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Bringing Reunions and Locations Together Since 1991 Published by THE Reunion Network, Inc.
Volume XV • Fall, 2012
Arlington National Cemetery
World War II Memorial, Washington, D.C., night
n
pinio O s ’ Paul
Being Nice p. 36
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
the e of t a t S
Korean War Memorial
try
Indus
Pages 6, 24 26, 35 37
What’
s
Your
n?
Opinio
Poll page 34
Showboat Branson Belle
Branson Honors Veterans Every Day!
Tony Orlando
The Duttons
Vietnam Veterans Traveling Wall
Veterans Memorial Museum
Titanic Museum Attraction
SIX
IN BRANSON, YOUR MILITARY REUNION GROUPS WILL TAKE
FEATURING OVER 100 LIVE SHOWS • SILVER DOLLAR CITY • TITANIC MUSEUM ATTRACTION • PRISTINE LAKES BRANSON LANDING • FISHING • BOATING • MUSEUMS • SPAS • GOLF • ZIPLINES OUTLET SHOPPING • DINING • RESORTS • HISTORIC DOWNTOWN • CELEBRATING 100 YEARS
TO REQUEST YOUR 2012 REUNION PLANNER SALES KIT Contact: Kimberly Carr, Leisure Groups & Reunions Coordinator Branson/Lakes Area CVB • P.O. Box 1897 • Branson, MO 65615 • 800-214-3661 417-334-4084 • Fax 417-348-0649 • KCarr@BransonCVB.com • ExploreBranson.com
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Page 3
Books by Paul J. Spiewak
The latest book on:
NEW!
Planning, Organizing, & Running Military Reunions! Available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and all fine book sellers at $99.95 Kindle Version $39.95 Order Direct from RFN & SAVE!
Planner Special Price: $59.95 CVB & Hotel Members: $69.95
All Others $79.95 The Day I Flew In My Car and Other True Stories Anecdotes by an Octogenarian
and other true stories
By Paul Spiewak
Regular price $39.95 Now available to RFN members at $29.95 plus shipping and handling
in this issue
Do
YOU
Want To Be a Leader? by Paul J. Spiewak
14 �� Heroes of WWII: Veterans ARE Stars - Stars ARE Veterans
A NEW, easy-to read, fast-paced guide for both Leaders and “want-to-be” Leaders.
Everything Depends on Negotiation
24 ��
Still Serving Steak & Potatoes?
26 ��
28 ��Veterans Day & War Memorials 32 ��What You Always Wanted to Know About Flying (but were afraid to ask)
37 ��
Industry Watch
Now available to RFN members at $12.95 postage paid!
Address
City
34 ��Here’s YOUR Chance! Poll Joys of Flying
A philosophical analysis at the practical level of leadership and how to evaluate the effectiveness of any leader. In an “easy-to-read” fast-paced style; richly endowed with quotations and personal anecdotes. The book is based on the author’s 60 plus years as an employee, employer, consultant and entrepreneur in more than 19 different situations. Regular Price: $14.99 + s&h
Name
30 ��OK is Military!
35 ��
SHIP TO:
Do You Want to be a Leader?
State, ZIP
Books will be sent on receipt of check made payable to RFN, 2450 Hollywood Blvd., Suite 500, Hollywood, FL 33020.
in every issue
5 ��Editorial: From the Situation Desk
6 �� New Industry Trends
ConFAM© / WorkFAM© Parade 9 �� Daytona Beach, Florida 10 �� New London, Connecticut 11 �� D.C. Area/McLean, Virginia 12 �� Washington, D.C. 13 �� Nashville, Tennessee Page 4
16 ��New & Renewing Members Traveling with RFN 20 ��Chattanooga, Tennessee 22 ��Huntsville, Alabama 33 ��Email & Letters 36 ��
Paul’s Opinion: Being Nice
42 ��Finance: Inflation is Good? 39–46 Member Listing Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
By Zac Spiewak, Managing Editor, Reunion Friendly News
From
The Definitive Source Of Information For The Volunteer Reunion Planner
Situation Desk
Published by THE Reunion Network, Inc. DBA: Reunion Friendly Network 2450 Hollywood Blvd., Suite 500 Hollywood, Florida 33020
There is a saying that I once heard along time ago that states that the last 10% of a job takes 50% of the total effort. Well this Fall issue of RF News is a prime example of that principle. In an effort to give you the most complete ConFAM© Parade of events for next year (2013) Charlene put in some major overtime. I had to hold up on sending the data to the designer and in turn that slowed the process of going to print. With all that effort there are now four events that are confirmed for 2013. Charlene had promised me a complete schedule for 2013 for this issue, but alas even with the extra effort and the delay, Charlene expects to sign up two or three more locations for next year by the time we are ready to print the Winter issue. Bottom line; hopefully the next issue will have a complete schedule for 2013. In the mean time we are really excited about all of the upcoming ConFAMs©.
1-800-225-5044 • 954-922-8788 Fax: 954-922-8338 Website http://www.reunionfriendly.com President / Founder Paul J. Spiewak “The Reunion Guru” paul@reunionfriendly.com Executive Vice President Charlene Adamson charlene@reunionfriendly.com
Paul is the major contributor to this issue with a number of articles about the state of the hospitality industry including one on flying, one about negotiations, one on banquets and another of his frequent “Industry Watch” articles. And what issue would be complete without one of his “Paul’s Opinion” articles? He didn’t disappoint us!
Vice President – Finance Marc Spiewak marc@reunionfriendly.com Managing Editor Zachary M. Spiewak zac@reunionfriendly.com
It is obvious that economic climate is changing and uncertain. Hopefully things will be more certain by the time the Winter issue goes to press because we close the magazine a week after the upcoming Presidential election. I know we will have something to say about the state of the industry once we know who is going to lead us for the next four years.
Manager of Membership Sales and Development Jane Martin jane@reunionfriendly.com
In the mean time please enjoy this issue and the change of seasons. That’s the end of baseball season and the beginning of football season. What did you think I meant? Zac@reunionfriendly.com
Administrative Assistant Jessica Yalowiec jessica@reunionfriendly.com Director of Communications Gale Helser
If you are not receiving RPM (Reunion Planner Memos) every month by e-mail, please send an e-mail to jessica@reunionfriendly.com with the subject “RPM” and your name.
Subscriptions for Reunion Friendly News are free of charge to qualified reunion planners. All others: $30.00 per year or $10.00 per issue. Go Green (Internet version) free of charge at http://www.reunionfriendly.com/news.html Reunion Friendly News (Reunion Friendly Network) is not responsible for opinions expressed in editorial material. The opinions are exclusively those of the authors and do not express the opinions of the Reunion Friendly Network, its staff, its members, its advertisers, or its readership. All editorial material is for information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The Reunion Friendly Network assumes no liability or responsibility for errors, mistakes, misprints, missing information, or content of advertising and advertorial copy. Reproduction of any portion of this publication is permitted for use in reunion group newsletters, providing attribution is given to the Reunion Friendly Network.
Reunion Friendly News
the
This issue brought to by the support of these organizations AZ Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Tucson . . . . . . . 4
SC Sea Mist Oceanfront . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
CO Colorado Springs CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
SD Rapid City CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
KY N Kentucky CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
TN Chattanooga CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
LA Jefferson County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
UT Utah Valley Convention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
MD Ocean City - Dunes Manor Hotel . . . . . . . . 33
VA Fairfax County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
MO Branson Lakes Area CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
WI Waukesha Pewaukee CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
MO Pulaski County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
USA AMRF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover
OH Greene County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
•
Fall, 2012
Page 5
New Industry Trends According to the trade magazines, a number of new trends are occurring which affect military reunion planners and even RFN ConFAMs©. One of the worst in our opinion was a feature article in Meetings & Conventions magazine a few months ago. The article was titled “Resort Fees on the Rise.” Resort fees have been around for several years, but this is the first time, we experienced ourselves while were on the road. Obviously, this is a ploy to raise room rates without actually seeming to do so. Despite that, the positive side is that there is no bed tax on the resort fee, which is a minor blessing. Almost half of all meeting planners refuse to pay the fee, but some will consider a reduced fee satisfactory.
You might, in view of the length of today’s contracts decide to add a clause to the effect that the room rate stated in the contract is “all-inclusive” except for bed or occupancy taxes.
RFN is Ahead!
Several publications, especially Successful Meetings magazine, have been making a big deal about the changes in meetings due to both technological changes and the economy. Apparently, there are more and more people who simply do not care to spend either the time or the money to go to a meeting. While this, of course, is not true of everybody, it surely has an effect on you, as a military planner, on us, as a provider of educational and familiarization meetings, and certainly on those who are This all reiterates what RFN has been shouting from the looking for your reunion business. rooftops for at least three years. Make sure! Make 100% sure that your contracts explicitly state that there will be For the record, however, we do not sense a major decline no fees or charges on the rooms unless they are spelled in reunion attendance. At least, your communications to out in the contract. If you do this, at least you will be us do not reveal any worry about declining attendance, alerted. You will see what the charges are, and negotiate except of course those older groups where attendees are to eliminate them or reduce them if possible; and if not it aging, moving to adult living facilities, or dying. gives you the inalienable right to go somewhere else. On the other hand, it is no secret that attendance to RFN ConFAMs© has fallen off since the economy hit the wall. It is not only the economy, it is age as well. The fact is that the average age of planners is moving down. Many of today’s planners are still working full time. This poses a problem because most of RFN ConFAMs© occur during the week. Many planners simply do not want to take off a week to attend. After discussing this among ourselves, and then with a number of planners, we came up with a new design. We call it the WeekEnder ConFAMs©. The idea is to shorten the event so it just takes one weekend. Starting with a reception and dinner on Friday night, it is followed by a one day learning conference on Saturday. There are breaks, but there are no out-of-town exhibitors. Sunday is devoted to a FAMiliarization Tour of the host location, and the event ends after dinner on Sunday night.
Reunite. Reminisce. Renew. Christina Petro Chrisp@chattanoogacvb.com 423-424-4417 Page 6
The WeekEnder design follows the pattern of the three highly successful WorkFAMs© that RFN has conducted. The first was in Waterloo Iowa in 2010, followed by Bowling Green Kentucky in 2011, and more recently in Huntsville Alabama. A 2013 WorkFAM© has been confirmed immediately after the ConFAM© in the Washington DC Area so those attendees who want to earn a certification can do the events back to back without having to travel twice. Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
A ConFAM© is an all-expense-paid multi-day event combining a Reunion Conference and a FAMiliarization tour of the area. Rooms (three [3] free room-nights only), meals, admission, local transportation, instruction and instructional materials are furnished — at no cost to you — by RFN, the local CVB host hotel, other participating hotels and local attractions. You only pay to get there and return, alcoholic beverages and personal ConFAM©/WorkFAM© Date purchases, A ConFAM© including items 2012 November 11-15 charged to your hotel room.
NEW PRICING Registration Fee: $199 for a planner with guest; $149 for a single person.
B C D E
A
Location
Host Hotel
Daytona Beach, Florida
Daytona Beach Resort and Conference Ctr
2013
B
ConFAM©
2013 Apr 20–23
New London, Connecticut
New London Plaza Hotel
C
ConFAM©
2013 June 19-23
McLean, Virginia / DC area
Crowne Plaza Tyson’s Corner
D
WorkFAM©
2013 June 23-26
Washington, DC
Hilton Washington Dulles Airport
E
ConFAM©
2013 August 7-11
Nashville, Tennessee
Holiday Inn Opryland Airport
To register:
1. Tear out this page from the magazine. 2. Complete both sides. 3. Mail with your check to RFN, 2450 Hollywood Blvd., Suite 500, Hollywood FL 33020
Prices for all events have been increased by $50 and include a copy of RFN’s Military Reunion Handbook at a 50% discount from list price. If you already purchased the book, you may deduct $50. If you have already registered for a ConFAM© at the old rate, you can send us an additional $50 and have it delivered at the ConFAM©.
Incomplete applications will be rejected!
Yes! I want to go to:
_________________________________ Destination
Date Name Guest Name
Cancellation Policy: Up to three weeks before the ConFAM© for a full refund, or up to two weeks before the event, you may transfer to another ConFAM© without charge. Less than two weeks before, no transfer or refund available.
Address City, ST, ZIP Daytime Phone
Group/Unit Name
Emergency Contact
Emergency Phone
Number Expected at Next Reunion Including Guests
Do you or your guest have any disability or dietary need that requires special attention?
PLEASE NOTE
While every effort is made to accommodate physically disadvantaged persons, the FAM portion of each event includes frequent on and off bus stops, plus walking through attractions and hotels during site inspections. Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Page 7
MY Reunion Requirements Your Name: Spouse Name: Home Phone: Cell
Work Phone:
____________________
E-Mail Address:
The exhibitors who have made it possible for us to have this conference want to help you plan your reunion. Please complete this form to help them assist you. Completing this does NOT put you under any obligation. It is for information purposes only. Your Unit/Group Name: Please Circle:
Branch of Service: Air Force Army Coast Guard Marines Navy
Unit Active During:
WWII
Korea
Vietnam
Desert Storm/Shield
Other:
Years from
to
Your Mail Address: City:
State:
When is your next UNBOOKED reunion year? Northeast
Mid-Atlantic
Southeast
Zip:
Circle regions you are thinking of:
Midwest North
Central
Southwest
West
Alternate Dates:
Preferred Dates: Expected # of Attendees (including wives & guests): Expected # rooms needed (peak night):
How many nights?
Where was your LAST reunion? How many attended?
When?
What Tours did you take?
Do you need a hospitality Room?
Meeting Room?
Does Your Group require any special facilities? If so, explain: ________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________ How Many Disabled Members Expected?
RR-1/20/12
Page 8
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
©
Daytona Beach, Florida November 11–15, 2012 Plaza Resort & Spa
Daytona Beach - Known for the Speedway
Daytona Beach Pier Dunlawton Sugar Mill Botanical Gardens
Veteran’s Memorial
Band Shell in the Park
Sunrise at Daytona Beach Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Page 9
©
New London, Connecticut April 20–23, 2013
New London Plaza Hotel While the major draw for veterans is undoubtedly the New London Submarine base, there are plenty of other things that you can do for your reunion. How about a lobster dinner cruise on a tall ship? Or perhaps a visit to some of the lighthouses? Or perhaps a tour of historic homes? Even better might be a visit to Jazz Underground or a trip to the historic Brixton Windmill? Better yet try a visit to The Research and Development Center (RDC). It is the Coast Guard’s sole facility performing research, development, and test and evaluation in support of the service’s major missions. This is located in the historic Fort Trumball area of New London; convenient to the Coast Guard Academy, naval submarine-base, and Old Mystic Village. The RDC sits along the shore of the Thames River.
Block Islands South Lighthouse
Custom House Maritime Museum
Coast Guard Museum
Thames River Page 10
Reunion Friendly News
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Fall, 2012
©
D.C. Area/McLean, Virginia June 19–23, 2013
Crowne Plaza Tyson’s Corner
U.S. Marines Memorial Mount Vernon
WWII memorial
A McDonnell FH-1 (FD-1) Phantom on display at the National Air and Space Museum. Photo by Eric Long/NASM, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution. Copyright Smithsonian Institution.
Enola Gay Reunion Friendly News
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Fall, 2012
Page 11
©
©
Washington, D.C. June 23–26, 2013
Hilton Washington Dulles Airport
Everything You Wanted to Know About Contracts, But Did not Know What to Ask!
What You Will See & Do
You asked for it! Now it’s here... A FAM Tour plus a FULL DAY on CONTRACTS History, Structure, Requirements, Analyzing, Dissecting, Improving YOUR Contracts
Lincoln Memorial
What You MUST Have • What You Should Have What You Don’t Want • What You Should Not Accept
Smithsonian American Art Museum Classroom with Tables DAY ONE 5:30 PM - 6:00 PM Welcome Reception/Dinner DAY TWO 8:00 AM Breakfast 9:00 AM - Noon THREE Classroom Sessions & Breaks Noon Lunch 1:00 PM – 4:45 PM FOUR Classroom Sessions & Breaks 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Dinner & Reception, & Site Inspection DAY THREE ALL DAY FAM & Site Inspections Sessions Conducted by the “Reunion Guru” Paul Spiewak Page 12
Arlington National Cemetery AND MORE! Sign Up Now — Limited Space Attendees eligible for RFN Planner Certification Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
©
Nashville, Tennessee August 7–11, 2013 Holiday Inn Opryland
Everybody knows about “Music City, USA.” but there’s a whole lot more to Nashville than the Country Music Hall of Fame. Officially there are 197 major attractions encompassing history, architecture, gardens, and performing arts. One of the most popular is the Hermitage, Home of President Andrew Jackson. Another is the Belle Meade Plantation, but there is also the Lane Motor Museum with the largest collection of European cars and motorcycles in the U. S. Keeping the ladies in mind there is the Relache Spa and the Cheekwood Botanical Gardens. Just a few miles out of the city you can enjoy the Yazoo Brewing Company (especially on Saturday), the Blackstone Brewpub & Brewery, the Big Bang Bar, and even a winery. You can sign your group up for several choices of a dinner theatre including a 2½-hour mystery dinner, or dine on the General Jackson Showboat. There’s even a special place with Dukes of Hazard memorabilia. Nashville is the home of Vanderbilt University and the Nashville Speedway, too. If that isn’t enough, there’s a long list of restaurants, many featuring country music or jazz, and for any old-timer the Tennessee Central Railway Museum including a tour.
War Memorial Plaza
Tennessee State Capitol
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Reunion Friendly News
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Fall, 2012
Page 13
Veterans ARE Stars – Stars ARE Veterans Heroes of WORLD WAR II
This collection of 17 men who served their countries in WWII just skims the surface of the brave men who fit this category. Among them they were awarded over 70 medals in honor of their valor, including Bronze Stars, Silver Stars, Distinguished Service Crosses, Purple Hearts and one Congressional Medal of Honor. This Veterans Day we at RFN would like to remind people of what the entertainers of 1940’s were doing, 69 years ago. Most of these brave men have since passed on. Alec Guinness (Star Wars) operated a British Royal Navy landing craft on D-Day. James Doohan (“Scotty” on Star Trek) landed in Normandy with the U. S. Army on D-Day Donald Pleasance (The Great Escape) really was an R. A. F. pilot who was shot down, held prisoner and tortured by the Germans. David Niven was a Sandhurst graduate and Lt. Colonel of the British Commandos in Normandy. James Stewart entered the Army Air Force as a private and worked his way to the rank of Colonel. During World War II, Stewart served as a bomber pilot, his service record crediting him with leading more than 20 missions over Germany, and taking part in hundreds of air strikes during his tour of duty. Stewart earned the Air Medal, the Distinguished Flying Cross, France ‘S Croix de Guerre, and 7 Battle Stars during World War II. In peace time, Stewart continued to be an active member of the Air Force as a reservist, reaching the rank of Brigadier General before retiring in the late 1950s. Ernest Borgnine was a U. S. Navy Gunners Mate 19351945. (Maybe that’s why he starred in McHale’s Navy)
Charles Durning was a U. S. Army Ranger at Normandy earning a Silver Star and awarded three Purple Heart.
Page 14
John Russell: In 1942, he enlisted in the Marine Corps where he received a battlefield commission and was wounded and highly decorated for valor at Guadalcanal.
Clark Gable was a MegaMovie Star when war broke out. Although he was beyond the draft age at the time the U.S. entered WW II, Clark Gable enlisted as a private in the AAF on Aug. 12, 1942 at Los Angeles. He attended the Officers’ Candidate School at Miami Beach, Fla. and graduated as a second lieutenant on Oct. 28, 1942. He then attended aerial gunnery school and in Feb. 1943 he was assigned to the 351st Bomb Group at Polebrook where flew operational missions over Europe in B-17s. Capt. Gable returned to the U.S. in Oct. 1943 and was relieved from active duty as a major on Jun. 12, 1944 at his own request, since he was over-age for combat. Charles Bronson was a tail gunner in the Army Air Corps, more specifically on B-29’s in the 20th Air Force out of Guam, Tinian, and Saipan George C. Scott was a decorated U. S. Marine.
Eddie Albert (Green Acres TV) was awarded a Bronze Star for his heroic action as a U. S. Naval officer aiding Marines at the horrific battle on the island of Tarawa in the Pacific, Nov. 1943. Brian Keith served as a US Marine rear gunner in several actions against the Japanese on Rabal in the Pacific. Lee Marvin was a U.S. Marine on Saipan during the Marianas campaign when he was wounded earning a Purple Heart.
Robert Ryan served in the United States Marines as a drill sergeant and won a boxing championship while serving. Tyrone Power (an established movie star when Pearl Harbor was bombed) joined the U.S. Marines, was a pilot flying supplies into, and wounded Marines out of, Iwo Jima and Okinawa . Audie Murphy, little 5’5” tall 110-pound guy from Texas who played cowboy parts: Most Decorated serviceman of WWII and earned: Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, 2 Silver Star Medals, Legion of Merit, 2 Bronze Star Medals with “V”, 2 Purple Hearts, U.S. Army Outstanding Civilian Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, 2 Distinguished Unit Emblems, American Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with One Silver Star, Four Bronze Service Stars (representing nine campaigns) and one Bronze Arrowhead (representing assault landing at Sicily and Southern France) World War II Victory Medal Army of Occupation Medal with Germany. Clasp, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar, Expert Badge with Bayonet Bar, French Fourragere in Colors of the Croix de Guerre, French Legion of Honor, Grade of Chevalier, French Croix de Guerre W ith Silver Star, French Croix de Guerre with Palm, Medal of Liberated France, Belgian Croix de Guerre 1940 Palm.
Reunion Friendly News
zac@reunionfriendly.com
•
Fall, 2012
Gearing up for a great military reunion? Northern Kentucky answers the call of duty. A successful military reunion is well-planned and precisely executed. That’s why we created the “Meeting Planner’s Arsenal” to help you accomplish the mission, complete with a cash donation for every group. Our personalized “Join Forces” program puts you in direct contact with Military Reunion Specialists to help plan and carry out every aspect of your event.
Call 800-447-8489 or visit us at nkycvb.com/military. DESTINATION SELECTION & PLANNING ASSISTANCE 800-447-8489
Military Groups Make Northern Kentucky Midwest HQ for Meetings and Reunions Since 1992, when the Northern Kentucky Convention and Visitors Bureau launched its “Join Forces” program, more than 500 military groups – with nearly 100,000 visitors – have selected Northern Kentucky for their groups’ gatherings and reunions. The program gives groups personalized planning advice and offers several services free of charge. • Cash donations • Name badges • Attendance-building assistance • An American flag that was flown over the nation’s Capitol • 24/7 destination selection & planning assistance With more than 7,000 hotel rooms – most in locally owned properties – groups find Northern Kentucky highly committed and exceptionally responsive to the military market. They also find the accessibility of the region a major advantage: • Located directly across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky is within a day’s drive or a two-hour flight from two-thirds of the nation’s population. • The convergence of interstates 70, 71, 74 and 75 offers easy access from any direction on some of the country’s most traveled highways. • Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (located in Northern Kentucky) boasts an impressive on-time performance rating.
R eRuenui no ino nF rFi Re inednldyl yN enwe sw s • • F aS lul ,m2m0 e1 r2, 2 0 1 1
Military groups also enjoy many of the area’s major attractions: • Hofbräuhaus Newport, the first authentic Hofbräuhaus located outside Munich • Riverboat cruises along the Ohio River • The U.S. Air Force Museum at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in nearby Dayton, Ohio • Disabled American Veterans Headquarters with a museum and visitors center • The World War II Cincinnati Goes To War exhibit at the Museum Center at historic Union Terminal in Cincinnati • Newport Aquarium, billed the top aquarium in the Midwest by Zagat Survey
For more information on hosting your military reunion in Northern Kentucky, contact Laura Jackson at 800-447-8489 or ljackson@nkycvb.com.
Page Page 1521
Thank You NEW & Renewing Members
We welcome these “Reunion Friendly” Members, who have either just joined or renewed their memberships. They actively support the Reunion Friendly Network and eagerly seek the opportunity to host YOUR reunion. We hope you will give them due consideration. See the complete list of RFN Members which starts on page 54.
Convention & Visitors Bureaus
Alabama Mobile Mobile Bay CVB 1 South Water St 36602 Ron McConnell 251-208-2018 800-566-2453 ron-mcconnell@mobile.org www.mobilebay.org
Arizona Tucson Metropolitan Tucson CVB 100 S Church Ave, 85701 RoxAnne Erickson 520-770-2120 800-638-8350 rerickson@visittucson.org www.visitTucson.org
California Sacramento Sacramento CVB 1608 I St, 95814 Betsy Longmire 916-808-7275 800-292-2334 blongmire@cityofsacramento.org www.sacramentocvb.org
Delaware Rehoboth Beach Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach COC 501 Rehoboth Ave/PO Box 216, 19971 Meghan McCalley 800-441-1329 302-227-2233 meghan@beach-fun.com www.beach-fun.com
Page 16
Florida
Massachussetts
Ft Myers Beaches of Fort Myers Sanibel 2201 Second St, Ste 600, 33901 Candice Cocco 239-338-3500 800-237-6444 ccocco@leegov.com www.fortmyers-sanibel.com
Salisbury North of Boston CVB PO Box 5193, 01952 Sue Ann Pearson 978-465-6555 spearson@northofboston.org www.northofboston.org
St Augustine St Augustine, Ponte Vedra & Beaches VCB 29 Old Mission Avenue, 32084 Jaya Larkin 904-209-4429 800-418-7529 jlarkin@floridahistoriccoast.com www.floridahistoriccoast.com
Michigan Kalamazoo Discover Kalamazoo CVB 141 E Michigan Ave Ste 100, 49007 Jennifer Williamson 269-488-0057 800-888-0509 jwilliamson@discoverkalamazoo.com www.discoverkalamazoo.com
Minnesota
Illinois Oak Brook DuPage CVB 915 Harger Rd #240, 60523 Julie Scholle 630-575-8070 800-232-0502 julie@discoverdupage.com www.discoverdupage.com
Bloomington Bloomington CVB 7900 International Dr STE 990, 55425 Lori Rebers 952-278-8513 866-435-7425 l.rebers@bloomingtonmn.org www.bloomingtonmn.org
Kentucky
Missouri
Bowling Green Bowling Green Area CVB 352 Three Springs Rd, 42104 Duncan Hines 270-782-0800 800-326-7465 duncan@visitbgky.com www.visitbgky.com
Maryland Heights Maryland Heights CVB PO BOX 2125, 63043 Laura Brahan 314-738-2497 888-667-3236 laura@mhcvb.com www.more2do.org
Louisiana
North Dakota
Lafayette Lafayette CVC PO Box 52066, 70505 Irene T. Hodge 337-232-3737 800-346-1958 irene@lafayettetravel.com www.lafayettetravel.com
Fargo Fargo-Moorhead CVB 2001 44th St SW, 58103 Jill Gates 701-365-4560 800-235-7654 jill@fargomoorhead.org www.fargomoorhead.org
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
CVBs cont’d
Nebraska Omaha Omaha CVB 1001 Farnam St Ste 200, 68102 Bill Slovinski 866-937-6624 402-444-1766 bslovinski@visitomaha.com www.visitomaha.com
Texas
Missouri
Huntsville Huntsville CVB 1212 Avenue M, 77340 Kimm Thomas 936-291-9726 kthomas@huntsvilletx.gov www.chamber.huntsville.tx.us
St Louis Precise Plans, Inc. PO Box 771842, 63177 Christal Rogers 314-334-0158 866-836-1781 inquire@precise-plans.com www.precise-plans.com
Midland Midland CVB 109 N Main St, 79705 Sarah Marston 432-686-3561 800-624-6435 sarah@visitmidlandtexas.com www.visitmidlandtexas.com
Nevada Laughlin Southern Nevada Regional Office NVCVA 1555 S. CASINO DR., 89029 Cherie Westbrook 702-298-3022 877-685-2845 cwestbrook@lvcva.com www.visitlaughlin.com
Virginia Arlington Arlington CVB 1100 N Glebe Rd #1500, 22201 Portia Conerly 703-228-0873 800-296-7996 pconerly@arlingtonva.us www.stayarlington.com
Ohio Dayton Dayton/Montgomery Cnty CVB 1 Chamber Plaza Suite A, 45402 Carman Hussman 937-226-8292 800-221-8235 chussman@daytoncvb.net www.daytoncvb.com
Washington Vancouver Vancouver USA Regional Tourism Office 101 E 8th St Ste 240, 98660 Debbie Picard 360-750-1553 877-600-0800 dpicard@visitvancouverusa.com www.visitvancouverusa.com
South Carolina Charleston Charleston Area CVB 423 King St, 29403 John Michel McCants 843-805-3098 800-774-0006 jmmccants@explorecharleston.com www.explorecharleston.com
Destination Management Companies
Tennessee Massachussetts
Chattanooga Chattanooga Area CVB 736 Market Street 18th Floor, 37402 Chris Petro 423-424-4417 800-964-8600 chrisp@chattanoogacvb.com www.chattanoogafun.com
Reunion Friendly News
Plymouth Tour Trends 7R Oar & Line Rd, 02360 Ed Sturrup 508-224-2288 800-918-8687 tourtrendsed@hotmail.com www.tourtrends.com
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Fall, 2012
Hotels & Hotel Management Companies
Arizona Tempe Sheraton Phoenix Airport Hotel Tempe 1600 S 52nd Street, 85281 Chris Robertson 480-967-6600 480-293-9067 chris.robertson@sheratontempe.com www.sheratonphoenixairport.com
Florida Cocoa Beach International Palms Resort 1300 N Atlantic Ave, 32931 Colleen Mazzoni 321-783-2271 321-392-1645 cmazzoni@internationalpalms.com www.internationalpalms.com Daytona Beach Holiday Inn Resort Oceanfront 1615 S Atlantic Ave, 32118 Kenneth Berthiaume 386-255-0921 386-846-4386 dos@hiresortdaytona.com www.hiresortdaytona.com Daytona Beach The Plaza Resort & Spa 600 North Atlantic Avenue, 32118 Efrain Vargas 386-267-1691 800-874-7420 evargas@innercircledaytona.com www.plazaresortandspa.com
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Hotels cont’d
Florida Ft Lauderdale Wyndham Nassau Resort 3250 West Commerical Blvd, 33309 Pat Reilly 954-701-6566 954-903-2800 preilly@wyndham.com www.wyndhamnassauresort.com Kissimmee Maingate Lakeside Resort 7769 West Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy 34747 Mercedes Haibon 407-997-1107 mhaibon@maingatelakeside.com www.maingatelakesideresort.com
Georgia
Missouri
Savannah StayInSavannah.com 150 Montgomery Street, 31401 Cathryn Bowyer 912-721-6014 912-414-6014 cathryn.bowyer@marriottt.com www.stayinsavannah.com
Branson Stone Castle Hotel & Conf Center 3050 Green Mountain Dr, 65616 Rachael James 417-231-4721 800-677-6906 rachael@bransonstonecastle.com www.bransonstonecastlehotel.com
Kansas
St Robert Baymont Inn & Suites 139 Carmel Valley Way, 65584 Betsy Thomson 573-336-5050 betsybaymont@yahoo.com www.baymontinns.com/hotel/17871
Wichita Marriott Wichita 9100 Corporate Hills Dr., 67207 Becky Lehane 316-651-0333 becky.lehane@wichitamarriott.com www.marriott.com
Massachussetts
Orlando Buena Vista Suites 8203 World Center Drive, 32821 Jeffrey McNulty 407-239-8588 800-537-7737 jmcnulty@bvsuites.com www.buenavistasuites.com
Boston The Midtown Hotel 220 Huntington Ave, 02115 Gregg Bolduc 800-343-1177 617-369-6286 gbolduc@midtownhotel.com www.midtownhotel.com
Orlando Sheraton Orlando Downtown Hotel 400 W Livingston St, 32801 Kristine Floyd 407-244-7465 407-843-6664 kristine.floyd@ sheratonorlandodowntown.com
Maryland
St Petersburg Hilton St Petersburg Bayfront 333 First Street South, 33701 Debbie Sanders 727-894-5000 727-825-7009 deborah.sanders@hilton.com www.stpetehilton.com
Georgia Columbus Wingate Hotel - Columbus/Ft. Benning 1711 Rollins Way, 31904 Kimberly Williams 706-225-1000 wingatecolumbus@aol.com www.wingatehotels.com/hotel/12201
Page 18
Rockville Crowne Plaza Washington DCRockville 3 Research Court, 20850 Jessica Greene 301-795-3280 301-840-0200 jessica.greene@cprockville.com www.cprockville.com
Minnesota Rochester Kahler Grand Hotel 20 2 Ave SW, 55902 Chris Wagner 507-285-2740 952-944-1010 chris.wagner@ihrco.com www.kahler.com
Nevada Reno Sands Regency Casino Hotel 345 North Arlington Avenue, 89501 Janette Spradley 775-348-2242 775-348-2200 jspradley@affinitygamingllc.com www.sandsregency.com
New York Buffalo Millennium Airport Hotel Buffalo 2040 Walden Ave, 14225 Edwin Shelp 716-206-8325 800-323-3331 Eshelp@mill-usa.com www.milleniumhotels.com
Ohio Fairborn Holiday Inn Dayton/Fairborn 2800 Presidential Dr, 45324 Matt Pauley 937-431-4611 937-219-5306 matthew.pauley@hidaytonfairborn.com www.holiday-inn.com/fairbornoh
Oklahoma Norman NCED Hotel 2801 East State Hwy 9, 73071 Candie Westbrook 405-366-4976 405-447-9000 candie.westbrook@marriott.com www.nced.com/cc
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Hotels cont’d
General Attractions & Services
Pennsylvania Frazer Sheraton Great Valley Hotel 707 E. Lancaster Avenue, 19355 Kim Turnbaugh 610-280-2090 610-524-5500 kim.turnbaugh@ihrco.com www.sheraton.com/GreatValley
Missouri Branson Branson Variety Theater 2701 West Hwy 76, 65616 Lisa Martin 888-462-7267 417-336-9494 salesbvt@aol.com www.bransonvarietytheater.com
South Carolina Myrtle Beach Sea Mist Oceanfront Resort 1200 S OCEAN BLVD, 29577 Leanne McCulloch 843-282-5125 800-200-8687 leanne@seamist.com www.seamist.com
Branson Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction PO Box 6850, 65615 Kamber Sperle 417-336-7974 800-520-5101 kambers@dixiestampede.com www.branson.dixiestampede.com
Tennessee Clarksville The Riverview Inn 50 College Street, 37040 Renee Bruens 931-552-3331 877-487-4837 renee@theriverviewinn.com www.theriverviewinn.com
Branson Sight and Sound Theatres 1001 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway 65616 Simi Telesco 717-687-4220 800-377-1277 simi.telesco@sight-sound.com www.sight-sound.com
Virginia
New York
Virginia Beach Holiday Inn & Suites North Beach 3900 Atlantic Avenue, 23451 Amanda Mason 757-419-3665 757-353-9833 amanda.mason@crestlinehotels.com www.vboceanfrontnorth.com
Lockport Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises 210 Market St, 14094 Mike Murphy 716-433-6155 800-378-0352 captainmike@lockportlocks.com www.lockportlocks.com
Virginia Beach Holiday Inn Virginia Beach Norfolk Hotel 5655 Greenwich Road, 23462 Katie Casson 757-499-4400 757-226-9113 kcasson@hiexeccenter.com www.holiday-inn.com/vabch-execctr
Reunion Friendly News
Tennessee Nashville Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum 222 5th Avenue South, 37203 Keith Wright 615-416-2001 615-416-2015 kwright@countrymusichalloffame.org www.countrymusichalloffame.com
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Fall, 2012
Washington Tacoma Emerald Queen Hotel & Casino 2024 East 29th St, 98404 Doreen Vitek 253-441-3189 888-831-7655 doreen_vitek@emeraldqueen.com www.emeraldqueen.com
Military Attractions
Virginia Triangle National Museum of the Marine Corps 18900 Jefferson Davis Hwy, 22172 Sara O-Bryan 703-649-2365 866-641-8762 obryan@marineheritage.org www.marineheritage.org
Boots on the Ground This phrase had its origins during the British campaign in Malaysia back in 1948. Boots on the ground expresses the idea that military success can only be achieved through the direct physical presence of troops in a conflict area. This opposed to the idea that you can win by aerial bombing, artillery bombardment, or even by economic incentives.
It Is the Same with Booking a Hotel! At every one of the last 150 or so of our ConFAM©s the importance of the planner seeing the hotel before signing the contract is stressed. We are not saying that you can’t have a successful reunion without seeing the hotel first, but it sure can control and prevent a wide variety of mishaps and unsatisfactory circumstances.
Page 19
Traveling with RFN
“Pardon me boy … “ By Charlene Adamson That is the beginning of the song, “Chattanooga Choo Choo,” and that is the overall consensus of the military reunion planners who experienced Chattanooga. Those who had never been there remarked “Pardon me, boy, I had no idea Chattanooga was so beautiful and interesting.” Now they know. Twenty-seven planners and companions joined the exhibitors. There was a waiting list of ten planners for whom there was no availability. That is unusual, but RFN sees it as a new trend in our planning and focusing on larger ConFAMs© in special destinations that have great appeal. As usual, the Chattanooga Choo Choo had paid such attention to detail in working with RFN that their team of Tonya, Tara, Jennifer, Annie, and Jim Bambrey (GM), were the shining stars, always aware of our every need and
Chattanooga, Tennessee Bowling Green
always optimistic in their attitudes. The opening night reception in The Roosevelt Room was beautiful, fun, active, and delicious! The following day was full to the brim with seminars and the marketplace. Dinner and a site inspection at the Marriott was a new facet to the Chattanooga ConFAM© and the management, staff, and chef outdid themselves in hospitality, including a short cocktail/hors d’oeuvre time prior to dinner. After the one-on-one scheduled appointments the following day a site inspection and lunch at the Sheraton Read House was delightful. A driving tour of Chattanooga highlights narrated by Keith Wilkerson showcased the North Shore and National Cemetery and Keith’s passion for history provided real insight to the tour. The dinner cruise aboard The Southern Belle riverboat was decidedly beautiful, fun, and delicious. Paul actually sang a Waylon Jennings favorite with the band! The following morning breakfast was served at the beautiful Bluff View Café overlooking the sculpture garden and the river. Bluff View is one of my favorite places to meander through the shops, the galleries, the B&Bs, and any of their well known restaurants — all with two blocks. Following breakfast Keith and the tour bus took the planners to Lookout Mountain’s Point Park, The Battles for Chattanooga, Rock City with lunch,
Page 20
and the Chattanooga Aquarium. The free electric shuttles were a hit for checking out other places in the downtown area and their shuttle barn at the Choo Choo makes it such an easy, economical, and enjoyable venture. The final night spectacular banquet was at the Choo Choo and entertainment was by the singing waiters from the Choo Choo’s Station House Restaurant. What talent! We were fortunate to be in the hands of Christina Petro of the CVB and the Choo Choo. Special thanks to Bob Doak, CVB President, Annie Still, DOS, at the Choo Choo and Jim Bambrey, GM at the Choo Choo for their presence, their caring, and their true hospitality. Paul’s daughter, Jeni, had a enjoyable experience at the ConFAM© and his son, Zac, was honored with the Zac Spiewak Day in honor of his 60th Birthday. From RFN I share “Pardon me, boy … if you have not considered bringing your reunion to Chattanooga, it is time to do so now!”
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Meet in the Middle!
• Home to Fort Leonard Wood, the largest training installation in the country Centrally located in both the United States & in Missouri, We’re right along I44 between Springfield and St. Louis! • Guided driving tours of the fort & Rt. 66 • Daily direct flights to Fort Leonard Wood www.reunionsatftwood.org/TRN • State-of-the art military museums • Complimentary itinerary planning • Assistance obtaining bids for restaurants, hotels, meeting space & much more
Pulaski County Tourism Bureau - St. Robert, MO
877.858.8687
Home of Fort Leonard Wood, Pulaski County
Leonard Wood, step-on guided tours of Route 66
offers the perfect seeing for your next military
and tours of other museums throughout Pulaski
reunion. Originally this post was infantry, later
County.
becoming an nationally recognized Engineer
Pulaski County provides endless opportunities
training facility. Today, Fort Leonard Wood
for group day trips and is just a quick jaunt to
trains over 90,000 soldiers in basic training and Branson, Bass Pro Headquarters in Springfield, specialized courses. Training of other branches the St. James Winery Region, and shopping at of the military; Marines, Navy and Air Force also
the 100 store outlet at Lake of the Ozarks. Pulaski
occur. This makes Fort Leonard Wood an appealing
County also offers over 70 restaurants ranging from
choice for all types of military reunions.
American and ethnic options to lip-smacking BBQ,
Itineraries for military reunions range from
including national franchises to the unique dining
windshield tours of the Fort, group tours of the experiences of dining in a cave. Quality catering Museums of Fort Leonard Wood, specialized
services are available for banquets.
itineraries that provide behind the scene tours of the
Pulaski County is centrally within the United
latest training facilities and can be personalized to
States, making this location an excellent choice
focus on your division of the military. Reunions may for your reunion attendees to gather. Our location also choose to dine at one of the mess halls.
along I-44, between St. Louis and Springfield,
Reunion Planners can make the most of their Missouri, makes Pulaski County easily accessible groups stay with over 27 lodging options. Too
by vehicle and those that wish to fly may book
much to choose from? The Pulaski County Tourism flights through Cape Air, (associated with American Bureau offers complimentary reunion planning
Airlines), into the Waynesville-St Robert Regional
services. Bureau staff will help you obtain room,
Airport located on Fort Leonard
restaurant, group transportation, entertainment Wood. For more information call and catering bids. Itinerary planning is our specialty
8977-858-8687 or visit our website,
and we will help with coordinating tours of Fort
ReunionsAtFLW.org.
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Page 21
Traveling with RFN
Huntsville, Bowling Alabama Green Huntsville Veterans Memorial
Whooshh! Rocket City Took Off! By Paul Spiewak Billing itself as the MOST PATRIOTIC city in the country, Huntsville was the site of the best WorkFAM© to date! While the emphasis was on having a good time, every planner (and spouse) attending made a point of thanking the Huntsville CVB and RFN for a terrific event.
concluded our visit with a dinner, catered by the museum staff, while sitting under the $100 million Saturn rocket! The rocket is so large that they had to install it while the building was still under construction. The group bonded easily, and all had made new friends. At the start, each planner gave a background story of their service. The full-day of sessions covering contracts was received very well, with many of the planners stating that they felt a lot more confident than ever before.
Veterans Memorial
The fact is that Charlene & I had a good time, too. We were treated to a tour of the beautiful Veterans’ Memorial, located next to the park in downtown Huntsville, with a talk by one of the ladies who was instrumental in having it built. We spent hours at the Huntsville Space Museum, and Space Museum aerial view
On FAM day, we managed to site inspect three hotels (all eager for military reunion business). One fun Redstone Arsenal diversion was at the Bottle & Brush, an establishment where we each had the chance to paint a picture of a rocket with the American Flag in There is absolutely no question about the background while sipping on an Huntsville being a top-notch reunion ample supply of wine. destination. The limiting factor was time, as we just get to see everything, even the Redstone Arsenal, but a colonel greeted us at lunch and gave us a talk about what is happening with the country’s space program. Those who were interested could, as one couple did, sign up for a weeklong “Adult Space Camp!” Huntsville, a great place for a reunion, is centrally located in Northern Alabama, easy to get to, off Interstate I-65 and has its own International Airport (HSV).
Page 22
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
It’s Reunions made easy at the Sea Mist Oceanfront Resort! Exceptional customer service and extraordinary packaging has placed this establishment well ahead of its competition in the Myrtle Beach area. Newly renovated Oceanfront one Oceanview rooms with a breathtaking view of the Atlantic await you at the Sea Mist Resort, Our 15 acre Oceanfront Resort provides on-site amenities that are unparalleled on the Grand Strand. The largest resort waterpark is the centerpiece of our water activities. On premises, our guests will find 8 outdoor swimming pools, 2 indoor pools and 4 Jacuzzis, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness center, gift shop, convenience store and miniature golf course for their enjoyment, Dine at Tena’s Restaurant for breakfast, relax on the beach, then try our newest addition; Three Steps Down Grille & Tavern, which offers exciting new menus to satisfy the most discriminating palates. Our freestanding Conference Center provides 17,000 square feet of meeting space compete with R e u n i o n F Rr i e n d l y n News
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Fall, 200 19 2
full catering services. The private meeting rooms staffed by our Banquet and Catering professionals are designed to hold your group of 25 to 400 attendees. We can accommodate meetings of various sizes, seated dinners for 400 and receptions up to 500. Our Sales and Catering professionals will help you make your reunion extraordinary! Treat your group to the Sea Mist’s inclusive Reunion package. It includes: four nights lodging in our Oceanfront or Oceanview rooms, breakfast buffet each morning in Tena’s, a welcome reception, a farewell banquet in the Conference Center, a ticket to one of our award-winning theatres, commemorative T-shirt, and a hospitality suite so that you and your attendees can socialize at their leisure. Please contact our Reunion Specialist for additional information on our four-night or our three night package by calling 800-200-8687 or by visiting our website at www.seamist.com Page 23 47
Everything Depends on
If you have been a follower of RFN, and even possibly attended one of RFN’s more than 230 ConFAMs© in the past 21 years; or perhaps read Reunions Step By Step or have a copy of the latest book, RFN’s Military Reunion Handbook, you will understand that the process of organizing a reunion is not that simple.
Broken down into its natural elements, the process of setting up a reunion, and seeing it through to conclusion, really starts with figuring out what you want. Once you know what you want, and have documented it in an RFP (Request For Proposal), you are in a position to investigate the possible locations, inspect possible hotels, and then sit down to negotiate.
The Changing Market
Things are a little tougher this year because the hotel industry is coming back. Since the hospitality world crashed in mid-2008, meeting planners in general (and military reunion planners specifically) have had an advantage. Hotels are sprouting, expanding, and renovating as business occupancy is starting to return to “normal.” Business people are the bottom line for nearly 3/4 of the industry. The impact on you is that the market which tends to swing between buyers and sellers over a seven year cycle has bottomed out, As the pendulum swings back in favor of hotels, you can expect rates to go up, expect fewer freebies, and surely higher rates. Yet, there are fellow planners, people like you, who are still getting really good deals for their reunions. You can too, but you have to understand what is happening. So let’s take a good long, hard look, and see how you can negotiate to your advantage.
Timing is Everything!
Well, maybe not everything, but it sure is ahead of anything else. You Page 24
Negotiation
need to set dates. There are two absolutely essential dates. First, there is the date of your reunion,; and second is the date you must have your contract finalized. Finalized means there is a legal document called a contract that has been dated, signed by both parties, and a deposit made. If these conditions are not met, you do not have a legal contract. The date you must have the contract finalized is simple to compute. What that date does is tell the other side that if you have not agreed by that date, you will go elsewhere. It should provide a sufficient period to allow you to negotiate with a different hotel if this negotiation fails.
You Must Have a Contract
Just because you get a letter from the hotel stating that you have agreed to a series of terms does NOT constitute a contract. Just because you signed that letter and sent it back does NOT constitute a contract.
A contract is a legal agreement that can be enforced in a court of law. A letter offer, even with a letter acceptance does not constitute a legal contract! Either or both parties may continue to negotiate elsewhere without any fear of penalty under those circumstances. Even if you get a letter offering terms with the Reunion Date If there is any single thing that controls statement that you must agree by a what room rate you can negotiate, it certain date, does NOT change the is the reunion date. When a planner offer into a contract. Even further, goes into a hotel that he would like if you do not like anything in their to use for a reunion, with a fixed date, offer, you have to be ready to use that planner is at the mercy of the the ultimate negotiating tool ever hotel! When you give a specific date, designed. You have to be ready to you are handing a Colt .45 to the hotel say “No!” You have to be prepared to while simultaneously asking them to walk out. shoot you. In that situation, you have NO NEGOTIATING ROOM! No Mystery There is no mystery to negotiating. What you need to do is get a window You have to know what you want. of time from your group, of at least You have to ask for it. thirty days. Then you tell the hotel, You have to be prepared to make some pick any three or four days (or how concession, however minor. many days you choose to have) You have to refuse to be bullied. within that window. The ideal time You have to allow yourself enough to do this is in the “shoulder” or off- time, so that you have the freedom to season. That way, the hotel can use walk away. your group reunion to fill in a gap in You have to be prepared to actually bookings. This is very valuable to the walk away. hotel, and in most cases will not only offer you an excellent rate, but usually It’s really just common sense, but will be prepared to make substantial somehow or other, most planners concessions, because they NEED still hang on to the old methods that your business. Selecting a window, rarely get you the best deal. gives you a substantial negotiating advantage. Take a shot at it. You have nothing to lose, and a lot to gain. paul@reunionfriendly.com Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Rapid City, South Dakota, centrally located to Mount
During breaks, enjoy Native American heritage, free
Rushmore National Memorial, offers adventures and
attractions, wildlife parks, hiking trails, golf courses
amenities for your next meeting or convention. With
and variety of outdoor recreation located within
5,400 reasonably priced hotel rooms and facilities
minutes of most meeting properties. Downtown
for 10 to 10,000, Rapid City is where meetings
Rapid City, just steps from the civic center, is buzzing
become monumental adventures.
with new restaurants, boutiques, art galleries and attractions like Main Street Square.
Convention and hotel properties offer free on-site parking, free WiFi in hotel and meeting rooms, free
After your meeting, take a short drive to see
or discounted transportation service. Located in the
Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse
center of the United States, Rapid City is serviced by
Memorial, Badlands National Park, two national
four major airlines with direct flights from Chicago,
caves, Custer State Park and more. Nothing inspires
Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Las Vegas,
great meetings like being surrounded by towering
Minneapolis/St. Paul, Phoenix/Mesa and Salt Lake
pine forests, abundant wildlife and the breathtaking
City.
scenery of Rapid City and the Black Hills.
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Page 25
Still Serving Steak & Potatoes?
F
ood costs are up and rising. Food trends are changing. The old standby banquet menu may not be very attractive any more. 2012 became a year of banquet food change. That doesn’t mean that you cannot have the old menu, but the fact is that the economy is forcing changes, and people are changing also.
the “evils” of certain kinds of foods. Even RFN is susceptible, as this year every ConFAM© host was requested to be sure that oatmeal and fruit be available at all continental breakfasts, and that all desserts be sugar-free. All sorts of diets are spreading, and as a banquet planner, you should offer options. Huge segments of the population are caught up in soy-free, salt-free, gluten-free, low sodium, low fat, low carb, and dairy-free diets. Then there are the vegetarians in a variety of types, to say nothing of those who follow a kosher regimen. It’s enough to drive the planner off the deep end. The only “safe” choice seems to be either chicken or vegetarian.
This year has seen several new or strengthened trends in both restaurant and banquet menus. You might want to reconsider your banquet menu and go along with Flavored Vinegars & Pickles what the chefs tell us is the new style. Balsamic vinegar has been fairly popular for a number of years. A few years ago, raspberry vinaigrette Farm Fresh As transportation costs increase, and was introduced. Not everyone chefs try to keep costs and menu likes this, as it seems a peculiar prices down (they are already bad combination. The fact is that there are enough), one solution is to buy foods an enormous number of variations that are raised locally. While you may such as pomegranate vinegar. lose some variety, the benefits are Middle Easterners have enjoyed well worth it. Food is fresher, tastier, pickled turnips for centuries, and the more flavorful, more nutritious, and Koreans specialize in pickled cabbage best of all, less expensive. While local called Kim chi, which tends to be a food may not be organic, there is a bit too spicy for most Americans, nationwide trend towards farmers’ but sauerkraut has been around markets. Chefs are learning to shop at for a long time. The Italians enjoy a them, and as a banquet planner, you pickled vegetable combination called always want to ask about in-season Giardiniera (jar-din-air-a) and may include cauliflower, broccoli, bell local specialties. peppers, carrots, onions, tomatoes, and a new twist Mexican potatoes Special Diets It seems as if everyone you meet (Jicama). Don’t forget all those is on some kind of special diet. It’s varieties of pickled cucumbers: not necessarily doctor prescribed gherkins, dills, garlic, and that old or restricted for religious reasons. standby, the kosher pickle. The fact is that as the national epidemic of obesity spreads, people are becoming much more aware of Page 26
Wines
Wine seems to run in trends. Fifty years ago, sauternes were probably the most popular white wines, but the trend is shifting. Chardonnay seems to be the most popular today, but many prefer Riesling, or Pinot Grigio. In the 1980’s, rosé, (also known as Rosado) and the term “blush” seem to dominate the wine scene, as pink wines were everywhere. Today, red wines are in the spotlight with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir leading the pack.
It Is Still YOUR Choice
You can, of course, ignore these trends and stay with the classic three: chicken, fish, and steak; or you can try something different. It has been our experience that one of the biggest mistakes reunion planners make when it comes to a banquet is a failure to talk to the chef. If there is anybody in the hotel who understands food, and is aware of supplies and prices, it is the chef. If you want to really make your reunion banquet something special, keep the trends in mind, and then talk to the chef. You might get a welcomed surprise. paul@reunionfriendly.com
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Come and meet. Stay and enjoy. Utah Valley Convention Center
Provo Marriott Hotel & Conference Center
Plan the perfect event right here in Utah Valley. Our new, state-of-the-art Convention Center is now open with 46,740 square feet of meeting space. In addition, experience the neighboring Provo Marriott Hotel & Conference Center with 28,000 square feet of meeting space and 330 guest rooms. With affordable amenities and extraordinary experiences, there’s something incredible for everyone.
MeetInUtahValley.com • 888-414-UTAH (8824)
Regardless of the time of year you decide to visit, there’s a surplus of activities for people of all ages and adventure types. With four beautiful and distinct seasons, a diverse history, breathtaking mountain scenery, unique attractions, group-friendly hotels and restaurants, Utah Valley is a perfect western destination to explore – and it’s all extremely affordable. For a reunion itinerary that’s sure to please, we suggest attending a festival or historical site. Camp Floyd and The Stagecoach Inn State Park and Museum are Utah’s connection to the Civil War and Pony Express. Walk the same streets that Civil War generals did many years ago! America’s Freedom Festival at Provo is one of America’s biggest patriotic celebrations. This festival draws in thousands of spectators each year as people gather to honor the Nation’s birthday with a firework show prominently known as the Stadium of Fire. Don’t forget to experience the outdoor beauty while visiting Utah Valley. For a unique mountain experience, check out the paved Provo River Parkway trail that begins at the mouth of Provo Canyon and meanders by Bridal Veil Falls (a 607-foot double cataract waterfall). Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Or, take a drive on one of Utah Valley’s famous scenic byways such as the Nebo Loop, for picturesque mountain scenes and fall foliage. Several meeting facilities are available as well. The new Utah Valley Convention Center in historic downtown Provo, opening this spring, is the perfect place to host your next reunion. Attendees will enjoy the majestic views of the towering mountains at this 52,000 square foot eco-friendly facility. The Provo Marriott Hotel and Conference Center adjacent to the Convention Center is an excellent option for lodging, meeting and banquet space with 21 meeting rooms to choose from. Treat your guests to catered events graciously handled with a superb level of service. Plan your visit with the Utah Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau. We help you find the attractions, accommodations and amenities to put your reunion package together. Take advantage of our complimentary group assistance so you can focus on making your event a success. Visit MeetInUtahValley.com or call 888-414-UTAH (8824).
Page 27
Veterans Day & War Memorials Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Korean War Honor Roll was established, honoring those U.S. military personnel who died worldwide during the war. The dedication reads: “Our nation honors her sons and daughters who answered the call to defend a country they never knew and a people they never met.” World War II Memorial
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial honors U.S. service members of the U.S. armed forces who died or were MIA during service in the Vietnam War. There are three parts of the memorial: the Three Soldiers statue, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, which is the best known. Completed in 1982, it is just northeast of the Lincoln Memorial, and maintained by the U.S. National Park Service, and visited by three million people each year. Nearly 60,000 names are on the polished black marble wall, including three sets of fathers and sons, 31 sets of brothers, and 54 from Thomas Edison High School in Philadelphia. Two thirds of those listed were 22 years old – or younger, more than half died at age 18. Eighteen were underage and the youngest was a mere 15 years old. Of the 244 recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor, 153 of them are listed on the wall. Today’s history books make little mention of the conflict, which many thought should never have happened. Korean War Memorial The Korean War Memorial commemorates the sacrifices of the 5.8 million Americans who served in the U.S. armed services during the three-year period of the Korean War. From June 25, 1950 to July 27, 1953, 54,246 Americans died in support of their country. Of these, 8,200 are listed as missing in action, or lost or buried at sea. In addition 103,284 were wounded during the conflict. As an integral part of the memorial, the Page 28
The WWII Memorial commemorates the service of more than 16 million service men and women who served during this conflict. More than one million American soldiers, sailors and marines were casualties during the war, and an estimated additional 60 million people were killed as a direct result of the war, which extended from Europe, to Northern Africa, the Philippines, Alaska, Hawaii, and many islands in the Pacific. An estimated 200,000 men and women were underage for both the Korean War and WWII. Many earned battlefield commendations, medals, and awards. The number of veterans of these wars is diminishing. As of the end of 2010, there were approximately twenty million living veterans, both male and female, from all branches of service, about half who served during wartime. Nearly half are over the age of 65, with the following estimates (in millions): Those who remember, Conflict Served Alive warriors and the families WWII 16.1 1.5 of those who died are still haunted. Friends, fathers, Korea 5.8 3.8 husbands, wives, sons, and Vietnam 9.0 6.0 daughters realize that there are no “noble“ wars, only noble warriors. As we approach Veterans Day, we pay special tribute to those noble warriors. We honor them, and thank them for their service. All of us, at RFN!
Reunion Friendly News
paul@reunionfriendly.com •
Fall, 2012
Fairfax County … for Reunions
“Above and Beyond” the Ordinary! Why do hundreds of reunion groups decide to get together in Fairfax County, Virginia every year? It’s not simply the county’s location, directly across the Potomac River from Washington, DC. There’s a lot more to it than that. “There are lots of wonderful reunion sites across the United States,” notes Dean Miller of Visit Fairfax, the county’s convention and visitors bureau, “but I can’t think of any place that publicly celebrates and embraces America’s veterans the way the Washington area and Fairfax County do.” The list of “must see” attractions located in and around Fairfax County and goes on and on … Arlington National Cemetery, the Tomb of the Unknowns, the World War II, Korean War, and Viet Nam War memorials, the Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps memorials, the battlefields of Manassas and Antietam, and many, many more. Groups meeting in Fairfax County enjoy the best of both worlds. They have easy access to the monuments and museums of Washington, DC, along with the lower room rates and ample free parking typical of suburban locations. It really is all about service, Miller said. “At Visit Fairfax, our goal is to assist reunion planners in any way we can. Whether it’s finding great hotels at great rates, making introductions to staff personnel at our world-famous attractions, providing lists of transportation suppliers, or simply recommending restaurants for group dining, we are here to be of service to those who have served.” When asked about the many accolades that Visit Fairfax has received from planners, Miller recalled one group in particular. “We were working with an Air Force fighter squadron to help them have their reunion here. The planner was a retired major general. When we were finished, he said to us, ‘Thanks … you really went ‘above and beyond’ for us.’ Coming from a two-star general, that really meant something to us.”
When it comes to accessing the museums, monuments and memorials honoring America’s veterans, no destination in the country rivals Fairfax County, Virginia. Our proximity to Washington, DC makes it easy to organize trips and observances. Our wide range of hotel options let you accommodate any budget level. And with the many historical sites and entertainment opportunities right here in Fairfax County, you’ll find plenty of places to trade stories and reminisce right here. To learn more about all there is to see and do, simply visit FXVA.com
Reunion Friendly News
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Fall, 2012
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Okay is Military! Have you ever wondered how the expression came to be? There have been thousands of attempted explanations. There is the Scottish expression “och aye” (an emphatic yes). There is a Greek expression “ola koola” (it is good). There is a Choctaw Indian saying “oke” (it is so). There is a Haitian port named Cayes that has a reputation for really good rum, so the French say “aux Cayes” to express their delight, or sometimes “aux quai” (to the port). There was even a freight agent named Obediah Kelly who was reputed to put his initials on every document he approved. Then there are those who believe that it came about as a misspelling of “all correct.” Which in the early 1800s was often written “orl korrekt.” Then of course there was “Old Kinderhook,” a nickname applied to President Martin Van Buren during his 1840 election campaign. The slogan was “Vote for OK” generated by a number of his supporters who actually formed the OK Club. Van Buren lost that election anyway. Meanwhile, Van Buren’s opponents
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tried to turn the phrase against him, saying that it had originated with Van Buren’s allegedly illiterate p re d e c e s s o r, Andrew Jackson, a story that has survived to this day. They also devoted considerable energy to coming up with unflattering interpretations, e.g., “Out of Kash”, “Out of Kredit,” and “Out of Klothes.” Newspaper editors and publicists around the country delighted in coming up with even sillier interpretations — “Oll Killed, “Orfully Konfused,” and even “Often Kontradicts.” This theory claims that by the time the campaign was over the expression had taken firm root nationwide. There is even a theory that the expression arose from black slaves from Western Africa, and represents the word “kay” meaning “all right” or “yes, indeed.” This can be traced back to the Bantu word “waw-kay” or the Mandingo phrase ”o ke.”
other ideas, some of which are impossible. For example, one idea is that it was a telegraphic signal meaning “open key,” that is, ready to receive. Others say OK was used for “all right” because A and R had already been appropriated for other purposes. The major flaw with this theory is that the first telegraph message was transmitted in 1844, five years after OK appeared. Then, too, one theorist said that it stands for O. Kendall & Sons, a supplier of army biscuits who stamped its initials on its product.
Still another, rather far-fetched is that there was a German general who fought on the side of the Americans Still another theory stems from a fad in the Revolutionary War used to sign in Boston in the late 1830s of using documents OK for Ober-Kommando. abbreviations on almost everything. Many of the abbreviated expressions The Real Truth were exaggerated misspellings, a A friend of mine recently sent me a stock in trade of the humorists of document explaining the origin of the day. According to this theory, many expressions, including the a predecessor of OK was OW, “oll mysterious OK. I like his explanation wright,” and there was also KY, the best, although the timing is a bit “know yuse,” KG, “know go,” and NS, off. According to him, during wars, “nuff said.” when troops returned from battle without losing any men, they posted a sign which said “0 Killed.” What do Even More Theories Over the years other linguists have you think? paul@reunionfrindly.com gotten into the act, and generated Reunion Friendly News
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Fall, 2012
Conveniently located off of Interstate 94 in southeast Wisconsin, Waukesha & Pewaukee is a mere 25 minute commute from Milwaukee’s General International Airport and most popular local attractions. Within a 90 minute drive are The Great Lakes Naval Training Center in Great Lakes, IL and the EAA Air Venture Museum in Oshkosh, WI.
Tour “Days Gone By” at Old World Wisconsin – the country’s largest outdoor 19th century living history museum or take in the “City Sites” of the Great Lakes Naval Station & Museum – the Navy’s largest training facility and St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy – one of the leading schools of its kind in the nation. “Cheers” with old comrades during tours of Miller Brewery – frosty beer samples available and Pabst The Waukesha & Pewaukee Convention and Visitors Mansion – home of Frederick Pabst, world famous Bureau (WPCVB) is pleased to offer military reunion beer baron and more! planners the opportunity to become better acquainted with popular attractions, favorite restaurants, and The WPCVB also offers FREE services assisting first-class hotels on a site tour. Experience first hand planners with the organization of their reunions your accommodations and attraction selections for including, but not limited to: reunion planning, the group. program assistance, registration assistance and public relations. Offering 1,000 sleeping rooms and 100,000 square feet of meeting space, hotels selections include: full- Waukesha & Pewaukee’s small-town community service Milwaukee Marriott West and The Clarke appreciates the sacrifices and commitment of our Hotel, Country Springs Hotel Water Park Conference country’s military veterans. Visit and feel the Center, the northern lodge décor Comfort Suites, the embrace of friendly locals welcoming you with warm Frank Lloyd Wright inspired Radisson Milwaukee- smiles and mid-western hospitality! Pewaukee, Best Western Waukesha Grand and Super 8. All hotels offer ample FREE parking and are easily To book your next reunion or to inquire for more located off interstate 94. information contact Deana Birmingham-Heinisch at 800-366-8474 or log on to www.visitwaukesha.org. Reunion Friendly News
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Fall, 2012
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What You Always Wanted to Know About Flying (and did not know whom to ask) According to the experts, here are the answers:
Q. Should I Wear Sunscreen on the Plane? No one has done a scientific A.comparison of instances of skin
cancer in frequent fliers versus non-frequent fliers, but it is a fact that windows on planes do not block UVA rays, which are associated with wrinkling, skin aging and skin cancer. At higher altitudes these ultraviolet rays are much stronger than on ground level. On the other hand, windows on a plane are small, and the exposure time is relatively short. If you are concerned, bring the sunscreen.
Q. Can the Air from the Vent Make You Sick? are more likely to get sick A.fromYoua sneezing seatmate or from
touching the bathroom sink than from recirculated cabin air. The cabin air is mixed with outside air and recirculated. Newer-model planes also pass the recirculated air through high-efficiency particulate air filters meant to capture 99.9 percent of tiny particles like bacteria and fungi. Flu transmission is believed to be mainly through large droplets, meaning that the closer you sit to an infected person, the higher your risk for exposure. Keep your fingers crossed for a healthy seatmate.
Q. Are Cocktails More Potent at Q. Can Portable Electronic Devices High Altitudes? Harm the Plane? Think twice before you drink, A. The FAA (Federal Aviation A.because the air inside a plane cabin Administration) does not know tends to have a very low humidity level. This tends to dehydrate and so does alcohol! The result is an increase in your chances of contracting a respiratory infection. Coffee works the same way. Additionally, there is a risk at your destination if you are driving a car.
Q. Are Checked Bags Often Lost, Stolen, or Damaged? of lost, delayed, A.stolenTheor rate damaged baggage is
steadily declining. Most people are reunited with their bags even if they temporarily go astray. To give your bags the best possible chance of arriving when you do, you are advised to check in early and remove luggage tags from previous trips. Try to fly nonstop because bags are most likely to be mishandled when passengers change airplanes and airlines. Page 32
a bright light into your ear canal. Anyone who has flown across multiple time zones knows that it upsets your internal clock. Fatigue, moodiness, insomnia, and gastric upset are fairly common symptoms. It is easier for most people when they fly westward. Flying from New York to California for example, a three time zone shift, means eating later, going to sleep later, but getting up later also. As a result a three-hour westward shift is not too bad for most people. Flying the other way, towards the East, is much more difficult. In general, it takes about one day for each time zone to fully adapt. Strangely, many experts say it is a matter of light. As a result, they recommend wearing sunglasses. While there are some who just have a few drinks and “conk out,” alcohol seems to have no effect on alleviating jet lag. Others resort to sleeping pills, eye shades, and ear plugs. One warning, however, if you want to take melatonin, you should check with your personal doctor first.
enough about the radio signals given off from laptops, cellphones and other electronic devices; nor how they affect aircraft communications, navigation and flight control. Cellphone use also has the potential to disrupt wireless networks on the ground. For each model of aircraft that a Wi-Fi system is to be used, the airplane manufacturer must get FAA certification for the system, and the airline must get FAA operational approval. That means testing the equipment to show If you want tips on sleeping, we that it doesn’t interfere with can recommend checking Harvard systems during flight. University’s web site on healthy sleep. healthysleep.med.harvard.edu/ Is There a Way to Beat Jet Lag? healthy/getting/overcoming/tips There must be thousands of suggested ways. There are pills; It is strongly suggested that you do there are drinks, and a host of this when you are awake. paul@reunionfriendly.com gadgets. One of these is undergoing tests by Finnair. The device shines
Q. A.
Reunion Friendly News
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Fall, 2012
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Rachel and I enjoyed the ConFAM© in Chattanooga so much that we sent a contribution to a Children’s Home in your honor. Scott & Rachel Williams MCB 2 Seabees Reunion Association
dunesmanor.com
We’ve learned so much from RFN and have successfully applied that knowledge in both reunion planning and our daily lives. We appreciate all that you do for us, the other military reunion planners, and the veteran population who ultimately benefit from our collective efforts. Kathi and Gene Petrowski Certified Reunion Planners Pleiku MP Association (Army)
What a generous gesture on your part! The Chattanooga event was especially wonderful and your presence there made it more so. We are passing a copy of this Congratulations to you and to all the on to the CVB and the Chattanooga certified military reunion planners. It is Choo Choo. Thank you so much! unfortunate that the process of planning, Our apologies for the organizing, and running a reunion delay in thanking you for the is getting more difficult, particularly acknowledgement of our becoming as contracts get more complex. We certified reunion planners. I had commend you for going through the long ago given up on becoming a certification process so that you can centerfold, but can now cross that better serve other veterans. item off my bucket list! Reunion Friendly News
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Fall, 2012
Everything operates at a higher level in Colorado Springs. And we’re not simply talking about our 6,035-foot elevation. Reunions are just better here. Geologic wonders. Historic places. Unique treasures. Fun activities. All in view of Pikes Peak— America’s Mountain.
Let’s talk. We’ll help you find 6,035 reasons to get together. 800.888.4748 x138 | VisitCOS.com/reunions Page 33 CSCVB12 ReunionFriendly SUMMER 2.25X10_FNL.indd 5/10/12 1 9:11 AM
Here’s YOUR Chance! Help Your Fellow Reunion Planners who are looking for a place to hold their reunion Tell us what you believe is the best reunion location you ever had Just mail the form below to: Reunion Friendly Network 2450 Hollywood Blvd Suite 500 Hollywood, Florida 33020 Attn: Best Reunion Location or, EVEN BETTER Send an email with the subject: Best Reunion Location to paul@reunionfriendly.com Please tell us what you think! Best Place Runner-Up And another Please include your name and military unit Name Military Unit Email address Thanks a lot - we’ll publish the results soon.
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Reunion Friendly News
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Fall, 2012
Joys of Flying Another problem is perfume or It’s not a secret that flying to a cologne because odors are intensified, destination is no longer “fun.” It is and this may affect anyone who has bad enough enduring the long lines, allergies or asthma. half undressing, re-dressing to get through security, but the airlines The biggest problem for many is the crazy changes in temperature. It’s 80 haven’t made it any easier either! degrees outside, and you walk into a First, the Federal government terminal that feels like an ice-box. You imposed the TSA system, for which get on the plane which sits out on the you pay an added fee. Then, the runway for a half-hour waiting for government added a few more taxes take-off clearance, with very little air, on each ticket. Then, the airlines and the plane heats up. Then you take started adding extra charges and fees off, the cooling really kicks in, and — fees for just about anything, but you start to shiver. If you are lucky especially for checking baggage. Now, enough to get a blanket (most airlines they are starting to charge for carry- charge for this now, and they are not always available), it really does not on baggage! help very much because it’s so thin. They are starting to charge for seats also, with a premium for an aisle or You know you are going to a different window seat. Priority boarding is also climate, so you are prepared, but first disappearing, particularly for families you have to get through the terminal at your destination. The place is with children. overheated, and you are dressed for On top of all that, they took away cold weather. Then, after you get the free snacks, even the peanuts your baggage, you step outside and and pretzels. Some are beginning to it’s freezing! You get into a cab, and charge for coffee or soda. One even it’s hot. You get out of the cab at a hotel and it’s cold again — until you charges $2 for a cup of water! get inside t he hotel. When you get to Although you can survive all of these your room, you find that the maid has by proper planning, passengers can set the air conditioner to 60 degrees. create their own problems. Number Is it any wonder your head is stuffed one in that category is wearing the and you are sneezing? wrong clothes. Tight clothes of any kind may be life threatening. The What Is the Answer? problem is something called “deep vein thrombosis.” The pressure from The first step is to wear fairly tight clothes causes blood clots in loose, comfortable clothing. Dress veins. This may show itself by swollen in layers, so you can peel on and arms or legs, but sometimes may off. There may be penalties for too not show at all. The fact is that tight much baggage, but there is no extra clothing can literally kill you! This charge for carrying a few extra layers. doesn’t mean you can wear anything, Leave off the perfume, just take a because if you look too much like a bum, they can throw you off the plane (before it takes off).
shower beforehand. Pack an absolute minimum or be prepared to ship some of your “stuff” to your destination. At today’s cost of baggage, plus the cost of checking — and tipping — you may find that using FedEx is just about the same cost; and you won’t have to carry it, or have it inspected.
More Tips Drink plenty of fluid at least six hours before you go to the airport. Water is fine, but Gatorade is even better. Do NOT drink any alcoholic beverage for 24 hours before the flight. If you are concerned about leg swelling, wear compression socks. If it’s a long flight, you also might consider wearing a surgical mask available from almost all Walgreens or Wal-Marts as well as many other stores. One big danger of bacterial infection comes from drinking the water in the restroom. Remember that planes are basically loaded with bacteria. Your bathroom floor at home is probably cleaner than your tray table! My memories include a bargain special from Newark to Los Angeles on long-gone Western Airlines for $99 round trip. The airline made a mistake by double booking my seat, so after I sat down, the attendant (stewardess in those days) asked me if it would be OK to move me to first-class. You bet I moved as if I had a rocket behind me. They even served a steak dinner with a pretty good wine. The captain apologized for moving me as I got off the plane. I really do not believe those days are ever going to come back! But, keep up your spirits. Look forward to the drink after you get off the plane. Alcohol kills germs! Enjoy the friendly skies!
R e u n i o n F r i e n d l y N e w s
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Fall, 2012
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Paul’s Opinion
was that we would not take abuse her leave all the products she had from anybody – customer, planner, selected on the checkout counter supplier – nobody. in the supermarket, and just walk away, when the checkout clerk said This article is a personal opinion, and does not necessarily represent the Less than a year later, we received a something nasty. views of The Reunion Friendly Network, call from a planner who wanted to its employees, customers, or reunion attend an event. Unfortunately for The Message him, it was already full. Upon being We’ve boiled it down to a few simple planners. told that there was no more room, principles: he leashed a torrent of invective, including a number of common gutter 1) Treat others the same way we expressions. I could hear it as I went would want to be treated if our by, picked up the telephone, and said, positions were reversed. “You are history” before hanging up. I then turned to my wife, Joan, and 2) Only conduct business with nice said, “Would you please delete him people. Boycott anyone who is An editorial by Paul Spiewak from the system?” She replied, “I not nice, be it a customer, vendor, can’t, because I already did it.” business associate, etc. Being Nice Back in 1991, just after we started, a planner called us for help. He wanted to find a manufacturer for a medal that had been awarded to his group, so that he could hand out replicas at the next reunion. His problem was that he could not find a manufacturer who could match the unique color to his satisfaction. My co-founder was successful in locating a manufacturer, but it took him the better part of three days. He arranged for a sample, and it was perfect. We quoted the prices given us by the manufacturer, who let us know that there would be a small commission. The planner, however, would not give us the order. He wanted to “negotiate” with the manufacturer directly. We asked him why, and his reply was to make sure “you guys” don’t make anything on the deal. When we asked why we he felt that we shouldn’t get paid for our time and effort, he became very abusive. We hung up on him. Even though we were struggling to get off the ground, and needed every penny to keep the doors open, we stopped and set a policy. That policy
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Consequences
3) Treat employees fairly, by More than twenty years have passed recognizing their efforts and sharing since that incident, and during a bit of the wealth, not excessively those years we have deleted about scrutinizing their time, and surely not a dozen planners, two CVBs, a few using fear as management tool. hotel people, and several suppliers of various kinds. In all, we’ve chopped 4) Treat your customers as if they are your friends. Refund money promptly out about two dozen people. and without a hassle. Every business person I know hates to lose a customer. Every business 5) Handle your vendors fairly, and not person I know values all of those trying to squeeze the last nickel out that contribute to the success of the of every deal. business. Yet, in retrospect, we have lost very little, and gained a great 6) Keep a high code of ethics with deal. all your business dealings, because we believe completely in your own Sure, we may have lost a few dollars of integrity. income, but just think for a moment. After many years of suffering abuse 7) Refuse to do business with anyone and nastiness, we have totally who is nasty. eliminated it. Imagine for a moment, what the result would be if everyone If all businesses followed these took that same attitude. Wouldn’t the guidelines, wouldn’t life be more entire world be a better place? pleasant for everyone? If you and everyone else in the world followed I don’t know about you, but I don’t these guidelines, wouldn’t life be want to deal with anyone who is more pleasant for everyone? nasty. I’ve taken my share of abuse over the years, just like everyone else; Being nice is just a nicer way to live! and I do not want any more. If anyone gets nasty, I just walk away. Joan, PAUL my late wife, when she was alive, totally agreed, and I once watched paul@reunionfriendly.com
Reunion Friendly News
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Fall, 2012
Industry Watch Suddenly, it seems, the hotel industry is booming. In addition to many new hotels, many of them luxury level, there is a wave sweeping across the country of hotel renovations and expansions. More and more hotel executives are hailing what they perceive is a surprising full-throttle recovery. Even more surprising is that so-called secondary cities, and even tertiary cities, are all getting into the act. Apparently this is working! In Nashville, for example, this major reunion destination city (RFN will again have a ConFAM© there in 2013), 2013 will see the opening of a new Omni 800 room hotel attached to the Country Music Hall of Fame and the new 1,200,000 square foot Music City Convention Center. Optimism is apparently working because the new hotel, a year prior to opening, has already booked more than 100,000 room nights for major meetings. Nashville is not alone, as other similar size cities across the nation are experiencing the same phenomena. The pattern is repeating in Minneapolis MN, Austin TX, Baton Rouge, Columbus OH, and even RFN’s home city, Hollywood FL. Rising occupancy is invariably connected to rising optimism, which in turn is connected to rising hotel rates. This is not new. It is a natural cycle. When RFN was established in 1991, conditions favored the reunion planner. This turned around so that conditions favored the hotels only a few years later, By 1999, the pendulum had swung back again in favor of the planners, only to reverse itself so that hoteliers held the upper Reunion Friendly News
hand in 2004-2007. Then 2008 struck, and the industry wallowed in despair. The bottom of the market for hotels, and the peak opportunity for reunion planners to boom at very favorable rates, was probably in 2010. It has been moving back in favor of hotels ever since.
The latest gimmick is to start shrinking leg room to get extra seats. Thinner cushions, more vertical seats, and squeezing seems to be coming down the runway.
Meanwhile, attempts to raise air fares appear to be running into resistance. Delta tried to raise fares across the It is, as you can readily see a six to board by a mere $5 per trip in early eight year cycle repeating again and August, but was forced to back off again. Accordingly, you can expect because competitors did not follow to have a more difficult time getting suit, and customers started booking favorable rates and concessions until on other carriers. late 2015 or early 2016, when we predict the pendulum will swing back Other Factors again to favor reunion planners. Regardless of politics, the fact is that the Federal Reserve has drastically increased the money supply. This in New Hotel Fees Hotel fees are hitting record highs. turn will inevitably create inflation, Fees you may find on your bill which means further pressure to include: early departure fees, early increase rates. Some of you may well reservation cancellation fees, Internet remember that back in 1991 when fees, telephone call surcharges, RFN began, an expensive rate for charges for receiving faxes and reunion goers was $35. sending or receiving packages, room service delivery surcharges, mini- It is unfortunate, but as a reunion bar restocking fees, charges for in- planner, do not beat yourself up room safes, and automatic gratuities about this. Hotel rates are going up! and surcharges. Groups gathering in Air fares, which probably will see a hotels are subject to higher charges slight downward trend before the end for bartenders, special charges for of the year, will resume their upward set-up and breakdown of meeting trend early in 2013. Even auto rental rooms, and “baggage holding” fees fees are on the increase. for leaving luggage prior to departure. What is happening is a reflection of what is going on in Washington DC, Airlines Are Still At It Once again, airlines trying to figure and there is no way you can stop it. out how to get you to pay more What you can do is shop carefully; be without appearing to raise air fares aware that timing, both seasonality are now starting to impose fees for and days of the week, have an seats! So far, Jet Blue charges extra enormous impact on quoted room for the bulkhead seat because it has rates; and that you may have to look a few more inches of leg room, but at several locations before you can US Airways, Spirit, American & Delta make a satisfactory deal for your now charge more for either a window reunion. or an aisle seat. So whether you want to gaze out the window, or can’t If you haven’t attended a recent stand to look out the window, those ConFAM©, or haven’t been to a window and aisle seats are going WorkFAM©, or even not read a copy to up your fare. This is particularly of RFN’s Military Reunion Handbook, difficult for families who want to sit you might get a great deal more together, because the additional cost insight by doing so. paul@reunionfriendly.com could double the air fare. •
Fall, 2012
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CE AN FIN
by Marc A Spiewak, CPA RFN VP Finance
Living on Fixed Income
If you are living on a fixed income your point of view is that inflation is very bad. Inflation causes the price of food, gasoline, clothing, medical services, and prescription medications to increase. Your buying power, as a result, decreases making living on a fixed income more and more difficult. It can force you into some really unpleasant choices to work with an ever decreasing relative budget. Budgeting is the process of writing down everything that you need to spend money on. First, prepare a list of everything that you have to spend money on. Second, prepare a list on everything you need to spend money on. Finally, a list of everything you want to spend your money on. Setting guidelines and being smart about spending will give you more control over the money and the impact of inflation. Being smart about money demands diligence, and not any special intelligence. Never, never let your guard down.
Why is Inflation Considered Undesirable?
“Inflation is Good?” investment community. If a currency has no inherent value, the rich will not invest in anything, and will hoard their monies in commodities. Then Why is Inflation Good? Argument for Inflation #1: The government gets its money from three different sources: taxes, borrowing and printing money. There is only so much they can tax before there is a revolt; so the government seeks to borrow money in order to balance the budget. Since there is more spending than inflow, the debt service continues to rise. The only way to pay the debt is to print money. However, printing money puts more money into the system and thus devalues the money that exists already. Thus, they are paying back the debt with “cheaper dollars”. This takes some of the monetary pressure for the government to function. Argument for Inflation #2: The concept of taxes takes on a whole new meaning when you realize that not only does it raise money for the government to function but it also manipulates the way we behave as a society. (I learned this in college – Sociology 101). For example, when the government wanted both the husband and wife to work they came up with incentives. Just last year there was the “making work pay credit” to reward people for working. There was the 10% reduction in the second earner’s taxable income for a while; and there is the child tax credit. Another example of manipulation is getting people to buy instead of renting their homes by allowing mortgage interest and real estate taxes to be deductible. This goes on and on.
therefore the economy as a whole is a big factor. When inflation is low people don’t spend. Why buy something now when you can buy it a year from now at the same or better price. So it is a spending driver. Argument for Inflation #4: Balancing the global economy is one of the arguments for inflation. If we are all on the same economic level that is brought on by inflation, then we are in a more competitive arena for jobs, products and services. If we are making the same money here in this country as any other country, then outsourcing becomes not as attractive as it is now.
You Decide
Of course, rising prices eventually causes people to stop buying things. If companies pay more for materials and labor it results in squeezed profits which can’t be good. Then, if companies make less we will see a slowing of the economy and we will be right back to we started from in a recession or a depression. The fear of rising inflation might be the best thing this economy has going for it these days (per Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke) and it may even boost employment. Most economists favor a low, steady rate of inflation. In my view it is a very scary word. Inflation can be good, but it can also have devastating effects on each and every one of us if it runs out of control (hyperinflation). Rising gas prices are the first sign of a possible runaway inflation and quite frankly, I am a bit nervous.
The general consensus is that inflation is undesirable because it causes a structural degeneration of monetary policy. The depreciation of a country’s currency weakens the value of the currency while also decreasing the confidence in its debts. This decrease has significant repercussions for the economy. It can lead to hyper inflation Marc is always open to comments, like Germany in the pre- WWII questions and/or concerns. He can be period or it can cause rapid currency reached at: fluctuations that have a destabilizing marc@reunionfriendly.com effect on the country as a whole. Argument for Inflation #3: consumption and The problem also manifests in the Controlling Page 38
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
CVBs (Convention & Visitors Bureaus & Tourism Development Agencies) These CVBs help the military reunion community in many ways, and offer a variety of free services to help you have the best reunion possible. When you work with a member CVB, you help us ALL! Birmingham
Greater Birmingham CVB
Cynthia McHeard
800-458-8085
cmcheard@birminghamal.com
AL
Huntsville
Huntsville/Madison County CVB
Sharon Snell
800-843-0468
ssnell@huntsville.org
AL
Mobile
Mobile Bay CVB
Ron McConnell
251-208-2018
ron-mcconnell@mobile.org
AL
Tuscaloosa
Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports Commission
Lynette Thomas-Rice 205-391-9200
lynette@visittuscaloosa.com
AZ
Tucson
Metropolitan Tucson CVB
RoxAnne Erickson
520-770-2120
rerickson@visittucson.org
AZ
Yuma
Yuma CVB
Shannan Gonzalez
800-293-0071
shannan@visityuma.com
CA
Burlingame
San Mateo County/ Silicon Valley CVB
Adrienne Nudo
650-348-7600
adrienne@smccvb.com
CA
Sacramento
Sacramento CVB
Betsy Longmire
916-808-7275
blongmire@cityofsacramento.org
CO
Colorado Springs
CO
Pueblo
p 33
Experience Colorado Springs CVB Cheryl Blanton-Chisholm 719-685-7638
The Greater Pueblo COC
Jeanne Santillanez
719-542-1100
cherylBC@visitcos.com jeanne_s@puebloconventioncenter.com
DE
Dover
Kent County CVB
Kimberly Bailey-Thomas 800-233-5368
kthomas@visitdover.com
DE
Rehoboth Beach
Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach COC
Meghan McCalley
800-441-1329
meghan@beach-fun.com
FL
Auburndale
Central Florida VCB
Joni Allen
863-551-4708
joni@visitcentralflorida.org
FL
Cocoa
Space Coast Office of Tourism
Bonnie King
321-433-4470
bkingfilm@aol.com
FL
Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach Area CVB
Nina Crabtree
386-255-0415
ncrabtree@daytonabeach.com
FL
Ft Myers
Beaches of Fort Myers Sanibel
Candice Cocco
239-338-3500
ccocco@leegov.com
FL
Jacksonville
Visit Jacksonville
Bob Meyer
904-421-9183
bmeyer@visitjacksonville.com
FL
Kissimmee
Kissimmee CVB
Jadeine Shives
407-742-8255
jshives@visitkissimmee.com
FL
Panama City
Panama City Beach CVB
Ann Gager
850-233-5070
agager@visitpanamacitybeach.com
FL
Pensacola
Pensacola Bay Area CVB
Larry Orvis
850-434-1234
lorvis@pensacolachamber.com
FL
St Augustine
St Augustine, Ponte Vedra & Beaches VCB
Jaya Larkin
904-209-4429
jlarkin@floridahistoriccoast.com
GA
Augusta
Augusta CVB
Michelle Bovian
706-823-6600
mbovian@augustaga.org
GA
Columbus
Columbus Georgia CVB
Sid Kaminsky
706-317-2110
skaminsky@visitcolumbusga.com
IA
Waterloo
Waterloo CVB
Lonnie Elmore
319-233-8350
lonnie@travelwaterloo.com
IL
Gurnee
Lake County CVB
Kimberly Ghys
800-525-3669
kimberly@lakecounty.org
IL
Lisle
Lisle CVB (Chicago Area)
Jay Allen
800-733-9811
allen@stayinlisle.com
IL
Moline
Quad Cities CVB
Dan Gleason
309-277-0937
dgleason@visitquadcities.com
IL
Oak Brook
DuPage CVB
Julie Scholle
630-575-8070
julie@discoverdupage.com
IL
Schaumburg
Woodfield Chicago NW Conv Bureau
Melinda Garritano
847-278-3446
mgarritano@chicagonorthwest.com
KS
Salina
Visit Salina Area COC
JoAnn McClure
785-827-9301
jmcclure@salinakansas.org
KS
Wichita
Go Wichita
Andre- Mboule
316-660-6312
amboule@gowichita.com
KY
Bowling Green
Bowling Green Area CVB
Duncan Hines
270-782-0800
duncan@visitbgky.com
Barbara Dozier
800-447-8489
bdozier@nkycvb.com
Roseanne Mingo
800-848-1224
rmingo@visitlex.com
p 15
Northern Kentucky CVB
KY
Covington
KY
Lexington
Lexington CVB
LA
Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge Area CVB
LA
Jefferson
LA
Lafayette
MA
Centerville
MA MD
Jennye Snider
225-382-3584
jennye@visitbatonrouge.com
Magan Adams
504-731-7083
magan@experiencejefferson.com
Lafayette CVC
Irene T. Hodge
337-232-3737
irene@lafayettetravel.com
Cape Cod COC
Patti Lloyd
508-362-9351
sales@capecodchamber.org
Salisbury
North of Boston CVB
Sue Ann Pearson
978-465-6555
spearson@northofboston.org
Baltimore
Maryland Office of Tourism Devel
Rich Gilbert
877-209-5883
rgilbert@visitmaryland.org
MD
Ocean City
Ocean City CVB/Dept of Tourism
Norma Dobrowolski
410-289-2800
ndobrowolski@ococean.com
MI
Detroit
Detroit Metro CVB
Xenia Castillo-Hunter 313-202-1978
xhunter@visitdetroit.com
MI
Kalamazoo
Discover Kalamazoo CVB
Jennifer Williamson
269-488-0057
jwilliamson@discoverkalamazoo.com
MI
Lansing
Greater Lansing CVB
Heather C. Kim
517-377-1402
hkim@lansing.org
MN
Bloomington
Bloomington CVB
Lori Rebers
952-278-8513
l.rebers@bloomingtonmn.org
MN
Rochester
Rochester CVB
Jay Gunnarson
507-424-0818
jgunnarson@rochestercvb.org
p 47
Jefferson Parish CVB
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Page 39
RFN Members
AL
RFN Members
CVBs (continued) MO
Branson
MO
Independence
MO
Joplin
MO MO
p3
Branson Lakes Area CVB
Kimberly Carr
417-243-2117
kcarr@bransoncvb.com
Independence Missouri Tourism Dept
Amanda Wiltse
816-325-7108
awiltse@indepmo.org
Joplin CVB
Lenny Brubaker
417-625-4789
lbrubake@joplinmo.org
Maryland Heights Maryland Heights CVB
Laura Brahan
314-738-2497
laura@mhcvb.com
St Charles
Karen Fraser
800-366-2427
kfraser@historicstcharles.com
St Charles CVB
p 21
MO
St Robert
573-336-6355
bethw@visitpulaskicounty.org
MO
Warrensburg
Greater Warrensburg Area COC & VC
Pulaski County Tourism Bureau Beth Wiles Kristi Eckfeld
660-747-3168
keckfeld@warrensburg.org
NC
Fayetteville
Fayetteville Area CVB
Myron Jones
800-255-8217
mjones@visitfayettevillenc.com
NC
Winston Salem
Visit Winston-Salem
Dianne Brice
336-728-4216
dianne@visitwinstonsalem.com
ND
Fargo
Fargo-Moorhead CVB
Jill Gates
701-365-4560
jill@fargomoorhead.org
NE
Omaha
Omaha CVB
Bill Slovinski
866-937-6624
bslovinski@visitomaha.com
NM
Albuquerque
Albuquerque CVB
Serena Sullivan
505-222-4355
sullivan@itsatrip.org
NV
Laughlin
Southern Nevada Regional Office - NVCVA
Cherie Westbrook
702-298-3022
cwestbrook@lvcva.com
NY
Buffalo
Buffalo Niagara CVB
Matt Carlucci
716-852-0511
carlucci@buffalocvb.org
NY
Corning
Corning/Finger Lakes (Steuben Cty CVB)
Danielle Roman
607-936-6544
droman@corningfingerlakes.com
NY
Niagara Falls
Niagara USA/Tourism & Conv Corp
Reanna Darone
OH
Beavercreek
OH
Dayton
Dayton/Montgomery Cnty CVB
OH
Toledo
Destination Toledo,Inc - CVB
OR
Eugene
PA
Gettysburg
PA PA
716-282-8992
rdarone@niagara-usa.com
937-320-9865
lwillis@greenecountyohio.org
Carman Hussman
937-226-8292
chussman@daytoncvb.net
Julie Bolfa
800-243-466
jbolfa@dotoledo.org
Eugene, Cascades & Coast CVA
Juanita Metzler
541-743-8758
juanita@travellanecounty.org
Gettysburg CVB
Jenny McConnell
717-338-1053
jenny@gettysburg.travel
Harrisburg
Hershey Harrisburg Regional VB
Sandy Wenner
717-231-2988
sandy@hersheyharrisburg.org
King of Prussia
Valley Forge CVB
Courtney Pozo
610-834-7971
pozo@valleyforge.org
RI
Providence
Providence Warwick CVB
Sheila Lindemann
401-456-0228
slindemann@pwcvb.com
SC
Charleston
Charleston Area CVB
John Michel McCants 843-805-3098
jmmccants@explorecharleston.com
Rapid City CVB
Lisa Storms
605-718-8487
storms@visitrapidcity.com
Chattanooga Area CVB
Chris Petro
423-424-4417
chrisp@chattanoogacvb.com
p2
p 25 p6
Greene County CVB/near WPAFB Lisa Willis
SD
Rapid City
TN
Chattanooga
TN
Nashville
Nashville CVB
Amy Starnes
615-259-4716
amy@visitmusiccity.com
TN
Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge Dept of Tourism
Kay Poole
865-453-8574
kpoole@mypigeonforge.com
TX
Amarillo
Amarillo CVB
Emilea white
806-342-2017
emilea@visitamarillotx.com
TX
Beaumont
Beaumont CVB
Rebecca Woodland
409-880-3749
rwoodland@ci.beaumont.tx.us
TX
College Station
Bryan College Station CVB
Amy Duffel
979-260-9898
amy@BCSCVB.org
TX
El Paso
El Paso CVB
Catherine STEVENS 915-534-0695
ccountiss@elpasocvb.com
TX
Fort Worth
Fort Worth CVB
Jeremy Montoya
817-698-7827
jeremymontoya@forthworth.com
TX
Galveston
Galveston Island CVB
Sheri L. Teller
409-797-5150
steller@galvestoncvb.com
TX
Huntsville
Huntsville CVB
Kimm Thomas
936-291-9726
kthomas@huntsvilletx.gov
TX
Killeen
Killeen CVB-Civic & Conf Ctr
Connie Kuehl
254-501-3888
info@killeentexas.gov
TX
Lubbock
Visit Lubbock CVB
Jessica Mendoza
806-747-5232
jessica@visitlubbock.org
TX
Midland
Midland CVB
Sarah Marston
432-686-3561
sarah@visitmidlandtexas.com
TX
Plano
Plano CVB
Kay Summerville
800-817-5266
kays@plano.gov
TX
San Angelo
San Angelo CVB
Pamela Miller
800-375-1206
pamela@sanangelo.org
UT
Ogden
Ogden Utah CVB
Joni Wall
801-778-6253
joni@ogden.travel
VA
Arlington
Arlington CVB
Portia Conerly
703-228-0873
pconerly@arlingtonva.us
VA
Chesapeake
Chesapeake CVB
VA
Fairfax
VA
Fredericksburg
VA
Hampton
VA VA
Jeff Bunn
757-502-4898
jbunn@cityofchesapeake.net
Dean Miller
703-790-0643
dmiller@fxva.com
Fredericksburg Regional Tourism Partn.
Kimberly Herbert
540-372-1216
ksherbert@fredericksburgva.gov
Hampton CVB
Julie A. Williams
757-728-5318
julie@hamptoncvb.com
Leesburg
Visit Loudoun
Jennifer Ritter
703-771-7525
ritter@visitloudoun.org
Manassas
Discover Prince William & Manassas
Mark Kowalewiski
800-432-1792
mark@visitpwc.com
VA
Newport News
Newport News T & D
Barb Kleiss
757-926-1442
bkleiss@nngov.com
VA
Norfolk
Visit Norfolk
Melissa Hopper
757-664-6620
mhopper@norfolkcvb.com
Page 40
p 29
Visit Fairfax
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Richmond
Virginia Tourism Corporation
Joni Johnson
804-545-5544
jjohnson@virginia.org
VA
Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach CVB
Shevonne Morgan
800-700-7702
smorgan@vbgov.com
WA
Seattle
Seattle Southside Visitor Info
Meilee Anderson
206-575-2691
meilee@seattlesouthside.com
WA
Tacoma
Tacoma Regional CVB
Moira Hurley-Davin
253-284-3257
moira@traveltacoma.com
WA
Vancouver
Vancouver USA Regional Tourism Office
Debbie Picard
360-750-1553
dpicard@visitvancouverusa.com
WI
Appleton
Fox Cities of WI CVB
Mae Ibe
920-734-3358
mibe@foxcities.org
WI
La Crosse
La Crosse Area CVB
Clarissa Erickson
608-782-2220
erickson@explorelacrosse.com
WI
Milwaukee
Visit Milwaukee CVB
Brian Hutchings
800-231-0903
bhutchings@milwaukee.org
WI
Waukesha
Deana Birmingham
262-542-0330
deana@visitwaukesha.org
p 31
Waukesha & Pewaukee CVB
Destination Management Companies, Tour Operators & Military Reunion Planners Tired of running around? These RFN Members can make life easier for you. Tell them what you want and leave the rest to them! FL
Jacksonville
Active Escapes Jax/St Aug
John Aguilera
904-230-8787
john.aguilera@activeescape.com
MA
Plymouth
Tour Trends
Ed Sturrup
508-224-2288
tourtrendsed@hotmail.com
MO
Branson
Five Star Reunion & Tours
Karen Phillips
417-294-3096
karen@fivestarreunions.net
MO
Branson West
Gatherings Plus
Pam Brown
417-338-4048
pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com
MO
Hollister
Branson Gray Line
Liz Stanley
417-335-4466
liz@bransongrayline.com
MO
St Louis
Precise Plans, Inc.
Christal Rogers
314-334-0158
inquire@precise-plans.com
SC
Charleston
Charleston Convention & Group Services
Erin Mellen
800-553-2055
emellen@DestinationCharlestonSC
TN
Nashville
Gray Line of Tennessee
Rhonda Hawkinson
615-883-5555
rhawkinson@graylinetn.com
TN
Nashville
Sharin- Nashville Tours
Sharon Cole
615-846-0867
sharcole@gmail.com
VA
Stephens City
Mid Atlantic Receptive Services
Jennifer Wood
800-769-5912
jennifer@takeafuntrip.com
Hotels TRN could not exist without the support of member hotels. They want to help you have the best reunion you possibly could have. We urge you to think of these folks first! AL
Mobile
Renaissance Riverview Plaza
Derrick Williams
251-415-3086
derrick.williams@renaissancemobile.com
AZ
Phoenix
Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix Airport North
Crystal Peters
602-293-0338
crystal.peters@hilton.com
AZ
Tempe
Sheraton Phoenix Airport Hotel Tempe
AZ
Tucson
AZ
Tucson
CA
Buena Park
CA CA
Chris Robertson
480-967-6600
chris.robertson@sheratontempe.com
Lauren Grimes
520-799-8624
lauren.Grimes@jqh.com
Radisson Suites Tucson
Mindy Brugger
520-239-1107
mbrugger@rstucson.com
Holiday Inn Buena Park Hotel & Conf Ctr
Dennis Fyda
714-690-4603
dennis.fyda@hibuenapark.com
Eureka
Red Lion Hotel Eureka
Lowell Maffia
707-445-0844
lowell.maffia@redlion.com
Fremont
Fremont Marriott Silicon Valley
Kay Samoly
510-413-3774
kay.samoly@marriott.com
CA
Rancho Cordova
Sacramento Marriott Rancho Cardova
Stacy Reynolds
916-861-2204
stacy.reynolds@marriottranchocordova.com
CA
San Diego
Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside
Jodie Langhammer
800-650-6660
jodie@holinnbayside.com
CA
San Diego
The Handlery Hotel & Resort
Amber Matheney
619-398-8334
amatheney@handlery.com
CO
Aurora
Red Lion Hotel Denver Southeast
Pamela Feeley
303-695-1700
pamela.feeley@redlion.com
CO
Colorado Springs
The Academy Hotel
Suzy Esposito
719-278-7018
suzye@theacademyhotel.com
CO
Denver
Red Lion Hotel Denver Central
Todd West
303-321-6666
todd.west@hilton.com
CT
Groton
Groton Inn & Suites
Nancie Keenan
860-445-9784
nkeenan@grotoninn.com
CT
New London
Holiday Inn New London
Joan Garcia
860-443-7000
msjoangarcia.hinl@gmail.com
CT
Norwich
Holiday Inn Norwich
Katie Weber-Coleman 860-889-5201
katie.weber@hershahotels.com
DC
Washington
The Melrose Hotel
Ali Vellon
202-955-3836
ali.vellon@melrosehoteldc.com
FL
Amelia Island
Amelia Hotel at the Beach
Marianna McIntyre
904-206-5600
mmcintyre@ameliahotel.com
FL
Cocoa Beach
Courtyard by Marriott Cocoa Beach
Ana Leonard
321-784-4800
ana.leonard@courtyardcb.com
p4
Holiday Inn Tucson Airport
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Page 41
RFN Members
VA
RFN Members
Hotels (continued) FL
Cocoa Beach
International Palms Resort
Colleen Mazzoni
FL
Daytona Beach
Holiday Inn Resort Oceanfront
Kenneth Berthiaume 386-255-0921
dos@hiresortdaytona.com
FL
Daytona Beach
The Plaza Resort & Spa
Efrain Vargas
386-267-1691
evargas@innercircledaytona.com
FL
Fort Myers
Crowne Plaza Fort Myers
Stephanie Millican
239-210-2462
smillican@cooperhotels.com
FL
Ft Lauderdale
Wyndham Nassau Resort
Pat Reilly
954-701-6566
preilly@wyndham.com
FL
Jacksonville
Crowne Plaza Airport
Natalie Galmore
904-421-2031
ngalmore@mmihg.com
FL
Jacksonville
Crowne Plaza Jacksonville Riverfront
Brenda Campbell
904-396-8843
bcampbell@cpjacksonville.com
FL
Jacksonville
Sheraton Jacksonville Hotel
P. J. Bailey
904-380-4127
pj.bailey@sheratonjacksonville.com
FL
Kissimmee
Maingate Lakeside Resort
Mercedes Haibon
407-997-1107
mhaibon@maingatelakeside.com
FL
Kissimmee
Radisson Resort Orlando Celebration
Melody Martinez
407-997-7038
mmartinez@radissonroc.com
FL
Kissimmee
Ramada Gateway
Janis Blair
407-997-6614
blairj@ostarhotels.com
FL
Orlando
Buena Vista Suites
Jeffrey McNulty
407-239-8588
jmcnulty@bvsuites.com
FL
Orlando
Renaissance Orlando Hotel Airport
Stephen Russell
407-513-7226
stephen.russell@renaissancehotels.com
FL
Orlando
Sheraton Orlando Downtown Hotel
Kristine Floyd
407-244-7465
kristine.floyd@sheratonorlandodowntown.com
FL
St Augustine
Holiday Isle Oceanfront Resort
Felicia Fink
904-471-2555
ffink@holidayisleoceanfront.com
FL
St Petersburg
Hilton St Petersburg Bayfront
Debbie Sanders
727-894-5000
deborah.sanders@hilton.com
FL
Tampa
Baymont Inn & Suites
Jocie Rivera
813-971-8930
riveraj@gfhotels.com
FL
Tampa
Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore
Sharon Haley
813-405-1180
sharon.haley@crowneplazatampa.com
FL
Tampa
Doubletree Hotel Tampa Westshore
Annabel Gabbert
813-998-2211
annabel.gabbert@hilton.com
FL
Tampa
Mainsail Suites Hotel & Conference Ctr.
Kelly Nixon
813-243-2635
knixon@mainsailhotels.com
GA
Atlanta
Holiday Inn Perimeter
Michael Vescio
770-296-6001
mvescio@hiperimeter.com
GA
Columbus
Holiday Inn North
Erica Newton
706-324-0231
erica.newton@transinns.com
GA
Columbus
Wingate Hotel - Columbus/Ft. Benning
Kimberly Williams
706-225-1000
wingatecolumbus@aol.com
GA
Peachtree City
Wyndham Peachtree Conference Center
Eileen Lavoie
770-486-3317
elavoie@wyndham.com
GA
Pooler
Holiday Inn Savannah/Airport Pooler
Lauren Heldreth
912-330-5100
lauren@savannahholidayinn.com
GA
Savannah
Inn at Ellis Square
Linda Bell
912-944-3286
merle31410@aol.com
GA
Savannah
StayInSavannah.com
Cathryn Bowyer
912-721-6014
cathryn.bowyer@marriottt.com
IA
Waterloo
Ramada Hotel & Convention Ctr
Sandy Thomas
319-236-9502
sthomas@ramadawaterloo.com
ID
Boise
Red Lion Boise Downtowner
John Beacham
208-344-7691
john.beacham@redlion.com
ID
Boise
The Boise Hotel & Conference Center
Curt Asmussen
208-914-3957
casmussen@ardenthotels.com
ID
Lewiston
Red Lion Hotel Lewiston
Amanda Anderson
208-799-1000
aanderson@redlionlewiston.com
ID
Pocatello
Red Lion Hotel Pocatello
Dawn Williams
208-233-2200
dawn.williams@redlion.com
ID
Post Falls
Red Lion Templin-s Hotel on the River
Kelly Gwinn-Duby
208-773-1611
kelly.gwinn@redlion.com
ID
Twin Falls
Red Lion Hotel Canyon Springs
Denise Young
208-734-5000
denise.young@redlion.com
IL
Deerfield
Embassy Suites Chicago North Shore
Dawn Brandau
847-945-4596
dbrandau@destinationhotels.com
IL
Northbrook
Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel
Renee Labay
847-897-5417
rlabay@renaissancechicagons.com
IL
Oak Brook
Doubletree Chicago Oak Brook
Ruby Lane-Hodges
630-472-6009
ruby.lane-hodges@hilton.com
IL
Rosemont
Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago O-Hare
Maria Cesario
847-954-8620
mcesario@fhginc.com
IL
Wheeling
The Westin Chicago North Shore
Jim Straus
847-777-6559
jim.straus@westin.com
IL
Zion
Best Western Plus-Market Square
Julia Ramey
847-344-1204
julia.ramey@marketsquarehotel.com
KS
Lenexa
Crowne Plaza Kansas City - Overland Park
Jennifer Commuso
913-217-1006
jcommuso@mkccp.com
KS
Wichita
Marriott Wichita
Becky Lehane
316-651-0333
becky.lehane@wichitamarriott.com
KY
Bowling Green
Holiday Inn University Plaza
Jessica Waren
270-393-8667
jessica.waren@jhq.com
LA
Baton Rouge
Holiday Inn South Baton Rouge
Heather Day
225-924-7021
hdat@brsouth.com
LA
Kenner
Days Inn Hotel New Orleans Airport
Lisa Sweet
504-464-1644
dos@daysinnnoairport.com
LA
Metairie
Ramada Hotel Metairie
Gina Abernathy
504-648-3821
gabernathy@ramadametairie.com
LA
New Orleans
French Quarter Chateau LeMoyne
Thu Tran
504-613-3210
thu.tran@ihg.com
MA
Boston
Constitution Inn
Emily Goretsky
617-241-8400
egoretsky@constitutioninn.org
MA
Boston
The Midtown Hotel
Gregg Bolduc
800-343-1177
gbolduc@midtownhotel.com
MA
Dedham
Hilton Boston Dedham
Winnie Boussicaut
781-329-7900
w.boussicaut@hilton.com
MD
Gaithersburg
Hilton Wash DC North/Gaithersburg
Bernard Howe
301-591-9906
bhowe@hiltongaithersburg.com
Page 42
321-783-2271
Reunion Friendly News
•
cmazzoni@internationalpalms.com
Fall, 2012
Hotels (continued) MD
Gaithersburg
Holiday Inn Gaithersburg
p 33
Dunes Manor Hotel
Debbie Reed
301-948-8900
debbie.reed@bfsaulco.com
Ocean City
Lauren Prendergast
800-523-2888
lauren@dunesmanor.com
Rockville
Crowne Plaza Washington DC-Rockville
Jessica Greene
301-795-3280
jessica.greene@cprockville.com
ME
S Portland
Best Western Merry Manor Inn
Donald Haggett
207-774-6151
dhaggett@merrymanorinn.com
ME
Waterville
Best Western Plus Waterville
Karen Spaulding
207-873-0111
kspaulding@girihotels.com
MN
Rochester
Kahler Grand Hotel
Chris Wagner
507-285-2740
chris.wagner@ihrco.com
MO
Branson
Camden Hotel
Cherie Chitwood
800-335-2555
cherie@lodgingbranson.com
MO
Branson
Grand Plaza Hotel
Darlene Burkhart
417-336-6646
darlene@bransongrandplaza.com
MO
Branson
Radisson Hotel Branson
Sarah Hord
417-690-4026
sarah.hord@radisson.com
MO
Branson
Stone Castle Hotel & Conf Center
Rachael James
417-231-4721
rachael@bransonstonecastle.com
MO
Branson
Welk Resort Branson
Cherie Chitwood
417-243-1333
cchitwood@welkgroup.com
MO
Branson
Westgate Branson Woods Resort
Joann Chamberlain
417-332-3557
joann_chamberlain@wgresorts.com
MO
St Robert
Baymont Inn & Suites
Betsy Thomson
573-336-5050
betsybaymont@yahoo.com
MO
St. Louis
Sheraton Westport Hotels
Nancy Masterson
314-212-2137
nancy.masterson@swthotels.com
MT
Helena
Red Lion Colonial Hotel
Erin Schweitzer
406-443-2100
erin.schweitzer@redlion.com
MT
Kalispell
Red Lion Hotel Kalispell
CJ Getty
406-751-5050
cj.getty@redlion.com
NM
Albuquerque
MCM Elegante Hotel & Event Center
Kara St John
505-872-0412
karastjohn@mcmelegante.com
NM
Albuquerque
Sheraton Albuquerque Airport Hotel
Tisha Simms
505-244-8536
tisha.simms@sheratonabqairport.com
NV
Laughlin
Edgewater-Colorado Belle Casino Resorts
Kathy Millar
702-807-4470
kmillar@cb-ew.com
NV
Reno
Ramada Reno Hotel & Casino
Larry Cardarelli
775-954-2521
larry.cardarelli@jqh.com
NV
Reno
Sands Regency Casino Hotel
Janette Spradley
775-348-2242
jspradley@affinitygamingllc.com
NY
Buffalo
Adam-s Mark Hotel Buffalo Niagara
Christa Beal
716-845-5100
cbeal@adamsmark.com
NY
Buffalo
Millennium Airport Hotel Buffalo
Edwin Shelp
716-206-8325
Eshelp@mill-usa.com
NY
N. Syracuse
Ramada Syracuse
Judy Herzig
315-457-8670
judy@ramadasyracuse.com
NY
Niagara Falls
Comfort Inn -The Pointe-
Tricia Mezhir
716-284-6835
tmezhir@comfortinnthepointe.com
NY
Niagara Falls
Sheraton at the Falls
Monica Rapini
716-278-2622
m.rapini@sheratonatthefalls.com
NY
Salamanca
Seneca Allegany Casino & Hotel
Holly Sickels
716-343-5729
hsickels@senecacasino.com
OH
Dayton
Crowne Plaza Dayton
Kris Davis
937-229-9831
kdavis@cpdayton.com
OH
Fairborn
Holiday Inn Dayton/Fairborn
Matt Pauley
937-431-4611
matthew.pauley@hidaytonfairborn.com
OH
WPAFB
Hope Hotel & Richard C Holbrooke Conf Ct
Matt LeValley
937-879-2696
matt.levalley@hopehotel.com
OK
Norman
NCED Hotel
Candie Westbrook
405-366-4976
candie.westbrook@marriott.com
OR
Bend
Red Lion Hotel Bend
Suzanne Heise
541-382-7011
suzanne.heise@redlion.com
OR
Medford
Red Lion Hotel Medford
Margaret Knight
541-779-5811
margaret.knight@redlion.com
OR
Pendleton
Red Lion Hotel Pendleton
Cheryl Rolstad
541-276-6111
cheryl.rolstad@redlion.com
OR
Portland
Red Lion on the River Jantzen Beach
Michele Clifford
503-283-4466
mclifford@redlionontheriver.com
PA
Camp Hill
Radisson Hotel Harrisburg
Lindsay Peters
717-433-9737
lpeters@radpenn.com
PA
Frazer
Sheraton Great Valley Hotel
Kim Turnbaugh
610-280-2090
kim.turnbaugh@ihrco.com
PA
Harrisburg
Sheraton Harrisburg-Hershey Hotel
Megan Savannah
717-565-3340
Megan.savannah@sheratonhershey.com
PA
Philadelphia
Crowne Plaza Main Line Philadelphia
Ron Balle
215-477-0200
ron.balle@cpphilawest.com
PA
Philadelphia
Holiday Inn Historic District
Mizetta Hopkins
267-765-3327
mizetta.hopkins@ihg.com
PA
Pittsburgh
Doubletree by Hilton Pittsburg Green Tre
Denise Verzi Goetz
412-920-8077
denise.verzi@camhosp.com
RI
Warwick
Crowne Plaza Hotel
Michelle Sartrys
401-732-6029
book@providenceri.crowneplaza.com
RI
Warwick
Sheraton Providence Airport
Lisa Kasprzak
401-824-0670
lisa.kasprzak@sheratonprovidence.com
SC
Charleston
Holiday Inn Charleston Riverview
Rose Guinn
843-460-1441
rguinn@hiriverview.com
SC
Charleston
Town & Country Inn & Conference Center
Stephen Clarke
843-329-3304
sclarke@palashospitality.com
SC
Myrtle Beach
Landmark Resort Hotel
SC
Myrtle Beach
SC
Myrtle Beach
SC
North Charleston
SC SD
Pat Emmons
843-448-9441
pemmons@landmarkresort.com
Leanne McCulloch
843-282-5125
leanne@seamist.com
Springmaid Beach Resort
Sharon Kemerer
843-315-7173
skemerer@springmaidbeach.com
Radisson Hotel Charleston Airport
Stacie Lynam
843-744-2501
stacie.lynam@radisson.com
North Charleston
Sheraton Charleston Airport Hotel
Lindsey Stedman
843-529-2312
lstedman@sheratoncharleston.com
Rapid City
Grand Gateway Hotel
Bob Hodet
866-742-1300
bhodet@grandgatewayhotel.com
p 43
Sea Mist Oceanfront Resort
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Page 43
RFN Members
MD MD
RFN Members
Hotels (continued) TN
Chattanooga
Chattanooga Choo Choo
Tonya Steele
423-308-2406
tonyas@choochoo.com
TN
Chattanooga
Country Inn & Suites/ I-24 West
Christi Baggett
423-825-6100
chbaggett@sandcompanies.com
TN
Clarksville
The Riverview Inn
Renee Bruens
931-552-3331
renee@theriverviewinn.com
TN
Gatlinburg
Greystone Lodge at the Aquarium
Renee- Spurling
865-436-5621
Greystonesales@aol.com
TN
Gatlinburg
The Park Vista A Doubletree By Hilton
Angela Quigley
865-277-1042
aquigley@parkvista.com
TN
Millington
Holiday Inn Express Millington
Miriam Drenning
901-872-3640
dos.pageproperties@ymail.com
TN
Nashville
Holiday Inn Express Airport Area
Mari Anne Liporace
615-883-1366
marianne.liporace@oplhotels.com
TN
Nashville
Holiday Inn Express Nashville Downtown
Jennifer Jones
615-244-0379
jjones@hiexndt.com
TN
Nashville
Holiday Inn Opryland Airport
Sonya Slay
615-316-1062
sonia.slay@ihg.com
TN
Nashville
Millennium Maxwell House Hotel
Katie Goyette
615-313-1366
kgoyette@mill-usa.com
TN
Nashville
Sheraton Music City Hotel
Devin J. Murphy
615-231-1252
dmurphy@sheratonmusiccity.com
TN
Pigeon Forge
Music Road Hotel
David Sorge
800-429-7700
dsorge@musicroadhotel.com
TX
Austin
Holiday Inn Midtown Austin
Theresa Campos
512-206-3015
dos@hiausmid.com
TX
Galveston
Holiday Inn Resort on the Beach
Carly Rowland
409-740-5300
crowland@ldry.com
TX
San Antonio
El Tropicano Hotel
Michael Rodriguez
210-277-4046
mprodriguez@eltropicanohotel.com
TX
San Antonio
Holiday Inn Airport
Roland Lopez
210-524-5932
roland.lopez@hisaairport.com
TX
San Antonio
Holiday Inn San Antonio Riverwalk
Debbie Zaeske
210-272-1514
debbie.zaeske@ihg.com
UT
Salt Lake City
Red Lion Hotel Salt Lake Downtown
Jerry Mika
801-521-7373
jerry.mika@redlion.com
VA
Alexandria
Hilton Alexandria Mark Ctr
Michael Sicheri
703-845-2645
msicheri@hiltonalexandriamc.com
VA
Arlington
Crowne Plaza Washington Natl Airport
Sean Mansfield
703-842-1222
sean.mansfield@bfsaulco.com
VA
Arlington
Crystal City Marriott/Regan Natl Airport
Department Sales
703-413-5500
***
VA
Arlington
Holiday Inn National Airport/Cry
Sean Mansfield
703-842-1222
sean.mansfield@bfsaul.com
VA
Ashburn
Embassy Suites Dulles North
Jolene Pardee
703-554-6051
jolene.pardee@hilton.com
VA
Dulles
Holiday Inn Dulles Airport
Lorrie Hooper
703-563-1502
info.hiwashingtondulles@bfsaulco.com
VA
Dumfries
Holiday Inn Dumfries Quantico Ctr
Petra Carr
703-441-9001
petra.carr@nabhs.com
VA
Fairfax
The Mason Inn
Kelly Smith
703-865-4623
kelly.smith@themasoninnva.com
VA
Falls Church
The Westin TYSONS CORNER
Alex Lindemann
703-893-1340
alindemann@westintysonscorner.com
VA
Hampton
Crowne Plaza Hampton Marina Hotel
Valerie Todd
757-727-8916
valerie.todd@cphamptonmarina.com
VA
Herndon
Hilton Washington/Dulles
Leslie Bauman
703-834-1991
***
VA
Manassas
Comfort Suites Manassas
Deborah Nicolas
703-686-1100
nicolasd@gfhotels.com
VA
McLean
Courtyard by Marriott-Tysons Corner
Kathleen Porter
703-790-0207
kathleen.porter@bfsaulco.com
VA
McLean
Crowne Plaza Tysons Corner
Maggie Drummond
703-738-3118
maggie.drummond@bfsaulco.com
VA
Newport News
Marriott Newport News @ City Ctr
Karen Murrell
757-310-5008
karen.murrell@crestlinehotels.com
VA
Newport News
Point Plaza Suites & Conf Ctr
Kelli Lantz
757-952-0116
kelli@beckcompanyhotels.com
VA
Norfolk
Hilton Norfolk Airport
Colleen Briley
757-466-8000
cbriley@norfolkhilton.com
VA
Norfolk
Holiday Inn Norfolk Airport
Donna Faison
757-213-2231
faisond@gfhotels.com
VA
Reston
Sheraton Reston
Bob Ciccone
703-262-5931
bciccone@sheratonreston.com
VA
Virginia Beach
Best Western Plus Virginia Beach
Rachel Hayes
757-428-5370
rhayes@bestwesternoceanfront.com
VA
Virginia Beach
Cavalier Hotel & Convention Center
Cindy Woolfolk
757-352-2764
cindyw@cavalierhotel.com
VA
Virginia Beach
Crowne Plaza Virginia Beach
Valencia Moore
757-213-4386
vmoore@cpvabeach.com
VA
Virginia Beach
Holiday Inn & Suites North Beach
Amanda Mason
757-419-3665
amanda.mason@crestlinehotels.com
VA
Virginia Beach
Holiday Inn Virginia Beach Norfolk Hotel
Katie Casson
757-499-4400
kcasson@hiexeccenter.com
VA
Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg Resort Collection
Scott F. Coelln
800-822-9127
scoelln@cwf.org
WA
Bellevue
Red Lion Hotel Bellevue
Andrea Sullivan
425-455-5240
andrea.sullivan@redlion.com
WA
Kelso
Red Lion Hotel Kelso/Longview
Ginny Whiffen
360-636-4400
ginny.whiffen@redlion.com
WA
Olympia
Red Lion Hotel Olympia
Ann Sweeney
360-943-4000
ann.sweeney@redlion.com
WA
Richland
Red Lion Richland Hanford House
Genevieve Speegle
509-946-7611
genevieve.speegle@redlion.com
WA
Seatac
Seattle Airport Marriott
Kris Lafata
206-241-2000
kristina.lafata@marriott.com
WA
Seattle
Crowne Plaza Seattle Downtown
Beth Harwood
206-676-3923
bharwood@cphotelseattle.com
WA
Seattle
DoubleTree Suites-Hilton Seattle Arpt SC
Diane Witt
206-777-3389
dianewitt@dtseattle.com
WA
Spokane
Red Lion Hotel at the Park
Stephanie Stobie
509-326-8000
stephanie.stobie@redlion.com
WA
Vancouver
Red Lion Hotel Vancouver at the Quay
Michele Dunn
360-694-8341
michele.dunn@redlion.com
Page 44
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Hotels (continued) WI
Appleton
Radisson Paper Valley Hotel
Nancy Hollis
920-733-8000
nhollis@radissonpapervalley.com
WI
Brookfield
Sheraton Milwaukee Brookfield
Adam VanOuwerkerk 262-364-1010
Adam.VanOuwerkerk@sheraton.com
WI
Green Bay
Radisson Hotel Green Bay
Jennifer Simonar
920-494-7300
Jennifer.Simonar@rhccgb.com
WI
Neenah
Best Western Bridgewood Resort Hotel
Joe Williamson
920-967-4950
jwilliamson@bwneenah.com
Hotel Management Companies and Hotel Chains are increasingly aware of the military reunion market. These TRN Management Company & Chain Members offer the reunion planner an opportunity to look at a number of locations and sites using one source. MD
Bethesda
B F Saul Company - Hotel Division
Joe Koch
240-793-3736
joe.koch@bfsaulco.com
MN
Rochester
Carlson Rezido Hotel Group
Janelle Smith
507-884-9610
janelle.smith@carlsonrezidor.com
SC
Greenville
JHM Management, Inc.
Ann Kies
864-528-5814
akies@jhmhotels.com
WA
Spokane
Red Lion Hotels Corporation
Sharon Danitschek
509-777-6302
sharon.danitschek@redlion.com
General Attractions These RFN Members provide additional services and support for your reunions. Help yourself and help TRN continue its work. Always go to RFN Members first! AK
Wrangell
Nolan Center
Terri Henson
907-874-3699
terri@wrangellalaska.org
DC
Washington
Phillips Seafood Restaurants
Debra Morroni
202-488-8192
dmorroni@phillipsfoods.com
FL
St Augustine
Ripley-s Believe It or Not Museum
Kathi Ellison
904-824-1606
ellison@ripleys.com
MO
Branson
Branson Variety Theater
Lisa Martin
888-462-7267
salesbvt@aol.com
MO
Branson
Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction
Kamber Sperle
417-336-7974
kambers@dixiestampede.com
MO
Branson
Flash Photo Group Photography
David Cain
417-334-0073
dave@flashphotobranson.com
MO
Branson
Jim Stafford Theatre
Tate Womack
800-677-8533
tate@jimstafford.com
MO
Branson
Mansion Entertainment & Media Ctr
Amy Leaming
417-239-3058
aleaming@themansiontheatre.com
MO
Branson
Showboat Branson Belle
Teina Woodburn
417-338-3911
twoodburn@silverdollarcity.com
MO
Branson
Sight and Sound Theatres
Simi Telesco
717-687-4220
simi.telesco@sight-sound.com
MO
Branson
The Starlite Theatre
Jill Pearce
417-335-6350
jpearce@starlitetheatre.com
MO
Branson
Titanic Museum Attraction
Ruth Ann Crust
417-334-9500
ruthann.crust@titanicattraction.com
MO
St Louis
The Gateway Arch Riverfront
Natasha McIntosh
314-923-3047
nrmcintosh@gatewayarch.com
NY
Lockport
Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises
Mike Murphy
716-433-6155
captainmike@lockportlocks.com
SC
North Myrtle Beach The Alabama Theatre
CMP, Kathy B Flowe 843-272-5758
kflowe@alabama-theatre.com
TN
Nashville
Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum
Keith Wright
615-416-2001
kwright@countrymusichalloffame.org
TN
Nashville
Grand Ole Opry/Gaylord Attractions
Joshua T. Mullins
615-882-5439
jmullins@gaylordentertainment.com
WA
Tacoma
Emerald Queen Hotel & Casino
Doreen Vitek
253-441-3189
doreen_vitek@emeraldqueen.com
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
Page 45
RFN Members
Hotel Management Companies
USA Promotions
RFN Members
FL
Hollywood
Promotional Associates, Inc.
Stephen C. Greenberger 954-295-5955
stephen@promos247.com
Military Oriented Attractions Everyone wants to have a good time! These attractions offer fun things to do for your reunion attendees. As RFN Members, these attractions promise a great experience! IA
Waterloo
Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum
Cyd McHone
319-234-6357
cyd.mchone@gmdistrict.org
MO
Branson
Veterans Memorial Museum
June Tillis
417-336-2300
info@veteransmemorialbranson.com
VA
Norfolk
Nauticus & Battleship Wisconsin
Colby Peck
757-664-1021
colby.peck@norfolk.gov
VA
Triangle
National Museum of the Marine Corps
Sara O-Bryan
703-649-2365
obryan@marineheritage.org
WA
Seattle
The Museum of Flight
Meagan McGuire
206-768-7104
mmcguire@museumofflight.org
Riding the Thunderstorm Lt. Col. William Rankin ejected from his F8 Crusader at 47,000 feet after suffering a catastrophic engine, electrical, and systems failure while flying at 500 knots, or nearly 600 miles per hour. Shot into the freezing air nine miles above earth that summer evening in 1959, Rankin’s body immediately suffered the ravages of explosive decompression. His nose bled, his body swelled and the wind nearly tore him apart. That was only the beginning. Rankin fell straight into a thunderstorm that triggered the decompression switches on his parachute. He was then spun around, frozen, hit by hail, and surrounded by lighting and air so thick with water he had to hold his breath to avoid drowning. Spun upside down, sideways, and into his rigging, Rankin’s luck held. Eventually he landed after smashing into a tree... 65 miles and 40 minutes after he ejected. Rankin lived for another 50 years before passing away in 2009, and was known after his harrowing experience as the “Man Who Rode the Thunder,” and the only person to ever have survived a fall from the top of a cumulonimbus thunderstorm cloud.
In The Next Issue: 1) Traveling with RFN to Cape Cod, Massachusetts & Daytona Beach, Florida 2) Complete ConFAM© and WorkFAM© Parade for 2013
Page 46
Reunion Friendly News
•
Fall, 2012
C o nvention
C o nven t i o n
& Vi s i t o r s
& Vi sitor s
B u r e au
Bureau
Enjoy historic districts, military memorials, first-class shopping & dining, outdoor markets & adventure. Jefferson, a new dimension to the New Orleans experience!
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To learn more, ask for our Group Tour Planner Guide. Call 504-731-7083 or TOLL FREE 1-877-572-7474.
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