, entertainment and activities for all ages. Cruise lines often offer sweeteners for large gatherings.
Group discounts
A group is generally considered 16 or more people, occupying eight or more cabins. Sometimes a portion of the 16th fare is free; split the savings or reap the benefits yourself. But policies vary by cruise line, and discounts are based on supply and demand. Examples include a free berth with 10 full fares booked in five cabins, credit for shore excursions, spa treatments, unlimited soft drinks, and one family photo per stateroom. Start early
Book a block of cabins as far in advance as you can. A year or more is preferable. Agree on a dining time and reserve (early!) a large table or adjacent tables in the dining room. All lines have group departments who cater to large parties. Take advantage of their services. If your reunion revolves around a milestone birthday or anniversary, book the party well in advance. From an article by Fran Golden, a cruise expert
blogger and a contributing editor of Porthole Magazine
If you are considering a reunion cruise, we recommend Brian Forrester, an expert in group reunion cruising. He can book any cruise line and can help with all your details and special arrangements. Contact Brian at 480-998-1112 or Brian@hcttravel.com. Be sure to tell him you learned about him in Reunions magazine.
If you use a travel agent
C Enjoying a meal on the Holiday Inn Bayside patio. Picture by Becky Moore
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onsult a travel agent. This will take pressure off the reunion leader. A travel agent can be a point person to contact reunion members, decide on dates, and determine a destination and/or type of travel. The travel agent will find out what your goal is. Do you want to be sedentary? Do you want to be adventurous? What are your ages? The agent has to meld all of the interests into one goal. The agent will help determine a budget. The best choice for a family reunion depends on the group’s budget, preferred style of travel and goals for the gathering. From an article by Judy Jacobs in Travel Market Report
Charting a new course
Manning family’s 2nd Caribbean cruise by Rhonda H. Wilson
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ith unspoken reservation, I boarded a cruise ship at the Port of Miami and set sail on my first Caribbean cruise. As I joined the more than 1,000 guests aboard the vessel and waved back at well-wishers along the South Beach shoreline, I began to experience a hint of the exhilaration my husband, Leroy, had assured me I would feel. I glanced at a sign in the ship’s atrium that read something like, “Book Your Next Reunion With Us,” but paid little attention. Then one day I watched a swarm of excited children, scampering on an upper deck; I later learned it was a scavenger hunt. I absolutely enjoyed the musicals, comedy shows, food, dining services and waking up to the beautiful landscapes at the ports of call. I survived … and had a great time! At the next Manning Family Reunion in Cincinnati, Ohio, I talked with cousins who live in Florida port cities, but none were interested in hosting a reunion cruise. On the last day, just before the next reunion location vote, my husband and I decided to throw our hats in the ring. My brother Marvin made a mental headcount and said, “It looks like the cruise vote is going to win.” It was the last choice to be voted on. I experienced mixed emotions as the cruise received the highest number of votes – from hyped and excited to anxious and asking, “What did I just get myself into?” The next six months were spent picking a
cruise line, choosing a destination, understanding policies (passports required/not required), reassurances (including “No, we won’t sink” and “I know the price is higher but it includes everything”). I had to consider family members’ physical limitations and health concerns, and needed to plan a program similar to the traditional one we always have on land. Our plans had to include activities, a banquet and memorial service. We found a way to do it all! Our theme was “Anchored to the Past – Cruising Toward the Future.” With assistance from the cruise line, I was given space to hold meetings and a cocktail party. We were allowed to use electric candles for our memorial service and, for a small fee, got technical assistance and equipment for our video presentation. The family enjoyed each other’s company every evening for an elegant dining experience. That alone was worth the higher cost. There was little need for day or evening activity planning. The ship offered more than enough events and recreational activities. Everyone especially enjoyed the festive atmosphere of the Captain’s Night. Parents were comforted that children were being supervised, in age-specific groups, by professionally trained child care workers. This service was included in the cost, along with 24-hour ice cream and pizza. Fifty participants took the reunion
cruise, compared to approximately 125 participants at the previous reunion. We tried something different, new and adventurous. It takes time for nontraditional plans to root. But, those in attendance experienced a new level of reunion enjoyment and family vacation fun in Key West, Florida, and Cozumel, Mexico. They said it was awesome! Three reunions later, the Manning Family Reunion is headed out to sea again. We’re cruising to Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. Our theme this time is “Charting a New Course.” I don’t know how many will participate, but I do recommend to Reunions magazine readers an occasional cruise as a location option. A cruise would be particularly beneficial for a shorthanded host. Since many reunions are scheduled during summer months, I also suggest you choose, if feasible, a cruise that sails the latter half of August, when rates are somewhat lower. Look for cruises that include a Saturday and Sunday to reduce the number of days family members have to take off work. “Exciting and New,” an expression from The Love Boat on TV, is exactly what a reunion cruise is. As I prepare for this summer’s cruise, my prayers aren’t focused as much on attendance as they are on safety, unity, and memories of a lifetime. Bon Voyage! Reported by Rhonda Wilson Miami Gardens, Florida
Manning Family Reunion cruising toward the future.
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where?
Threats Family Reunion
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he Threats family chose Lake County, Illinois (Chicago’s northern suburbs), and came together from eleven states. They started hosting reunions in the 1980s and have been holding them throughout the US every other year since. Sisters Catherine Walker and Faye Ceaser agreed to be reunion hosts. They started planning two years in advance, when a family member suggested bringing the reunion to the Chicago area. The sisters had experience planning reunions on their mother’s side, but this was the first time planning for the family of their father, Dudley Threats. Both sisters have been Lake County residents for over 40 years, so they were very familiar with the area and all it has to offer.
Catherine Walker’s Goddaughters, Kennedy Pirtle, 10 (left) and her sister, Drew Pirtle, 9.
One year before the reunion, Catherine and Faye did site tours to area hotel options with Visit Lake County, the local convention and visitors bureau. They narrowed their options to Holiday Inn Gurnee as the host hotel, because it is near Six Flags Great America, Gurnee Mills Shopping Mall, and their picnic location, Shiloh Park in Zion. A holiday/save-the-date card was sent in December to get the word out. The card Threats Family Reunion
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was followed by a detailed letter in mid-January describing reunion weekend plans. They also used a reunion facebook page to help spread the word and increase attendance by younger family members. Planning committees were assigned to lighten their load for each part of the reunion: picnic, games and banquet. A nephew who is a graphic designer created a logo for reunion t-shirts and the program. Their theme was “A family shielded by God,” Proverbs, 30:5B. The Threats Family Reunion brought 110 people to Lake County. The weekend kicked off on Friday evening in the hotel hospitality space with a Meet and Greet catered by their sister-in-law, who owns Daisy’s Dream Catering. Saturday was a free day to enjoy Six Flags Great America & Hurricane Harbor theme park, Gurnee Mills Shopping Mall, Gurnee Days festivities or the city of Chicago. Many took advantage of unlimited weekend Metra Rail passes that allowed multiple trips in and out of Chicago during the reunion weekend. The family banquet was held Saturday evening at the hotel. The banquet included a children’s talent show and dance party after dinner. On Sunday morning, the family gathered for a worship service at Shiloh Park in Zion. One member who is a minister hosted the worship. Following the service the family enjoyed a picnic, which included many activities for all ages. Some of the most popular were sack races, swimming, “Let’s Make a Deal” game, and an obstacle course arranged throughout the entire park by a relative who is a firefighter. A photographer captured activities, as well as the entire family at the banquet and picnic. The Threats Family Reunion in Lake County, Illinois, was a success! Faye
Threats Family Reunion planners Faye Ceaser (left) and Catherine Walker.
Ceasar said, “We couldn’t have asked for better people to work with at Visit Lake County. Kimberly Ghys and Peggy Altman provided excellent service, information and planning assistance and were extremely helpful. We were blessed to have the opportunity to work with such wonderful people!” Here at Visit Lake County we found both Catherine and Faye extremely caring, fun and kind individuals, and we are truly thankful to have welcomed the Threats family to Lake County! Visit www.VisitLakeCounty.org
About the author
Kimberly Ghys is the Senior Sales Manager at Visit Lake County, Illinois, and specializes in working with reunion planners. Contact her at 800-525-3669. Sadly, since this reunion story was prepared, Catherine Walker, one of the reunion planners, lost her son, Dr. Frank Matrix Walker (August 23, 1966- July 1, 2014), in a tragic auto accident. Our condolences to the family.
Chattanooga CVB helps rescue family reunion
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he Stockard Family Reunion gets This time Williams didn’t have together every two years. They’ve time, so she called Chris Petro, been doing it since 2000 and haven’t Director of National Accounts at the missed one yet. Recently, the family Chattanooga Convention and Visitors convened in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Bureau. Petro has years of experience with 35 members from four generations working with families, military and coming from as far away as California. others to plan reunions in “It has been a real blessing,” says Chattanooga. Petro got to work right reunion planner Genie Williams, away to meet the quicklyLawrenceburg, Tennessee. “The family approaching planned reunion date. is spread out now, but we really get to “The CVB was wonderful,” said know each other at these reunions!” Williams. “I cannot say enough good It was just a few weeks before the things. They took my requirements most recent reunion when disaster and got the hotels to contact me.” The Stockard Family cousins see each other only at their family reunions. struck. Their Tennessee State Park Williams chose the Best Western Back row (l to r): Grace, Sarah and Elie Kearney. Front row: Julianne, resort hotel canceled the reservation Plus Arbour Inn & Suites. Her Carys and Brendan Scheels. because renovations were running requirements were fairly simple: behind. The family had only a few weeks to find another place to enough space for 35 people, hospitality space, pool for the kids, meet during peak travel and tourism season. and central location. They didn’t need a lot, but they needed it Williams had planned two earlier reunions in Chattanooga and fast and they wanted to be treated well. Petro took care of the decided to go back for a third one. Chattanooga is easy for the Stockard family from start to finish, finding them a hotel and whole family to get to because of its central location. The city supporting them in all of their planning needs quickly. The hotel offers historic attractions as well as many family activities, manager invited Williams to tour the hotel and went above and meeting the needs of every generation. beyond to meet her needs. “It was perfect,” said Williams. “The The most recent reunion they had held in Chattanooga had CVB and the hotel were so helpful! It was wonderful!” been in 2004. Williams planned the whole thing by herself. “It The family’s favorite activity was enjoying Chattanooga’s was a real hassle,” said Williams. “I called all the hotels to find Northshore shops and restaurants on Saturday morning. This area one that fit our needs. It took a lot of time and effort.” has been featured in many publications, including Southern Living, for its unique restaurants, one-of-akind art galleries and beautiful public space along the Tennessee River. It is connected to Downtown by one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. Because the CVB and hotel were so helpful on such short notice, the Stockards were still able to have their reunion with little stress and tons of what’s most important of all: family time.
The fountain in Coolidge Park on Chattanooga’s Northshore is a perfect reunion meeting place.
Chris Petro assists with planning reunions in the Chattanooga area. You can contact her at 423-424-4417 or chrisp@chattanoogacv.com
Holiday Inn Bayside plaudits!
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odie Langhammer, CMP, National Sales Manager at Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside is proud and honored to have been selected by 20+ military reunions every year for the last 25 years. San Diego is a military town, and reunion groups (often recognized by their ball caps with their ship’s emblem, or division patch) are shown the respect they deserve. RRP/Rangers Reunion planner Dane Linehan said everyone raved about the reunion and the facilities. The consensus was that the dinner was the best they have had in over 23 years. The staff was very responsive and helpful. Jody Langhammer was on top of the “little things” that make it all work. Whatever they
asked for was taken care of immediately. Jeff Lee Manthos, Corvallis, Oregon, wrote on behalf of the Navy/HS-4 Aircrew reunion committee and participants. He thanked Jodie Langhammer for her help in making their small reunion one to remember. The hotel was the perfect setting and the staff unfailingly helpful and courteous. The Minter Family Reunion thanked the entire staff, especially Jenny Moore and Pat and his staff in the banquet department, for their patience, flexibility and sincere effort to make their event a success. Visit www.holinnbayside.com AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 v Reunions 29
where?
Reunions in Newport News
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he Newport News, Virginia, Tourism Office can be an invaluable resource as you plan a family, class or military reunion. Use them to collect proposals from hotels; provide contacts for services, caterers and tour companies; provide attendance-building materials; coordinate guest speakers and picnic shelters; assist with tour itineraries; stuff welcome bags; and staff hospitality tables. They can suggest things to see and do in Newport News, along with unique venues to host your special event. For example, no military affiliation is needed to use the United States Army Transportation Museum for an event, and it’s free! What a great place to explore America’s military history, but an even better place to make your own history! Newport News Tourism has many tools to help get you started. They offer customized site inspections, and complimentary attendance-building materials (such as postcards). Contact Andrea Moran, 888-493-7386; amoran@nngov.com. Ask for a Group Planner guide. And visit newport-news.org
Little boys love the exhibit at the US Army Transportation Museum.
More reunions answer the question “where?”
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anice of Rosedale, Maryland, says the McRae Family Reunions are three-day events held every other year. They alternate from the east coast to the west coast. “We take suggestions and have a voting period.” For many years, the Gragg Ross Tripp Family Reunion has chosen various locations so they get to enjoy different cities and cultures. Tracey Michele Edwards, Dayton, Ohio, wrote, “We used to go back to our family roots hometown, and then we moved to the locations of host families. Now we have a committee choose a location and they set up the group to host in the chosen city. We usually plan locations two years out. The last was in Sacramento, California; the next will be in Huntsville, Alabama.” Edwards also works on her class reunion. The class reunion, held once every three years, always takes place in their hometown so they can gather “where our memories were made.”
Bertha (BJ) Anderson, DeSoto, Texas, reports that the Bratcher-Jones-Smith Family Reunion location is determined by where the host planning committee lives. They have had four main locations and rotate among them: Little Rock, Arkansas; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; St. Louis, Missouri; Stuttgart, Arkansas; and now they’re adding Dallas, Texas. The Shields Family Reunion chooses a different location each time, writes Stephanie Abrams, Flint, Michigan. “Our last reunion was 10 years ago at Cherry Valley Lodge, Newark, Ohio. Reunions magazine was showcasing Cherry Valley Lodge, so we went there to vacation and decided to hold our reunion there. Our next family reunion will be held in Chicago, Illinois.” Sarah Smith will organize and host the 2015 Smith Family Reunion in Rochester, New York. “Suggestions for where the reunion should be held are made from year
to year and the family votes. If a family lives in the area, they host that reunion. The location changes every other year, and it always comes back to Dothan, Alabama, home of our ancestors in the intervening years. Reunions are usually three days but sometimes four if it is a long distance, to give people time to rest up for the activities that are planned.” And then there is the Seidemann Family Reunion, which has not strayed one inch from where the very first reunion was held 81 years ago on a dairy farm near Newburg, Wisconsin. The land was originally settled by Fredrich and Rosina Seidemann in 1848. Now thousands of descendants are scattered far and wide, though many have stayed nearby. The third Sunday each July, hundreds of Seidemanns venture to that same farm, where many traditions are carried on just the way the late reunion founder, Ray Seidemann, would have loved it.
80th gathering of the Seidemann Family Reunion in Newburg, Wisconsin. View a movie of the Seidemanns assembling for this picture at the activities page at reunionsmag.com.
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Hospitality Answerman
Q:
We’ve been looking for a location for our family reunion next summer. We’ve found several hotels we like in the New England city where we’d like to go, but the rates seem awfully high, and the hotels want to charge “extra” for just about everything. When I mentioned to one hotel salesperson that we thought they should give us the rooms for our hospitality space and banquet free of charge, he said these weren’t “realistic expectations.” Was he right?
A:
It really depends. As we’ve discussed before, pricing and amenities (including items and services provided for “free”) that a hotel or other vendor is likely to offer will depend on several factors. These are the six most important ones. n Season of the year when you plan to meet n Days of the week you plan to meet n Whether a special event is taking place in the area at the same time n Size of your group n Your group’s documented “history” (where you’ve met in the past, and the number who attended) n How flexible you’re able to be Let’s look at each one: n Season of the year when you plan to meet. Summer is a busy time in some areas (beach towns, warm-weather resorts, and any place with a theme park, amusement park, or roller coasters). It’s a busy time of the year in New England, which is why the hotel salesperson indicated your request was unreasonable … for his hotel! In a “high demand” season, the hotel can sell rooms and meeting space to another group at the same – or higher – rates. Thus, the hotel really isn’t inclined to reduce their rates or offer “freebies.” The destination’s convention and visitors bureau (CVB) should always be your first call when you begin planning your reunion. They can tell you when their high, low, and shoulder seasons are; the CVB is the place to ask about seasons. n Days of the week you plan to meet. At some destinations, weekday nights (Monday through Thursday) are busy – and expensive! – and weekend nights (Friday through Sunday) are deeply discounted. In other cities, the reverse is true. Again, the destination’s CVB is the place to ask about this. Sometimes, by simply having everyone arrive on Thursday rather than Wednesday, a group can save $50, $80, $100, or more per night on hotel rooms! n Whether a special event is taking place in the area at the same time. Don’t expect any discounts or bargains if you plan a reunion in Louisville during Kentucky Derby, Daytona Beach during spring break, or Albuquerque during the Hot Air Balloon Festival. n The size of your group. Larger groups have more purchasing and negotiating power than smaller ones. This is a simple fact of life. But a smaller group can increase their leverage by talking with a smaller hotel. If your group needs twenty rooms for three nights, you’re much better off going to a hotel that has 85 rooms than a hotel that has 500 rooms. Why? Because you’re supplying them with a much bigger block of rooms, relative to the size of their property.
n Your group’s documented “history” (where you’ve met in the past, and the number who attended). If you’ve met before, having your group’s “history”
available – in writing – from the hotel(s) you’ve used in the past is extremely valuable. What hotels value more than anything else is predictability. They need to know that your family is going to show up and use all of the rooms you’ve indicated you will. If you can demonstrate you’ve done this in the past – and more than once! – they’re much more willing to negotiate rates and throw in free stuff, because they know they can count on the guest room revenue you’ve promised. n How flexible you’re able to be. Ask for – and negotiate for – the things that are truly important to your group. Many groups make the mistake of asking hotels for anything and everything under the sun – for free! They ask for free upgrades to suites, free breakfast for everyone, free parking, free shuttles to and from the airport, free welcome receptions, free meeting space, free audio-visual equipment, free fruit baskets delivered to their VIPs, and on and on and on … all for groups occupying fifty rooms or fewer! Their motto seems to be “If we don’t ask, we won’t get!” Frankly, many of these requests are unreasonable in many instances. Hotels are “for profit” ventures, and if providing your group with a laundry list of concessions and freebies reduces the value of your business to the point that your group becomes unprofitable for the hotel, they’ll smile, thank you for your time, and walk away. On the reverse side of the equation, some hotels may offer you concessions or extras that aren’t that important to you – for example, a certain number of complimentary rooms, or health club passes, or meeting planner “points.” If these things don’t natter to you, offer to exchange them for some of the things that are important to your reunion: a suite for your patriarch/ matriarch, free use of meeting space, or a slightly lower room rate, as examples. In short, going into your negotiations with reasonable expectations (knowing how busy the hotel is likely to be, having your group’s history, knowing what’s important to your family members and what isn’t) will almost always result in a more successful negotiation and a better reunion.
About the Hospitality Answerman
Dean Miller, national sales director for VisitFairfax (fxva.com) , the convention and visitors bureau in Fairfax County, Virginia, is a great friend of reunions. If you are planning a reunion in the Washington, DC, area, consider nearby, conveniently located Fairfax County, and contact Dean at 703-790-0643; dmiller@fxva.com AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 v Reunions 31
You’ll take fond memories of your reunion home with you. And you just might be happily exhausted, too. Hold your next reunion where there’s so much to do you’ll want to return again and again. With great year-round weather and the Central Florida sunshine, Kissimmee puts you next door to world-famous theme parks and attractions, plus outdoor activities, countless shopping and dining options, and top-value lodging facilities including fabulous resorts and luxurious vacation homes. AND … when you book your reunion through Experience Kissimmee, you’ll get your personalized reunion T-shirts FREE!
Visit ReunionsInKissimmee.com to register or email Jadeine, our Family Reunion Specialist at JShives@ExperienceKissimmee.com to start planning your reunion today. 32 Reunions v reunionsmag.com
The Gateway To Fun
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| Minutes From Orlando’s Theme Parks
where?
Kissimmee, Florida, is the family-friendly gateway to fun
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magine a place where thrills are plenty, activities are many and there is an abundance of ways to explore nature and all that Florida has to offer. Imagine Kissimmee. Ideally located in Central Florida, just moments from Orlando’s world-famous theme parks, Kissimmee offers exciting attractions, outdoor adventures, shopping and dining experiences that will keep the whole family engaged and entertained. Carrie Roebuck, Stone Mountain, Georgia, wrote about her Woods Family Reunion, “The area is full of amazing surprises and excitement around every corner,” which is why families
continue to choose Kissimmee as their reunion destination. “We had a wonderful time in Kissimmee and everyone loved the t-shirts. Thank you so much for your help.” Families interested in adding more excitement and fun to their next family reunion should make Kissimmee their home base. Plus, when you book your reunion through Experience Kissimmee, you’ll receive bags for your registration packets and FREE personalized T-shirts for your entire group! Visit ReunionsinKissimmee.com or contact family reunion specialist Jadeine Shives at JShives@ExperienceKissimmee.com
Woods Family Reunion
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e military reunion news
Reunion of Honor in Iwo Jima
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ight US veterans recently returned to the scene of one of the bloodiest battles of World War II, for the 19th annual Reunion of Honor ceremony on Iwo Jima. Since 1995, retired Lt. Gen. Lawrence Snowden, a veteran of the battle, has organized the tour for veterans and their descendants – from both sides of the battle. For 36 days in 1945, US Marines and soldiers battled 20,000 dug-in Japanese soldiers for control of the remote island, which America wanted to secure for its strategic location and the use of its runway. More than 6,800 Americans and 18,000 Japanese troops died. From a story in Stars and Stripe by Lisa Tourelot
First reunion of military reunion planners!
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dd it to your bucket list, or put it on your calendar now! The reunion of military reunion planners will be repeated but not before at least Independence Day 2016. The first reunion of military reunion planners at the Crowne Plaza at Tysons Corner, Virginia, over the July 4th weekend, was a great success. Sorry you missed it. This inaugural event was flawlessly hosted by VisitFairfax and co-sponsored by the Reunion Friendly Network and Reunions magazine. Participants represented all branches of service and were an enthusiastic group at an optional session of basic (reunion) training, meals, receptions, the spectacular Washington, DC, Fourth of July fireworks following an Air Force band concert at the Air Force Memorial and a tour of Mount Vernon. What better place to be to celebrate our freedoms and the men and women who ensured them for us! Visit VisitFairfax.com reunionfriendly.com and reunionsmag.com
Sign up for Reunions E-newsletter @ reunionsmag.com Reunion of military reunion planners
Host your next meeting or reunion
at the Ontario Convention Center, located in the heart of Southern California’s best. Convenient airport and freeway access make travel a breeze. Superior catering, professionalism and a breathtaking venue give your event the added edge to make it a spectacular experience. Worldclass shopping. Beautiful weather. Amazing recreational venues, and all that Southern California has to offer. All ready and waiting for you when the business day is done. Meet, explore and connect in Greater Ontario, California.
For information on your next meeting adventure, visit us at:
discoverontariocalifornia.org
2 0 0 0 E. Co nventi o n Center Way I O nt ario Califo rn ia 91 764 9 0 9.937. 30 0 0 I 80 0.4 5 5 .575 5 I info @ o nt ario cc.o rg 34 Reunions v reunionsmag.com
Tuskegee Airmen are American treasures
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he Tuskegee Airmen were one of World War IIs most respected fighter squadrons. They were the first black aviators who enlisted in the Army Air Corps. They fought racial prejudice at home while battling the enemy overseas. They were disenfranchised when they went into military service and put their lives on the line and performed remarkably. Tuskegee Airmen are American treasures. A recent reunion at Wings of Eagles Discovery Center in Big Flats, New York, was called “Return of the Red Tails,” the squadron’s nickname because the tails of their fighter planes were red. Six former Tuskegee Airmen attended. Michael Joseph, chairman of the Tuskegee Airmen Inc, said “They’ve gone through wars … captains of their mission 69 years ago, and they’re still here and still speaking and sharing their stories with their fellow Americans.” From a story by Jeff Murray, in the Poughkeepsie Journal, Poughkeepsie, New York.
SILVER BAY YMCA Conference and Family Retreat Center on Beautiful Lake George in the Adirondack Mountains of New York
A Great Place for a Family Reunion!
As seen in Better Homes and Gardens®
• Archery • Beaches/Swimming • Canoes/Kayaks • Campfires
• Craft Shop • Day Camp • Fitness Center • Hiking Trails
• Ice Cream Store • Spiritual Life • Teambuilding • Tennis
LEARN MORE AT WWW.SILVERBAY.ORG
SILVER BAY YMCA IS A MISSION-DRIVEN NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION SILVER BAY YMCA 87 Silver Bay Road, Silver Bay, NY 12874 www.silverbay.org 1.888.758.7229
e military reunion news
Brown Paper Tickets Salutes
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ocal event organizers across the US have contributed to more than $900,000 worth of event tickets for US military, veterans and military families through a donation program created by Seattle ticketing company, Brown Paper Tickets. Tickets to music festivals, sporting events, comedy shows, farm-to-table dinners, cooking classes, plays, concerts, burlesque shows, roller derby and many more have been a part of the ticket donation. The Not-Just-For-Profit, socially-conscious ticketing company already gives 5% of its profits from every ticket sale to charity. This ticket-funding initiative for military families and veterans makes it simple for event organizers and regular citizens to help either by contributing or buying tickets or sharing word about the program on social media. Say “Thank you for serving our county” by simply sharing a link on their social media. Brown Paper Tickets works with Vet Tix, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit with a mission of matching donated tickets with veterans with verifiable service history. http://community.brownpapertickets.com/LP/BPTsalutes
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Veteran’s daughter raising money for WWII veterans reunion
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inda Schlipf, Genoa, Ohio, held a bake sale to raise funds for a reunion for the remaining members of the World War II 202nd Engineer Combat Battalion. Schlipf’s father, Clarence Wilburn, was a member of the Battalion. After Clarence Wilburn died in 1998, his wife, Lucille, was contacted by the 202nd Engineer Combat Battalion reunion group. Clarence hadn’t been vocal about his military service, so the reunions gave his family a source of information as well as new connections with his old friends. The reunion became a big part of the Wilburn family’s life, so they began hosting them. They have hosted a reunion almost every year for the past 15 years. Schlipf and her cousin, Janet Herman, hosted a fundraiser bake sale that included 40 Easter baskets plus handmade baked goods, including cakes and cupcakes, as well as candy and chocolate-covered pretzels. There was also a raffle of hand-knitted kitchen items. Funds from the sale pay reunion expenses for all the veterans and their spouses. The Wilburn family tries to pay for their hotel rooms, meals and any extra help they need. One year, they paid for a flight for one of the men because he couldn’t afford to come. At reunions, the vets eat and play cards, but mostly they just sit and reminisce. Schlipf said the 202nd had the distinction of being the only battalion to fight in campaigns in Normandy, Central Europe, Northern France, the Ardennes and the Rhineland. “They were the first that went in, because they were the engineer group. They had to pave the way for other troops to come in,” she said. “They built roads and bridges, and did bomb disposal.” To donate, contact Linda Schlipf, 903 West St, Genoa OH 43430. From a story by Sheri Trusty in the Port Clinton News Herald, Port Clinton, Ohio
ighty-seven shipmates and guests attended the 2013 USS/USCG Edisto reunion in Nashville, Tennessee. Reunion activities included a visit to historic RCA Studio B and Country Music Hall of Fame where the group toured the Music Hall and had lunch. Banquet night, the Edisto group was entertained by the Dave and Daphne Show. On the last day the group dined at the Santa Fe Cattle Company before visiting the Grand Ole Opry. Their next reunion will be in 2015 in Washington, DC, and all Navy and Coast Guard Icebreaker groups are invited. Contact: Glenn D. Smith, PO Box 747, Mims, Florida 32754-0747; 321-269-5637. Or visit steadyeddy.org.
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What does an armadillo feel like?
Where does fun run in the family? Finding something for everyone isn’t easy. But with can’t-miss festivals, nationally ranked attractions and unbeatable shopping, Columbus is full of things your whole group will love. Find out more about this affordable, easy-to-get-to destination at experiencecolumbus.com/reunions or by calling 800-354-2657.
Where do family reunions become family events?
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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
e military reunion news
Thanks and welcome home, Vietnam Veterans!
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ong overdue celebration of contributions of Vietnam Veterans are happening deservedly more and more. You are invited to these two! “Celebrate Freedom” month in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is honoring Vietnam Veterans with the Welcome Home Vietnam Celebration, August 21-24, 2014. The weekend is full of free and ticketed events and shows that are fun for the whole family. Come and give special recognition to our brave soldiers. Visit welcomehomevietnam.com. Nationally known entertainers performed for thousands of Vietnam veterans and their families in Branson, Missouri, at the annual Vietnam Veterans Reunion in April. The reunion included a POW/MIA Awareness motorcycle ride, Flame of Freedom ceremony, and Welcome Home parade on Saturday and Sunday. Branson is known for its warm welcome for veterans, hosting one of the country’s largest Veterans Day parades in November each year. Visit ExploreBranson.com
Welcome home Vietnam Veterans in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
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The Air Force Museum Foundation Hosts Annual Legacy Data Plate Wall of Honor Tribute Ceremony
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tories honoring the heroic actions and dedicated service of veterans, patriots and loved ones were commemorated at the Dayton, Ohio, Air Force Museum Foundation’s Legacy Data Plate Wall of Honor Tribute Ceremony. The 665 data plates on the Wall of Honor represents a unique and lasting tribute to veterans, patriots and loved ones. Data plates are custom-etched aviationgrade stainless steel plates displayed near the entrance to the National Museum of the US Air Force. Traditionally, all military aircraft have a data plate which identifies the builder and includes the aircraft model designation, serial number, and other important information. These Legacy Data Plates extend this tradition to recognize and honor individuals. To view stories of the honorees on the Legacy Data Plate Wall of Honor, or to find out how you can honor a loved one with a Legacy Data Plate, visit www.legacydata plates.com or contact Michele Giefer at friends@afmuseum.com; 937-656-9615.
Attendees place flowers on their loved ones plates at the Legacy Data Plate Wall of Honor Tribute Ceremony.
Veterans History Project Remembers National World War II Reunion
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uring the National World War II Reunion in 2004, more than 100 volunteers from the Library of Congress, the Smithsonian Institution and other organizations collected veterans’ stories of wartime service for the Veterans History Project (VHP). Clad in purple VHP t-shirts, and armed with audio recorders, the volunteers roamed the National Mall looking for veterans willing to participate. Once identified, veterans were asked a series of questions about their experiences during the war. For many, this was the first time they had spoken about their personal wartime experiences. These special on-the-spot recordings have since been digitized and are fully accessible on VHP’s website, www.loc.gov/vets/. In addition to recorded interviews, these collections include letters, photographs and written memoirs. Photos from this historic event may be found at www.loc.gov/vets/wwii-photos-mallinterviews.html. Congress created the Veterans History Project in 2000 as a national documentation program of the American Folklife Center (www.loc.gov/folklife/) to collect, preserve and make accessible the first-hand remembrances of wartime veterans who served in the US military in any capacity from World War I through the more recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. It was created so future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand the realities of war. VHP relies on volunteers to record veterans’ remembrances using easy-tofollow guidelines on www.loc.gov/vets/. Volunteers may request information at vohp@loc.gov or 888-371-5848. From Sierra Sun Times, Mariposa, California
“Doing genealogy research on military family members has been really frustrating, mostly because of the lack of personal records and papers. With the Served with Pride kit, I’m making sure my grandchildren don’t have that problem. Even if they don’t join the military, I want them to understand my experiences, and be proud of my service.” - TSgt Phillip Kittelson, U.S. Air Force, War on Terror
www.ServedWithPrideguide.com
Donate your war letters
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s anyone who’s sent or received a war letter will attest, they are some of the most moving letters ever written, but sadly, many are being tossed or lost. Andrew Carroll, best-selling author of War Letters, has made it a mission to do something about that and has spent years gathering, sharing, and writing about letters from every conflict in which the US has participated. Recently, Carroll donated the entire collection of more than 100,000 letters to Chapman University in Orange, California, for safekeeping and to ensure access, but he and the university welcome fresh contributions. If you have war letters in your possession, please consider donating them to The Center for American War Letters so future generations will be able to read about your own family’s experiences. Visit chapman.edu/research-andinstitutions/cawl/index.aspx From a post by Megan Smolenyak in Huffington Post.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 v Reunions 39
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!
CALIFORNIA HOLIDAY INN SAN DIEGO BAYSIDE
4875 N Harbor Drive, San Diego CA 92106 Host your reunion at the beautiful Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside across from San Diego Bay. Our experienced staff will assist you in creating a very special event. Complimentary hosp suite and special reunion rates. Beautiful guest rooms, heated pool, spa, shuffleboard, ping-pong and billiards, exercise room, family restaurant and cocktail lounge, free pkg, in-room movies, coffee makers, refrigerators, hair dryers. 619-224-3621 | 800-650-6660 fax 619-224-1787 | dos@holinnbayside.com www.holinnbayside.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
GREATER ONTARIO CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU
2000 E. Convention Center Way, Ontario, CA 91764 (800) 455-5755. Greater Ontario sits in the heart of Southern California, and just a short drive to world-class destinations. Close by are 6,000 rooms, more than half of which are within walking distance of the Convention Center and less than a mile from L.A./ Ontario International Airport (ONT). Meet, explore and connect in greater Ontario, California. For more information on your next vacation adventure, visit www.discoverontariocalifornia.org SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
COLORADO COLORADO VACATION DIRECTORY:
Make your search for the perfect family reunion destination easier! FREE FAMILY REUNION DESTINATION LOCATION SERVICE: www.TheCVD.com/groupsreunions/GRSearch.html and click on “EMAIL US your Request for Group Vacations in Colorado.” We will then send your requirements to Cabins, Vacation Homes, Lodges, Motels, Condos, B&Bs, and Campgrounds that can accommodate your desires; each one will email you directly with additional information. OR download our FREE Colorado Vacation Directory to compare reunion locations, which includes Places to Stay & Fun Things to Do. www.TheCVD.com/OrderForm.html
FLORIDA EMERALD COAST CVB - DESTIN - FORT WALTON BEACH FL - OKALOOSA ISLAND
1540 Miracle Strip Parkway, Fort Walton Beach FL 32548 Get a little sand in your soul. Have your next reunion in Destin, Ft. Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island, the 40 Reunions v reunionsmag.com
Heart of Florida’s Emerald Coast. These legendary beach communities on the Gulf of Mexico are a reunion planner’s dream year-round. Your group will enjoy 24-miles of sugar-white sand beaches and emerald-green water, there’s something for everyone on your guest list here. Find out what our expert team can do for you at EmeraldCoastFL.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
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!
EXPERIENCE KISSIMMEE
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!
215 Celebration Blvd., Kissimmee, FL 34747 Kissimmee, Florida, the gateway to fun and next to Orlando is your gateway to the perfect location for your next reunion. We offer planning assistance to reunions of all sizes and budgets. Let us help you make planning your next reunion easy. Plus … we’ll provide your reunion T-shirts free! For details see ReunionsInKissimmee.com or call our reunions specialist at 407-742-8255 email JShives@ExperienceKissimmee.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
PALM HOTEL AND VILLAS
Palms and Villa’s- 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
PANAMA CITY BEACH CVB
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!
STAR ISLAND RESORT
5000 Avenue of the Stars, Kissimmee FL 34746 Located just 4 miles to Walt Disney Theme Parks. Our gated all suite resort & spa offers spacious mini suites, 1 & 3 bedroom Villas with full kitchens and kitchenette’s that can accommodate up to 8 guests. Enjoy tennis, basketball, pools, putting green, mini golf, paddle boats, 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!
GEORGIA ATLANTA AIRPORT MARRIOTT
4711 Best Road Atlanta GA 30337 You enjoy the family. We’ll do the rest. Getting together for your next family reunion is more convenient than ever at Atlanta Airport Marriott®. Take advantage of our Stay and Play package, it’s everything you need to plan an unforgettable reunion and it’s all included in one perfect destination. 404-209-6818 | fax 404-209-6838 e-mail aaryn.willis@marriott.com http://atlantaairportmarriott.com
ATLANTA MARRIOTT PERIMETER CENTER
246 Perimeter Center Parkway NE, Atlanta, GA 30346 The Hotel is located adjacent to Perimeter Mall and the Dunwoody MARTA station offering easy access to all city attractions. Amenities include onsite restaurant
ATLANTA PERIMETER HOTEL & SUITES
CROWNE PLAZA ATLANTA PERIMETER at RAVINIA
4355 Ashford Dunwoody Rd, Atlanta, GA 30346 Located in Central Perimeter area nestled on a 45 acre park, with waterfalls, terraced gardens, facilities for gatherings of 10 to 1,000. 495 guestrooms, 33 spacious suites. Featuring a three-story greenhouse atrium lobby, fitness center, indoor pool with sundeck. Across from the Perimeter Mall. Free shuttle to area restaurants, parks and MARTA station for downtown attractions. Visit www.cpravinia.com | call 770-3957700. Mention this listing for 10 % off reunion banquet pricing. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
DOUGLASVILLE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU
6694 E. Broad St. Douglasville, GA 30134. With a great location near Atlanta and over 1,800 hotel rooms, Douglasville, Georgia is a great location for your next reunion! For details on complimentary services, including welcome bags and name badges, contact the Douglasville CVB today and let us help plan your next reunion. For more information call us at 1-800-661-0013 or email us at info@visitdouglasville.com | www.visitdouglasville.com
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!
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 – Perimeter Area within walking distance to some of the best Restaurants and Shops Atlanta has to offer. Minutes away from attractions like Stone Mountain, Six Flags, Zoo Atlanta, Hartsfield Airport and the Georgia Dome. Fantastic amenities like Free Full Breakfast, Free Shuttle within a 3-Mile Radius, Free Internet, Free On-Site Fitness Center and Guest Laundry! 678-3200111 | Fax: 678-320-0250 | Reservations: dos.atlpr@wm.staybridge.com www.staybridge.com/atlanta-pr SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES ILLINOIS Plan an unforgettable reunion in Lake County, Illinois – We’ll work together to help you plan an
event that lets you explore all the excitement of Lake County. From entertaining attractions like Six Flags to our convenient, centralized location close to Chicago, there are so many reasons to choose Lake County for family friendly fun. For free Reunion Planning Assistance call or email us with your reunion planning questions. 800-LAKE-NOW | tourism@lakecounty.org www.lakecounty.org SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
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
Visit Baltimore Join us for the BALTIMORE REUNION EXPO on
September 27, 2014, to gather resources, information on hotel packages and tips for planning the perfect family reunion – all in one place. Enjoy celebrity seminars, culinary innovations, a kids zone, tours and more. See our display ad and visit www.BaltimoreReunionExpo.com
MASSACHUSETTS GRAFTON INN FALMOUTH CAPE COD – OCEANFRONT 10 bedroom house
261 Grand Ave, Falmouth MA 02540 This unique, fully equipped oceanfront Victorian 10 BR/11 BA in Falmouth Heights, Cape Cod comfortably sleeps 20+ (private full BA in each BR). Magnificent direct views of Vineyard Sound, a popular beach 30 feet away, and many amenities make it a perfect vacation spot. For more information, please contact Felicia Schecter-Emrich at 917-533-1821 graftoninnfalmouth@yahoo.com http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p118390
MINNESOTA WORRY-FREE REUNIONS AT CRAGUN’S RESORT
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
MISSOURI THE BRANSON/LAKES AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Located in America’s heartland, Branson, Missouri is the perfect destination for your next reunion because we offer so many choices of live music shows and family entertainment, lodging, attractions, dining and more. Remember, in Branson, our value is unrivaled, our scenery breathtaking and our authentic Ozarks hospitality inviting. Call us toll-free at 800-214-3661 417-243-2117 | visit our website at ExploreBranson.com and request a Reunion Planner Sales kit. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
NEVADA 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 action-packed 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
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!
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 | visit: www.craguns.com/family-reunions/
NEW YORK
KAHLER HOSPITALITY GROUP
THE CAMP
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
SILVER BAY YMCA
87 Silver Bay Road, Silver Bay NY 12874 518-543-8833 ext 350 I conference@silverbay.org www.silverbay.org Silver Bay YMCA is a 112 year old conference and family retreat center on beautiful Lake George in the Adirondack mountains of New York. Packages include accommodations, meals, refreshments, and private activities. Silver Bay offers beaches, tennis, craft shop and more. Come celebrate milestones, anniversaries, special birthdays, or just catch up. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
NORTH CAROLINA 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!
OHIO EXPERIENCE COLUMBUS
800-354-2657 www.ExperienceColumbus.com/reunions Columbus is ranked one of the top value destinations in the country. With four downtown entertainment districts, annual festivals, the #1 rated Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, and an array of outdoor parks to choose from, you won’t want to have your family reunion anywhere else. Planning a reunion in Columbus is easy. And we’re here to help. Plus, all of our services are free. We will assist you with finding hotels, local attractions and more. And when the time comes, we’ll provide you with Visitors Guides, Visitor Maps, plastic bags and pens. Contact Kari Kauffman 614-222-6136 KKauffman@ExperienceColumbus.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
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 SC 1200 South Ocean Blvd., 29577 REUNIONS MADE EASY! Specializing in reunions from military to family at the most affordable rates in Myrtle Beach. Sea Mist’s premier oceanfront location is near shopping, theaters and golf courses. Over 600 of our 800 units have been completely remodeled, restaurants, miniature golf, 10 pools, Jacuzzis, fitness room, 17,000-sq.ft. of versatile meeting space and much more! 800-200-8687 | groupsales@seamist.com www.seamist.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
TENNESSEE CHATTANOOGA AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
We are ready to host your next family or military reunion. Our Staff works closely with the hotels, attractions, tour companies and you to provide exactly what you need to have a great reunion. Contact Christina Petro at 800-964-8600 ext. 3017 | email at chrisp@chattanoogacvb.com to begin planning your next reunion! www.ChattanoogaMeetings.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
TEXAS HYATT house™ DALLAS/UPTOWN
The HYATT house Dallas Uptown is an up-scale, all suite hotel that features Studio and One Bedroom Suites in the heart of Uptown Dallas, minutes from Downtown, the Arts District, and Fair Park. Each has a spacious living and work area, as well as, a fully equipped kitchen. Each bedroom has its own private bath, TV, and phone line with voicemail. Complimentary high speed internet, hot breakfast buffet, and evening social (Mon-Thurs) is also provided. Please contact the sales department at 214-661-8702 to see about discounted group rates! 2914 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas TX 75201 | www.hyatthousedallasuptown.com
PEARLAND CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
11200 Broadway, Suite 1390, Pearland TX 77584 Pearland – A Perfect Pick to stay and meet in the Gulf Coast of Texas. Pearland, ten miles from downtown Houston and Hobby Airport, offers eleven hotels with 859 rooms and 15,000+ square feet of meeting space. Perfect for a family, military or class reunion, or group meeting. We offer planning assistance, referral services, itineraries and hotel contracting. 713-436-5595 | fax 713-436-5017 | visitpearland.com. Contact Kim Sinistore, ksinistore@ci.pearland.tx.us AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 v Reunions 41
Let’s plan a
reunion to remember in Lake County, Illinois Hi, I’m Kimberly. I’m Lake County’s reunion specialist and I’m ready to help you create an unforgettable event. Let’s work together to customize an itinerary to maximize all the excitement of our central location. Just 30 minutes north of Chicago, take advantage of attractions like Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor. We also offer 60 hotels, three resorts, more than 75 lakes and beaches, and beautiful spaces perfect for picnics. Choose Lake County for family friendly fun.
I’m ready to help. Email me at kimberly@lakecounty.org or visit LakeCountyReunions.com.
1-800-LAKE-NOW
CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES 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 on planning a family or military reunion in Chesapeake, VA, call 888-889-5551 or go to www.visitchesapeake.com
VISIT FAIRFAX / FAIRFAX COUNTY, VIRGINIA.
Enjoy everything that Northern Virginia has to offer. From the monuments and memorials of nearby Washington, DC to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center to George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens, Fairfax County is an ideal location for your military or family reunion. Call us at 703-790-0643 visit our website today at www.fxva.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
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NEWPORT NEWS TOURISM
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 888-493-7386 or email amoran@nngov.com to book your reunion today. www.newport-news.org
CRUISES Personal cruise planning services
Brian Forrester is a Cruise Group Specialist who can help make your reunion memorable. He will understand your needs and present what works best. He’ll get great deals & can help organize deposits, payment plans, announcements & special arrangements. Contact Brian at Holiday Cruises and Tours, 800-998-1228 or brian@hcttravel.com.
PRESERVING MEMORIES ATTENTION MILITARY VETERANS AND FAMILY MEMBERS
Record your military stories and memories before it’s too late. The book Served with Pride will help any military veteran easily record their entire service history. Your military or family reunion is the perfect time to reminisce and record your memories! Makes a great giveaway or gift to all veterans. Volume discounts available. Visit http://servedwithprideguide.com for more info and to order.
60th Wedding Anniversary
Robert and Nancy VanSkiver 1951 - 2011
T-SHIRTS CUSTOMINK
Create amazing reunion shirts online in our fun & easy Design Lab! Choose from name-brand apparel and 40,000+ images, or upload your own art. No hidden charges or set-up fees. Guaranteed delivery dates. FREE shipping and FREE design help 7 days/ week. 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!
Subscribe! Call 1-414-263-4567
Postcards that make your reunion point! Custom Printing – $45 p/hundred; 50¢ each Fill-in cards $15 p/hundred; 20¢ each plus shipping & handling Send message, check & request to: Reunion postcards PO Box 11727 v Milwaukee WI 53211-0727 To charge, call 414.263.4567
Discover a place that’s been bringing people together since, well, forever.
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P.O. Box 11727 v Milwaukee WI 53211-0727
www.reunionsmag.com TM