Reunions Magazine Volume 22, Number 2. November/December/January 2012 (SOLD OUT) by Reunions Magazine

Fundraising Class reunion novice Families celebrate VOL 22 NO 2 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012 Display until January 31, 2012.

$3/USA

in thisissue DEPARTMENTS

November/December/January 2012 Volume 22 • Number 2

FRONT WORDS – 4 ALUM & I – 6

PUBLISHER / EDITOR IN CHIEF

Planning a reunion from a novice planner by Donald L. Dereadt A weekend to remember by Don Klock “Home of the Mighty Owls!” from Theodoris Canada Facebook, Class of 1929

TRAVEL EDITOR

SCRAPBOOK – 11 Reunion School Where, oh, where to start? by Dean Miller Caring and compassion continue 50 years by Kaye Olson World Acadian Congress family reunions, Reunions of Weller, Iowa, telephone operators. Great places: Fairfax, Virginia, and Wilmington, North Carolina

BRANCH OFFICE – 18 William Elder descendants celebrate 300 years by Tim Gallagher Family heart history, donating documents

MASTERPLAN – 20 A new book: Family Reunion: Taking it to the Next Level Simeroths Owasso “Invasion” by Susan Simeroth Payne Rosebeary Reunion tradition by Brenda Rosebeary Higgs Taking the reunion to Shirley by Cyndi Speltz Gipp Flynn Hanleys meeting 84 consecutive years by Megan Rodgers On getting along … several questions about interaction dilemmas

REUNION VENUES & PLACES – 27 Reunions on the ranch Sundance Trail Ranch, Paradise Ranch, Horseshoe Canyon Ranch, C Lazy U Ranch, Tanque Verde Ranch, Nine Quarter Circle Ranch, Rancho de los Caballeros, Grant-Kohrs Ranch Elkhart Lake, a modern blast from the past by Edith Wagner

FEATURE – 35 Fundraising Whitehurst Family Walk-A-Thon and hot dog stand by Ne’El Whitehurst-Joseph Reunion sponsors … maybe How to pick the right fundraising product to sell Recycling as fundraiser, a no cost fundraiser, lots o’ fundraising games

MILITARY REUNION NEWS – 38 Where military reunions are welcomed with open arms by Edith Wagner USS Charles P. Cecil (DD/DDR-835) by Greg Wells The Enduring Legacy: 70th Anniversary of the Pearl Harbor Attack, Betty H. Carter Women Veterans Historical Project

REUNION RESOURCES – 41 A directory of reunion-friendly places, services, vendors and products. ON THE COVER The reunion came to Shirley Speltz, left in lavender t-shirt. See page 24.

Edith Wagner

Jacky Runice ART DIRECTOR

Jennifer Rueth SALES

Marion Liston Senior Account Manager OPERATIONS MANAGER

Karla Lavin ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Andrew Russell Bordeaux Holly Davidson Nicole Dettmering Ksioszk HOSPITALITY ANSWER MAN

Dean Miller CONTRIBUTORS

Dave Blake • Theodoris Canada Donald L. Dereadt • Tim Gallagher Cyndi Speltz Gipp • Brenda Rosebeary Higgs Don Klock • Kaye Olson Susan Simeroth Payne • Cathy St John Megan Rodgers • Joan Curtis Waters Greg Wells • Ne’El Whitehurst-Joseph REUNIONS MAGAZINE, INC. (ISSN #1046-5s235), is pub lished 4 times per year. Send correspondence, queries, submissions, subscriptions, advertising to REUNIONS MAGAZINE, PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727. Written permission from the publisher is required for reproduction of any part of this book except pages which encourage sharing. Please explain your intended use when requesting permission to reprint. Email: editor@reunionsmag.com or fax 414263-6331. Tear sheets of reviews and reprints required. REUNIONS MAGAZINE, INC., will not be liable for information presented as facts contained in any of our advertising, byline stories or materials. We reserve the right to edit and/or refuse any material submitted for publication. We solicit participation and take responsibility for submitted materials. Unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE), submissions and photos will not be returned. All materials sent for purposes of publication become property of REUNIONS MAGAZINE, INC. Subscriptions: US and Canada $9.99/yr, $17.99/2 yrs. Foreign orders add $36 for subscriptions. All foreign payment in US funds or drawn on a US bank. Back issues available for $3 each plus postage. Payment must accompany requests for subscriptions, back issues or other items for sale. Advertising rate information available from REUNIONS MAGAZINE, INC., PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727; 414-263-4567; fax 414-2636331; e-mail editor@reunionsmag.com; reunionsmag.com. © 2011 REUNIONS MAGAZINE, INC. N OV E M B E R / D EC E M B E R / JA N UA R Y 2012 O R E U N I O N S

FRONT WORDS

Be in touch! IN THIS ISSUE

Mail to R EUNIONS MAGAZINE PO Box 11727 Milwaukee WI 53211-0727 For charge orders call 800-373-7933 or visit www.reunionsmag.com or fax it to 414-263-6331. Or best of all, e-mail editor@reunionsmag.com.

s usual we’ve lined up lots of reunion stories with new ideas and suggestions to inspire you. Donald Dereadt documents in great detail his first class reunion planning experience including some very useful ideas. Several families share traditions that your family can translate into your own. We have gathered lots of fundraising possibilities you should consider now in order to take advantage of planning time before your next reunion. Lots of great reunion places are also featured. As always, we invite your comments, suggestions, kudos and constructive criticisms, all to help make reunion planning easier and more fulfilling for you.

CONTESTS, SWEEPSTAKES AND MEDIA

When you receive this issue, several rather lucrative sweepstakes that offer reunions as prizes will be listed at reunionsmag.com. In the past several months there have been two for $10,000 each and five at $20,000 and above. We’ve promoted these opportunities repeatedly, if you’re a Reunions magazine facebook fan or subscribe to our monthly enewsletter. If not, and we’ve not been bugging you to enter, all we can do now is encourage you to go to our contests and sweepstakes page and check it often for new opportunities! We post ’em as fast as we find ’em. Bottom line: If you don’t enter, you will not win. Media alerts are another reason to check reunionsmag.com from time to time. In September, a TV production company wanted to “capture” a “big loud” happy family reunion. It was an opportunity for a reunion to share some crazy moments on TV! WORKSHOPS

I want to give a shout out to the folks in Fredericksburg, Virginia, for a workshop I’ve just returned from. Kimberly Herbert and Lura Hill from City of Fredericksburg Tourism (visitfred.com) were great hosts and the planners who attended were a fun audience. I’ll be speaking at the Fairfax County, Virginia, (fxva.com) workshop February 18, 2012. Sign up now. Then, on October 6, 2012, I’ll be speaking at a workshop in Columbus, Ohio (experiencecolumbus.com). For all the other workshops offered around the country, see page 12 in this issue.

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WHAT’S A PERFECT REUNION DAY?

We found this idea for meetings and thought it perfect for reunions as well. Before your reunion, invite members to submit a short description of their idea of a perfect reunion day! Have someone judge the suggestions and share the best suggestions. Then challenge your reunion group to make it happen! Everyone is responsible for your success either actively or passively. If you try it, let us know how it turns out. SUPPORT OUR SUPPORTERS

We urge you to patronize our advertisers in Reunions magazine and online! Without advertising support, we couldn’t continue to publish this magazine. Their support is essential so that we can continue to collect reunion news and ideas. The important thing to know about our supporters is that they are trying to reach you, reunion planners. They’re eager to do business. They want to host and help your reunion, so give them a chance, find out what they offer, and you might just find the right match. In other words, we need advertisers as much as they are eager to reach your reunion. GREAT SUCCESS

My friend Sheri Williams Pannell posted this message on facebook following the Williams Family Reunion in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. “Edith, it was a great success! 180 attended the banquet, and about 300 at the picnic. Many attended the Air Show, African World Fest, Church Services and Good-bye Gathering on Sunday. Aunt Thelma, age 96, was the Star of the Reunion. Lavished in so much love, she is looking forward to the 2013 in Connecticut!” Right on, Aunt Thelma! And speaking of reunions this summer, my classmates planned an excellent weekend for the Wauwatosa (Wisconsin) High School, Class of 1956, 55th reunion. We did a supper cruise on Lake Michigan and had an excellent banquet at an area racquet club. About onethird of our class of 300 has died. But those at the reunion looked prosperous, healthy and happy! EW

ALUM & I

Planning a reunion from a novice planner

fter my wife and I attended our 45-year high school reunion, we became interested in serving on the planning committee for the 50th. We had no prior experience serving on a planning committee, but our reunion chairman was eager for our support. Our committee first met a year and a half before the reunion date. At our initial meeting we wrote down every idea we brought to the table. When the list was complete, we discussed each to determine its viability. Ideas we selected were sent to grads we believed were a representative sample of the class. We were pleasantly surprised by the responses; most agreed with our ideas and provided interesting input of their own. Some suggestions were adopted, while others just wouldn’t work for various reasons.

Table decorations: balloons, red, white and blue – class colors – red napkins, red bag with CDs.

We actively pursued these suggestions: charter a bus to visit our alma mater; schedule the reunion near a major shopping center; and obtain group rates at hotels close to the reunion site. Next we picked a theme capitalizing on nostalgia from the 1950s to represent our days at Osborn High School in Detroit. Then we began to flesh out an agenda, which we mailed to stimulate excitement and build interest. While waiting for responses, we thought about how to fund our celebration. Our options were: 1) pay bills and make plans and arrangements ourselves; 2) hire a professional reunion planner to do the basics, leaving us more freedom to tackle tasks we wanted to work on; or 3) a combination of both. We needed cost data. Our first challenge was to locate a hall near the reunion site, hotels, shopping areas, fine eateries and fast food restaurants. Our search identified a couple of facilities. We developed a checklist to record cost-related questions and services each hall provided. We sought prices for sit-down and buffet meals, hiring a DJ, and open and closed bar. Of utmost importance, did they require insurance when alcohol was present? Our checklist was filled out as we talked to representatives for each hall. We visited facilities to get a firsthand look and talk to booking agents regarding our needs and their contractual requirements. Then, with all the information in front of us, we made a comparative analysis. Unanimously, we each arrived at the same conclusion. It was the classiest yet not over-priced. The 6

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by Donald L. Dereadt

hall we selected was near a large shopping mall, had fine eateries in the area and at least four major hotel chains less than four miles away. Using our cost data, we determined cost per person. We considered what up-front money we’d need for all the activities: deposit on the hall, DJ, food, plus additional fees for services we would incur later. Most would require a deposit, and our coffers were getting low. For comparison, we contacted a professional planner and listened to her ideas and scrutinized the amenities she provided. Comparing our cost to hers, we decided she was better prepared to put together a solid program for us. Although her cost was slightly higher per person than ours, employing her turned out better for us in the long run. She hired a DJ and took care of food for a buffet. And as a bonus, she assembled a booklet of classmates’ addresses, phone numbers and emails, a project we intended to compile. Another benefit was name tags, which we needed to be larger than normal because of our age and eyesight limitations. But the best benefit of all: they would check people in at the door and verify attendees had already paid. That, in itself, was one of the best stress eliminators. Hiring a pro allowed us free time to make a special memory booklet of our own, an album with each grad’s graduation picture plus a current picture and narrative. We sent letters and emails with a questionnaire about memories of high school days, requesting a synopsis of their lives for the past 50 years. Questionnaires were due 60 days before the reunion. Our chairperson took responsibility for the memory book and soon found it more than she expected. While that project was underway, we discovered a classmate who was proficient in Power Point and volunteered to put together a continuous slide presentation with music. That involved another mail-out and emails asking for pictures from our high school days. We set no bounds. We asked for pictures of activities during or after school, sporting events, birthday, home and slumber parties. Any photo of interest, as long as it was in good taste. Three major tasks were underway. Things were coming together, we thought. No one had thought about gifts, presentations and speeches. The class president and other class officers deserved to be recognized, and someone had to keep the program running. Special announcements always come up, and the order of eating had to be announced and controlled. The chairperson asked me to be the MC. I made announcements; another committee member made presentations. The committee also planned small gag gifts (most children, grandchildren, most marriages, who lived farthest from the reunion, etc.). It kept the party lively and was fun, especially after eating, before the music began. We provided a budget to cover the purchase of gifts. Our committee met six months before the reunion. We reviewed our checklist to see if everything was on track and if there was anything we could do to make the reunion even more special and memorable. After all, it was a 50 year reunion and, besides getting our education, we made a lot of memories during those four years. We left the meeting to put on our thinking caps. It didn’t take long for an idea to emerge.

REUNION FACILITY WORKSHEET My wife suggested giving each grad a CD with the 50 most popular songs during our high school years. We could call it 50 songs for 50 years. It turned out to be the icing on the cake. We needed to make a CD label and select 50 songs which fit on two CDs. We found someone to do a CD label, front cover insert and song list for the back. Our high school was “The Knights” as in knights in shining armor, thus Osborn “Knights” to Remember. The project was turned over to our computer guru, who didn’t deliver until the evening before the reunion. We were up until 4:30 AM putting labels on CDs. Another important lesson: follow up to insure timely completion. In all, our reunion was a resounding success and well received by our classmates. We continue to receive favorable comments and people are asking when they can expect the next one. Some are even suggesting a cruise. To me, that in itself is testimony that our planning and execution were successful.

About the author Donald L. Dereadt lives and writes in Shelly Township, Michigan.

BUSINESS:

Size of Hall: _______________ Costs/Deposits:$________ q Written contract required by _________ Booking required by: _______ Min/Max rental time _______ Head count deadline_____________ Seating Capacity __________ HALL SERVICES/COSTS:

q Round tables

q Square tables__________ Seating per table ______

Table coverings:

q Cloth

q Paper

MEALS: (provided by facility or caterer)

Color choices ________________ q Buffet

q Sit down

Menu choices: _______________________________________________ Cost per plate: Buffet $ _____________ Sit down: $ ________________ q Yes

DRINKS: Is insurance required for alcohol?

Bar:

q Open

MUSIC:

q Closed

q House band/DJ

Cost $ ______________________________ q Dance floor

OTHER: Are decorations/banners allowed?

Projector/screen?

q Yes

q No

q Yes

q No

q No Setup/tear down costs $ ____________

never served on a reunion committee but by the time ours was over I had gained valuable experience and insight into the mechanics and preparations involved in executing a successful one. I offer my experience for what it is worth. You may find my suggestions helpful. v Each committee person must be willing to give 100%. v Start planning well in advance: one to two years is not too early. v Make an agenda of what you want and what you are doing. Remember the 5 Ws; Who, What, When, Where and Why. They will all be used throughout your planning at one time or another. v Include class members and welcome their suggestions. Remember the reunion is for them. v Brainstorm. There are no bad suggestions until ruled out. v Keep good notes and have a good database of all class members. You will need it for contacting, planning and preparation. Back up your database in case of a computer crash. v Don’t feel too proud to ask for professional help. Our Pro took a lot of busy work off our shoulders which gave us more time to expand our own ideas. However, if you have the up-front funds along with an abundant supply of people willing to take on responsibility, you might attempt an in-house project. v If you use a professional planner, insist you are the decision-maker. You are paying them for their experience, and only you know the likes and dislikes of your classmates. v Make sure the DJ can play music from your era. We did and it was no surprise that more people were dancing than at past reunions. v Always be positive and work together – that’s why your group is called a committee. Use collective experience to work out problems. v And most important, if the grads don’t respond to your questionnaires by the deadline, contact them. Invariably, someone might wait until the last minute and then be upset or hurt because their name or picture was left out. When everything is printed, it’s too late. Good luck planning for your next big adventure. N OV E M B E R / D EC E M B E R / JA N UA R Y 2012 O R E U N I O N S

ALUM & I

A weekend to remember ate in 2010 several members of the Boulder (Colorado) High School (BHS) Class of 1946 reminisced about past reunions and the possibility of celebrating a 65th reunion. The idea was shared with past BHS reunion planners and all agreed it would be a good tonic for aging classmates in their 80s who all share common aches and pains. The initial planning committee – seven classmates scattered across the country – supported the idea wholeheartedly Classmates of the Boulder High School, Boulder, Colorado, Class of 1946 gather for their 65th Reunion. All have by donating time something in common … they’re all in their 80s. and money. They High and State Prep Vintage Panthers mailed an exploratory query to over Reunion. Each year The Vintage Panthers 100 members from the original welcome graduates who have been out of class of more than 200. The letter school 50 years or more into its membership. asked classmates if they would be In 2011 the Vintage Panthers Committee willing to return to Boulder to share welcomed the class of 1961 to their ranks. fellowship and memories. They also Attendees of the Football Champs reunion asked for email addresses so received a purple and gold ribbon with a rare everyone could communicate. The 1943 shiny steel penny attached. 1943 was announcement letter was a personal the year the US Mint stopped production of and expressive attention-getting copper pennies because of the war effort. magnet that made classmates feel The original mailing included an Linking the past with a penny and the year of this 65th anniversary reunion was invitation with a 1946 penny the event made the ribbon bookmark a important, especially when it was attached and the headline that read keepsake as well as a collector’s item for supported by so many of their “A Penny From A Classmate For You: coin buffs. former classmates. I found a penny on the ground… it’s not an ordinary penny I found. This Reported by Don Klock, The decision to make The penny is special … 1946 the year Wapakoneta, Ohio. Weekend to Remember an August we graduated.” event was because Boulder High NOTE: Don Klock & Associates makes School reunion events have always been scheduled in midcommemorative ribbons for reunions. August. The Weekend to Remember committee arranged a tour Information at ribbons4reunions.com. of the high school following an afternoon garden luncheon buffet at nearby Harvest House. The week included other reunions. There was a huddle of the Boulder High School 1943 State Football Champs, who have been gathering for the past twelve years, as well as the 20th Annual Boulder

more on www.reunionsmag.com

PO BOX 335428 NORTH LAS VEGAS NV 89033 800-654-2776 • reunions.com narm@reunions.com 8

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Boulder High School, Boulder, Colorado State Champions, 1943.

Information and team picture by Dr. John Farrington, a member of the team.

ALUM & I

Class of 1929 celebrates

arl Gerold would never miss a Random Lake (Wisconsin) High School class reunion. He drives 1,600 miles from his Florida home to Wisconsin for the annual celebration. One month shy of his 100th birthday – there's no way he’d miss his 82nd reunion – he picked up the only other surviving member of the class of 1929, 98year-old Gladys Holbrook, before the two headed downtown for lunch at Rupp’s. The reunion, formerly held every five years, was made an annual tradition in the early 1990s. “We’re the last two. I guess the devil doesn’t want us yet,” Gerold said. The other attendees, Random Lake Superintendent Tom Malmstadt, Middle School Principal Dave Farnham, and Gladys’ son, Bill Holbrook, were ribbing Gerold about his driving habits. This year Gerold let his 72-year-old son travel with him from Florida, but only allowed his son to take the wheel for half the twoday trip. A few years ago, he let his grandson drive, but relieved him when he wasn't driving fast enough and spent too much time in the right lane. After every reunion, Holbrook said it's hard not to wonder how many more are left. But each spring she gets a call or letter from Gerold confirming the date and time for the next gathering – the second Wednesday in July, just like it’s been since the 1930s. And like Gerold, there’s no way she’d miss it. From a story by Josh Lintereur in The Sheboygan Press, Sheboygan, Wisconsin

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he Columbia High School Alumni Association, “Home of the Mighty Owls,” hosted the largest-ever school reunion in Magnolia, Arkansas. More than 300 students, graduates and friends of Columbia High attended a full weekend of activities. The weekend included a meet and greet on Thursday, an indoor picnic and formal prom on Friday, and a golf game and banquet on Saturday. The banquet speaker was Etta Williams, a 1962 graduate of Columbia High and resident of Washington, DC. She spoke to the reunion’s theme, “Personality Can Open Doors, But Only Character Can Keep Them Open.” Shared by Theodoris Canada, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

There’s no app for that, but facebook will do just fine

y “friending” former classmates on facebook, committee members are able to keep them aware of the planning process and gain input for reunion events. “Friends” can be located on facebook by typing the person’s name, searching the long list of people with the same name and eventually locating the particular “John Smith” you knew. However, the simplest way to locate former class members is by browsing the friends list of a former classmate, who will undoubtedly have some former classmates as “friends.” Click on them and find more former classmates, leading to an increasing list of classmates. Once a person has accepted a friend request, you are able to see the person’s facebook page and post comments and questions. By utilizing facebook, email, Twitter and texting, reunion committees are able to communicate, with potentially immediate response time, despite living hundreds of miles away. It is faster and more effective than traditional mail. Also, use sites like whitepages.com, anywho.com, zabasearch.com and dexknows.com to locate classmates’ phone numbers and addresses. Committees should not totally abandon traditional phone calls and mail; these methods are vital in making contact with classmates who don’t use the newest technology. And don’t forget, advances in technology are not a substitute for the traditional reunion. Facebook has not “lessened the need” for a reunion. There is still a desire to “see people face to face.” From a story by Anna Goodwin McCarthy in The Daily Advance, Elizabeth City, North Carolina

SCRAPBOOK

World Acadian Congress organizers begin bid for family reunions

he World Acadian Congress (http://cma2014.org/en) is held every five years in different regions populated by Acadians. The 2014 gathering will be staged in northern Maine, northwestern New Brunswick and the Temiscouata region of Quebec Aug. 8-24, 2014, under the unified title “Acadia of the Lands and Forests.” This will be the first time in the event’s history that it will span two countries. The Congress typically features more than 300 events, including family reunions, regional celebrations, and sporting and cultural activities. In the past, the event has attracted more than 50,000 visitors. Family reunions are a critical part of any World Acadian Congress. Organizers recently launched the first round of open applications to host reunions. Organizers said family reunions are key to drawing visitors. “They mostly come for the reunions,” said Jason Parent, president of the Maine delegation to the international organizing committee and chairman of the family reunion task force. The first open round of applications for families, family associations, communities and others interested in hosting reunions in 2014 will continue through November 1, 2011. Staff will work to bring together any competing applicants for reunions of the same family name to encourage collaboration and submission of a single proposal. At the end of the first round, the committee will make formal recommendations to the international organizing committee about the locations of family reunions based on proposals submitted. The first announcement of venues selected to host family reunions will be made early in 2012, when a second round of applications is launched. More than 80 families hosted reunions in 2009 in New Brunswick. The 2014 organizers’ goal is to have more than 100. Once a family has been successfully matched and information is provided to Congress organizers, family reunion organizing committees will be given $500 in seed money to begin their planning. From an article by Jen Lynds in the Bangor Daily News, Bangor, Maine.

Subscribe to Reunions magazine! Subscribe now to ensure a full year of reunion planning advice + workbook! Send $9.99/yr or $17.99/2 yrs to Reunions Magazine, Inc., PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727. To charge to credit card call 800-373-7933 x4 or visit our website www.reunionsmag.com. N OV E M B E R / D EC E M B E R / JA N UA R Y 2012 O R E U N I O N S

SCRAPBOOK

Where, oh, where to start? When several members of our family got together for Thanksgiving dinner, we agreed we needed to have a big family reunion next summer. Many of our aunts, uncles and cousins live all across the country, and there are cousins we haven’t seen in many years. There are ten-year old nieces and nephews we’ve never even met. Somehow, by the end of the evening, I had been “volunteered” by everyone around the table to coordinate the reunion. Help!! I’ve never planned anything more complicated than my daughter’s birthday party ... where do I start and what do I do?

First things first ... take a deep breath, then exhale!

Although it may seem a bit daunting, you have lots of company. Many, if not most, folks who put together very successful reunions are not professional event planners, and almost all organize their reunions as a labor of love for their families. Probably the best place to start is by recruiting two or three of those family members who were around the Thanksgiving table to assist you in planning. This is one project you don’t want to tackle alone! Your next step should be for you and your committee to narrow the list of

potential reunion locations down to two or three strong possibilities. The ideal reunion destination may be somewhere roughly equidistant for everyone attending, so that no one has to travel too far. Or it may be a location that has special meaning for your family. You’ll want to take into account ease of access, costs, attractions, and the appeal of the destination to all of your attendees. Some folks love the beach; some don’t. Some will want to visit an amusement park and ride the roller coasters; some won’t! Then ... you and your committee should plan to attend a reunion planning workshop. There are many offered around the country by countless destinations eager to play host to your

Most of these events are sponsored and presented by convention and visitors bureaus. They 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

CABARRUS COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA

Skip Sander, 412-367-1376; MilitaryReunions@aol.com AllMilitaryReunions.org.

May 12, 2012 Vicki Baptista, 800-848-3740; Vicki@visitcabarrus.com

ALPHARETTA, GEORGIA

CHICAGO SOUTHLAND, ILLINOIS

April Cochran, 877-202-5961; april@awesomealpharetta.com 706-357-4430

November 30, 2011 Kristy Stevens, 888-895-8233; kristy@visitchicagosouthland.com; visitchicagosouthland.com

ATLANTA, GEORGIA

COBB COUNTY, GEORGIA

Tara Spann, 404-521-6638; Atlanta.net/reunion/reunions.aspx

Kathy Buske, Cobb County CVB, 678-303-2624; kbuske@cobbcvb.com

ATHENS, GEORGIA

BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA

Reunion Planner Workshop, 800-458-8085

COLUMBUS, OHIO

BRANSON, MISSOURI

October 6, 2012 Brian Cheek, 800-354-2657; bcheek@experiencecolumbus.com; experiencecolumbus.com

August 20-23, 2012 Military Reunion Planners Conference Kimberly Carr, 800-214-3661; KCarr@bransoncvb.com NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Treasure, National Reunion Services, 888-4-ALUMNI (888-425-8664)

DEKALB COUNTY, GEORGIA

November 12, 2011 Carol Murray, DeKalb County CVB, 800-999-6055 DETROIT, MICHIGAN

313-202-1972; reunions@visitdetroit.com 12

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reunion. A full list of upcoming reunion workshops can be found in the pages of every issue of Reunions magazine, and is updated regularly at reunionsmag.com. Almost without exception, registration for these workshops is offered without charge, or at a very nominal fee. You’ll find that the four to five hours invested in attending a workshop (many are held on Saturday mornings) will be time well spent. You’ll meet other planners, many of whom, like you, are planning their first reunion. You’ll hear knowledgeable speakers from the local convention bureau, area hotels, and other attractions with years and years of experience planning events, negotiating contracts, dealing with vendors, and

sundry topics. They’re all more than happy to give you the benefit of their experience and advice ... they want you to have a successful reunion, and they want to help you avoid making simple mistakes. They’ll show you how to work within a tight budget, and they can offer all sorts of fun ideas that you might not have thought of to make your reunion a memorable one. Many reunion workshops include a complimentary tour of local attractions that will be of interest to your attendees, parks or other venues that can host your picnic, recreational facilities, and the like. In short, there’s a wealth of expert advice and information available to

assist you, almost all of it free, and almost all of it close at hand. Signing up to attend a reunion planning workshop is one of the best – and easiest – things you and your committee can do to ensure a great reunion!

About the Hospitality Answerman Dean Miller is the national sales director for Visit Fairfax (www.fxva.com) in Virginia, and host of a reunion planning workshop February 18, 2012, for which advance registration is required. Contact Dean at 703-752-9509, dmiller@fxva.com

DOUGLASVILLE, GEORGIA

KISSIMMEE, FLORIDA

Randi Miles, 678-715-6069; milesr@ci.douglasville.ga.us

Sara Melendez-Davis, 800-831-1844, ext 28254; smelendez@floridakiss.com

DUNWOODY, GEORGIA

Andy Williams, 678-244-9804; andyw@cvbdunwoody.com DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA

January 2012 Contact Durham CVB, 800-446-8604 ESTES PARK, COLORADO, YMCA OF THE ROCKIES

November 4-6, 2011 + February 24-26, 2012 Conference Office at 800-777-9622 FAIRFAX COUNTY, VIRGINIA

LAKE COUNTY, ILLINOIS

Kimberly Ghys, 800-Lake-Now; lakecountyreunions.com LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY

November 12, 2011 Saundra Robertson, 502-379-6110; srobertson@gotolouisville.com MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA

Casey Kluver, 612-767-8106; caseyk@meetminneapolis.com; minneapolis.org

February 18, 2012, 4th annual reunion workshop Dean Miller at Visit Fairfax, 703-752-9509; dmiller@fxva.com, www.fxva.com

NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA

FLINT, MICHIGAN

Courtney Irish, 810-232-8902; cirish@visitflint.org

Kim Trawick, 678-216-0282, ext. 6964; ktrawick@visitpeachtreecity.com; visitpeachtreecity.com/

FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, MARYLAND

Kimberly Herbert, 800-260-3646

Prince George’s Community College, Largo Campus Family Affair, 301-322-0797; www.pgcc.edu

GREENWOOD, SOUTH CAROLINA

James Dean, 888-493-7386; jdean@nngov.com PEACHTREE CITY, GEORGIA

Lindsay Burns, 864-953-2464; Lindsay.burns@cityofgreenwoodsc.com

SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER CITY, LOUISIANA

GWINNETT COUNTY, GEORGIA

WINTER PARK, COLORADO, SNOW MOUNTAIN RANCH

January 13 & April 13, 2012 Linda Murphy, GCTS, 888-494-6638; lmurphy@gcvb.org

YMCA of the Rockies, Conference Office, 800-777-9622

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

YMRC – YOUR MILITARY REUNION CONNECTION

January 16-19, 2012 – Cocoa Beach, Florida info@YMRC.net; yourmilitaryreunions.com N OV E M B E R / D EC E M B E R / JA N UA R Y 2012 O R E U N I O N S

SCRAPBOOK

Caring and compassion continue 50 years by Kaye Olson

ecently, graduates from the Mercy Hospital School of Nursing, Class of 1961, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, gathered for their 50th reunion. A luncheon was followed by recognition of each class and memories of those student nursing years. Reminiscing about the three-year nursing education brought laughter and tears: late nights cramming for exams, anxiety with the first patient injection, ER experiences, the capping ceremony, pranks pulled on classmates, the first surgical scrub, and the terrifying walk through the tunnel alone to work the hospital’s night shift. Equally remembered were unforgettable rotations at the Veterans Administration in Madison for tuberculosis nursing and the psychiatric nursing affiliation at Winnebago State Hospital near Oshkosh. Regardless of the occasional discouragements, humor, persistence and determination kept student nurses going. By graduation, student nurses spread their wings, armed with all the essential skills and knowledge from the best instructors and physicians in an outstanding program. Brimming with confidence, the nurses knew they could take on the world and achieve anything they set their minds to. It was “hands on” in hospitals, health departments, university health centers, home health care, and other health care settings. Graduates married, raised families, and continued working, and some sought higher education, degrees, and expanded nursing careers. Fifty years soared by quickly. Beyond the memories triggered at the 50th reunion, the graduates provided updates on each other, secured email addresses, recognized those too ill to attend, and grieved the classmates already passed. The attributes of the nurses of ’61 – such as caring, helping, supporting, and compassion – never

Mercy Hospital School of Nursing, Class of 1961, 50 years later.

wavered. Today, although most are retired, many volunteer and give of themselves in many organizations: hospice, meals on wheels, food banks, school tutoring, medical schools, and Habitat for Humanity. They remain resourceful to others. The 1961 nursing year book, titled “Starch and Stripes,” featured a quote from those graduates: “Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow, creeps in this petty pace from day to day, to the last syllable of recorded time.” . . . Shakespeare.

About the author Kaye Olson, DeWitt, Michigan, is shown as a 1961 graduate of the Mercy Hospital School of Nursing program. Kaye has authored two books and writes for national professional journals, newsletters, and magazines.

Weller has withered, but its reunion hangs on

he Weller, Iowa, Reunion brings together folks who share a mutual bond to a place, time and way of life that has vanished but left an imprint worth remembering and honoring. Their nostalgic celebration mirrors others across Iowa as returnees bear witness that their now-defunct churches, schools, and towns were once important. Fewer than 50 years ago, Weller, by Stephens State Forest, was a charming Monroe County hamlet of four buildings: St. Mary’s Catholic Church, a two-story rectory, the frequently riproaring hall, and Charlie’s, a utilitarian store. Even in its heyday, the village’s only residents were the parish priest and the scores who lay quietly behind the church in the cemetery. They were mostly Irish settlers who saw the landscape as akin to “the old sod.” Their offspring felt the same passion. During those decades, Weller was subdued weekdays, but Sunday, its population swelled when farmers, housewives, and children arrived. Kids played hide-and-seek among the

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tombstones. Parents hobnobbed on the lawn and gossiped. Some of the men and even a lady or two slipped behind Charlie’s for a few nips of nectar. The social zenith of the year was August 15th, a holy day commemorating the Assumption of Mary. It was celebrated with Mass and a gut-busting picnic of fried chicken, potato salad and pies. St. Mary’s was razed, along with numerous other Iowa churches, when the liability became too great to have them stand empty and priest-less. But the magnificent white altar, brass candlesticks and additional accoutrements were preserved and are displayed behind the large glass window of a small building erected from the original brick and cornerstones. Charlie’s and the Hall were bulldozed long ago, but there will be no shortage of blarney tossed about. From a story by Sandy Flahive on DesMoinesRegister.com, Des Moines, Iowa.

Fairfax: a great choice

here are good reasons why Fairfax County, Virginia, is one of the nation’s most popular destinations for both family and military reunions. First, they border our nation’s capital and all its celebrated attractions, and they’re a costeffective option with all the benefits of staying in an international city. They also boast popular attractions, including George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center and Great Falls National Park. Better still, they have complimentary, impartial destination specialists and expert services to help you plan your reunion, which include finding the right hotels, planning activities and coordinating of service providers. Families hold reunions in Fairfax because it’s easy to reach. With 10% of their acreage reserved for parkland, there are tons of great places for the family picnic. Add to that dozens of familyfriendly restaurants, ample amounts of free parking and amazing family attractions and you’ve got a virtual theme park for guests of all ages to enjoy! When it comes to military reunions, there simply is no more logical choice. Between the nation’s military museums, memorials and Arlington Cemetery, every branch of the armed services has a sacred

Mount Vernon today.

home here. And since many in the military have been stationed here at one time or another, it’s always like coming home. From world-class shopping and national events to historic sites and unique venues, Fairfax County provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable reunion. Fairfax County also provides a Family Reunion Workshop, which will be Saturday, February 18, 2012, at the Marriott Fairfax at Fair Oaks adjacent to Fair Oaks Mall. Edith Wagner, Editor of Reunions magazine will be the featured speaker. Registration includes program, breakfast, lunch, and optional tour of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Registration is free, but planners must register in advance. For reunion planning assistance or to register for the workshop, contact Dean Miller, 703-752-9509; dmiller@fxva.com; fxva.com; iPhone app http:/bit.ly/VisitFairfax.

Members of the USS Floyd B. Parks reunion enjoyed a visit to the World War II Memorial in nearby Washington DC during their Fairfax meeting.

WEB PAGE: reunionsmag.com CALL: 414.263.4567 FAX: 414.263.6331 E-MAIL: editor@reunionsmag.com WRITE: PO Box 11727 Milwaukee, WI 53211-0727

N OV E M B E R / D EC E M B E R / JA N UA R Y 2012 O R E U N I O N S

SCRAPBOOK

Wilmington, North Carolina, receives high praise

ilmington, North Carolina, received recognition as an affordable destination by Orbitz and Bloomberg Businessweek. Orbitz ranked it #1 Late-Summer Beach Bargain on the lowest average daily hotel rates (ADRs). The good news for reunions is that this year-round coastal retreat offers a subtropical climate with mild temperatures and affordable rates that extend beyond the summer months. Bloomberg Businessweek ranks it #7 Most Fun, Affordable City. Wilmington, North Carolina, and the island beaches of Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach offer accommodations in a wide range of prices, year-round, from paying premium waterfront rates or staying a block or two off

Kure Beach Fishing Pier at sunrise in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Wilmington, North Carolina”s historic waterfront.

the water to save money. They also have the option of staying in midtown Wilmington where rates are especially affordable and only a few minutes’ drive to the beach. Visitors can maximize savings and ramp up the fun factor with budget-friendly attractions and events. All this adds up to a fun getaway that won’t break the bank. Request a free official Visitors Guide (visit@capefearcoast.com). Seasonal events and experiences are available online at www.gocapefearcoast.com, www.carolinabeachgetaway.com, www.visitkure.com; www.visitwrightsville.com. Last-minute hotel discounts are posted weekly at www.sunnysavers.com.

Telephone operators reunion provides a connection to the past

he Muskegon, Michigan, telephone operators reunion was a window on a bygone era when calls were answered by “the voice with a smile.” A group of GTE operators meet annually with friends they made while answering phones until 1990, when directory assistance positions were consolidated and moved out of state. It wasn’t easy work and the red lights from incoming calls were hard on the eyes. They weren’t allowed to sit. They had to walk back and forth. Operators had to be able to prioritize and react quickly. The Muskegon office had a plug for each major city, so operators could only send one call to each at a time. If a resident wanted to call a cousin in Chicago, he might have to wait if a factory working on a government contract needed to call at the same time. When a call comes in, the operator asks who the caller is trying to reach and plugs a wire into the desired number, then removes the wire when the light shows the call is finished. Operators helped with local calls for callers who didn’t know the number and made connections for long-distance calls. If the caller was using a pay phone, the operator also had to listen to make sure the caller deposited the right number and

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denominations of coins. The weight of the coin activiated a pulse the operator could hear. If the caller hung up without paying, the operator would call the pay phone to see if the person was still there. If not, the operator would call the recipient to find out who to bill if it was a long and expensive call. For calling from home, the operator punched a ticket at the beginning and end of the call, which was added to the customer’s bill. Before 911, operators also fulfilled the role of central dispatch, connecting calls about fires and crimes. In rural areas, operators also called people to announce school closings and blew the lunch whistle for outdoor workers at noon. The system was highly regimented, because someone had to operate the phones around the clock. If an operator had to step away from her board, she had to raise a card to get permission from her supervisor first and wait until someone could take her place. They said it was a job you’d always be able to rely on. They were always going to need operators. Most callers were pleasant and operators got to know people in their communities. From a story by Megan Hart on MLive.com.

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BRANCH OFFICE

William Elder descendants celebrate 300 years

Family donates documents

revathan family historical materials were presented to the Braswell Memorial Library, Rocky Mount, North Carolina, in conjunction with their family reunion. The Trevathan Family Reunion was first organized in 1946 by the children of William Carter Trevathan and his wife, Sarah Jane, according to family members and minutes of past reunions. Shortly after the first reunion, the Trevathans began gathering family history materials and created a treasure trove of memorabilia. In recent years, concern over the preservation of these items led to discussion about placing them in an archive or library. In 2010, all agreed that this move was essential for the best care of these priceless materials. Braswell Memorial Library provided the facilities, resources and expertise to house, preserve and make accessible priceless local history and family materials for research. From an article in the Rocky Mount Telegram, Rocky Mount, North Carolina

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he William Elder of Maryland Descendants Association hosted its Tercentennial (300 Year) Family Reunion at Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The reunion was a celebration of the life and times of William Elder and his wives, Ann Wheeler Elder and Jacoba Clementina Livers Elder, the parents of 12 children. This extraordinary event brought together William Elder’s descendants from around the country to meet and visit the ancestral homeland of the Elder Family. Mount St. Mary’s University and Seminary is the second oldest Catholic college and seminary in the US, founded in 1808 on what was originally William Elder’s property and still bearing the name he gave to the area. The Seminary and University has the reputation of being the “Mother of Bishops,” since a large number of American Catholic prelates rank among its clerical alumni, including Archbishop William Henry Elder, a great-grandson of William Elder. To this day, the Seminary prepares young men for the priesthood. The goals of the association are to “reestablish familial ties among Elder descendants, to work for the preservation of family records and the establishment of

an archival repository, to further the study of Elder family history and the work of Elder family historians and genealogists who have preceded us.” The Association is in the process of incorporating in Maryland as a non-profit. The association has written bylaws, appointed officers, published its first newsletter, established a website and started a membership drive. Reunion events included meetings to share Elder history and genealogy, a Colonial encampment illustrating the world the Elders lived in, a Mass of remembrance and thanksgiving near the Elder Cemetery, a Maryland Roadside marker dedication, and a reunion dinner with a keynote address about William, Ann and Jacoba and their times. Reunion participants enjoyed a tour of historic sites at the College and in Frederick County linked to the family, a picnic lunch and pool party. Accommodations were in local hotels as well as in University housing. For more information about the Descendants of William Elder of Maryland, contact Timothy P. Gallagher, 301-831-3994; spqr753@msn.com; www.williamelderofmaryland.com. From a post by Tim Gallagher on Southern Maryland Online

What your family tree says about your heart

nowing your family history can help protect you against heart disease. Does anyone in your family have heart disease? How about high blood pressure? Diabetes? High cholesterol? Has anyone in your family suffered a stroke? Do these questions sound familiar? They should, if you’ve ever visited a doctor’s office. The answers help round out your family history, and your family history helps your doctor assess your risks for these all-toocommon health problems. And what better time to discuss health history than at a family reunion? Ask about the branches on your family tree and whether there are any risk factors that may affect your heart and the hearts of those you love. “A person’s heart disease risk is determined by multiple factors,” says Kenneth Zide, MD, cardiologist at Bradenton (Florida) Cardiology Center. “But it’s primarily assessed using genetic and lifestyle factors. In knowing your family history, you’ll better understand your increased risk and ways to reduce

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it. You can’t change your genes, but you can make lifestyle changes to lower your risk.” Family history gives your physician a better idea of what your symptoms may indicate, and what special medical attention you may need. It increases your chances of early diagnosis. You can help prevent heart disease by dietary changes, an exercise routine and quitting smoking. You should collect a complete three-generation family health history. This means parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles and cousins. It will give you the best idea of the genes on your family tree. Add family members’ lifestyles and habits of these family members because, while heart disease can definitely be genetic, if your great aunt and brother are smokers and also happen to be the only two with high blood pressure, cigarettes – not genes – may be the culprit. Finding risk factors early, before symptoms appear, can offer you better heart health in the long run.

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MASTERPLAN

Who wins reunion sweepstakes?!

ondering who wins sweepstakes posted on our website? Scroll all the way to the bottom of the page online to see winners. The latest is from the YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park, Colorado, where an essay was required for entry. Joan from Slidell, Louisiana, won a family reunion for up to 30 people, 10 lodge rooms, two night stay and breakfast daily.

After hurricane Katrina, Joan’s family was forced to move farther apart and their planned reunion had to be canceled. Years later, Joan looks forward to her family reuniting at the YMCA of the Rockies and creating new family memories. Visit “contests and sweepstakes” regularly at reunionsmag.com.

Want to see your reunion on these pages? The answer is simple. Send a report, add terrific, well-focused pictures and we'll consider it.

what's Include out your d We have no b e special aand what re adlines, we ad it whe n reunio ire other n w p s e get it. in l wil . s n io n reu

For more details and ideas, read these pages and learn more from Media Alerts and Writers Guidelines at reunionsmag.com.

Pictures MUST be at least 300 dpi.

Send with your report to reunionsmag@gmail.com; subject line: name of the reunion.

We have LOTS of submissions so make yours stand out!

Hosting a holiday family reunion

hese are some stress-relieving tips to keep this family holiday reunion one to remember. v Get the word out early. Choose your location early. v Find friendly accommodations. v Keep holiday traditions. Just because you’re away from home doesn’t mean traditions cannot continue. Many extended stay hotels have in-suite kitchens. Homewood Suites even provide free grocery shopping, so you can save money and time, and still prepare your holiday recipe that everyone looks forward to each year. Then no one feels they missed the holiday traditions of home. Allow kids to get involved by helping to decorate cupcakes or cookies for dessert. v Stay in! Plan ahead. Get movie suggestions for a fun night in your hotel suite. Add popcorn, snacks and candy. After the movie, play a family board game. Games such as Charades are a great way to involve everyone, even young ones. Give games a holiday theme. v Soak up the season’s sights and sounds. Many cities and towns offer unique holiday events, from lavish lighting displays to family-friendly ice skating rinks. Holiday hosts can show families a taste of their town’s traditions with a trip to soak in some holiday spirit. Many properties offer free shuttles to major tourist destinations – a great way to enjoy your excursions without having to deal with holiday traffic. From the Dearborn Press and Guide, Dearborn, Michigan.

Family Reunion:

TAKING IT TO THE N EXT LEVEL

enealogist Regina Mason’s new book is subtitled “a step-by-step guide to researching one’s family’s history and successful family reunion planning.” Mason encourages readers to trace their own family trees so they can plan a big celebration to bring everybody together. Family Reunion: Taking it to the Next Level was written for those who want to take their family reunion from the backyard to the hotel courtyard, from local to national, and from one branch to multiple branches of the family tree. Mason is a nurse practitioner who initially began researching her family’s health history as a project to learn more about what conditions and diseases were prevalent in her family. She knew that this information would make her better able to communicate her family’s health risks with the purpose of disease prevention. Mason’s emphasis, therefore, is on family history research, genealogy databases and records, genetic and DNA testing, and preserving and sharing the family history. Family reunion planning highlights direct the reader to many online resources. Filled with useful tips and information Family Reunion: Taking it to the Next Level will help readers plan a family reunion to remember. The book is for everyone, from the novice to more experienced planners. Publisher Xlibris; www.xlibris.com.

MASTERPLAN

Simeroths Owasso “Invasion”

iennially, the Simeroth Family Reunion gathers together from points across the US, from coast to coast, and everywhere in between! This reunion, hosted by Leonard and Anne Simeroth in Owasso, Oklahoma, was the largest attendance on record – 150 family members – in 16 years of reunions! The theme of “Down On the Farm” was in memory of their grandparents, Andrew Joseph (“Trusty”) and Laura Isabel (“Bell”) Simeroth, who married in 1919. They raised 10 children on the family farm in Porum, Oklahoma. “Trusty” also worked on a nearby ranch, bringing in an extra $1 per day to help feed and clothe his large family. The original farm is still owned and farmed by a grandson, Raymond Simeroth, and his family. The family filled the TownePlace Suites by Marriott and were welcomed by the most hospitable, friendly staff! Cousins, brothers, sisters, aunts, and Caitlyn (8) and Josh Eastin (12) wearing uncles stayed up late visiting, snacking, Simeroth reunion t-shirts subtitled playing cards and other games, spilling “down on the farm.” over into the breakfast room and just enjoying being together again! Many of the hotel staff said they wished their own families had reunions like this! Friday afternoon was the official check-in and start of the reunion. Simeroths began pouring in wearing the name tags identifying them as family members. Black t-shirts sporting a green tractor and reunion theme designed by Roger and Terri (Bruster) Simeroth (Owasso) and an updated family information directory organized by Patty (Simeroth) Hills (Owasso) were distributed. Families were “Down on the Farm” Raffle Basket presented with a welcome packet that included local maps and directories by the Owasso Chamber of Commerce. Packets also included a farm magnet and a small container of actual dirt from the original Simeroth land so each person now owns their own treasured piece of the family farm. Friday evening a pizza feast was held in the hotel breakfast area. The feast ended with a surprise anniversary reception for Joe Perry Simeroth and his wife of 61 years, Mariana (Flusche) Simeroth, Ft. Worth, Texas. Following the pizza feast, several cousins went bowling while everyone else gathered for a special two-hour storytelling session. The original Simeroth brothers and sisters joined the eldest daughters of the two deceased siblings to reminisce and share stories about life “down on the farm.” Highlights included stories about Pictures of grandparents and family for silent auction, Aunt Louise (Simeroth) Yambor (Bowie, Maryland) helping her brother groom his 4-H pig for the fair and getting pulled into a big mud puddle, the time Grandma Bell drove the family’s Model A with no brakes, and stories of when the “boys” all went off to war. Many family members have military backgrounds from WWII to the present. These loving memories were all captured on video and copied to share with each family so the stories can be passed to the younger generations. Each morning began with breakfast together, then off to various activities. Some traveled to the Tulsa Zoo, the Aquarium, local garage sales, shopping, eateries and mini-golf challenges between cousins. There were also scheduled activities of wooden thread spool toy tractor making, horseback riding and Simeroth Yo Yo Quilt for the Silent Auction. roping lessons. Saturday evening a catered BBQ was held at St. Henry’s Catholic Church hall. Hand-crafted farm theme decorations included white daisies with yellow centers, a favorite flower Bell Simeroth always grew in her yard at the farm. Dessert included warm apple cobbler and a beautiful birthday cake for great-granddaughter Karen Slitzker, Oklahoma City. Evening activities included a fun ice-breaker game, rounds and rounds of family BINGO, and bidding on silent auction items. The host family offered a basket of farm items for a raffle. A very special yo-yo quilt, handmade by the sisters and sisters-in-laws of the host family, contained 1,974 hand cut and hand-stitched yo-yo pieces. The yo-yos were then placed and stitched into a queen-size quilt. After many, many hugs, the families went back home happy to have seen one another again and anxious for the 2013 reunion! Reported by Susan Simeroth Payne, Cleveland, Oklahoma. 22

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Rosebeary Reunion tradition We play games from 10 to 11 AM so his was our 35th annual reunion. We meet moms and aunts can watch games before each year for the third weekend in June at preparing side dishes for the noon meal. Lake Tenkiller in Vian, Oklahoma. About 150 Our games this year were water balloon members come from Arkansas, Texas, toss with sheets, piñata, hula hoop chain California, Oklahoma, Kentucky, Kansas, relay, mummy wrap team relay, adults’ Minnesota and Pennsylvania. It’s a great tug-of-war and kids’ tug-of-war; crafts location for everyone. We can sleep in a tent, were balloon animals and face painting. travel trailer, cabin or motel cottage. We swim All day we play volleyball and and ski at the lake or swim in the pool. They horseshoes, and have a blow up have a great pavilion for our outdoor breakfast, bouncing house. noon potluck, Saturday night dinner/ice cream We provide the main meat dish of social and Sunday “see you later burgers.” barbecue brisket, smoked sausage and The last three years we’ve been doing chicken. Everyone else brings a covered themes for our reunion and it’s a lot of fun. dish and dessert. An elder family “Survivor” was our funniest, with a lot of team member makes announcements at this games. Our “70s flashback” included disco meal. Right after the meal this year we and even The Newlywed Game for the elders. took a large panoramic group photo. “Reunion Roundup” was western, complete Saturday at 3 PM is the official breakwith cowboy hats and bandanas, and this year away time. The younger generations go was “It’s no Jive #35,” going with a birthday swimming, hike trails or go boating. party theme. Babies take naps and so do the elders. Or In March the 3rd Generation Cousins have the elders sit and visit in a cool area. an annual reunion planning meeting to choose At 6 PM we head back to the outdoor a theme and make the agenda. This year was pavilion for dinner. This is leftover night, our 35th annual Rosebeary Reunion so we Ethan Boese (6) and Ashlyn Dickens (4) concentrate so there’s no fuss. We have several on the piñata. had a celebration theme like a birthday party. varieties of homemade ice cream. This The date is Fathers Day weekend every year year we added a large birthday/celebration so no one can say they forgot. Same place every year. cake to go with the ice cream. Every cousin has a task to complete. I order and purchase After dark we did a Memory Photo Nite slideshow burgers and hot dogs for the Sunday meal, plan games, handle presentation in the outdoor pavilion in honor of our 35 years of cash flow and set up the agenda. Another arranges the meat for good times. We presented the Elders with a celebration clock the main meal, another paper goods, another bread and ice for keeping the reunion going all these years. We had a share in purchases, everyone else fills in and completes additional the memory time and song for them … thanks for the memories. needs for extra activities. See a copy of the agenda online at Sunday is grilling of the burgers & dogs day. New male reunionsmag.com, click on activities. family members help with the grilling. We meet for the meal We try to stick with the agenda to keep things moving smoothly. with side dishes and condiments. Friday night is: get there, check in and mingle. At 7 AM Immediately after the noon meal we start our raffle. Each Saturday, the 3rd generation cousins meet at the outdoor family brings homemade or store-bought white elephant items pavilion and cook breakfast (scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, to raffle. The money from this raffle pays for reunion expenses gravy, hashbrowns, biscuits) for family members who arrive at (potluck meat, Sunday burgers/hotdogs, bread, pavilion 8 AM. Since our theme was a celebration, we also included rentals, games, paper goods, and trinkets or give-aways). glazed donuts for the “Decoration of the Donuts,” hands-on Goodbyes and hugs follow the raffle. decorating for the kids. The original 10 family members each Reported by Brenda Rosebeary Higgs, have a color that their family wears. At a glance you know what Fayetteville, Arkansas. family each person belongs to.

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MASTERPLAN

Taking the reunion to Shirley

The reunion came to Shirley Rock Speltz!

ll 79 descendants of Francis and Shirley Speltz – from Washington, Idaho, Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, New Jersey and Massachusetts – gathered in Rollingstone and Winona, Minnesota, for the Homecoming Tour 2011. Francis and Shirley farmed in Rollingstone and raised nine children. Francis passed away in 1994; Shirley resides at St. Anne of Winona. Shirley

could not travel to the reunion, so the reunion came to her. St. Anne went out of their way to accommodate the family. They used dining areas, cooking facilities and even the staircase for the group photo. T-shirts were designed with front and back logos listing all the family members and the cities and states they were from. Some members ran the BK-5K race during the Winona Steamboat Days. They toured the Speltz farm, Holy Trinity Church and Cemetery at Rollingstone, met new family members and simply enjoyed spending time together. Everyone is looking forward to the next tour! Reported by Cyndi Speltz Gipp, Cedar Falls, Iowa

The back of Speltz t-shirts list family members names, cities and states they were from.

Team Speltz 2011 5K Winona Steamboat Days.

Jackson family’s 100 Thanksgivings

n American society, a family that remains close as it expands through five generations is a rare thing. Imagine, then, the scene in Hillsboro, Oregon, as 128 descendants of John Wesley and Maria Jackson gathered for the family’s 100th Thanksgiving dinner. Long ago, the family’s Thankgiving celebration outgrew any one person’s house, and for more than a decade, 65 to 85 relatives attended every year. After the meal, they convene a family business meeting and play bingo for gag prizes – an activity children love best. Then they dance the Virginia Reel to tape recordings of old vinyl records that once played in the Jackson home. In 1858, a year before Oregon joined the union, John Wesley Jackson was born in North Plains and Maria in Oregon City. They owned a farm and had two sons and four daughters. When the parents died, each child got a piece of land. As years passed, relatives understood that what they had going on for Thanksgiving was special. They have kept careful records since at least the early 1950s. In 1952, two turkeys were necessary to serve everyone; last year eight turkeys roasted away and nearly 100 pounds of mashed potatoes stayed warm in crockpots as guests arrived. Relatives brought huge poster boards and scrolls of paper with family trees that show the Jackson legacy through five

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generations. Children flipped through guest books starting from 1980 that kept track of attendance at Thanksgiving. A slide projector hooked up to a laptop computer flashed photos from earlier gatherings. At each place setting in the dining hall lay a paper mat in the shape and color of an autumnal oak leaf commemorating the ”Jackson Clan Thanksgiving – 100 years.” The family so enjoys its togetherness that after lobbying from out-of-state relatives, the Jackson descendants also have an August picnic. The glue that has lasted for 100 years, said Alma Wilson, is simple: “We care about each other. We’ve always been a very close family. We don’t hold grudges.” Even people who married into, then divorced out of the family, return for Thanksgiving. To pull off the dinner, one family serves as “host,” planning food and assigning tasks. Donna Firestone said the family celebration is such an important ritual that it’s easy to forget that others don’t pass the holiday in the same way. “I was in the Kinko’s copying some of those family trees,” she said, “and the guy at the counter said, ‘You don’t know all those people, do you?’ and I said that, except for some of the children, I do, and that we always have Thanksgiving together. From a story by Anne Saker in The Oregonian, Portland, Orgeon.

Flynn Hanley 84 year tradition

Flynn Hanley Family Reunion

he Flynn Hanley Family Reunion has been having annual reunions for 84 years, all descendants of one couple who came from Ireland in the early 1900s. The first 50 or so reunions were held at the family farm. We generally have representatives from at least five descendant branches and this year one branch descending from a sibling of our “main couple” attended. The Flynn Hanley Family Reunion is established as a nonprofit and we have officers, including a treasurer. The officers work together to maintain our finances. Every two years we hold elections; officers are nominated and voted on by family. The reunion has been all around the Western PennsylvaniaEastern Ohio area. Our family has been centered in the Sharon, Pennsylvania, area and we try to keep it local. Each family or single pays a set fee to cover food. Each family also brings a dish to share. The reunion committee provides drinks, paper products, and main meats. Recently fundraising has been pretty much a basic prize raffle, sometimes a 50/50. In the past we have had other fundraisers and are interested in pursuing more if we can.

We used to use nametags, but lately we pretty much know everyone who attends, or there are only one or two new faces. We have a Tribal Page family tree, a webpage that is under construction, a facebook page, and a collection of all the minutes. The meeting minutes have been quite entertaining. The reunion is a picnic with games and good conversation. In the past, we had themes, games for kids, card games, golf outings, and even restored tombstones in the cemetery. Over the past 10 years a lot of our reunions have rather flatlined, with lower attendance, and this year was just lunch and a raffle. But I am trying to revitalize by including some new ideas and moving the date. We hope to adapt the program next year to include additional activities and events: a fun run/walk, a service project, and maybe some tours of local areas/cemetery. I’m looking into making a memory book. Reported by Megan Rodgers, Niles, Ohio, who has just been elected president of the Flynn Hanley Family Reunion. Megan is just 32 (way below the normal demographic) and just exactly the person to reinvigorate her reunion. We hope she’ll report her success!

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MASTERPLAN

On getting along!

e rarely learn about conflicts at reunions but encountered these questions and answers recently, all at about the same time. Was it the universe telling us to deal with it?

Cathy St John from Houlton, Maine, wrote “We hope to not have conflicts but if they do come up, how do we handle them?” That was a rather interesting question and one I’ve never been asked ... and I’ve been answering reunion questions for many years. I had to ask Cathy these questions. How do you normally handle conflicts? What kind of conflicts do you encounter? I find that family reunions are light-hearted, happy events where conflict seems out of place. Is that naive? Every family has members who feel alienated, but those folks tend to stay away from reunions which, of course, leaves members who get along to get along! EW I was really curious to know what Cathy anticipated! This is her response.

Q? A!

Thank you for answering my email. We did have the reunion and you were correct. We had a great time and everyone got along. We had a few drama queens but we anticipated them and handled them. But the people that didn’t want to be there, weren’t there. We are thinking about having another reunion in two years. And what you say on the website is correct, you need at least a year to plan. I didn’t believe it, but it is totally true. Between fundraising and gathering info, we could’ve used at least a year. We now have two years, so we are ahead of the game. I hope some of this info helps you with other reunions. Thank you.

Another reader wrote, “We struggle with particular individuals relying on others to watch their children, especially in the water, and failing to contribute equally to the food. We can either complain about it and ruin the weekend or just move on.” Did this happen at this reunion? Or is it ongoing? My suggestion is that you use the time between reunions to deal with this issue. You don’t want to spoil another reunion. I know you do not want to do this yourself, so rope in at least all the others who might otherwise “complain.” Then, with the consensus of your members, set some rules. Be as detailed as it takes to cover your complaint. Promote the rules before the next reunion. You don’t need to name names, but by making it pretty obvious, the guilty may figure it out. If not, refer to the rules and the fact that a consensus agrees. Be very clear about fair share of food costs. Promote it well ahead of time. In your communications include lists of who has paid and who has not. Shaming is not a bad thing when used to share the truth. Another approach might be to include mention of your concerns in your final reunion report. Use your website and facebook page to laud your members who do their share. Always include the list of who needs to act now! If you do potluck or everyone is assigned to bring something, make sure the people whom you want to shape up have important, vital assignments, but talk to their immediate families to make sure they understand the level of responsibility and that everyone has faith in them and is depending upon them to perform. I hope this doesn’t sound cruel, but it sounds like you and others are not having happy reunions and, much as you’d rather it weren’t true, you are probably the one(s) who must correct it. I’ll be interested in learning how you work this out. EW

Q? A!

hen, I found a very interesting article on this very topic: “Dealing with tensions and conflicts at family reunions” by Emmanuel Makeri in the Daily Monitor in Uganda of all places! It’s a shameful sight when children or relatives fall out and scold or fight each other, especially at family reunions, which are supposed to be viable strong bonding events for family-oriented people, wrote Emmanuel Makeri. Family conflicts do not simply disappear because it’s time for a reunion. Family members have feelings, past hurts, unresolved issues with siblings and parents and their own personalities. Though one might believe that as adults, conflicts would be resolved maturely; this is not the case. Issues such as stepchildren, divorced parents, in-laws, odd traditions and religious differences are bound to create conflict. Sometimes it isn’t even about differences but unresolved issues that crop up at reunions. So how does one deal with such conflicts when they arise? Concentrate on activities family can do without the baggage of the past. Create a family photograph album for future generations to enjoy, play a computer game, get kids to know their cousins, nephews, etc. Encourage the older generation to share family history, achievements and connections. Apart from enjoying

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celebrations, the reunion gives the younger generation a sense of belonging. Try to detect and avoid stressful situations. No one comes to a reunion with the intent of causing a scene. It starts with simple issues like who isn’t helping in the kitchen or whose kids aren’t well-mannered. This could start a simple quarrel which might grow to bigger issues. Family reunion organizers should try to detect signs of stress and deal with them early before they get out of hand. Be aware of which family members aren’t on good terms to pre-empt trouble. Accommodate each other’s differences and don’t expect too much. Appreciate that people are different. Some family members come with children and sit in the living room, waiting for food to be served. Guests should be considerate and help out. How do you deal with an already bad situation? First, as the mediator, without taking sides initially, approach the issue as a matter of urgency, to help calm conflicting parties. Trying to settle an issue at the reunion takes lots of time and may spoil the celebration. Make peace even when it hurts and humiliates. Remember they are your family.

RANCHES

Families play together at their reunions Y

our family reunion can be the “allinclusive” vacation of your dreams. Just think, a family reunion on a dude ranch like Sundance Trail Ranch, Red Feather Lakes, Colorado (sundancetrail.com). Dude ranches are great places for family reunions. Kids can ride horses and play in a safe environment, with acres and acres of room to roam. Wranglers will provide a mix of structured activities and unstructured free time. Moms can relax and even play because the ranch does all the cooking, dishes and cleaning! Most ranches can satisfy just about any kind of special diet. Many ranches are wheelchair-friendly. Some ranches are even pet-friendly! At Sundance Trail Ranch, there are separate suites for each family for quiet times, and comfortable common areas for visiting. A family dude ranch reunion can be compared to summer camp, with

activities and adventures shared together by the whole family. Get pretty dirty during the day, then enjoy hot showers and clean warm beds at night! Denver International Airport, in the heart of the US, is easy to reach from just about anywhere in the world. Usually not far from an airport, most ranches are situated in the quiet beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Most ranches provide transportation to and from the airport. Sundance Trail’s summer dude ranch schedule includes structured activities every couple hours, mixed with unstructured time to explore, do your own activities or relax. All structured activities are optional – this is your family vacation; you might enjoy doing nothing for a couple of hours! Think you might need the help of a planner? Your chosen ranch will be happy to help you plan!

he Dude Ranchers’ Association established and has enforced high standards for its members since 1926. Member dude ranches go through a rigorous two-year inspection and approval process, including references from former guests and on-site inspections during ranch operations. When you book a reunion at a Dude Ranchers’ Association member ranch, you can be assured it is actually a ranch and not just a hotel with horses. There are 100-plus member ranches in 12 western states and two Canadian provinces. Visit duderanch.org.

Paradise Ranch focuses on kids R

anches are places where families can unplug from electronics in gorgeous surroundings. And Paradise Ranch in Buffalo, Wyoming (paradiseranch.com), is known for having great ranch programs for children. Infants to teens have their own programs, with age-appropriate activities supervised by specially trained kid wranglers. Preschoolers enjoy pony rides, while ages six and up have daily horseback-riding. Babysitters watch guests up to age three, while kids over three can participate in a full-day program (parents pick them up for lunch). The kids program includes Horse Day (roping and calf feeding), Fishing Day (making fishing poles, talent show practice and teen social of movie and ice cream), Native American Day (making dream catchers, headdresses, and totem poles), Tie-Dyeing Day, Nature Day

It doesn’t take long for it to be just a boy and his horse at Paradise Ranch.

(hikes, treasure hunt, rock painting, cookie making and a chuckwagon dinner) and Rodeo Day (chicken-chasing competition, bookmark and bird-feeder making and, of course, a rodeo).

Lifetime memories from a dude ranch 1. Horseback riding – fast rides, short rides, lunch rides, dinner rides, all-day rides, arena riding, family rides. 2. White water rafting 3. Family fishing contests 4. Zip lining 5. Mountain biking 6. Family team building games 7. Rodeos 8. Golfing 9. Hiking 10. Trap shooting

Horseshoe Canyon Ranch I

n the shadows of the Ozark Mountains, you’ll experience an authentic dude ranch, wrapped in homespun Southern hospitality. The Johnson family welcomes you to their conveniently located 500acre spread in the Buffalo River wilderness area near Jasper, Arkansas (http://horseshoecanyonduderanch.com/). The Horseshoe Canyon Ranch meets challenges faced by the family reunion planner. The ranch accommodates up to 75 people with more than enough activities to keep everyone occupied. All-inclusive rates are reasonable, with group discounts. Rates include plenty of trail riding, accommodations in rustic yet deluxe cabins, maid service, three delicious meals each day and a special children’s program. Young kids create crafts, ride ponies and work as “cowhands” on “Little Buckaroo Ranch.” Older kids like to play “Frisbee” golf, go skeet shooting, ride the zip line or go rock climbing. Families can swim, fish, watch birds and wildlife, soak in the hot tub under the stars, or explore old Indian caves. Each family leaves feeling a little closer and with a saddlebag of memories to last a lifetime.

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RANCHES

How about a winter The Kades love C Lazy U Ranch ranch reunion? K I

f you’re planning a reunion during the heart of the winter, warmer climates of the Southwest feature horseback rides and cattle drives. Ranches in the central or northern Rockies offer adventurepacked excursions into the snowy high country. Ranches in more northerly states are open for the winter season with an emphasis on guided snowmobile tours, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice climbing or downhill skiing. Some ranches also offer guided elk- and deer-hunting. At many ranches you’ll find an allinclusive vacation experience that includes wine cellars and pairings, sumptuous meals and relaxing massage treatments in addition to the cowboy experience. Ranch cuisine is often an unexpected experience for many first-time guests. Numerous ranches combine ranch fare with gourmet cuisine. Ranch cuisine has evolved into multi-course gourmet dishes and healthy alternatives, alongside all the old ranch classics like barbeques. “Never-empty” homemade cookie jars, other homemade treats and bowls of fresh fruit are always on hand. In addition, many ranches utilize organic and/or local produce and some employ farm-to-table practices. Many ranches have their own wine cellars featuring international and domestic wines, and offer wine pairings as well as, in some cases, wine tours to local wineries. The Colorado Dude & Guest Ranch Association (CDGRA) is comprised of 28 certified ranches located throughout the mountains and mesas of Colorado. For more information and/or to request your free Colorado Dude & Guest Ranch vacation guide and DVD, visit www.duderanching.org.

nown for its “Five Spur Service,” Granby, Colorado’s C Lazy U Ranch (clazyu.com) is another popular reunion locale and hosts groups large and small year-round. The Kade family has had more than 15 annual Christmastime reunions at the ranch. Four generations, 25 total, travel from as far away as Maryland to visit the ranch, approximately two hours from Denver. The Kades’ favorite activities include riding the ranch’s Snowcat, skiing, sledding and snow tubing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, playing a friendly ice hockey match and skating on C Lazy U’s Zambonigroomed pond. The older generation enjoys watching the youngest generation experience the same winter experiences they did earlier, especially the magical moment each Christmas Eve when Santa arrives at the Lodge in a horse-drawn sleigh. Some of the children have come back as seasonal employees to work at C Lazy U Ranch.

Winter reunions at C Lazy U Ranch are cold, crisp and exciting!

Tanque Verde Ranch is a Travel Channel Top Ten for Families T

anque Verde Ranch, Tucson, Arizona (tanqueverderanch.com), is an all-inclusive upscale dude ranchresort that takes pride in offering something for everyone in the family. For bonding time, families can partake in the ranch’s newest group activities: Ride and Seek takes teamwork to solve clues and make your way to designated locations found on the ranch map, and Horseshoe Hunt turns the entire resort into a scavenger hunt on horseback; find painted horseshoes and exchange them for prizes. Tanque Verde’s children’s programs for Buckeroos (ages four to six) and

Wranglers (ages seven to eleven) include daily horseback lessons, trail rides, tennis, swimming, games, arts and crafts, hiking, educational nature programs and more. Offered daily from 7AM to 3PM, activities include breakfast and lunch in the children’s dining room. Parents are welcome to accompany their children for activities or pursue other activities. Tanque Verde Ranch features 76 well-appointed rooms and suites, all with breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert and Rincon and Catalina Mountains. All-inclusive room rates include all meals, snacks, daily activities and evening entertainment.

LIST YOUR REUNION FREE! Email (editor@reunionsmag.com) Contact name, address, phone, reunion name, date, and place. Check us out at www.reunionsmag.com 28

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RANCHES

Montana tradition and hospitality L ifelong memories and familial bonds are just two of the amazing “side-effects” of a Dude Ranch reunion. While deep rest and relaxation rejuvenate you, awesome scenery will feed your soul. Finally, and most longlasting, are memories and improved relationships your family will experience. Adjacent to Yellowstone Park and surrounded by millions of acres of National Forest and the TaylorHilgard wilderness area, Nine Quarter Circle’s reunions feature riding for all ages and all levels of horsemanship, blue-ribbon fly-fishing, incredible scenery and traditional hand-crafted log cabins – all combined with the West’s best hospitality! In addition, there are campfires, hayrides, square dances and more! These all blend to create a unique and ideal location for your family reunion. Owned and operated by the Kelsey family for over 60 years, the Nine Quarter Circle (ninequartercircle.com), Gallatin Gateway, Montana, is “magical,” “where time stands still.” The ranch will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2012, so watch for special anniversary activities and promotions.

When five stars just aren’t enough W ith 20,000 acres of rolling desert hills, crisp blue skies, majestic mountains and spectacular sunsets, Rancho de los Caballeros, Wickenburg, Arizona (ranchodeloscaballeros.com), is a refreshing change of pace perfect for guests of any age. An historic family-owned guest ranch since 1948, Rancho de los Caballeros offers a unique setting for guests looking to escape the average hotel experience. From simple to extravagant, traditional to unexpected, we offer a wide range of menus and event options for an intimate party of 10 to a grand reception of 125. It’s easy

The Utzinger family enjoys a ride at Nine Quarter Circle.

for attendees to have the entire ranch to themselves. Spend time in adventurous activities ranging from horseback riding to team penning, ATV tours to trap and skeet shoot, golf, tennis or leisurely walks, and spa treatments. For the evening, schedule a Desert Cookout Under the Stars for a true western experience, beginning with a hayride out to the South Yucca Flats for a mouth-watering barbecue over a mesquite grill. Partake of the hearty feast, then enjoy a roaring campfire while you listen to live cowboy music from the 1930s to today’s hits.

Family reunion celebrates pioneer history at Grant-Kohrs Ranch T

hey supped on beef and turkey, sipped sweet tea and swapped stories. It was a good old-fashioned western barbecue Thursday evening, on a good old-fashioned ranch. Conrad Kohrs, the cattle king of Montana during its territorial days, died in 1920, as did his three Bielenberg halfbrothers who helped shape this frontier. But their spirits and their stories were omnipresent at the Grant-Kohrs Ranch, in the shadow of Mount Powell. “We’re so rich with family history we’re spoiled rotten,” said Don Kohrs, a descendant of Con Kohrs’s brother Henry, who planned the Kohrs-Bielenberg family reunion that drew 100 people. Many came from Iowa and California, and even more from western Montana. “It’s more of a gathering than a reunion,” Kohrs noted. “A lot of people … have never met each other before.” So they sat and did just that. Conrad Kohrs, born in Germany in 1835, arrived in Montana in 1862, before it was Montana. His Bielenberg half30

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brothers, also German-born, shared the same mother. All three Bielenberg boys, followed Conrad to Montana. All but one, whom Kohrs put in charge of the home ranch, married in Montana and had multiple children. The Grant-Kohrs Ranch is a national historic site, the only working ranch in the National Park Service system. The park holds an annual Grant-Kohrs Ranch Days. A family tree stretched the entire length of dairy barn’s interior wall. Park Superintendent Laura Rotegard encouraged people to find their names, check them off and make additions and corrections. “When a family comes back to a place that was theirs, that’s now owned by the country, it’s a celebration of everything they’ve been willing to give up so that the rest of the country can benefit from their story,” Rotegard said. “That’s just something you can never say thank you for often enough.” From a story by Kim Briggeman in The Missoulian, Missoula, Montana

VENUE

, a modern blast from the past sk grandma if she remembers lake resort vacations when she was a girl; if she does, she will be enchanted with a reunion at one of those blast from the past resorts, updated and modern, of course. In fact, if grandma ever went to the resorts in the Village of Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, she would probably enjoy déjà vu all over again. They’ve been there since the early years of the last century. Located in the picturesque glacial hills of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, Elkhart Lake’s pristine waters have enchanted visitors for centuries. The arrival of the Milwaukee & Northern railroad in the late 1800s elevated Elkhart Lake to a grand destination for vacationers from Milwaukee, Chicago and St. Louis. In the 1920s the area became renowned for its gambling halls. Later, in the 1950s, road-racing circuits drew crowds of up to 100,000. Today, rich history and legendary stories still linger in the streets of this charming village. Elkhart Lake is so compact, you can park your car, bus or chariot and not need transportation until it’s time to go home. No, really! – or at least almost really. Road America is the one exception, about which more later. One advantage of a vintage resort area is that it takes you back … back to a time before mass media and the constant buzz of modern life. Explore nearby Wade House Historic Site (wadehouse.wisconsinhistory.org), where you’ll step back into an 1860s Wisconsin Historical Site in transportation of the day – horsedrawn carriage! The Wade House complex includes a 27-room stagecoach inn, Herring Sawmill, Dockstader Blacksmith Shop, Wesley Jung Carriage Museum, Greenbush Cupboard Café and more. Special events, worth including, depict life and time of a century ago.

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Explore the Village ake a deep breath. Look around. Put one foot in front of the other and you can, in Elkhart Lake, within minutes (really), be at any of three classic resorts, private lakefront beaches including all those newfangled water vehicles, with excellent restaurants, and in under five minutes walk to two fine dining restaurants that wow. So, so far, you have accommodations and you know you’ll find plenty to eat, so what else is there to do? Here’s the beauty of this location! Quit Qui Oc Golf Course is a ten minute walk (yes, walk) from the resorts! But I was not pulling a golf cart when I did the walk. Quit Qui Oc has been family owned and operated for 50 years. It offers golfers 27 holes nestled in the rolling hills of the beautiful Northern Kettle Moraine Forest. Between the resorts and the golf course, the best beach on the lake is Fireman’s Park, which is ideal for reunion picnics. The Park requires a minimal charge for upkeep. It’s worth it. Amenities include a sand beach, concessions, picnic tables, grills and sand volleyball courts. Shelters are available to rent. Call ahead to make sure they can accommodate your group. Elkhart Lake is a one-hour drive from Milwaukee’s General Mitchell Airport. Elkhart Lake’s three distinctive resorts – The Osthoff Resort, Siebkens Resort and Victorian Village Resort – and three B&Bs offer guests choices of accommodation options. For a little retail therapy, explore the village’s unique boutiques, galleries and markets within walking distance of the resorts. And, for the ultimate escape, schedule a treatment at Aspira Spa at the Osthoff.

RESORTS

The Osthoff Resort (osthoff.com) was constructed in 1885 and completely rebuilt in 1995, in the spirit of days-gone-by but with modern conveniences. It is a AAA Four Diamond all-suite hotel. The Osthoff’s meeting facilities can accommodate groups of up to 1000 (or less) and provides convenient access to guest suites, two restaurants and Aspira Spa. Other meeting options include outdoor patios and club-like rooms with lake views, cozy seating and a fireplace. The Osthoff specializes in customized group programming, including scavenger hunts, group Olympics, wine tastings and cardboard boat regattas – to name just a few. Victorian Village Resort (vicvill.com) is a grand, 11-acre resort, originally known as Lakeview House. Built in 1872, it was destroyed by fire in 1890 and rebuilt in 1891, and has undergone a recent extensive restoration and expansion. Victorian Village also features a traditional theater, private beach, indoor and outdoor pools, and the renowned Barefoot Bay Tiki Bar. Siebkens (siebkens.com) landmark turn-of-the-century resort has been in the Siebkens family for four generations. They recently added the Lakeview condominium hotel suites, architecturally duplicating the original Victorian building and providing home-like settings with kitchens. WHAT’S TO EAT?

When hunger strikes in Elkhart Lake the only thing to do is decide “where.” You are in Wisconsin, after all, so you’ll want to try both a traditional Wisconsin fish fry and Wisconsin brats, which you can get at Quit Qui Oc Golf Course. Back Porch Bistro at Victorian Village is a quaint restaurant featuring a seasonal menu showcasing locally grown and homemade fare, right at the edge of Elkhart Lake. At Siebkens, the Stop-Inn Tavern and the ice cream shoppe are favorites. Lola’s on the Lake is the premier, elegant restaurant in the Osthoff Resort. Lola’s offers an extensive wine list and fresh regional cuisine prepared by an award-winning culinary team. Then, unexpectedly for this small village, there are two excellent Wine Spectator award-winning restaurants. Paddock Club, named for the infamous Paddock Club of Elkhart Lake’s legendary 1900s gambling era, combines seasonal ingredients with European culinary traditions. Tuesday is tapas night and the restaurant can be packed with locals, always a good sign. Then there’s Lake Street Café, which features California bistro-style creations, wood-fired pizzas and an extensive wine list.

Got NASCAR fans?

Julie and Merle Miller at their 50th anniversary reconsecration in a modified Native American Cherokee wedding ceremony officiated by Jerry White/Standing Bear, a Cherokee Shaman, at a family reunion at The Osthoff Resort.

ulie Miller, Deerfield, Illinois, is an outspoken fan of the Osthoff after three visits for his immediate family of 14 and this year for 29 when he and his wife, Merle, celebrated their 50th wedding reconsecration. The family’s returns, according to Miller, have been because he deals with the same people who do everything to accommodate their guests and “do everything right.” He declares The Osthoff and Elkhart Lake very family-friendly.

uring the early 1950s the Village of Elkhart Lake would transform into an open-road race circuit as top sports car drivers came from around the world to take on the hills and sharp corners, showing off for thousands of adoring fans. You can still drive the historic circuit marked with signs like Wacker’s Wend, Kimberly’s Korner and Dicken’s Ditch. But watch your speed. Do not succumb to racing this tempting track!

But in 1955, after the Wisconsin legislature banned racing on public roads, Road America Experience was established as one of the country’s premier racing venues. Road America (roadamerica.com) has hosted many national and international races and its 640 acres includes a scenic four-mile, 14turn track, and is known as “America’s National Park of Speed.” They also have nonracing offerings, including paintball, geocaching, race carts and more. You can also arrange a private party at the track!

Want to enjoy the outdoors? This is the place! njoy the great outdoors by hiking, fishing, biking or just playing on the lakeshore. Enjoy a leisurely pontoon cruise and learn the history and legends of beautiful

Elkhart Lake. In summer, resorts and outfitters rent everything necessary for family fun on the lake: paddleboat, hydro-bike, kayak, sailboat. Or go fishing on Elkhart Lake for bass and walleye.

Nighttime entertainment abounds in Elkhart Lake here is live entertainment throughout the summer season. There is jazz at Victorian Village Resort’s Barefoot Tiki Bar and live music at The Osthoff Resort’s Lake Deck, or stop by the StopInn at Siebkens Resort featuring live entertainment, known as the “best bar on the racing circuit.”

ELKHART LAKE TOURISM

www.elkhartlake.com (877) Elkhart (355-4278) Reported by Edith Wagner, editor of Reunions magazine.

The Miller Family ready for their Elkhart Lake cruise.

More surprises await ry a cheese tasting at Henning’s in nearby Kiel, Wisconsin, just minutes from Elkart Lake. It’s a fourthgeneration family-owned cheese factory producing award-winning cheddar and Colby cheeses, famous Wisconsin cheese curds and giant cheese wheels of up to 3000 pounds. Google “cheese factory tours” or look at the Cheese Curd Crawl

map (www.eatcurds.com/staticpages/WICheese-Curd-Map.pdf). L’ecole de la Maison cooking school at the Osthoff demonstrates the art of “French Bistro a la Maison” cooking. Under the instruction of The Osthoff’s Chef Scott Baker, you’ll create Frenchstyle comfort food from scratch. Then you get to eat it all. What fun!

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Postcards that make your reunion point! Send save save the the date date when you’ve set it! Send

TIME IS RUNNING OUT when it is! Custom Printing – $45 p/hundred; 50¢ each Fill-in cards $15 p/hundred; 20¢ each plus shipping: $5 p/hundred. Send message, check & request to: REUNION POSTCARDS PO Box 11727 O Milwaukee WI 53211-0727

To charge, call 800-373-7933.

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FUNDRAISING

Whitehurst fundraising soars

Walk to fund raise

he Whitehurst Family Reunion held its first fundraiser a year and a half before the reunion. WHITEHURST FAMILY NETWORKING SITES

twitter.com/#!/Reunion2012 www.facebook.com/WhitehurstFamilyReunion2012 Website:whitehurstfamilyreunion2012.myevent.com whitehurstfamilyreunion2012@yahoo.com The Walk-A-Thon was a great success! We raised $200.The winner ran over 10 miles and won the grand prize (a fitness book and family mug). The YouTube video is on our website on the walk-a-thon page. Approximately 60% of Americans’ New Years resolution is to lose weight. The Whitehurst Family Reunion thought we would help our members achieve their goal, the Whitehurst Biggest Loser. Each committee member was charged with recruiting 30 people to participate, with a $5 entry free. With eight people on the committee, that could generate $1,250. Whoever lost the most weight would receive a $100 gift card. We posted a food group chart on our website to help with calorie intake. A video of the winner is at youtube.com/watch?v=j4RKSAvvTIY&NR=1. Our current fundraiser is The Whitehurst Souvenir Publication. I was amazed at the results from just asking companies, friends and entrepreneurs to be part of our mission, and people have already started taking out ads.

Whitehurst Family Reunion Walk-a-Thon participants.

PLANNING TIMELINE

v Determine event activities and sponsorship. v Define measurable outcomes. v Evaluate other events to identify best practices. v Contact the park district about required permits and your event logistics: time, location, number of participants. Be prepared for meetings. v Begin walking recruitment. v Finalize event logistics. v Hold the event. v Hold a “thank you” event. v Evaluate. RACE DAY TIMELINE

v Walks are most frequently scheduled in the morning. v The schedule for race day itself usually flows as follows: v Event planning team arrives (2.5 hours prior to walk) v Volunteer check-in (2 hours prior to walk) v Sponsor check-in and setup (2 hours prior to walk) v Registration begins (1.5 hours prior to walk) v Starting Line setup: (30 minutes prior to walk) v Opening Ceremonies (10 minutes prior to walk) Finally, we rented a booth at the Let The Good Times Roll Festival in Shreveport, Louisiana. We sold foot-long all-beef hotdogs and Frito Pies for $5. We paid a booth rent fee, event insurance and the cost of products to sell. A portion of our proceeds go toward our Life-Time Achievement Award and our Scholarship Award. We raised about $800 and will do it again in fall for another festival. Video at www.whitehurstfamilyreunion2012.myevent.com. Reported by Ne’El Whitehurst-Joseph, Houston, Texas.

RACE BEGINS AFTER THE RACE

v It’s important to debrief about what went well so those features may be included or enhanced if you can do another race. From About.com Guide by Rob Hard.

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FUNDRAISING

Need money? Why not just ask?

oan Curtis Waters, Charlotte Hill, Maryland, plans the Curtis-Butler Family Reunion. This is just one of the ways she uses to raise reunion funds. “In the past, family members have asked to know reunion expenses upfront to give folks a chance to contribute apart from the actual registration that’s needed. So it is attached. My Mama* has already pledged $20 towards postage for mailing information to everyone. “What can you give? I need pledge information ASAP; any amount is most welcome! Did you know that last reunion, little by little I ‘donated’ $800; didn’t realize it until it was over. So I should be coming free for the rest of my life! (smile) THANKS to those who reimbursed me about $300!! “‘Many hands make the load light!’ – wise words from Granddaddy Abraham Butler. Find your name on the list ... and be sure to volunteer your family members to help. We never have too much help!!” *This letter was sent for a 2010 reunion. Sadly, Joan’s mother, Annie (Butler) Curtis, died before the family’s 2011 reunion, so it was not quite the same this year. Annie is sorely missed.

High school reunion turns into fundraiser

Reunion sponsors … maybe

e are discovering websites that are set up for sponsoring partnerships. We do not know if sponsors would be interested in providing funding for reunions, but we learned from Emily Taylor at SponsorPark.com that they have no restrictions on who seeks funding and posting. Your fundraising needs might or might not result in a sponsor. I guess it’s a “never know until you try” proposition. So my obvious suggestion is, please try it and promise you’ll remember you learned it from Reunions magazine first and let us know your outcome. In the past, some reunions were successful at obtaining corporate sponsorship, but I’ve not heard of any recently. My advice remains the same in good times and bad: engage your very best writer to write his/her very best letter to interest the reader in your reunion. Keep in mind that corporate decision makers receive many pleas for help and they, too, have limitations. If you submit requests individually, know who you’re contacting. Concentrate on how their helping you will help their company or product. Be specific about what you’re going to do with their help and exactly what you want. Never overlook in-kind contributions, which would clearly be an advertising opportunity for your benefactors. And never use boilerplate material, if you’re serious.

he 1971 graduating class of Kennewick (Washington) High School got together to celebrate their classmates and the ones who have passed. The Tree of Life Memorial was built to remember KHS Alums who have died over the years. The reunion turned into a fundraiser in memory of Danny Waller, a classmate who drowned in 1973. Waller’s parents started the local Dive Rescue team and KHS Alumni are helping raise money for Columbia Basin Dive Rescue. Former KHS students hosted a Dunka-Cop and raffle to raise money for a rescue robot that goes into the water and saves people when members of Dive Rescue cannot. From a story by Chloe Beardsley on KNDO/KNDU, Yakima, Washington.

R E U N I O N S O reunionsmag.com

An affiliation with a sponsor is meant to support each party’s efforts in a stronger way than they would have been able to do independently of one another, so your approach must be focused as carefully on the sponsor as on your reunion. SponsorPark.com has several levels of membership. A free basic listing is significantly abbreviated. More aggressive memberships provide more targeted exposure to sponsors. Premium or Professional levels have charges. Emily Taylor at Sponsor Park (866-8745606; Emily.Taylor@SponsorPark.com) has offered to chat with/walk you through questions you have about how to proceed. For paid listings, SponsorPark requires a 7-step process for creating a proposal. You must complete required fields within each step, with information most relevant to sponsors who are evaluating their investment options. You are not required to provide information for all questions, but doing so will maximize the potential of connecting with a sponsor. Sponsors need as much measurable information as possible to support their interest in partnering with you; accountability is more important now than ever before. How many reunions have you had? How many members participate? What is their commitment? Sponsors probably are interested in your young generations (your future) as their audience. Probably the best set of guidelines to post on SponsorPark.com are called 10 Key Tips to Finding a Sponsor (www.sponsorpark.com/about-us/pressrelease-story.aspx?newsID=8). Visit SponsorPark.com and start your deliberations now. Good luck!

HERE ARE SOME SUGGESTIONS TO MAKE YOUR PRESENTATION FOR SPONSORPARK.

v Include a link to a brief video/slide show of past events. 2-4 minutes is sufficient. v Spotlight the positive. Sponsors are people; they like to “feel good,” too. v Post a picture with your listing. Hint: If you have a potluck table, I’d include a scan of that to get the sponsors drooling. Offer a slice of that nice juicy apple pie. How can they forget your reunion?

Lots more fundraising ideas

ur website, reunionsmag.com, has many more fundraising ideas that deserve your perusal because just the right fit for your reunion is there. There are auctions and raffles, flea markets, car washes, theatre parties and mementoes to sell (badges, banners, buttons, calendars, food and cookbooks, quilts and, of course, the ever popular t-shirts).

Recycling as fundraiser Hey Linton Family! We are starting a fundraiser, with all proceeds to go to a new family scholarship fund! As you are giving the gift of electronics over the holidays, we ask that you SAVE all old cell phones, inkjet cartridges, iPods, laptops, and laser toners. Bring your old items to the reunion with you in June, and we’ll collect and send the items out to be recycled. Every item we receive makes our family money! Thank you for your help, and please feel free to ask your friends for their old electronic items to add to our collection. Linton Family Reunion

rade in electronics like old cellphones and computers at wireflytradeins.com or tigerdirect.cexchange.com and get a charity write-off, cash or gift cards. Costco, Best Buy and Sears also have electronics trade-in programs. Empties4Cash.com offers an extraordinary fundraising opportunity with their printer cartridge recycling program. They provide free supplies and free shipping. There is no cost to participate. 100% profit. Sorting is not required. Check them out online or call 800-456-4320 for additional information.

A no cost fundraiser

ave Blake of the 461st Bomb Group, Reunion Committee Chairman, posted this idea on VMRP (Volunteer Military Reunion Planners) forum. The 461st Bombardment Group (H) has just launched a new fundraiser. It is a Yahoo-powered search engine named GoodSearch. You can set your organization up as beneficiary of about one cent for each search done.

This is a small amount, but if you had many people using it, one cent at a time could really add up. There are also ways to add to this amount through internet shopping at various sites. There is no cost to the host organization or the person doing the search. You can access this opportunity at www.goodsearch.com. Scroll down the page to get your group set up and download the GoodSearch tool bar.

How to pick the right fundraising product to sell

any fundraisers use product sales which can also be used for reunions, if your members agree to participate. There are thousands of potential products from candy to nuts, cookies to wrapping paper, and inspirational goods to sausage and cheese. Anything people can re-sell for a profit. Ask these questions to choose your ideal fundraising product or program. 1. HOW MUCH DO YOU NEED TO RAISE?

If you need to raise a few hundred dollars, lollipops or a small order of candy bars may be appropriate. If you need to raise hundreds or thousands of dollars, you may want to use an order taker fundraiser. 2. WHAT WOULD YOUR MEMBERS ENJOY SELLING?

Your members will determine the success of your fundraiser. Ask what they would like to sell and what they’d absolutely not like to sell. The more they like the product, the more motivated they’ll be to sell. 3. WHAT WAS SUCCESSFUL IN THE PAST?

If you’ve already had success with a product, stick to it because your participants are comfortable selling it. 4. HOW SOON DO YOU NEED MONEY?

Lots o’ fundraising games LOOSE CHANGE

sk your members in advance to stuff their pockets with loose change. Then, when they arrive at the reunion, pour their change into jars representing their states or family branch. Give the state or branch that collects the most change a prize or just the honor of “best.” Maybe someone in your group will offer to match the amount! This fundraiser brings a dose of healthy, profitable competition to your reunion. EASTER EGG SURPRISE

Cut a large box in half. Fill it with colorful Easter grass. Fill colorful plastic Easter eggs with a little change, some pieces of candy, and slips of paper that say “Sorry, try again” or “Happy Easter!” In one or two, put a grand prize such as a $20 bill, a gift certificate, or some other prize. Charge one dollar to reach in the big box and take out one egg. The person gets to keep the prize inside.

If you need to raise funds within a couple quick weeks, use direct-sale products (scratch cards, candy bars, lollipops, etc). If you have weeks or months you can develop an ordering system: brochure with order form, or add an order form to your website. Then promote, promote, promote to encourage sales. 5. ARE YOU SELLING HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTS?

People are not interested in paying for inferior or overpriced products. If your fundraiser becomes a regular event, nothing builds profits like a reputation for offering top quality products.

CRAZY HAT DAY

6. DOES THE PRICE MATCH ABILITY TO PAY?

This is a simple fundraiser that works with all age groups. Select a day to wear their craziest hat. Each person pays a fee and gets their hand stamped to confirm that they paid. Winners are selected according to originality, creativity, and the hat that was most favored by family members. You can have a panel of judges or let everyone vote. Regardless, it’s lots of fun! You can do the same with hair, shoes, etc.

Make sure your price is fair. Offering a fairly priced good at an affordable price to help a good cause leads to success. From Bart Barthol info@justforfundraising.com.

N OV E M B E R / D EC E M B E R / JA N UA R Y 2012 O R E U N I O N S

MILITARY REUNION NEWS

Where military reunions are welcomed with open arms

pen arms and lots more! I recently visited both Newport News, Virginia, and Branson, Missouri, and learned that the thing they have in common is a strong devotion to military reunions. They are very different cities, with lots to recommend

each and plenty of reasons that you, as a reunion planner, must look at both. The convention and visitors bureaus in both have staffpersons dedicated to working with all the details of military (and other) reunions, and both eagerly await your contact. EW

NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA

“Newport News is a reunion-friendly city with a rich military heritage,” according to Cheryl Morales, marketing manager for the city’s tourism office and, obviously, the lady you’ll want to contact (cmorales@nngov.com; 757-926-1400). Newport News is a natural military reunion place for many reasons, most prominent of which is the desire of veterans to visit an area where they were once stationed. And while I was there to speak at a reunion planning workshop, I could easily understand that families, especially those with military connections, could entertain all ages with the many attractions. Two intimate military museums deserve your attention. Fort Eustis (www.eustis.army.mil) is home of the US Army Transportation Corps and the US Army Transportation Museum (transchool.lee.army.mil). The Museum, inside and out, is a showcase of military land vehicles, watercraft and rolling stock, including Fort Eustis Military Railroad. Exhibits cover Army transportation from the American Revolutionary War through operations in Afghanistan. For nearly 90 years The Virginia War Museum’s (warmuseum.org) collections make American military history unfold. Collections trace the development of the US military from 1775 through the present. Another museum that will get you away from the military theme is the Virginia Living Museum (thevlm.org). This is a wildlife park, botanical garden, aviary, planetarium and aquarium, all wrapped up in one and all native to Virginia from the mountains to the sea. It is The Mariners’ Museum includes exquisite a fascinating place with minatures by August F. and Winifred Crabtree. many up-close and

Virginia Living Museum offers countless facinating exhibits.

accessible exhibits that kids and adults alike love to touch. Group rates and group tours available. I was totally taken by The Mariners’ Museum and the USS Monitor Center (marinersmuseum.org), a fascinating stop for all ages. The museum has over 35,000 maritime artifacts from around the globe and is home to a full-scale replica of USS Monitor, made famous when it was sunk in 1862 in the Battle of Hampton Roads during the Civil War. The original recovered turret from the Monitor is on display. The new International Small Craft Center, one of the world’s premier boat collections, features 150 boats from 36 countries, diverse cultures and waterways to demonstrate the great varieties of watercraft in the world. Nearby there is an “All Hands!” area for kids of all ages to play on a real boat. Since picnics are a highlight of many reunions, it bears mentioning that you’ll want to go to the 8,065-acre Newport News Park (one of the largest city-run parks in the US) for camping, boating, biking, fishing, hiking, picnic shelters and playgrounds. Stop at Endview Plantation and Lee Hall Mansion (www.leehall.org), one of the last remaining antebellum homes on the Virginia Peninsula built between 1851 and 1859. Drive by the impressive Newport News Shipbuilding to the Victory Arch where, in 1919, returning WWI troops disembarked from ships and marched through the arch in victory parades. Where to stay in Newport News

The US Army Transportation Museum is a draw for little … and big … boys.

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Newport News Marriott at City Center is ideally located in the upscale, trendy City Center at Oyster Point, which features shopping and entertainment. Also nearby are Omni Newport News Hotel Plaza Suites at City Center and Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites. Boxwood Inn Bed and Breakfast (boxwoodinn.com) is a family affair; your hosts are innkeepers Kathy and Derek Hulick, their son, Josh (the Chef) and his wife, Bekki, who handles “the web” (and takes care of a new baby).

BRANSON, MISSOURI

groups. The Radisson Hotel was the site attended the 7th Annual Military Reunion of a marketplace, which was set up like Planners Conference sponsored by the speed-dating for Branson businesses to Branson Lakes Area Convention & Visitors present themselves and their services to Bureau and many Branson businesses. the planners. It was an intense affair, Branson is indeed a special place that which after several hours, everyone felt honors veterans every day; Branson takes it they’d learned a lot about what was very seriously. available for reunions. This is an easy and casual destination. Several significant attractions were In the area of The Strip, veterans and also on the agenda. First and foremost is tourists rule. In fact, a number of planners the Veterans Memorial Museum were returning to Branson for multiple (up (veteransmemorialbranson.com), whose The world’s largest bronze memorial statue was made by to five) reunions. Fred Hoppe and is at the Veterans Memorial Museum. Each visionary, owner, builder and display I had been warned, and found it to be figure is modeled after an actual WWII combat soldier, one organizer, Fred Hoppe, also built an absolutely true, that in Branson there is so from each of the 48 states. Leading the charge up the amazing sculpture. much to do that the choices alone can boggle beach is Fred’s late father, Fred Hoppe, Sr., a highly The Titanic Museum decorated war hero. the brain: museums, attractions, shopping, (titanicattraction.com) is a permanent shows, shows, and more shows – over 100 in all. So where to Branson attraction. A special feature is that, as you enter, start? First, contact Branson/Lakes Area Convention and you’re given a card with the name of a passenger, and at the Visitors Bureau (ExploreBranson.com) to help make sense of end you learn whether that person lived or died. Another your myriad choices. During our visit, our entertainment signature attraction is The Ducks (ridetheducks.com/), included the Brett Family, Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Clay amphibious vehicles that tour Branson environs and go in to Cooper and Liverpool Legends, whose producer, Louise Table Rock Lake. Captain Boggy on our Duck handed out Harrison (Beatle George Harrison’s sister), was celebrating quackers and the jokes began. her 80th birthday that very day. Finally, there was a dinner at the brand new Camden Hotel Ask about coach transportation in Branson because if you’re & Conference Center, where a sampling of the excellent area going to lots of shows and attractions, it will make it easier to catering services strutted their stuff and planners stuffed keep your group corralled while you’re moving from place to themselves! “The Wings of Swing,” a Springfield area band, place. Our Branson Coach/NWA Charter escort was Carl Kelly: provided music for dancing. And planners had yet one more ask for him! option among countless choices! Also, traveling to Branson has gotten easier since their new privately owned airport opened in 2009, so now you can fly direct. One day of the conference was devoted to “seminars” about he 8th Annual Military Reunion Planners reunion planning in Branson. There was also a special Conference in Branson, Missouri, will be presentation about the Library of Congress’s Veterans History held August 20-23, 2012. Contact Kimberly Project to encourage reunions to urge their members to Carr at 800-214-3661; explorebranson.com. participate. Lunch that day was catered by Montana Mikes in the upper level of the Clay Cooper Theater, which is available to

Photo by Flash Photo; www.FlashPhoto.PhotoReflect.com.

Branson’s 7th Annual Military Reunion Planners Conference introduced the area and all it offers to planners. Here the group is at the Stonecastle Hotel (http://bransontraveloffice.com/stone-castle-hotel-conference-center/). N OV E M B E R / D EC E M B E R / JA N UA R Y 2012 O R E U N I O N S

MILITARY REUNION NEWS

USS Charles P. Cecil (DD/DDR-835) reunion successful

he USS Charles P. Cecil (DD/DDR-835) Association had a GREAT time in Deerfield, Illinois. It rained every day, but we did not let it dampen (no pun intended) our activities! Most of our tours only required getting off a bus and walking into a building. We attended the graduation at Naval Station Great Lakes, the country’s only Navy recruit Training Command. It was quite a sight to see the young men and women pass in review, accept the oath, and become sailors in the United States Navy. I looked at the young men and woman and wondered how many would stay and one day achieve the rank of Chief. Or how many would use the knowledge that they had obtained to go out in the civilian world. We worked with Kimberly Ghys at Lake County Convention and Visitors Bureau who did an excellent job. Reported by Greg Wells, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

THE ENDURING LEGACY:

Betty H. Carter Women Veterans Historical Project

70th Anniversary of the Pearl Harbor Attack

niversity of North Carolina Greensboro archivist, Betty H. Carter, was talking to the Class of 1950 during a reunion when the discussion veered to World War II and the GI Bill, so she did some research and started collecting the oral history. Now, The Betty H. Carter Women Veterans Historical Project at the University’s Jackson Library is more than a story about war. It has collected a fascinating oral history of women in the military. It is the country’s most extensive collection of military records regarding female soldiers. The project was created at the university in 1998 with documents since World War I. There are photos, letters, diaries, scrapbooks, oral histories, military patches, posters and published works. It has more than 500 collections and 300 oral histories. In 2002, the university received a N.C. Echo Digitization Grant to put portions of the information online. For more, visit library.uncg.edu. From a release by Tim Bullard.

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s the generation of Pearl Harbor Survivors, WWII veterans and homefront civilians pass away, the stakeholders of WWII history pass on to the next generation the hope and promise to care take and cherish those events that altered their lives and America’s history. The 70th Anniversary of the Pearl Harbor Attack is an opportunity to explore the legacy of Pearl Harbor through the lenses of American memory. Join nationally acclaimed authors, historians and actual Pearl Harbor Survivors, hosted by the National Park Service and Pacific Historic Parks, as they recount and analyze the events that lead America into World War II. Pearl Harbor Day 70th Anniversary Commemoration, “The Enduring Legacy,” hosted by the National Park Service and Navy Region Hawaii, will be celebrated December 7, 2011, 7:40-9:30 AM. Veterans and their families and friends from around the nation will join more than 3,000 distinguished guests and the general public for the annual observance of the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. At 7:55 AM, the exact moment the Japanese attack began 70 years ago, a moment of silence will be observed. A fly over will be in a “missing man” formation. The commemoration is free and seats are open on a first come, first served basis. There is special seating and parking for Pearl Harbor Survivors and World War II veterans. If you are a Pearl Harbor Survivor or World War II veteran who would like to attend this ceremony, contact the Public Affairs Office at Navy Region Hawaii at 808473-2926; cnrh.pao@navy.mil. Or more info from the National Park Service at 808-422-3300; www.nps.gov/valr/ or www.pacifichistoricparks.org.

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 Avenue 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!

ARIZONA RANCHO DE LA OSA GUEST RANCH PO Box 1, Sasabe, Arizona 85633, 800-872-6240; osagal@aol.com; www.ranchodelaosa.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! RANCHO DE LOS CABALLEROS 551 S Vulture Mine Road, Wickenburg AZ 85390, 800-684-5030; rui@sunc.com; www.ranchodeloscaballeros.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

CALIFORNIA ANAHEIM PORTOFINO INN & SUITES 1831 South Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92802 Looking for a seamless reunion packed full of laughter and memories at an affordable rate? Let the knowledgeable experts at Anaheim Portofino Inn & Suites, located across from Disneyland, create a magical reunion package for you including discount Disneyland tickets and spacious, comfortable accommodations. 866-547-2913; www.portofinoinnanaheim.com. BALBOA INN “The Resort “ Located On The Sand. 105 Main Street, Newport Beach CA 92661. Imagine having an intimate reunion, with the Pacific Ocean right at your doorstep. Dream no longer! The Balboa Inn offers unsurpassed excellence for creating a unique destination, and a fabulous location for all reunions. With 45 guestrooms, including 20 ocean view suites we offer a range of accommodations perfectly suited for your lodging needs. 877-BALBOA-9; 949-675-3412; fax 949-673-4587; www.balboainnevents.com; events@balboainn.com DAYS INN (formerly PALM COURT INN) 1983 North Palm Court Dr., Palm Springs, CA 92262 Convenient location with 108 newly renovated rooms, free continental breakfast, free parking, free WiFi and expansive banquet and hospitality rooms spread throughout four acres of lush gardens, make Days Inn Palm Springs a great spot for your reunion! Call now for great packages. 800-667-7918, www.palmcourt-inn.com

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PALM SPRINGS VISITOR CENTER Palm Springs, California guarantees blue skies and sunshine for your reunion. A collection of new hotels, boutique inns, and vacation home and condo rentals are available to host large and small groups. Visitors the world over are lured to Palm Springs for its storied Hollywood legacy, Native American heritage and stellar collection of mid-century modern architecture. Palm Springs is less than 2 hours from Los Angeles or San Diego. The Palm Springs International Airport offers direct flights from major cities all across the U.S. and Canada. Palm Springs. Like no place else. 2901 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs CA 92262. 800347-7446; www.VisitPalmSprings.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! GREENHORN CREEK GUEST RANCH 2116 Greenhorn Ranch Road, Quincy CA 95971; 800334-6939; trish@greenhornranch.com; www.greenhornranch.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! 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, inroom 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! RAMADA PLAZA HOTEL SAN DIEGO 2151 Hotel Circle South, San Diego, CA 92108 You can go wild in San Diego and still save money! Featuring 182 guestrooms with tons of FREE amenities including daily hot breakfast buffet, parking and WiFi, Ramada Plaza also offers discount Zoo and SeaWorld tickets, tour planning assistance and more, and is located just give minutes from San Diego’s best attractions! 866-436-2833; www.ramadaplazasandiego.com NORTHSTAR-AT-TAHOE™ RESORT Nestled in the mountains and minutes to North Lake Tahoe, families can enjoy a multitude of on-site activities which makes staying and playing at Northstar affordable, easy and fun for the whole family. On-site activities include golf, biking, hiking, and skating as well as events, dining, and shopping in the Village at Northstar. The resort offers a variety of lodging accommodations, starting at $105 per night. Allinclusive family reunion packages make planning effortless; starting at $249 per person including two nights lodging, meals, and activities. 800-926-5096; reunions@northstarattahoe.com; www.NorthstarAtTahoe.com

COLORADO COLORADO VACATION DIRECTORY: Make your search for the perfect family reunion destination easier! FREE FAMILY REUNION DESTINATION LOCATION SERVICE: www.TheCVD.com/groupsreunions and click on “EMAIL US your Request for Group Accommodations. “ We will then send your requirements to Cabins, Vacation Homes, Lodges, Motels, Condo's, B&B’s, 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 ELK MOUNTAIN RANCH PO Box 910, Buena Vista CO 81211, 800-432-8812; info@elkmtn.com; www.elkmtn.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! COLORADO TRAILS RANCH 12161 Country Road 240, Durango, Colorado 81301; 800-323-3833; jeanne@coloradotrails.com; www.coloradotrails.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

WIND RIVER CHRISTIAN RANCH PO Box 3410, Estes Park CO 80517, 800-523-4212; info@windriverranch.com; www.windriverranch.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! YMCA OF THE ROCKIES has two Colorado resort destinations-Estes Park and Winter Park-where your family can reconnect, relax and enjoy group activities. A variety of affordable lodging is available, from individual lodge rooms to a 16-bedroom cabin. Activities include zip line, horseback riding and guided hikes. 800-777-9622 or www.ymcarockies.org. THE NATURE PLACE CONFERENCE & EDUCATION CENTER 6,000 acres of private land in the mountains of Colorado, 1 hour from C. Springs. We specialize in hosting extraordinary family reunions. Designed to bring families of all ages and interests together in fun and unique ways. 48 studio apartments/occupancy for 130. Contact us 719-748-3475 / office@thenatureplace.net or Visit www.thenatureplace.net TARRYALL RIVER RANCH 27001.5 County Road 77, Lake George CO 80827, 800-408-8407; TarryallRR@aol.com; www.tarryallriverranch.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! SUNDANCE TRAIL GUEST RANCH 17931 Red Feather Lakes Road, Red Feather Lakes CO 80545, 800-357-4930; ride@sundancetrail.com; www.sundancetrail.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

FLORIDA SEMINOLE COUNTY. FLORIDA’S NATURAL CHOICE This ideal reunion location near Orlando offers a setting of unsurpassed natural beauty. Your group will enjoy a more relaxed, less crowded environment that’s still within minutes of world-class theme parks. Acres of parkland and more than 2,000 rivers and lakes offer endless nature adventures. Enjoy Florida’s newest properties for less than most Orlando hotels. For expert planning assistance, call 800-800-7832 or visit www.VisitSeminole.com/Reunions. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! ROYAL PLAZA in the Walt Disney World® Resort 1905 Hotel Plaza Blvd, Lake Buena Vista FL 32830. A 394-room resort hotel with 18,500 square feet of meeting space able to accommodate up to 1000 people, which includes two ballrooms and a 5,000 square foot outside courtyard. Our versatile event venues and fullservice Award Winning Convention Services Department will help you plan your event right down to the last detail and make your event a resounding success! Contact Allan Bester 407-827-3155 or abester@royalplaza.com; www.royalplaza.com FLORIDAYS RESORT ORLANDO 12562 International Drive, Orlando FL 32821 Located just two miles from SeaWorld and Disney on International Drive, offers spacious two-and-three bedroom Grand Suites, with room for everyone. The free shuttle to the attractions and the I-Drive trolley makes it easy to get around town. With two heated swimming pools, game room, fitness center, and poolside bar and grille, you'll want to spend quality family time right here at the resort. 321-329-4024; fax 321-329-4001; groupsales@floridaysorlando.com; www.FloridaysResortOrlando.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! TRADEWINDS ISLAND RESORTS 5500 Gulf Blvd. St. Pete Beach FL 33706. Located on the white sand beach of Florida’s west coast, TradeWinds offers a wide variety of delectable dining options and flexible function space. Just 30 minutes from the airport, your group will enjoy an array of activities and entertainment far surpassing their expectations. Our awardwinning staff ensures a successful and fun reunion for all. 727-363-2215 or 800-345-6461; fax 727-363-2221; JCourtney@twresort.com; www.JustLetGo.com; http://www.tradewindsresort.com/tampa-reunion-hotel.aspx

N OV E M B E R / D EC E M B E R / JA N UA R Y 2012 O R E U N I O N S

CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES GEORGIA ATLANTA MARRIOTT PERIMETER CENTER 246 Perimeter Center Parkway NE, Atlanta, GA 30346 The Hotel is located adjacent to Perimeter Mall and the Dunwoody MARTA station offering easy access to all city attractions. Amenities include onsite restaurant and lounge, room service, indoor/outdoor swimming pool, meeting and banquet space for up to 350 people and complimentary hotel shuttle within a 2 mile radius. Ask about our special reunions packages. Call 770 394-6500 or visit www.atlantamarriottperimeter.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! 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 or call 770-395-7700. Mention this listing for 10 % off reunion banquet pricing. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! EMBASSY SUITES ATLANTA PERIMETER CENTER 1030 Crown Pointe Pkwy, Atlanta GA 30338. 770-394-5454. All suite, upscale, renovated hotel located in beautiful Dunwoody, just steps away from Perimeter Mall, Perimeter Shoppes and more than 30 area restaurants/dining facilities. Hotel features complimentary amenities such as: cooked-to-order breakfast, Manager's Reception, area shuttle, parking deck, indoor pool/sun deck, Precor fitness center and business center. Hotel offers an onsite restaurant with Starbucks café, 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! 678-320-0111; Fax: 678320-0250; Reservations: dos.atlpr@wm.staybridge.com; Website: www.staybridge.com/atlanta-pr. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! ATLANTA PERIMETER HOTEL & SUITES 111 Perimeter Center West, Atlanta GA 30346 Find sanctuary in 121 deluxe guest rooms and 154 fantastic suites complete with the W Signature Bed, Bliss&trade; Sinkside Six amenities and balconies in all rooms. Suites feature a full kitchen. Free shuttle service within a 3-mile radius, which includes Perimeter Mall and MARTA stations. Banquet spaces with full catering available. For reservations, call 770396-6800; fax 770-394-4805; GMWAtlantaPerimeter@whotels.com; www.whotels.com/atlantaperimeter. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! DOUGLASVILLE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU With a great location near Atlanta and over 1,800 hotel rooms why not choose Douglasville, Georgia! 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 milesr@ci.douglasville.ga.us. www.visitdouglasville.com

R E U N I O N S O reunionsmag.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 or visit www.cvbdunwoody.com/. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! COMFORT SUITES MACON Macon’s only all suite reunion friendly hotel. Complimentary room for meet and greet, Free full hot breakfast, One free suite per 10 booked, Meeting space for up 100, Bring your own catering, Indoor pool and spa, 5 Restaurants, Cinema within walking distance, Discounts on transportation to local attractions. 120 Plantation Inn Drive, Macon GA 31210, Contact: sales 678-468-2743; comfortsuitesmacon@yahoo.com; www.choicehotels.com/hotelga624

IDAHO RED HORSE MOUNTAIN RANCH 11077 East Blue Lake Road, Harrison ID 83833, 888689-9680; info@redhorsemountain.com; www.redhorsemountain.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

ILLINOIS RECONNECT IN LAKE COUNTY Located halfway between Chicago and Milwaukee. Lake County's natural spaces and fun places are the perfect place for your next reunion. Our world-class attractions and more than 60 lodging properties, including three resorts, will make your next reunion a resounding success. For free Reunion Planning Assistance call or email us with your reunion planning questions to tourism@lakecounty.org; www.lakecounty.org. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

IOWA WATERLOO CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 500 Jefferson Street, Waterloo, IA 50701. Visit Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum, Historic Veterans Memorial, and Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo. Meeting facilities up to 2,000 people. Family attractions - Lost Island Water Park, Phelps Youth Pavilion, and Bluedorn Science Imaginarium. Info: 800-728-8431; Lonnie@TravelWaterloo.com; www.TravelWaterloo.com.

MARYLAND BETHESDA NORTH MARRIOTT HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER 5701 Marinelli Road, Bethesda, MD 20852, 301-8229200; fax 301-822-9201; BethesdaNorthMarriott.com

MICHIGAN THE BENZIE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU Located along Michigan’s northwest coast of the Lower Peninsula, the gateway to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Park and serenely positioned on Lake Michigan’s astounding shoreline, Benzie County is an optimal location for your reunion, wedding, meeting or gathering. Facilities to fit nearly every need from world class resorts to private homes and cottages on our pristine lakes and rivers. www.visitbenzie.com or call 800-882-5801.

MINNESOTA WORRY-FREE REUNIONS AT CRAGUN’S RESORT 11000 Craguns Dr, Brainerd MN 56401: 800CRAGUNS (272-4867). Since 1940 Cragun’s has taken pride in creating memorable reunions...here’s why: 1) trained coordinator will help plan it all, 2) arrival “Welcome “ and registration areas with planned activity agendas, 3) activities including golf outings, lake cruises, picnics, fishing contests, horse drawn trolley rides and more, 4) indoor facilities to ensure you a “weather-proof “ reunion, 5) private gathering areas, 6) special celebration meals, 7) professional group

photos, 8) and best of all, enjoy a safe, secure friendly environment. Come to Cragun’s for your reunion. Named “One of MN’s ideal locations to hold a Reunion. “ by AAA. Call for FREE Reunion Planning Packet or visit: www.craguns.com/157.

MISSOURI THE BRANSON/LAKES AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Located in America’s heartland, Branson, Missouri is the perfect destination for your next reunion because we offer so many choices of live music shows and family entertainment, lodging, attractions, dining and more. Remember, in Branson, our value is unrivaled, our scenery breathtaking and our authentic Ozarks hospitality inviting. Call us toll-free at 800-214-3661; 417-243-2117 or visit our website at ExploreBranson.com and request a Reunion Planner Sales kit.

MONTANA BAR W GUEST RANCH 2875 Hwy 93 West, Whitefish MT 59937, 866-8282900; aarment@thebarw.com; www.barwguestranch.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

NEVADA ALEXIS PARK ALL SUITE RESORT Enjoy an oasis of 16 lushly landscaped acres, 3 sparkling pools, 4 unique suites to suit your style and a rooftop Terrance (with views of The Strip) for parties. With 495 suites and 50,000 square feet of conference space our friendly staff can take care of a reunion of any size! Alexis Park is located across the street from the world famous Hard Rock Hotel, one mile from The Strip and McCarran International Airport. 375 E Harmon Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89169. Contact Chris Chapman, 702-796-3395 or 800-582-2228; http://www.alexispark.com/ SUNCOAST HOTEL & CASINO 9090 Alta Drive, Las Vegas NV 89145. Suncoast is an elegant gaming resort located on the picturesque western edge of the Las Vegas Valley. The stylish 400room hotel is near three championship golf courses and has free shuttle bus service to and from McCarran International Airport. Among the Suncoast attractions are 25,000 square feet of convention space, nine restaurants, a 64-lane bowling center, a 16-screen movie complex, a pool and a 500-seat showroom. 702636-7050; www.suncoastcasino.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! SOUTHERN NEVADA REGIONAL OFFICE Located just 90 miles south of Las Vegas, Laughlin is an amazing spot to host family gatherings, reunions and getaways no matter what the size. Laughlin offers casual to fine dining as well as concerts, shows, activities and events for every age. And the Colorado River provides a great backdrop for your group photos. To contact the Laughlin sales staff call 1-877-6852845 or go to www.VisitLaughlin.com. ATLANTIS CASINO RESORT SPA RENO 3800 S Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89502 Atlantis is Reno’s Newest Hot Spot for Reunions! Atlantis boast 50,000 SF of flexible meeting space. Stay in Reno’s newest resort rooms, featuring pillow-top mattresses and 42 “ HDTV’s. Dine in eight distinct award-winning restaurants. The Atlantis Steakhouse proudly serves Allen Brothers USDA Prime steaks. Network at the ten captivating bars and lounges. Escape to Spa Atlantis winner of Spa Finder “Readers’ Choice” award! Sales Department 800.994.5900; sales@AtlantisCasino.com, AtlantisCasino.com. GRAND SIERRA RESORT AND CASINO is just five short minutes from the Reno/Tahoe International Airport and just 45 minutes from majestic Lake Tahoe. With 2,000 rooms and suites, a full service casino, 10 distinct restaurants, an 1,800-seat theater with headlining entertainment, branded retail shops, a cinema, a 50-lane championship bowling center, outdoor thrill rides, aqua golf driving range, and Fun

CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES Quest Family Fun Center, you’ll never run out of fun and exciting things to do. 2500 E. Second St., Reno NV 89595, 866.473.6672; www.grandsierraresort.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

Contact Allison Potter: apotter@IrishisanAttitude.com; 1-800-245-8387; www.IrishisanAttitude.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

NEW JERSEY

DOUBLETREE SUITES 640 Fountain Road, Plymouth Meeting PA 19462. Located in Plymouth Meeting, a beautiful suburb of Philadelphia, the DoubleTree Suites is an all-suite property that specializes in military, family, and class reunions alike! 8,000 sq ft of flexible meeting space for you to relax and reminisce with family and friends. Also offering an in-house restaurant, lounge, indoor pool, and fitness center! 610-879-4147; fax 610-8794242; alison.hacker@hilton.com; www.doubletree.com/plymouthmeeting.

MURRAY GROVE RETREAT AND CONFERENCE CENTER The perfect place to get back to the simple things in life for your Family Reunion! Murray Grove is a private non-profit organization in Ocean County, NJ. A purposely simple, relaxing oasis on 20 acres located 90 minutes from both Philadelphia and NYC, 60 minutes from Atlantic City, 25 miles from beautiful beaches. Ideal for Family Reunions, open year round, with comfortable and affordable accommodations for as many as 50, meeting space, large kitchen, dining room, living room with fireplace, labyrinth, fire pit, playground, athletic fields, outdoor pool. Visit murraygrove.org or call 609-693-5558.

NEW YORK STONY POINT CENTER – LOWER HUDSON VALLEY 17 Cricketown Road, Stony Creek NY 10980, 845786-5674; fax: 845-786-5919; info@stonypoint.org; www.stonypoint.org

NORTH CAROLINA RUMBLING BALD RESORT “Remember When “ starts at Rumbling Bald Resort on Lake Lure. Host your reunion at a picturesque Blue Ridge Mountain resort in Lake Lure, NC. At Rumbling Bald Resort you will find a variety of affordable lodging options along with activities for your entire family. Play golf, visit the spa, enjoy swimming pools, lighted tennis courts, recreational activities, boat rentals and narrated lake cruises. Make your reservations now and the memories are yours to keep. 112 Mountains Blvd. Lake Lure, NC 28746, 877-628-9730; fax: 828-625-9229; Reservations@RumblingBald.com; www.RumblingBald.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! WILMINGTON, NC HISTORIC RIVER DISTRICT & ISLAND BEACHES From our historic riverfront city to the pristine shores of beautiful island beaches, you’ll find us to be an extraordinary destination. You can let us know what kind of adventure you have in mind, or we can suggest some themes that'll please the most particular travelers. We'll even create a customized itinerary matched to your exact specifications so that your guests will gladly follow you anywhere. Call 800-650-9064 or visit www.NCCoastalMeetingsReunions.com

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 Brian Cheek at 614-222-6136 or BCheek@ExperienceColumbus.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! DUBLIN OHIO CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 9 S. High Street, Dublin OH 43017. Dublin is located in Central Ohio and is home to the PGA Memorial Tournament and one of the largest Irish Festivals in the world. Experience our European settings, impeccable golf courses and charming Historic District. With the closest hotels to the #1 Zoo in America-The Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, a safe suburban setting, free parking, and 46 accredited parks, Dublin makes a fun and affordable reunion destination. Learn about our 22 custom experiences.

PENNSYLVANIA

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 or by e-mail at chrisp@chattanoogacvb.com for free help planning your next reunion! www.chattanoogafun.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! RAMADA After you’ve hit all the sites and snapped all those memorable reunion photos, we are here with comfy beds and friendly service that will make you feel right at home. You do your thing. Leave the rest to us. Come celebrate and get your helping of our great Southern Hospitality at the Ramada! 2193 Parkway, Pigeon Forge TN 37863, 800-269-1222; cheri@pigeonforgeramada.com; www.pigeonforgeramada.com

VERMONT SMUGGLERS' NOTCH RESORT At America's Reunion Resort, you'll experience Mountain Resort Living, award-winning children's programs (6wks. - 17yrs.), family activities and entertainment, swimming, skiing, hiking, dining, shopping & more. Smugglers' Notch Resort - the only resort in North America to guarantee Family Fun Summer, Winter & Fall. For more information, call 1800-521-0536. or visit www.smuggs.com/reunions. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

VIRGINIA CRYSTAL CITY MARRIOTT AT REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT 1999 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington VA 22202, 703-413-5500; fax 703-413-0192; CrystalCityMarriott.com CHESAPEAKE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 860 Greenbrier Circle, Suite 101 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.

WASHINGTON DULLES AIRPORT MARRIOTT 45020 Aviation Drive, Dulles VA 20166, 703-4719500; fax 703-661-8714; DullesAirportMarriott.com NEWPORT NEWS Get closer to ships, history and the great outdoors with one central destination in Newport News. All this, plus Williamsburg and Virginia Beach. Whether getting together with old classmates, shipmates or “familymates “, Newport News provides the perfect location and services to make your reunion a success! With outstanding services and support, the best value and plenty to see and do, Newport News will make your next reunion a memorable one. Call Cheryl Morales at 888-493-7386 or email her at cmorales@nngov.com to book your reunion. www.newport-news.org. VisitNorfolk 232 East Main Street, Norfolk VA 23510 Norfolk's beautifully revitalized waterfront, rich military heritage, walkable downtown and Coastal Virginia location make it the ideal destination for your next reunion. Home to such attractions as the Battleship Wisconsin, MacArthur Memorial, Hampton Roads Naval Museum and the world's largest naval base. See why American Heritage named Norfolk “A Great American Place. “ Offering over 5,000 committable hotel rooms in various price ranges. Call 800-368-3097; dallen@visitnorfolktoday.com; www.visitnorfolktoday.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! CROWNE PLAZA RICHMOND WEST’S premiere location includes 282 guest rooms and over 10,000 square feet of banquet space for large or small reunions. Perfectly set between downtown Richmond and the city's west end, we are less than 10 minutes to Richmond's science and historic museums, fashionable shopping centers, renowned outdoor gardens and downtown nightlife. Our features include a full service restaurant, indoor pool and complimentary parking. Visit us at crowneplaza.com/richmondva or call 804285-9951. TYSONS CORNER MARRIOTT 8028 Leesburg Pike, Vienna VA 22182, 703-7343200; fax 703-734-5763; TysonsCornerMarriott.com VIRGINIA BEACH CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Virginia Beach offers the perfect blend of coastal charm and big-city amenities. Instant beach access and a modern city feel, we offer great variety in accommodations, dining and shopping. From the Master Jet Base of Oceana to the Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek and Fort Story, enjoy a variety of military reunion exploratory opportunities. Our team of hospitality professionals are ready to assist you! Call 1800-822-3224 Email: smorgan@visitvirginiabeach.com www.visitvirginiabeach.com

WEST VIRGINIA CANAAN VALLEY RESORT Davis, West Virginia. Four season resort state park featuring 150 comfortable lodge rooms, 23 secluded cabins/cottages and 34 campground sites. Seasonal activities include indoor/outdoor pools, golf, skiing, scenic chairlift rides, hiking/biking trails, and more. Meeting rooms and banquet services available for your reunion needs. Karen Rhodes 304-866-4121 x 2681 or rhodesk@canaanresort.com; www.cannaanresort.com

WYOMING THE DUDE RANCHERS’ ASSOCIATION 1122 12th. Street, Cody, Wyoming 82414. Helping people find quality Dude and Guest Ranch vacations since 1926. Let us help you find the perfect all inclusive location for your next reunion call 866-3992339 or e-mail colleen@duderanch. org; www.duderanch.org. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! GOOSEWING RANCH PO Box 4084, Jackson WY 83001, 888-733-5251; info@goosewingranch.com; www.goosewingranch.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

N OV E M B E R / D EC E M B E R / JA N UA R Y 2012 O R E U N I O N S

CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES REUNION WEBSITE BUILDER

PRODUCTS & SERVICES COOKBOOKS FAMILY HERITAGE TEMPLATES Make your own Christmas gifts: Family Cookbook, Birthday Calendar, Food Gift Labels with easy-to-use templates for Microsoft Word or Publisher. Immediate download. www.family-heritagetemplates.com

CRUISES CAROL’S TRAVEL SERVICE, Inc. 800-535-2670; www.carolstravel.com Carol’s Travel Service group department has provided an outstanding level of personalized service and expert planning since 1980. Whether you are organizing a family reunion for 150 guests or a church cruise for 25, Carol's Travel has the know-how to create a memorable travel experience. Our group travel specialists work closely with resorts and cruise ships that specialize in reunion & group travel. We can help you with lastminute details, flights and special meal requests. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

REUNION PLANNERS NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REUNION MANAGERS (NARM) PO Box 335428; North Las Vegas NV 89033 narm@reunions.com; www.reunions.com.

MYEVENT.COM Create your own reunion website with no skills. It's fast and easy to use. Your reunion website has great features and planning tools. It will make planning much easier and everyone will love it! Features: Online registration, rsvp, ticket payment, message boards, family tree, guest book, quiz, poll, stories, photo albums, no ads, travel information, more. 7 day free trial. No credit card required for the free trial! Only $9.95 / month. http://reunions.createswebsites.com. Any Questions - 877-769-3836 or info@myevent.com.

T-SHIRTS MAKE THE BEST REUNION T-SHIRTS! Design reunion shirts online – it’s fun and easy! Create your own design or have us create a design for you. From infant sizes to adult 6XL, you’ll find the perfect shirts for your reunion. FREE shipping, AFFORDABLE shirts, FREE expert-design help, and GUARANTEED delivery dates! Visit www.customink.com/reunionwbk or call 1-877-8035885 today! Use voucher code RW210 to save $10 on your order of 6 or more shirts. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

Please patronize our advertisers.

Postcards that make your reunion point! save the date

Send save the date when you’ve set it!

Send TIME IS RUNNING OUT when it is!

Custom Printing – $45 p/hundred; 50¢ each Fill-in cards $15 p/hundred; 20¢ each plus s/h: 100-200 cards – $5, over 200 – $10 Send message, check & request to: REUNION POSTCARDS O PO Box 11727 O Milwaukee WI 53211-0727. To charge, call 800-373-7933.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES All of the following can be purchased at www.reunionsmag.com/shopping or by calling 1-800-373-7933, ext.4

BOOKS Family Reunion by Mary Quattlebaum, Illustrated by Andrea Shine. Thoughtful and fun, this book gives glimpses of family togetherness and tradition through various poetic forms, including free verse, a sonnet, haiku, a ballad and more. $16 + s/h. THE FAMILY REUNION SURVIVAL GUIDE: How to Avoid Problems With Your Family Without Avoiding Your Family by Laurence A. Basirico. (2003, Identity Publishing, $11.95). A book about relationships at family reunions and how to enjoy them. Based on original research. 2106 Coy St., Burlington, NC. (336) 584-1442. Family Reunion: Taking It To The Next Level, by Regina Mason, 2011, 183 pp. HC $29.99; SC $19.99, plus s/h. Secrets of Successful Family Reunions by Robert W. Wolfe a.k.a. Uncle Bob A how-to-book for successful family reunions. Whether simple or elaborate it helps those who wish to pass their values to the next generation. 2008. $16.99 + s/h. Treasure and Scavenger Hunts (3rd ed.) How to Plan, Create, and Give Them by Gordon Burgett Communications Unlimited, 2007, 134 pp. $15.95 + s/h or $12.95 digital. Your Living Family Tree: Keeping your family together forever through print, photos, sound and video by Gordon Burgett Communications Unlimited, 2008, 174 pp. $17.95 + s/h or $15.95 digital. The Pick A Party book set by Patty Sachs, party-planning expert Book #1: Pick a Party, The Big Book of Party Themes and Occasion 100 theme party plans for holidays, milestone occasions and special events. Book #2 Pick-A-Party Cookbook Includes menus, recipes and table decoration ideas for the 100 theme parties in Book #1. Regularly $20 for the set, only $16.00 + $2 s/h) for Reunions magazine readers. The Miles of Smiles: 101 Great Car Games & Activities by travel writer Carole Terwilliger Meyers “May be the ultimate solution for back seat squabbling” on the way to your reunion. Keep kids entertained all the way there. $8.95 + s/h. 44

R E U N I O N S O reunionsmag.com

FOOD PREPARATION COOKING FOR LARGE GROUPS (CD) Over 1400 recipes. System requirements: Windows 98/NT 4.0/XP, Intel Pentium Processor or better, 32 MB RAM, 20 MB free hard disk space, CD-ROM drive, SVGA monitor, keyboard, web browser, Adobe Reader, Window-compatible pointing device. $49.95 plus $1.29 s/h. Purchase at www.reunionsmag.com/shopping or call 1-800-373-7933, ext. 4.

MAGAZINE Subscribe to Reunions magazine Ensure a full year of reunion planning advice plus workbook. Subscribe now. Send $9.99/yr or $17.99/2 yrs to Reunions Magazine, Inc., PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727. To charge to credit card call 800-373-7933 or visit our website www.reunionsmag.com.

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

POSTCARD ANNOUNCEMENTS Notify your reunion members to SAVE THE DATE (bright red, they’ll not miss it!) and when you need reminders, send postcards that say TIME IS RUNNING OUT Fill-in cards - $15 p/100 postcards or 20¢ each – you fill in the date and reunion name; or Custom printed cards - $45 p/100 postcards or 50¢ each. Send info to be printed: for SAVE THE DATE! (name, date, & place of reunion, contact info). For TIME IS RUNNING OUT (name & date of reunion & RSVP date) + fax number or email address to get your approval before we print. Send to Reunions magazine, PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727; credit card charges call 1-800-373-7933 ext. 4, or order online; www.reunionsmag.com/shopping.

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Reader Service Card V22N2 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012

To request information from our display advertisers, please check the box(es) and return to Reunions magazine, P.O. Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727.

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PRODUCTS & SERVICES

TOURISM & VISITOR BUREAUS

Nt’l AL CA FL GA IL MO OH OH TN VA

Embassy Suites Intermediary. . . . . . . . . . 20 21 Greater Birmingham CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism CA . . . . . . . 34 Seminole County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Dunwoody CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Lake County CVB IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Branson Lakes Area Chamber/ CVB . . . . . . IFC Columbus/ Experience Columbus OH . . . . . . . 2 Dublin CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Chattanooga Area CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Norfolk CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

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HOTELS, RESORTS & RANCHES

Reunion name/Organization

CA FL NC NV NV SC VT WY

Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside . . . . . . . . . . 15 Floridays Orlando Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC Rumbling Bald Resort on Lake Lure . . . . . . . 34 Grand Sierra Resort & Casino . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Suncoast Hotel & Casinos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Sea Mist Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OBC Smugglers’ Notch Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 The Dude Ranchers’ Association . . . . . . . . . 29

Carol’s Travel Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 National Association of Reunion Managers (NARM) . . . 8 REUNION RIBBONS Ribbons4reunions.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 T-SHIRTS customink.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 CRUISES

PLANNERS

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N OV E M B E R / D EC E M B E R / JA N UA R Y 2012 O R E U N I O N S

P.O. Box 11727 O Milwaukee WI 53211-0727