An
nu
al
CV
B
Iss
ue
Bringing Reunions and Locations Together Since 1991 Published by THE Reunion Network, Inc.
Volume XV • Winter, 2012-2013
We Love Our
CVBs!
First Place Focus CVB Pages 2, 24 & 26
Fourth Annual National CVB Day February 15th n
pinio O s ’ l Pau
Hope and Change p. 36
ce inan
F
r
Corne
Taxes & the SelfEmployed p. 38
The Ultimate in Customer Service While it is true that some CVBs ignore military reunions, it is rarely the fault of the people who work there. Everyone in the hospitality industry has been working very hard these past few years, but in these difficult times, budgets are down sharply. There isn’t enough to cover every type Customer service, in our opinion, reaches its highest of group. Those who have been working with the military level when you do not have to ask for it; or perhaps it is reunion market continue to do so; and that’s about a third available whenever you ask for it. This really sums up of the country. Whatever markets the CVBs are forced to what Convention & Visitors Bureaus are really primarily concentrate on, the fact is that it is extremely rare when for, and it is what they do. We can cite any number of military reunion planners are shown the door. cases where CVB personnel have gone out of their way, way out of their way, to help reunion planners. It is why Every year, for the Winter Issue of Reunion Friendly News we say that the person at the CVB helping you is your best we celebrate and show appreciation to the CVBs. Indeed, several years ago, we decided that CVBs were so great friend! (and by that we mean the people who work for he CVB) We have seen cases these past few years, when CVB that we should have a national holiday. To give them the budgets have been slashed and the CVB still functions. recognition they surely deserve. Accordingly, February In one or two cases, there were no funds even to pay 15 was designated National CVB Appreciation Day. We people, and yet the people working there came in anyway, celebrate again this year, and have finally figured out the working on their own time, to continue operating and real meaning of CVBs… providing customer service. Every week, a fairly large group of CVBs, hotels and other reunion vendors receives a message from RFN about dealing with military reunion planners. The emphasis on all of these messages is on customer service.
Customer Very Best Service!
The next time you need information about a location, and especially the services offered, try calling the local CVB! The next time you need help with your reunion, try calling the local CVB! The service and the services they provide can help you make that next reunion of yours better, usually a lot better. If you have not availed yourself of the free talent, and dedicated services that the CVB provides, you are surely missing out. We respectfully suggest that you make friends with those at the local CVB wherever your reunion will be. There is just nothing that compares. paul@reunionfriendly.com Page 2
Reunion Friendly News
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Veterans Memorial Museum
Branson Honors Veterans Every Day!
Tony Orlando
Veterans Day Parade
Vietnam Veterans Traveling Wall
Showboat Branson Belle
9TH ANNUAL MILITARY REUNION PLANNERS CONFERENCE August 19 - 22, 2013 Branson, Missouri
Clay Cooper
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 2013 REUNION PLANNER SALES KIT Contact: Julie Peters, CTIS, Leisure Groups Sales Manager Branson/Lakes Area CVB • P.O. Box 1897 • Branson, MO 65615 • 800-214-3661 417-334-4084 • Fax 417-334-4139 • JPeters@BransonCVB.com • ExploreBranson.com
Reunion Friendly News
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Page 3
To the Struggle Against World Terrorism The ‘Tear Drop Memorial’
in this issue
2 ��
The Ultimate in Customer Service
24 ��
I Just Didn’t Know
26 ��
Industry Watch
Time cures everything, but there are things we cannot and must not forget. Standing more than 100 feet tall, “To the Struggle Against World Terrorism” honors victims of 9/11 and the 1993 World Trade Center bombings and serves as a symbol of solidarity in the fight against world terrorism. The memorial was a gift from the Russian people and Vladimir Putin, President. Dedicated on September 11, 2006, it stands in direct view of the Statue of Liberty and the former World Trade Center on the peninsula at Bayonne Harbor, New Jersey.
34 ��Here’s YOUR Chance! Poll
in every issue
5 ��Editorial: From the Situation Desk
6 �� Quality or Quantity?
The 175-ton monument was shipped from Russia to the United States in six sections — weighing between 28 and 63 tons each — and assembled by a group of Russian artisans. The creator, Russian sculptor Zurab Tsereteli spent several months in the U.S. overseeing construction of the memorial.
ConFAM© / WorkFAM© Parade 9 �� New London, Connecticut 10 �� D.C. Area/McLean, Virginia 11 �� Washington, D.C. 12 �� Nashville, Tennessee 13 �� Branson, Missouri 14 �� Albuquerque, New Mexico 16 ��New & Renewing Members Traveling with RFN 20 ��Cape Cod, Massachussetts 22 ��Daytona Beach, Florida 25 ��From A Woman’s Point of View 28 ��Email & Letters
36 �� 38 ��
Paul’s Opinion: Hope & Change Finance: Taxes and the Self-Employed
40–46 Member Listing
Page 4
In it, hangs a 40-foot stainless steel teardrop, representing sadness and grief over the loss of life, but also hope for a future free from terror. Etched in granite on an 11-sided base are the names of the nearly 3,000 killed in the 1993 World Trade Center bombings and terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. Reunion Friendly News
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By Zac Spiewak, Managing Editor, Reunion Friendly News
The Definitive Source Of Information For The Volunteer Reunion Planner
From
Published by THE Reunion Network, Inc. DBA: Reunion Friendly Network 1835 E. Hallandale Beach Blvd., Suite 332 Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009
the
Situation Desk
1-800-225-5044 • 954-922-8788 Fax: 954-922-8338
Thankfully it’s been very busy here at RFN these past couple of weeks. There is so much to do for the coming year. Charlene may be the busiest one of all trying to add one and maybe two more ConFAMs© for the fall of 2013. But she is also busy signing up ConFAMs for 2014. Look for a complete listing on page 7 in the Spring issue where we will list all the ConFAMs© that have been booked for both 2013 and 2014. In the meantime check out page 7 and the ConFAM© Parade pages for the new ConFAMs© that Charlene booked these past three months.
Website http://www.reunionfriendly.com President / Founder Paul J. Spiewak “The Reunion Guru” paul@reunionfriendly.com Executive Vice President Charlene Adamson charlene@reunionfriendly.com
We’ve had a great response to our poll for the best place to have a reunion, but so far there is no clear cut winner. Don’t get left out. Please see page 34 of this issue if you want to get in on the fun. The results will be published in the Summer 2013 issue.
Vice President – Finance Marc Spiewak marc@reunionfriendly.com Managing Editor Zachary M. Spiewak zac@reunionfriendly.com
Please note that our mailing address has changed (see the back cover for details), but our email addresses and telephone numbers are unchanged.
Manager of Membership Sales and Development Jane Martin jane@reunionfriendly.com
And lastly, everyone here at RFN would like to wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday season. See you in the spring! zac@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 paul@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
This issue brought to by the support of these organizations AZ Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
NY Niagara Tourism & Convention Corp . . . . . 29
CO Colorado Springs CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
OH Greene County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
IL DuPage CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
SD Rapid City CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
KY N Kentucky CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
TN Chattanooga CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
MD Ocean City - Dunes Manor Hotel . . . . . . . . 30
VA Fairfax County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
MO Branson Lakes Area CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
WA Vancouver USA Reginal Tourism Office . . 37
MO Greater St Charles CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
WI Waukesha Pewaukee CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
MO Pulaski County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
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Page 5
Quality or Quantity? While you may have heard this many times over the years, most will never have applied it to ConFAMs©. Yet for us at the Reunion Friendly Network it is an over-riding consideration. When we first designed the idea of a ConFAM©, our objective was not only to provide both a learning and a visiting experience, but to emphasize the way any meeting could be run. First, we wanted to be sure that those who attended understood that what we were doing was offering a demonstration in a way that you could copycat as much as you could for your own reunion. For us, it is actually harder than for you. Take a look at the table below to see why. Second, the facility had to have the capability for both a classroom and an exhibit room for three days. Over the years, we have discovered that this is more difficult than most people think.
Reunion
ConFAM©
# Locations
Only 1
5-18 Locations
Attendees
YES
YES
Exhibitors
NO
YES
Reception & Menu
NO
YES
# Dinners/Banquets
1
3
Lunches
0
3
Tours & Side Trips
1 or 2
Minimum 3 Plus at Least Three Hotel Site Inspections
Seminar Program
NO
FIVE 45 minute Sessions
Forum & Interview Program
NO
Half-Day
Door Prizes
NO
YES – AND usually enough for everybody
Event & Interview Material
NO
YES
Bound Event & Material for Exhibitors
NO
YES
# Per Year
attendees and exhibitors. It takes more days to update the web site, and to prepare the Parade pages in Reunion Friendly News.
But all that is … The EASY PART! The toughest thing of all is finding the best locations. Aside from all of the necessary things we need to arrange with both the host hotel and Fourth, instead of one or two tours, the Convention & Visitors Bureau (or we needed to fill a day-and-a-half some other person or organization), of touring, PLUS the necessary we have to find places are where, and transportation and free admission to have, and that are: attractions. ¾¾ Reunion Friendly Fifth, instead of just concentrating ¾¾ Actually have and are willing to on one banquet, three banquet type furnish what is needed in terms of dinners, plus three lunches, plus three rooms, meals, tours, transportation breakfasts, plus a reception with an and other facilities. open bar and hors d’ouvres had to be ¾¾ Good potential reunion locations, arranged. including having tours and trips that military reunion planners like This doesn’t cover it all, not by a ¾¾ Are conveniently located near long shot. It takes days of work to major airports and road systems put all the material together, to get it shipped, to collect fees from both ¾¾ Will attract military reunion planners Third, the hotel had to be accommodating regarding room prices (free for planners & special rates for exhibitors).
Page 6
Reunion Friendly News
After all this is done, it is necessary to get written conformation that the host agrees to abide to the eight pages of specifications, and to do so at least nine months before the actual event.. It is a tribute to Joan (who passed away in 2008) and now Charlene to have put together these events for the past 15 years, when I first created the concept of the ConFAM©. These two ladies are the mainstay of the ConFAM©. Without their efforts and dedication, we could never have created these 238 events during the past 21 years. So, if the schedule is not quite what you wanted or expected, please be patient. We are dedicated to having quality events at quality locations. Having an event in a place that is not Reunion Friendly or one that cannot meet the requirements is a waste of your time and ours. paul@reunionfriendly.com
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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 purchases, ConFAM©/WorkFAM© Location including items charged to your New London hotel room. A ConFam©
NEW PRICING
B C
E
F
D
6:00PM Reception
Conference Display
One-on-Ones Planner Interviews ½ Day FAM
Full FAM Day Farewell Dinner
Leave On
CT
Sun 21-Apr
Mon 22-Apr
Tues 23-Apr
Wed 24-Apr
Thurs 25-Apr
ConFam©
Washington DC Area
Wed 19-Jun
Thurs 20-Jun
Fri 21-Jun
Sat 22-Jun
Sun 23-Jun
Work FAM©
Washington DC Area
Sun 23-Jun
Mon 24-Jun
No Exhibits
Tues 25-Jun
Wed 26-Jun
D
ConFam©
Nashville TN
Wed 7-Aug
Thurs 8-Aug
Fri 9-Aug
Sat 10-Aug
Sun 11-Aug
E
ConFam©
Branson MO
Sun 15-Sep
Mon 16-Sep
Tues 17-Sep
Wed 18-Sep
Thurs 19-Sep
F
ConFam©
Albuquerque NM
Sun 20-Oct
Mon 21-Oct
Tues 22-Oct
Wed 23-Oct
Thurs 24-Oct
B C
Registration Fee: $199* for a planner with guest; $149* for a single person.
A
To register: ➀ Tear out this page from the magazine. ➁ Complete
*ConFAMs© include a free copy of RFN’s Military Reunion Handbook, retail value is $99. WorkFAMs© include a copy of Ins & Outs of Military Reunion Contracts which is not available elsewhere. Please see page 46 for details.
both sides. ➂ Mail with your check to RFN, 1835 E. Hallandale Beach Blvd., Suite 332, Hallandale Beach FL 33009
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 Email Address 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
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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
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©
New London, Connecticut April 21–25, 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 Reunion Friendly News
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Thames River Page 9
©
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 Page 10
Reunion Friendly News
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©
©
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 Lincoln Memorial
History, Structure, Requirements, Analyzing, Dissecting, Improving YOUR Contracts 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 Reunion Friendly News
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Arlington National Cemetery AND MORE! Sign Up Now — Limited Space Attendees eligible for RFN Planner Certification
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©
Nashville, Tennessee August 7–11, 2013
Holiday Inn Opryland Airport
War Memorial Plaza
Tennessee State Capitol
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.
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Page 12
Reunion Friendly News
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©
Branson, Missouri September 15–19, 2013 Radisson Hotel Branson
www.explorebranson.com
GENERAL ATTRACTIONS ✭✭ Branson Variety Theater ✭✭ Clay Cooper Theatre ✭✭ Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction ✭✭ Flash Photo Group Photography ✭✭ Mansion Entertainment & Media Ctr ✭✭ Showboat Branson Belle ✭✭ Sight and Sound Theatres ✭✭ The Starlite Theatre ✭✭ Titanic Museum Attraction
Showboat Branson Belle
MILITARY ATTRACTIONS ✭✭ Veteran’s Memorial Museum ✭✭ Ride the Ducks ✭✭ Hall of Heroes Branson Landing
✈✈ ✈✈
22
ACCESS Branson (BKG) Springfield (SGF) Ground Transport to hotel; ✈ shuttle or rental car I-44 to Springfield, south on Hwy. 65
Titannic Branson Museum Reunion Friendly News
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Page 13
©
Albuquerque, New Mexico http://itsatrip.org
October 20–24, 2013 MCM Elegante GENERAL ATTRACTIONS ✭✭ Old Town ✭✭ Albuquerque Biological Park ✭✭ Indian Pueblo Cultural Center ✭✭ National Hispanic Cultural Center ✭✭ Anderson-Abruzzo Balloon Museum ✭✭ Albuquerque Uptown Shopping Center ✭✭ Albuquerque Museum of Art & History ✭✭ Sandia Casino ✭✭ Isleta Casino ✭✭ The Downs at Albuquerque Racetrack & Casino
Old Town
MILITARY ATTRACTIONS ✭✭ New Mexico Veterans Memorial ✭✭ National Museum of Nuclear Science & History ✭✭ Ernie Pyle Home & Library ✭✭ Bataan Memorial Park ✭✭ Bullhead Park
✈✈
22
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ACCESS Albuquerque Sunport International (ABQ) I-40, I-25
Tram
Reunion Friendly News
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by Michael Marks
A Different Christmas Poem
The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light, I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight. My wife was asleep, her head on my chest, My daughter beside me, angelic in rest. Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white, Transforming the yard to a winter delight. The sparkling lights in the tree I believe, Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve. My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep, Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep. In perfect contentment, or so it would seem, So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.
The sound wasn’t loud, and it wasn’t too near, But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear. Perhaps just a cough, I didn’t quite know, Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow. My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear, And I crept to the door just to see who was near. Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night, A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight. A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old, Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold. Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled, Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child. “What are you doing?” I asked without fear, “Come in this moment, it’s freezing out here! Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve, You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!” For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift, Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts. To the window that danced with a warm fire’s light Then he sighed and he said “It’s really all right, I’m out here by choice. I’m here every night.” “It’s my duty to stand at the front of the line, That separates you from the darkest of times.
No one had to ask or beg or implore me, I’m proud to stand here like my fathers before me. My Gramps died at ‘ Pearl on a day in December,” Then he sighed, “That’s a Christmas ‘Gram always remembers.” My dad stood his watch in the jungles of ‘Nam’, And now it is my turn and so, here I am. I’ve not seen my own son in more than a while, But my wife sends me pictures, he’s sure got her smile. Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag, The red, white, and blue... An American flag. I can live through the cold and the being alone, Away from my family, my house and my home. I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet, I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat. I can carry the weight of killing another, Or lay down my life with my sister and brother. Who stand at the front against any and all, To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall.” “So go back inside,” he said, “harbor no fright. Your family is waiting and I’ll be all right.” “But isn’t there something I can do, at the least, “Give you money,” I asked, “or prepare you a feast? It seems all too little for all that you’ve done, For being away from your wife and your son.” Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret, “Just tell us you love us, and never forget. To fight for our rights back at home while we’re gone, To stand your own watch, no matter how long. For when we come home, either standing or dead, To know you remember we fought and we bled. Is payment enough, and with that we will trust, That we mattered to you as you mattered to us.”
Editor’s note: I ‘found’ this poem on the internet last year, but did not include it in last year’s Winter issue because I was unable to document the author. The International War Poetry Archive (IWVPA) credits Michael Marks and documents that he wrote the poem in December 2000. zac@reunionfriendly.com Reunion Friendly News
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Page 15
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 41. Convention & Visitors Bureaus
Alabama Huntsville Huntsville/Madison County CVB 500 Church St Ste One 35801 Sharon Snell ssnell@huntsville.org 800-843-0468 256-551-2233 www.huntsville.org
Arizona Yuma Yuma Vistors Bureau 202 S 1st Avenue #202 85364 Shannan Gonzalez shannan@visityuma.com 928-376-0100 800-293-0071 www.visityuma.com
California Sacramento Sacramento CVB 1608 I St 95814 Betsy Longmire blongmire@cityofsacramento.org 916-808-7275 800-292-2334 www.sacramentocvb.org
Georgia Columbus Columbus Georgia CVB PO Box 2768 31901 Sid Kaminsky skaminsky@visitcolumbusga.com 706-317-2110 800-999-1613 www.visitcolumbusga.org
Page 16
Louisiana
Missouri
Lafayette Lafayette CVC PO Box 52066 70505 Irene T. Hodge irene@lafayettetravel.com 337-232-3737 800-346-1958 www.lafayettetravel.com
Independence Independence Missouri Tourism Dept 111 E Maple/PO Box 1019 64051 Amanda Wadington awadington@indepmo.org 816-325-7108 800-748-7323 www.visitindependence.com
Massachussetts
North Dakota
Centerville Cape Cod COC 5 Patti Page Way 02632 Patti Lloyd sales@capecodchamber.org 508-362-9351 508-685-8339 www.capecodchamber.org
Fargo Fargo-Moorhead CVB 2001 44th St SW 58103 Jill Gates jill@fargomoorhead.org 701-365-4560 800-235-7654 www.fargomoorhead.org
Massachussetts
New York
Salisbury North of Boston CVB PO Box 5193 01952 Sue Ann Pearson spearson@northofboston.org 978-465-6555 www.northofboston.org
Niagara Falls Niagara USA/Tourism & Conv Corp 10 Rainbow Blvd 14303 Reanna Darone reanna@niagara-usa.com 716-282-8992 877-325-5787 www.niagara-usa.com
Michigan
Pennsylvania
Lansing Greater Lansing CVB 500 East Michigan Ave Suite 180 48912 Heather C. Kim hkim@lansing.org 517-377-1402 800-648-6630 www.lansing.org
Reunion Friendly News
Gettysburg Gettysburg CVB 571 West Middle Street 17325 Jenny McConnell jenny@gettysburg.travel 717-338-1053 800-337-5015 www.gettysburg.travel
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Tennessee
Washington
Florida
Nashville Nashville CVB 150 4th Avenue North Suite G-250 37219 Amy Spear amy@visitmusiccity.com 615-259-4716 615-708-6692 www.visitmusiccity.com
Vancouver Vancouver USA Regional Tourism Office 101 E 8th St Ste 240 98660 Debbie Picard dpicard@visitvancouverusa.com 360-750-1553 877-600-0800 www.visitvancouverusa.com
Kissimmee Ramada Gateway 7470 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy 34747 Janis Blair blairj@ostarhotels.com 407-997-6614 407-396-4400 www.ramadagateway.com
Texas
Destination Management
El Paso El Paso CVB One Civic Center Plaza 79901 Catherine Stevens ccountiss@elpasocvb.com 915-534-0695 800-351-6024 www.visitelpaso.com
Missouri Branson West Gatherings Plus PO BOX 1023 65737 Pam Brown pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com 417-338-4048 417-239-4562 www.reunionpro.com
Virginia Hampton Hampton CVB 1919 Commerce Drive Ste 290 23666 Julie A. Williams julie@hamptoncvb.com 757-728-5318 800-487-8778 www.visithampton.com
Hotels
California San Diego Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside 4875 North Harbor Drive 92106 Jodie Langhammer jodie@holinnbayside.com 800-650-6660 619-224-3621 www.holinnbayside.com
Virginia Leesburg Visit Loudoun 112-G South Street SE 20175 Jennifer Ritter ritter@visitloudoun.org 703-771-7525 800-752-6118 www.visitloudoun.org
Florida Daytona Beach Plaza Ocean Club 640 North Atlantic Avenue 32118 Sophia R. Huger shuger@daytonahotelsandresorts.com 386-239-9800
Virginia Manassas Discover Prince William & Manassas 10611 Balls Ford Road, Ste 110 20109 Michael “Mike” Stoupa mstoupa@discoverpwm.com 571-482-7049 703-396-7130 www.discoverpwm.com
Reunion Friendly News
Florida Jacksonville Crowne Plaza Airport 14670 Duval Road 32218 Natalie Galmore ngalmore@mmihg.com 904-421-2031 800-465-4329 www.cpjacksonvilleairport.com •
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Illinois Northbrook Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel 933 Skokie Blvd 60062 Susan Fox sfox@renaissancechicagons.com 847-897-5421 847-498-6500 www.renaissancehotels.com/chinb
Illinois Wheeling The Westin Chicago North Shore 601 N Milwaukee Ave 60090 Jim Straus jim.straus@westin.com 847-777-6559 847-777-6500 www.westin.com/chicagonorthshore.com
Louisiana Baton Rouge Holiday Inn Baton Rouge South 9940 Airline Hwy 70816 Heather Day hday@brsouth.com 225-924-7021 888-814-9602 www.hibatonrougesouth.com
Louisiana New Orleans French Quarter Chateau LeMoyne 301 Dauphine Street 70112 Thu Tran thu.tran@ihg.com 504-613-3210 800-447-2830 www.hifrenchquarterhotel.com
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Hotels, continued
Missouri Branson Grand Plaza Hotel 245 N Wildwood Dr 65616 Darlene Burkhart darlene@bransongrandplaza.com 417-336-6646 800-850-6646 www.bransongrandplaza.com
Missouri Branson Stone Castle Hotel & Conf Center 3050 Green Mountain Dr 65616 Rachael James rachael@bransonstonecastle.com 417-231-4721 800-677-6906 www.bransonstonecastlehotel.com
Missouri Branson Welk Resort Branson 1984 Hwy 165 65616 Susan Smith s.smith@welkgroup.com 417-243-1232 800-808-9355 www.welkbranson.com
Missouri St Robert Baymont Inn & Suites 139 Carmel Valley Way 65584 Betsy Thomson betsybaymont@yahoo.com 573-336-5050 www.baymontinns.com/hotel/17871
Pennsylvania Camp Hill Radisson Hotel Harrisburg 1150 Camp Hill Bypass 17011 Lindsay Peters lpeters@radpenn.com 717-433-9737 717-763-7117 www.radisson.com/camphillpa
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Pennsylvania
Tennessee
Harrisburg Sheraton Harrisburg-Hershey Hotel 4650 Lindle Rd 17111 Katie Reichel katie.reichel@sheratonhershey.com 717-558-4608 717-564-5511 www.sheratonharrisburghershey.com
Chattanooga Chattanooga Choo Choo 1400 Market St 37402 Tonya Steele tonyas@choochoo.com 423-308-2406 877-872-2529 www.choochoo.com
Rhode Island
Tennessee
Warwick Crowne Plaza Hotel 801 Greenwich Ave 02886 Michelle Sartrys book@providenceri.crowneplaza.com 401-732-6029 401-732-6000 www.crowneplaza.com/warwick
Gatlinburg The Park Vista A Doubletree By Hilton 705 Cherokee Orchard Rd 37738 Angela Quigley aquigley@parkvista.com 865-277-1042 800-227-5622 www.parkvista.com
South Carolina
Tennessee
Myrtle Beach Landmark Resort Hotel 1501 S Ocean Blvd 29577 Pat Emmons pemmons@landmarkresort.com 843-448-9441 800-229-7295 www.landmarkresort.com
Nashville Nashville Airport Marriott 600 Marriott Drive 37214 Tracy Porier tracy.porier@marriott.com 615-684-5067 615-684-5067 www.marriott.com/BNATN
South Carolina
Texas
North Charleston Radisson Hotel Charleston Airport 5991 Rivers Ave 29406 Stacie Lynam stacie.lynam@radisson.com 843-744-2501 www.radisson.com/charlestonsc airport
San Antonio Doubletree by Hilton San Antonio Airport 37 North East Loop 410 78216 Judy Sandoval judy.sandoval@us.whg.com 210-321-4815 www.sanantonioairport.doubletree.com
South Dakota
Texas
Rapid City Cambria Suites 3333 Outfitter Road 57701 Jasmin Marcus dos@cambriasuitesrapidcity.com 605-341-0101 www.cambriasuitesrapidcity.com
Reunion Friendly News
San Antonio Holiday Inn San Antonio Riverwalk 217 N St Mary-s St 78205 Debbie Zaeske debbie.zaeske@ihg.com 210-272-1514 888-615-0726 www.holidayinn/sat-riverwalk
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Virginia
Virginia
Alexandria Hilton Alexandria Mark Ctr 5000 Seminary Road 22311 Michael Sicheri msicheri@hiltonalexandriamc.com 703-845-2645 703-845-1010 www.alexandria.hilton.com
Virginia Beach Cavalier Hotel & Convention Center 4201 Atlantic Avenue 23451 Cindy Woolfolk cindyw@cavalierhotel.com 757-352-2764 800-446-8199 www.cavalierhotel.com
Virginia
Washington
Alexandria Holiday Inn & Suites Historic District 625 First Street 22314 Rodrigo Vera rodrigo.vera@ihg.com 703-299-4962 www.hioldtownalexandriahotel.com
Tukwila DoubleTree Suites-Hilton Seattle Arpt 16500 South Center Parkway 98188 Diane Witt dianewitt@dtseattle.com 206-777-3300 800-222-8733 www.seattle.doubletree.com
Virginia
Blue skies, historic treasures, geologic wonders and unforgettable reunions await you in Colorado Springs. Even if it’s your first visit, we welcome you to experience western culture at its best. Visit Colorado Springs.
Wisconsin
Dumfries Holiday Inn Dumfries Quantico Ctr 3901 Fettler Park Drive 22026 Petra Carr petra.carr@nabhs.com 703-441-9001 www.ichotelsgroup.com
Brookfield Sheraton Milwaukee Brookfield 375 S Moorland Rd 53005 Adam VanOuwerkerk Adam.VanOuwerkerk@sheraton.com 262-364-1010 www.sheraton.com/ milwaukeebrookfield
Virginia Falls Church The Westin Tysons Corner 7801 Leesburg Pike 22043 Alex Lindemann alindemann@westintysonscorner.com 703-893-1340 www.westintysonscornerhotel.com
General Attractions
Missouri Branson Sight and Sound Theatres 1001 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway 65616 Simi Telesco simi.telesco@sight-sound.com 717-687-4220 • 800-377-1277 www.sight-sound.com
Virginia Virginia Beach Best Western Plus Virginia Beach 2809 Atlantic Avenue 23451 Rachel Hayes rhayes@bestwesternoceanfront.com 757-428-5370 800-448-2786 www.bestwesternoceanfront.com
Reunion Friendly News
WELCOME BACK
Military Attractions
Virginia Norfolk Nauticus & Battleship Wisconsin 1 Waterside Drive 23510 Colby Preston colby.peck@norfolk.gov 757-664-1021 757-664-1000 www.nauticus.org •
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Start Planning Your Reunion Today! VisitCOS.com/reunions 800.888.4748 x132 Page 19
CSCVB12 ReunionFriendly WINTER 2.25X10_FNL.indd 10/8/12 1 1:12 PM
Traveling with RFN
Cape Cod, Massachussetts Bowling Green
A Whale of an Event Hyannis/Cape Cod By Charlene Adamson
It was a “whale of an event” and, according to the planner evaluations, the Whaling Museum was the hands down winner for the FAM! With Edward Sturrup of Tour Trends as the third party planner at the helm, a multi-faceted ConFAM© went well. Paul and I took a few extra days to go to New York and New Jersey to see where he and Joan had raised their family and to have dinner with his granddaughter, Rachael. A side trip to Montpelier, VT was beautiful and we enjoyed the bed and breakfast and the restaurant that is a training facility for culinary students. As we headed south the fall leaves were more and more beautiful. The Sunday evening cocktail reception sponsored by RFN and The Heritage House Hotel was casual, fun, and an excellent networking for planners and exhibitors. Twentyfour planners proved to be excellent booking potential for the twenty two exhibitors and the change in RFN’s format to include one-on-one scheduled appointments on the second day is being well received by both planners and exhibitors. Monday began with an honor guard followed by Patti Lloyd welcoming the group and representing the Cape Cod Chambers and the town of Barnstable. A special treat of beer tasting was provided by Cape Cod Beer and Mayflower Brewery early evening for both planners and exhibitors. Lobsters and steaks were served Monday evening at our host hotel, The Heritage House, and sponsored by Lafayette Hotels, Maine and an old friend Don Haggett.
New Bedford Whaling Museum
Memorial. That evening the group visited South Yarmouth at The Irish Village for dinner. The following day, planners and RFN staff had several site inspections, including breakfast at the Hyannis Resort and Conference Center, the Hampton Inn, Westport the Fairfield Inn & Suites. It was a full FAM day with a tour of Battleship Cove, lunch in the officers Mess on the USS Massachusetts and a wonderful tour of the New Bedford Whaling Museum with the added attraction of meeting Captain Bob of Captain John Whale Cruise Boats, Plymouth. The delicious farewell dinner of steak was hosted by The Heritage House and the group gave birthday applause to planner, George Blessing. As at all RFN ConFAMs©, we enjoy good food, good times, and leave having learned something new about successful reunions and a new destination.
The staff at the hotel and all co-sponsors were exceptional. The area is totally “military reunion friendly.” Our special thank yous to General Manager, Mark Waldruff, and Peter Martino. And a rousing applause to Brad Haynes, Sales Manager, who was visible and efficient from beginning to end. If Gina at the Front Desk ever wants to become a Our heartfelt thanks to both Plymouth & Brockton on General Manager, she has all of the finesse, personality, Tuesday and Conway Charter on Wednesday for the bus and dedication to do so. transportation. Tour Trends number one tour guide, Nancy Hennigan, was knowledgeable and a delight. Tuesday’s Is Hyannis/Cape Cod a good place for a military reunion? lunch host was the new Double Tree by Hilton with a site RFN certainly thinks so with the teamwork of the area, inspection of that hotel and their sister property, Holiday the tours and history. Try that wonderful clam chowder Inn, Hyannis. We visited the Kennedy Museum, Cape Cod and you, too, will know the destination is “a whale of a Baseball League Hall of Fame and a stop at the Kennedy success.” Page 20
Reunion Friendly News
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R E M A R K A B L E
M I L I T A R Y
R E U N I O N S
20 miles west of Chicago Easy accessibility to O’Hare and Midway airports Over 100 reunion-friendly hotels World-class museums, dining and entertainment Close to Great Lakes Naval Training Center and Cantigny’s First Division Military Museum Contact 800-232-0502 or reunions@discoverdupage.com and ask about our Signature Services and Reunion Planner.
CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
www.discoverdupage.com
DuPage County: Commanding Military Reunions West of Chicago Expect nothing less than four star treatment when you reunite Navy Pier, a former Navy training center that is now a hub of with your comrades-in-arms in Chicago’s western suburbs. entertainment, activity and fun. March back in time at famed military museums, billet in comfort at our hotels and resorts, and entertain the troops in Some other highlights of your trip to DuPage might include: style at world-class restaurants and attractions. • A tour of Lynfred Winery in Roselle where you can sample award-winning wines. Tour Cantigny Park, home of the late Col. Robert R. • A ride on the Acorn Express to tour the Morton McCormick, and view the exquisite gardens and magnificent Arboretum with its breath-taking 1,700 acres of gardens mansion that once belonged to this former publisher of and forests. the Chicago Tribune. See the First Division Museum and • The ultimate shopping excursion at one of DuPage experience the amazingly realistic dioramas of the honoring County’s many and varied retail destinations. Big Red One soldiers. In spring and summer, you may even be able to witness a Civil War reenactment. With so much to see and do in DuPage County, you can count on a mission accomplished for a great military reunion. Take a motor coach to the Great Lakes Naval Training Center Find out how the DuPage Convention & Visitors Bureau can where you can tour this active base and enjoy lunch at the help make your reunion a major success with our long list of Officers Club with its magnificent views of Lake Michigan. complimentary Signature Services. Stop at the Memorial Water Wall, a veterans’ memorial at Soldier Field in Chicago, climb into a restored German U505 submarine at the Museum of Science and Industry, and spend the afternoon having lunch and enjoying the view at Reunion Friendly News
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Contact Julie Scholle, CTIS, Senior Military Reunions Sales Manager, at 800.232.0502 or julie@discoverdupage.com. To learn more about DuPage County and see testimonials from past military reunions, visit DiscoverDuPage.com.
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Traveling with RFN
Daytona, Bowling Florida Green
The Shore Is More Daytona Beach, FL By Charlene Adamson I had visited Daytona Beach as a child and a teenager, but WHAT a change has transpired! No longer just another tourist beach town, Daytona Beach has grown up to a level of excellence and beauty that was indeed inspiring. The Daytona Beach CVB and the Daytona Beach Resort joined together to provide the planners and exhibitors with a successful event. The beachfront hotel was impeccable and spacious. The staff spared no time or effort to be at the ready constantly. A special thanks to Nina Crabtree of the CVB for her tireless efforts and visibility from start to finish. The hotel’s sales team of Marsha Black, Sharon Palmiter, along with Sean and Andrew in the banquet department created a scenario that captivated the planners and exhibitors. In the hands of Chef McCarthy, food service was delicious and detailed in presentation that would be the highest competition to the Food Channel winners.
says it all. With no egotistical attitude, no closed door, no personal touch with the staff is the true way for a General Manager to lead a team and staff to excellence. Co-sponsors worked together as a team. The site inspections were a joy because the food was delicious at El Caribe Resort, Best Western Plus Aku Tiki, The Sunset Harbor Yacht Club, and at The Plaza and Shores Resort and Spa.
One of the key remarks that was made to Paul and me by Evaluations were almost unanimous that the Daytona the GM, Mike, was “I am just one of the team” and that Speedway was the highlight as we were able to experience the time trials. It is a not to be missed excitement event! The Museum of Arts and Sciences offered the planners an enjoyable time in their art galleries from different eras, different countries and artifacts. Booking a reunion at Daytona Beach gives the reunion planner the opportunity to shine and increase attendance. Ladies and Gentlemen, start your engines! Page 22
Reunion Friendly News
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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.
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.
R eRuenui no ino nF rFi Re inednldyl yN enwe sw s • • W Si n u tmem r , e2r 0 , 1220-1210 1 3
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I Just Didn’t Know When we began RFN more than twenty years ago, my two associates were supposed to be the experts on the hospitality industry. As I look back, they were just as unknowing as I was when it came to the CVBs. As we travel around the country to present information at our ConFAMs©, and having done 239 events over the years, we learn more and more just how great CVBs are. CVB of course means “Convention & Visitors Bureau.” It may be a bit confusing for those who do not know, because there are a variety of names under the CVB umbrella. There is VB (Visitors Bureau), TB (Tourism Bureau), CVA (Convention & Visitors Authority), OTBD (Office of Tourism & Business Development), and even COC (Chamber of Commerce), as well as a variety of similar names. No matter what the label is, these organizations exist in nearly every community for the express purpose of bringing more business to a specific community.
Why is This Important?
Reunions are a business! Whether or not the reunion group is a corporation makes no difference. Technically speaking a reunion association that is not incorporated is treated as a partnership by both the IRS, and the legal system. Regardless, reunions are clearly a business. When reunion groups comes to a community, even one where only 15 members of that group attend, the economic input (assuming 10 with spouses or guests) to that community could easily exceed $12,000. Considering the velocity of money, the economic impact would probably exceed $100.000!
actively seeking them, because those CVBs offer a mixture of incentives and services, mostly free or at minimal cost, to help you make your reunion a wonderful event. That is why we have been telling planners for twenty-one years THE CVB IS YOUR BEST FRIEND! There’s more to this story, because all of us are aware of the poor economic conditions that exist today. When the downturn hit in the middle of 2008, it wasn’t felt immediately everywhere because the budgets for most CVBs had already been approved through June of 2009. Most CVB budgets start in July and when 2009 rolled around, almost all had severe budget cuts. It was even worse in 2010, to the point where a number of CVBs were forced to close. Others continued on with people so dedicated to serving their communities that they worked without pay!
Be Fair
With limited budgets, CVBs are forced to allocate their funds to specific market segments. Sometimes, unfortunately, that means that there are simply not enough funds to help the military reunion planner. Bear in mind also that the CVB has obligations to the vendors who sell you their goods and services during your reunion. You also have to acknowledge that the source of CVB funding is from the community, and as a result when you make a CVB inquiry, you may be deluged with material that does not apply to your reunion. There may be some vendors who send you advertising material Those are facts, and if your group is even when it seems obvious to you twice the size, the impact doubles. Is that they cannot provide what you it any wonder that CVBs actively seek want or need. The CVB may be legally military reunions? Well, to be candid, obligated to pass your name to their not all CVBs do. It surely is important members when you inquire. for planners to know which CVBs are Page 24
Reunion Friendly News
Strong Point!
Bear in mind that the CVB is your best source for information about the community. If you want information about the community, ask the CVB about: 99 Airports 99 Aquariums 99 Bus & Taxi Companies 99 Casinos 99 Concerts 99 Discount Coupons 99 Festivals 99 Free Merchandise 99 Hotels 99 Hotel Site Inspections 99 Local Maps 99 Memorial Service Locations 99 Military Attractions 99 Military Bases 99 Museums 99 Name Badges 99 Nature Walks 99 Parks 99 Registration Assistance 99 Restaurants 99 RFP Distribution 99 River or Lake Cruises 99 Shuttles 99 Special Deals 99 Special Events 99 Tours 99 Theaters 99 Unique Attractions 99 Veteran Discounts 99 War Memorials 99 Zoos There are a lot more things you can ask about, depending on location. The point is that the CVB can provide you with so much that can help you make your next reunion the best one you have ever had; it is really foolish not to call them. Contacting the CVB before you start making arrangements for your next reunion is one of the best things you can do. CVB personnel are some of OUR favorite groups of people. Make them your friends, too. paul@reunionfriendly.com •
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From a Woman’s Point of View … By Charlene Adamson The holiday season brings to hearts and minds years past, present, and future. To those of you who spent your lives as veterans or veterans spouses, it is even more poignant a memory than to those of us who were privileged to have our families by our sides every year.
For those spouses who lit the Christmas candles or the Chanukah menorah, the missing soul mate left a void that never refilled. Fathers and mothers serving our country, whether in decades past or the current time, missed their families. I have heard many of the stories of Silent Night being sung in the darkness of some far away shore while the children and spouses who stayed stateside hung their stockings with care and prayed for the safe return of the veteran. The home baked pastries were shared without the veteran; but the family still attempted to keep a festive attitude for the children’s sakes. With my three great grandchildren and their father serving a tour of Afghanistan and three tours of Iraq consecutively, my granddaughter kept to the holiday traditions even in his absence. Yet, sacrifice was exemplified by the entire family. When he returned last year, he ate pecan and apple pie every night! Multi-tasking took on a new meaning for the spouse at home. Serving as both parents during that time was a juggling of responsibilities in an attempt to maintain normalcy. To each of our veterans that we serve and to their spouses and families, this season has new meaning and RFN pays honor and tribute to each member. Happy Holidays to one and all from everyone at RFN. Reunion Friendly News
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1976 in Philadelphia at an American Legion reunion. Of the 221 cases, 34 people died as a result. The question for every reunion planner is “If an outbreak occurred at the place you were holding your reunion next week, would you want to still hold the reunion?” The problem for most planners that even with the automatic “Acts of God” or “Force Majeure” clause that is automatic in every contract, that clause does not cover disease outbreaks or epidemics.
A new study predicts that you can expect a rise in hotel prices in 2013 on the order of 5–7%. This is not universal, however, particularly in places that are not major attractions for group meetings. Travel Weekly, a trade magazine, reported that when the final tally is in, total surcharges on hotel rooms will have grown by more than 6% in 2012. In some hotels, amounts collected are so large that the hotels are treating them as profit centers. These extra charges, which include cancellation fees, early departure fees, and room service delivery fees may exceed the two billion dollars, and are nearly four times what was collected only ten years ago. Unfortunately, these charges are still increasing.
High Alerts
As a result, when you execute contracts for your reunion, be sure that any and all charges must be in the contract or they do not apply. This should be settled at the time you negotiate to avoid later problems or confrontations. This is one subject that will be addressed further at the June RFN WorkFAM in the Washington, DC area. More unsettling is the report that several guests at the Chicago Marriott have been diagnosed with Legionnaire’s disease. While not necessarily an epidemic, this disease, originally broke out in July Page 26
This reiterates our emphasis at every ConFAM© and every WorkFAM© that you make sure that you either add or extend the Force Majeure (termination) clause in your contract to include epidemics. If this kind of situation develops for your reunion, you do not want to be forced to pay a cancellation penalty! If you are not clear about this, RFN can help you. At the very least get a copy of RFN’s Military Reunion Handbook. Better yet sign up for an RFN ConFAM©. Even better come to both the Washington DC ConFAM©, and the immediatelyfollowing WorkFAM©!
Air Fares Up Steeply
Air fares are changing all over. Ever since airlines were deregulated back in 1978, profitable years have been rare for almost every airline. Rising fuel prices and the poor economy have pushed these carriers to the point where they want to make up for all those lost years. While many have made small fare cutbacks, they also have increased surcharges, and keep adding new ones, it seems, every day. Some charge for everything: water, seat preference, early boarding, carry-on luggage, etc. This has put passenger pressure for a reduction in the number of extra charges being imposed. The airlines simply do not care. They have cut back on schedules so that seats are scarcer, and have now turned their hats and are now starting to experiment with fare increases. The bottom line is that whether you are hit with both more surcharges and higher fares, you are Reunion Friendly News
going to pay more. There was a time when some planners would not hold a reunion in a place that did not have good air service, but the percentage of travelers who would rather drive is up every month. If you are within 500 miles or even 1,000 miles of your destination, it probably pays to drive, despite increases in gasoline prices. Planners may want to reconsider venues further away from airports.
Security Changes
Aside from price, four different shoe scanning devices have been rejected by TSA. As a result, air passengers will have to continue to remove their shoes when going through security. Amazing, isn’t it? We can put a vehicle on Mars, and can’t build a shoe scanner? There also have been a number of recent cases where airlines have refused to allow passengers to board because they were wearing “inappropriate” clothing. The main offenders appear to be “excess cleavage” and T-shirts with vulgar slogans.
Auto Rentals
The big news in auto rentals this month is the strange takeover of Dollar Thrifty by Hertz. This is a matter of the highest price outfit taking over the cheapest. Life is sure peculiar sometimes. Nobody knows at this point what will happen to Dollar Thrifty policies or the Dollar Thrifty fleet. The latest statistics show that the hotel industry has sold a record halfbillion room-nights in the first half of 2012. While this did not completely use up hotel capacity, it nevertheless has left many in the industry jumping for joy. It also indicates that there will be a lot more pressure to raise rates to new record-breaking levels. paul@reunionfriendly.com •
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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
Pulaski County USA, Missouri A Welcome Place in America’s Heartland Pulaski County is proud to be home to Fort Leonard Wood, the largest active military training installation in the United States. Centrally located in the Ozarks along Interstate 44 between St. Louis and Branson, Pulaski County offers unique opportunities, first class museums, natural scenic beauty and a welcoming atmosphere for an ideal military reunion. The Pulaski County Tourism Bureau provides professional, complimentary services to Military Reunion Planners. ✭✭ Customized Group Itineraries ✭✭ Spouse Itineraries ✭✭ Lodging/Dining Bids ✭✭ Meeting Space Options ✭✭ Museum Tour Coordination ✭✭ Ft. Leonard Wood POCs ✭✭ Transportation Options Fort Leonard Wood is very reunion friendly. Installation tours are available with prior approval through proper channels. Specialized reunion tours of the facility are complimentary and are personalized to focus on your division in the military. A step on guide is assigned for the duration of the tour. Fort Leonard Wood is a training installation, graduating approximately 80,000 soldiers a year. All branches of the military- Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy and Coast Guard, actively train on Fort Leonard Wood. Reunion Friendly News
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Other activities your reunion group may consider are to attend a basic training graduation, dine in a mess hall. The Mahaffey Museum Complex houses the Military Police Museum, U.S. Army Engineer Museum and the Chemical Corps Museum indoors. This is the only place in the country where you can see three U.S. Army Branch museums in a single location. Outdoors, stroll through a collection of restored, temporary mobilization buildings, a replication of Ft. Leonard Wood during the 1940s. Outside the gate, there are options as well; group tours of two museums representing the area’s rich history or of Historic Route 66 are offered. Pulaski County USA is home to 30 hotels with over 1700 rooms. Several properties offer hospitality rooms and evening socials and most offer a free hot breakfast. Over 70 restaurants, national franchises and local favorites, offer a variety of options, including Missouri BBQ or unique dining in an actual cave.
Call us for more information at 877-858-TOUR or visit our website at ReunionsatFLW.com. We are a welcome place for your military reunion in America’s Heartland.
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Help Wanted!
Heads UP!
Robert Good of Circleville, OH photographed our reunion in Melbourne, FL in April and we have yet to receive any products or reimbursement for the fees paid in advance. I have made repeated attempts to contact him by phone, email or by regular mail to no avail and have learned recently that other ships, the USS Orleck for one are looking for him to deliver or reimburse. Glenn Smith USS Edisto
We have had a number of planners reporting on this company, including one from the Greene County, Ohio CVB. According to his Facebook posting, Robert Good has been in business for 42 years, and has a number of locations along the East Coast of the U.S. Our attempt to reach him has failed, and according to the Cleveland Businessfinder “This business may have relocated or is no longer active.” Reliable photography has been a problem from the day we opened RFN. We urge you to either use an RFN Member such as David Cain’s Flash Photo in Branson, or make some arrangement whereby you only give a minimum deposit and an iron-clad contract.
The Music Stopped
The National Anthem is played before the movie begins at all military base theaters. At a recent movie on LSA Anaconda, we stood to attention when the National Anthem began before the main feature. Three-quarters of the way through the National Anthem, the music stopped. What would you expect if this occurred with 1,000 18-22 year-olds back in the States? I imagine hoots, catcalls, laughter, a few rude comments, and everyone would sit down and yell for the movie to begin, assuming they had stood in the first place. Here in Iraq, 1,000 soldiers continued to stand at attention, eyes fixed forward. The music started again and they continued to quietly stand at attention. Again, at the same point, the music stopped. I expected some laughter, and for everyone to sit down and wait for the movie to start. But No!!... You could have heard a pin drop, while everyone continued to stand at attention. Suddenly, there was a lone voice from the front of the auditorium, then a dozen voices, and soon the room was filled with the voices of a thousand soldiers, finishing where the recording left off. It was the most inspiring moment I have had in Iraq and I wanted you to know what kind of soldiers are serving you. Remember them as they fight for us! Chaplain Jim Higgins LSA Anaconda Ballad Airport, Iraq (north of Baghdad) Page 28
Need some help here. According to the last OPNAV that lists awards, the Roger was awarded the AE for: 19 June 1959 - 05 July 1959 12 - 16 July 1959 01 - 02 August 1959 I was on board during these time periods and we were about at the half point of our Westpac cruise. I never knew about the awards. What I would like to know is if anyone that was on board during these periods knows what the heck we did to earn them. My failing memory goes back to those wonderful times, but some how I can’t remember anything special that we did during that period in time at sea. If anyone knows, I would appreciate knowing just for the halibut. Thanks. David Vick 906 W Terrace Dr Plant City, Fl. 33563 Dvick@tampabay.rr.com 813-441-4931 leave message
More Help Wanted
While looking through the CVB’s and Hotels I found only one listing for the Washington DC area! Do they not exist in DC? We voted on our next reunion in or around DC for 2013 so I began searching for hotels. Can you help? Orv Krieg USS Frank Knox Reunion Assn.
If you want a selection we suggest you either check the member listing in the latest issue of Reunion Friendly News or go to our web site www.reunionfriendly.com, Select Planners, Select Find a Location for Your Reunion, then Select a State. There is not much in DC proper because rates are generally too high for military reunions, but if you check adjacent Maryland you will see listings in adjacent Chevy Chase, Gaithersburg & Rockville. If you check adjacent Virginia, there are many listings for Arlington, Alexandria, Dulles, Dumfries, Fairfax, Falls Church, & McLean. Almost all of these are on the DC Metro which provides quick, inexpensive transportation to most of the free attractions in DC itself. Once you have a hotel name, you can go to Google, select maps, and type in the address to see where it actually is. Does that help?
Normal Situation
While we had a wonderful time at our last reunion, there was a problem with the tour company. Two couples had to cancel due to emergencies. Each was refused a refund, as per company policy. Is this normal? (Sender omitted by request)
Not unusual at all! Tour companies, Destination Managers, Receptives, and similar organizations have highly varied policies regarding both individual and group cancellations. If you sign a contract, which we definitely recommend, you should review it like any other contract. Tour companies are not subject to hospitality law as hotels are, and there are differences. Traps for the unwary planner are quite common. If you want to learn more about contracts, be sure to sign up for the RFN WorkFAM©
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EXPERIENCE A NATURAL WONDER AND SO MUCH MORE!
NIAGARA USA FOR ALL YOUR REUNION NEEDS INCLUDING: • HOTEL GROUP RATE REQUESTS • ITINERARIES • WELCOME BAGS AND MUCH MORE! CONTACT: Reanna Darone, Sales Manager at Reanna@niagara-usa.com 1-877-FALLS US ext. 305 Follow us for all the latest events and happenings, @NiagaraFallsUSA
Contact Niagara Tourism & Convention Corporation today for more information. 1-877-FALLS US • www.niagara-usa.com
in the Washington DC Area June 23 thru June 26, where you will receive a FREE copy of Ins & Outs of Military Reunion Contracts. This book also contains a contract checklist. If you haven’t been to a ConFAM© yet, you should do that first. You can sign up for one, immediately preceding the WorkFAM© also in the DC Area, and you will receive a FREE copy of RFN’s Military Reunion Handbook. See Page 7 for more info.
Unusual Situation
The hotel we are working with has told us that they will exclude sales from a cash bar in both the hospitality room and for the banquet area. Our contract does not specify this. Is there an industry standard? Further, they say that to be included, those sales have to be by advance purchase of drink tickets. While it does not appear that we will be stuck paying extra, we would appreciate any information. John Stallings Air Force Gunners Association
1) Excluding some or any portion of what your group spends on F&B is unreasonable. It most certainly is NOT an industry standard. 2) As a standard in our programs, we recommend refusal to sign any F&B minimums. Nevertheless, if the contract does not specifically exclude such sales, then we do not believe the hotel can justifiably exclude them. 3) This may be a “dreamed up” policy of the particular hotel F&B manager – It is suggested you talk to the GM (General Manager) of the hotel about this. Reunion Friendly News
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We were able to work it out with the GM. I have been unable to have a hotel waive the F&B minimum for our group. The best I can do is keep track on what we spend and make sure I get it low enough to keep us from paying for the hospitality room and a small room about 500 sq ft. John
While there are many hotels who do not insist on an F&B minimum, if you are willing to accept a minimum you do what John did — keep the guarantee as low as possible. Just a note to let you know that the will be having our reunion in April 2013. The selection of this site came directly from my attending your ConFAM© in Niagara Falls, NY last year and meeting the exhibitors there. Information provided at the ConFAM© was a tremendous aid in negotiating with the resort hotel and especially on how to avoid the pitfalls. Joe Monaco 614 ACWRON & 783 ACWRON
RFN Members Shine!
We just finished our reunion and the Holiday Inn Quantico Center ranks as one of the best. The entire staff was superb: very friendly and very professional, and made it a great week. A Marine Color Guard from Quantico MCB posted the colors and a bugler from MCB played “TAPS” for our memorial service. Not many dry eyes!
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O C E A N C I T Y, M A R Y L A N D
The perfect setting for your next Reunion!
Oceanfront at 28th Street ~ One Block from Boardwalk! ALL Guestrooms are Oceanfront with Private Balcony! Oceanfront Restaurant & Lounge ❖ Heated Pool & Jacuzzi Complimentary Morning Coffee and Afternoon Tea Complimentary Hospitality Suite ❖ Complimentary Meeting Space Full Service Catering ❖ Casino Ocean Downs nearby!
Relax. Refresh. Renew!
DUNES MANOR HOTEL Call Group Sales
800-523-2888
dunesmanor.com
Continued from page 29
We toured MCB, ate lunch at the base and visited the Marine Corps Museum one day, Pentagon and LockheedMartin the next, plus a short tour to Manassas. This hotel is tops. Anything we needed was taken care of. Jim Galchick, President VMF/VMA-311 Alumni Assn jgalchick@neo.rr.com After 12 years of reunions, we have met the best staff in the industry at the Sheraton Reston in Virginia. The staff is head and shoulders above any hotel we have ever stayed in. While not prone to giving kudos and undeserved accolades, in this case we were overwhelmed with the “can-do” attitude and willingness to help by the entire staff which provided absolutely “First-in-Class” service! Bravo Zulu! Tony West, President USS Decatur Association
Army Ranger
(from Leroy Cate) Many people may have forgotten about his time in the U.S. Army. He is the son of an Air Force General, and an accomplished Golden Gloves boxer. A graduate from Pomona College he became a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University. He joined the U.S. Army at the prompting of his father. After graduating from Officer Candidate School he graduated at the top of the class from both the Army Airborne and Ranger training; and then earned his wings, and became a U.S. Army helicopter (gun ship) pilot. He resigned his commission as a captain to go into music and acting. Check out his video – you may be surprised. http://www.youtube.com/embed/PU-A7eqadho?rel=0
Re: Cape Cod ConFAM From the Planners
We wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed the ConFAM© on the Cape. It was very informative, and an eye-opener, at the same time. I asked you about the name tags we wore, and you said you would send me the info on them when you got back to the office. Please send me what you can when you have a chance. I like the schedule on the back of the tags. We found everyone at the Heritage House to be professional, and knowledgeable. The food service was top notch. They hit a home run. Jim McKeon USS Boxeer
We have used TEMPbadge since 1993. In addition to the standard blanks which come three to a sheet and can print both front and back of the badge simultaneously, they also have some unique shapes that you may want to try, such as ship shapes. In recent years, the company was sold and reorganized, so that you no longer can buy direct. Call 800-628-0022 to locate your authorized local reseller.
From the Organizer & Exhibitors
It has been a pleasure and a privilege for me to have been a part of organizing the recent ConFAM© that took place on Cape Cod. In all the years that I have associated myself with groups, I have never come across such a professional group who were never late once for their appointments, or schedules during the tours arranged for the final two days. Being in their company was a joy, and hopefully most of them understood my English accent! I look forward to attending many more ConFAMs©, and hope again to have the honor of assisting with the tours following the conference. Edward Sturrup, President Tour Trends, Plymouth, MA Great Job RFN! The Hyannis MA ConFAM© was great! The qualified planners available for the exhibitors were excellent. The one-on-one interviews were sales time well spent and gave me the opportunity to close the sale with a number of planners. I came away with several bookings confirmed on the spot! Thanks RFN, Nancie Keenan Groton Inn and Suites Groton CT Thank you for a memorable, educational and extremely productive trip to Cape Cod for RFN! It was great to meet so many qualified reunion planners and to learn how to help gain and grow their Reunions. They are truly like a big family. It was very welcoming to all new exhibitors and planners were very willing to share all experiences. We are looking forward to our next RFN event! Sharon S Altland Hershey-Harrisburg RVB This was my first ConFAM© and I had a really nice time. It helped me understand what planners need and expect, gave me faces to names which was wonderful, Continues on page 32
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Continued from page 30
and it was a wonderful networking event to help me get questions answered from my peers. Great show! Barb Kleiss, CTIS, CTP Newport News Tourism & DO
Liquor Liability
The hotel says that the hotel will provide a bartender to serve our association owned alcohol in our hospitality suite; and that will ensure that the hotel is fully responsible and assumes full alcohol liability. If that is true...I would appreciate the verbiage that needs to go into the contract to make that legal. Tony West USS Decatur Association.
Reunite. Reminisce. Renew. Christina Petro Chrisp@chattanoogacvb.com 423-424-4417
From the judicial point of view the question of liability rests on two things 1) who owned the liquor before it was served, 2) who served it. By agreeing to supply a licensed bartender, the hotel is putting itself on the line (surely for 1/2 the liability at the minimum. I am not a lawyer and it is illegal for me to give legal advice - but OK to relay facts. The clause you want is something that says that both you & the hotel mutually agree that the hotel will supply a licensed bartender (at a cost of $xx) for the purpose of serving drinks in your hospitality room. Further, that the hotel assumes all liability related to said servings.
Inquiry
We have been searching for a dog tag making machine off and on for years, because we think our reunion association could raise money by making specialty dog tags. We would like to make the real things, not a cheap knock off. Do you have any information on who sells these machines and how much they cost? Steve Kraus USS Frank E. Evans (DD 754) These systems were all based on addressograph machines - my father used one in his factory I remember playing with it in the early 30s. Good quality production machines today are expensive, running as high as $25,000. There is a selection of used machines at http://www.dogtagmachines.com/Dog_Tag_Machines/Used_ Machines/used_machines.html but you will need to contact the people to get prices as they only show the original manufacturers suggested price. I found a much better deal if it is still available at http://www.okshooters.com/showthread.php?118069-Dog-TagMachine-For-Sale-or-Trade He says it’s a first class machine and only wants $450 - but it may need repair - and it may be a manual machine in which case it is probably overpriced. The best advice I found is at http://www.ehow.com/about_5380451_machine-make-dog-tags.html Based on this, you probably want a manual machine, slower, but far less expensive, mostly under $1,000 You can find a pretty fair selection at http://www.aliexpress.com/wholesale/wholesaledog-tag-machine.html zac@reunionfriendly.com
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Experience a different kind of meeting or convention when you come to Rapid City, South Dakota, in the Black Hills. Here, meet and greets include the 60-foot faces of Mount Rushmore National Memorial and the 87-foot tall face of Crazy Horse Memorial. Plan your next event in Rapid City where you’ll find all the meeting amenities you expect and some you don’t.
Contact Lisa Storms – Storms@VisitRapidCity.com |
1-800-487-3223 ext. 8487
Download a free Meeting Professionals Guide at www.RapidCityMeetings.com
Some of the greatest friendships form when men and women come together to serve their country in the Armed Forces. Celebrate those friendships and reconnect with your military family with a reunion in Rapid City, South Dakota. Centrally located to many patriotic sites, including Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Rapid City in the Black Hills of South Dakota was voted the2011 “Most Patriotic Small Town in America” by Rand McNally and USA Today. Along with Mount Rushmore, you’ll also find a strong military presence and history. Ellsworth Air Force Base, home to the 28th Bomb Wing’s B-1B Lancers, is located on the eastern side of Rapid City. For decades Ellsworth has been a part of protecting the United States and her allies. The South Dakota Air & Space Museum, the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, the Black Hills National Cemetery, and historic Fort Meade are also all located within minutes of Rapid City. Wander the streets of downtown Rapid City, and experience the City of Presidents, a historic sculpture walk with life-size bronze statues of past presidents while enjoying new restaurants, boutiques, art galleries and attractions like Main Street Square. With over 4,300 reasonably priced hotel rooms and facilities for 10 to 10,000, Rapid City is where reunions become monumental events. Reunion Friendly News
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Here’s YOUR LAST 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 1835 East Hallandale Beach Blvd., Suite 332 Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009 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 in the Annual Directory this summer.
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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.”
The Stephen F. UdvarHazy Center features one of the country’s leading collections of historic aircraft and spacecraft. Guests can see a wide variety of both civilian and military aircraft, as well as the space shuttle Discovery, which arrived in 2012. Admission to the museum is free. Reunion Friendly News
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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
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Paul’s Opinion
misallocation of funds. It even offends me more when these ill-conceived grants, loans, and buyouts result in new bankruptcies. Let us hope that this changes.
This article is a personal opinion, and does not necessarily represent the views of The Reunion Friendly Network, its employees, customers, or reunion It offends me even more when we send our best and strongest to fight planners. wars with no thought of what we are trying to accomplish, to defend people who do not want to defend themselves, and in places where we have no reasonable interest. An editorial by Paul Spiewak
Hope & Change!
Now that the elections are behind us, whether those for whom you voted lost or won, most of us want change. We eagerly are awaiting and hoping for positive developments.
It also offends me that we have lost a great deal of our freedom. It seems that nothing is untouched. Did you know that your showers are regulated? Our government has decided that we need to cut back on water usage, and for twenty years, now, showerhead manufacturers have been forced to constrict water flow, so instead of getting a quick brisk shower, you just stand there for two or three times longer and come out unsatisfied.
It seems to me that we have lost our way, and I am not clever enough to know which road will take us back to a place where liberty and justice will For that same twenty years, your prevail. laundry soap has been cut back so Changes to our laws over the past your clothes aren’t as clean. Even the eight years have been leading us chemicals in your windshield cleaner closer and closer to the failed Soviet fluid have been cut back. model where the government Doesn’t if offend you when you controlled everything. learn that you are paying more for It offends me that so many of you gasoline because it has ethanol in it. who sacrificed so much, and went This is a double whammy because through so many hardships, are it takes more energy to produce the being neglected by not receiving ethanol than the energy you get. proper government paid medical Not only do you pay more, but you care resulting from injuries incurred get less value at the same time. It’s during service. It is particularly regulated, so you do not have a choice offensive that so many unqualified, of buying better gasoline. It’s even often non-citizens, receive better care worse because ethanol leaves a sticky than our veterans. Let us hope that residue which is the same as poring syrup into your carburetor. Worse, this changes. there is so much corn being used to It offends me when the government make the ethanol that the cost of corn takes my money, and instead of or any food product containing corn using it for legitimate governmental is more expensive. On top of all this, purposes uses it to finance private your taxes are going to pay the farmer companies, without any knowledge a subsidy for producing ethanol in the of the economic consequences and first place. Doesn’t that offend you? dislocations involved in arbitrary Page 36
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We are all drowning in a sea of regulations, forced on us by our elected representatives who have nothing better to do than to collect payoffs for imposing more, and more, and more, and more regulations. Led by the Mayor of New York, these officials whose salaries we pay, are imposing more regulation even to the point of passing laws prohibiting large drinks. They tell vendors how hot the coffee has to be and which products you can use in your garden. Doesn’t that offend you? Why, you might ask, is all this happening? It seems to me that lawmakers have decided that they have been elected to make laws. Thus making laws is what they do. It’s a matter of power and a matter of job security. Doesn’t that offend you? Doesn’t offend you that all these handouts and giveaways have the country on the verge of fiscal disaster? Doesn’t the endless bickering in Congress without any positive results offend you? What I hope for, with a new government in place, is a reduction in the number of rules and regulations. What I hope (and pray) for is the regaining of freedom. Every veteran has sworn to uphold and defend our country and our Constitution. Every public official has sworn to uphold the Constitution. Yet every single day we are restricted in violation of that precious Constitution. There are those who even want to restrict our individual rights even further. Well, as one veteran to another, let me say that it offends me! Doesn’t it offend you? Comments are welcome. Please address them to: paul@reunionfriendly.com •
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We’re honored to welcom e you to Vancou ver USA… Vancouver has been welcoming our military service men and women for over 150 years! OFFICERS ROW
As the oldest city in Washington State and home to the Pacific Northwest’s first military post at Vancouver Barracks, Vancouver has a rich and culturally diverse history to explore. Located just across the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon, with easy access to airport and ground transportation, Vancouver Washington provides an ideal setting for reunions and group vacations. This friendly, charming community offers great meeting spaces, reasonably priced accommodations of every sort, and numerous dining options. In addition to our mild year-round weather and natural beauty, Vancouver offers unique historic attractions including the oldest continually operating airfield in the nation and a reconstructed fort set in a National Park.
Regional Attractions
VANCOUVER BARRACKS
• Fort Vancouver National Historic Site • Historic Officers Row & Vancouver Barracks • Pearson Air Museum and M.J. Murdock Aviation Center • Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
Vancouver USA
• Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument • Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge • Pendleton Woolen Mills Portland
• Portland Oregon Cultural Attractions
We’re Proud to Serve Those Who Have Served America! 1.877.600.0800
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WWW .VISIT VANCOUVER USA. COM
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SALES @ V ISIT V ANCOUVER USA. COM Page 37
CE AN FIN by Marc A Spiewak, Certified Public Accountant marcspiewak@gmail.com Twitter: @marcspiewak
Taxes and the Self-Employed Individual • The Compliance Department • The Accounts Receivable Department • The Audit Department
The Compliance Department chases individuals who have not filed their taxes at all. They will send you letters The 1099 Recipient Box 7, Form 1099: Nonemployee that become nastier and nastier as compensation has a dollar amount time goes on. They will file a return for in it for the year. Good amount, you you (not in your favor, of course) and think to yourself. Not bad for someone send you a bill including penalties and working on their own. This is what it is interest. like to be self-employed. No boss, work at your own pace, your own hours, etc. The Accounts Receivable Department goes after the money. If you do not It also means that you were not an respond to the letters, they have a employee. You did not have taxes few remedies. They will contact your taken out of your pay, you are not employer (if you have one) to garnish going to get a W-2 and chances are your wages, they will attempt to levy that you will have to pay taxes when your bank accounts and/or record you file your Form 1040 personal tax a lien against you. They have, on occasion, sent out an agent to knock return. No refund in sight. on your door.
The Tax Surprise
The Audit Department reviews the numbers that were reported on the tax return. If you report income on a Schedule C as part of your personal income tax return, the chances of being audited is FOUR times as high as if you do not have this kind of income. Schedule C expenses fall under the category of IRS “red flags” using a “DIF” scoring system (Discriminant Function System). This rates the potential for change or upward adjustment of So after the shock, after the denial of taxpayer’s tax liability. If you score a the amount that you owe, you either high enough number, you get audited. face up to it by trying to figure out how you are going to come up with If You Haven’t Filed Your Taxes the money to send the IRS or just not in A While deal with it at all by not filing your The first issue, then, is compliance. If taxes. You think, maybe the problem you haven’t filed tax returns in awhile will just go away. After all, you are just and don’t know where you stand, find a little fish in a great big ocean and no out. The IRS has a transcript on each one is going to come after you. and every one of us. You can get from them all detail on open years (years that you either haven’t filed or still Inside the IRS There are three departments at the IRS owe money on). to be concerned about. It is time to face your tax liability situation. There are two taxes on the same income. If you are self-employed, then your net income is subject not only to income tax (Schedule C) but self-employment tax as well (Schedule SE – the rate is 15.6%). This is all part of filing your personal income tax return. This is added to whatever other income you have to determine your total tax liability.
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The second issue is to file all delinquent returns immediately. Even if you owe money, file the returns regardless. We can settle the money later with the government (see below). The third issue is to make the numbers work and keep the “DIF” number as low as possible. The IRS, absent any documentation will run a SOL analysis on you. SOL stands for “Standard of Living”. They will ask for bank statements to see how you live. Remember, under reporting your income is tax evasion. I would never tell you to report less gross revenues than you actually received during the year, even if it was received in cash. However, being aggressive regarding your business expenses is perfectly acceptable as long as there is some kind of documentation and is referred to as tax avoidance.
If You Filed Your Taxes and Now you Owe
You are now facing the tax liability or, in other words, the amount you owe. 1st Choice: pay the amount in full any way you can. You really don’t want to owe the IRS. 2nd Choice: Set up an “Installment Agreement” by filing Form 9465 and pay off the amount over a period of time. 3rd Choice: Make a deal with the IRS by filing an “Offer in Compromise” (OIC). If the IRS thinks that there is no other way to collect from you now or in the foreseeable future they may make a deal with you.
Use a Professional
I cannot emphasize enough the importance of using a professional accountant in dealing with these issues. Just like any other profession (i.e. doctor, lawyer) you do not want to have yourself as your own patient or client. •
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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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CVBs (Convention & Visitors Bureaus & Tourism Development Agencies)
RFN Members
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! AL
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 Vistors Bureau
Shannan Gonzalez
928-376-0100
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
CO
Colorado Springs
CO
Pueblo
The Greater Pueblo COC
Jeanne Santillanez
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
Lisle CVB (Chicago Area)
IL
Lisle
IL
Oak Brook
IL
Schaumburg
KS
Salina
KS KY
p 19
Experience Colorado Springs CVB Kathy Reak
916-808-7275
blongmire@cityofsacramento.org
719-685-7638
kathy@visitcos.com
719-542-1100
jeanne_s@puebloconventioncenter.com
Jay Allen
800-733-9811
allen@stayinlisle.com
Julie Scholle
630-575-8070
julie@discoverdupage.com
Woodfield Chicago NW Conv Bureau
Melinda Garritano
847-278-3446
mgarritano@chicagonorthwest.com
Visit Salina Area COC
JoAnn McClure
785-827-9301
jmcclure@salinakansas.org
Wichita
Go Wichita
Andre- Mboule
316-660-6312
amboule@gowichita.com
Bowling Green
Bowling Green Area CVB
Duncan Hines
270-782-0800
duncan@visitbgky.com
KY
Covington
Northern Kentucky CVB
KY
Lexington
LA
Baton Rouge
LA
Jefferson
LA MA
p 21
DuPage CVB
Barbara Dozier
800-447-8489
bdozier@nkycvb.com
Roseanne Mingo
800-848-1224
rmingo@visitlex.com
Baton Rouge Area CVB
Jennye Snider
225-382-3584
jennye@visitbatonrouge.com
Jefferson Parish CVB
Magan Adams
504-731-7083
magan@experiencejefferson.com
Lafayette
Lafayette CVC
Irene T. Hodge
337-232-3737
irene@lafayettetravel.com
Centerville
Cape Cod COC
Patti Lloyd
508-362-9351
sales@capecodchamber.org
MA
Salisbury
North of Boston CVB
Sue Ann Pearson
978-465-6555
spearson@northofboston.org
MD
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
Tony Cook
952-278-8532
tcook@bloomingtonmn.org
MN
Rochester
Rochester CVB
Jay Gunnarson
507-424-0818
jgunnarson@rochestercvb.org
MO
Branson
Julie Peters
417-243-2117
jpeters@bransoncvb.com
Page 40
p 23
p3
Lexington CVB
Branson Lakes Area CVB
Reunion Friendly News
•
W i n t e r, 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3
Independence
Independence Missouri Tourism Dept
Amanda Wadington
816-325-7108
awadington@indepmo.org
MO
Joplin
Joplin CVB
Lenny Brubaker
417-625-4789
lbrubake@joplinmo.org
MO
Maryland Heights Maryland Heights CVB
MO
St Charles
MO
St Robert
NC
Fayetteville
Fayetteville Area CVB
Myron Jones
ND
Fargo
Fargo-Moorhead CVB
NE
Omaha Omaha CVB
NM
Albuquerque
NV
Laughlin
NY NY
Laura Brahan
314-738-2497
laura@mhcvb.com
Karen Fraser
800-366-2427
kfraser@historicstcharles.com
573-336-6355
bethw@visitpulaskicounty.org
800-255-8217
mjones@visitfayettevillenc.com
Jill Gates
701-365-4560
jill@fargomoorhead.org
Bill Slovinski
866-937-6624
bslovinski@visitomaha.com
Albuquerque CVB
Serena Sullivan
505-222-4355
sullivan@itsatrip.org
Southern Nevada Regional Office - NVCVA
Cherie Westbrook
702-298-3022
cwestbrook@lvcva.com
Buffalo
Buffalo Niagara CVB
Matt Carlucci
716-852-0511
carlucci@buffalocvb.org
Corning
Corning/Finger Lakes (Steuben Cty CVB)
Danielle Roman
607-936-6544
droman@corningfingerlakes.com
p 47 p 27
p 29 p 31
St Charles CVB
Pulaski County Tourism Bureau Beth Wiles
NY
Niagara Falls
OH
Beavercreek
Niagara USA/Tourism & Conv Corp Reanna Darone
716-282-8992
reanna@niagara-usa.com
Greene County CVB/near WPAFB Lisa Willis
937-320-9865
lwillis@greenecountyohio.org
OH
Dayton
Dayton/Montgomery Cnty CVB
OH
Toledo
Destination Toledo,Inc - CVB
Carman Huffman
937-226-8292
chuffman@daytoncvb.net
Julie Bolfa
800-243-466
jbolfa@dotoledo.org
OR
Eugene
PA
Gettysburg
Eugene, Cascades & Coast CVA
Juanita Metzler
541-743-8758
juanita@travellanecounty.org
Gettysburg CVB
Jenny McConnell
717-338-1053
jenny@gettysburg.travel
PA RI
King of Prussia
Valley Forge CVB
Courtney Pozo
610-834-7971
pozo@valleyforge.org
Providence
Providence Warwick CVB
Sheila Lindemann
401-456-0228
slindemann@pwcvb.com
SC
Charleston
Charleston Area CVB
SD
Rapid City
TN
Chattanooga
TN
Nashville
Nashville CVB
TN
Pigeon Forge
TX
Amarillo
TX TX
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
Amy Spear
615-259-4716
amy@visitmusiccity.com
Pigeon Forge Dept of Tourism
Kay Poole
865-453-8574
kpoole@mypigeonforge.com
Amarillo CVB
Emilea white
806-342-2017
emilea@visitamarillotx.com
Beaumont
Beaumont CVB
Rebecca Woodland
409-880-3749
rwoodland@ci.beaumont.tx.us
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
Tanida Mullen
254-501-3888
tmullen@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
p 33 p 32
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
Michael -Mike- Stoupa 571-482-7049
mstoupa@discoverpwm.com
VA
Norfolk
Visit Norfolk
Melissa Hopper
757-664-6620
mhopper@norfolkcvb.com
VA
Richmond
Virginia Tourism Corporation
Joni Johnson
804-545-5544
jjohnson@virginia.org
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
p 35
p 37
Visit Fairfax
WA
Vancouver
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 39
Vancouver USA Regional Tourism Office Debbie Picard
Waukesha & Pewaukee CVB
Reunion Friendly News
•
W i n t e r, 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3
Page 41
RFN Members
MO
Destination Management Companies, Tour Operators & Military Reunion Planners
RFN Members
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
Hotels RFN 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
Chris Robertson
480-967-6600
chris.robertson@sheratontempe.com
p 32
AZ
Tucson
Mindy Brugger
520-239-1107
mbrugger@rstucson.com
CA
Buena Park
Holiday Inn Buena Park Hotel & Conf Ctr
Dennis Fyda
714-690-4603
dennis.fyda@hibuenapark.com
CA
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
CT
Groton
Groton Inn & Suites
Nancie Keenan
860-445-9784
nkeenan@grotoninn.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
FL
Cocoa Beach
International Palms Resort
Colleen Mazzoni
321-783-2271
cmazzoni@internationalpalms.com
FL
Daytona Beach
Holiday Inn Resort Oceanfront
Kenneth Berthiaume 386-255-0921
dos@hiresortdaytona.com
FL
Daytona Beach
Plaza Ocean Club
Sophia R. Huger
386-239-9800
shuger@daytonahotelsandresorts.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
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
Page 42
Radisson Suites Tucson
Reunion Friendly News
•
W i n t e r, 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3
Orlando
Sheraton Orlando Downtown Hotel
Kristine Floyd
407-244-7465
kristine.floyd@sheratonorlandodowntown.c
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
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
Pooler
Holiday Inn Savannah/Airport Pooler
Lauren Heldreth
912-330-5100
lauren@savannahholidayinn.com
GA
Savannah
StayInSavannah.com
Cathryn Bowyer
912-721-6014
cathryn.bowyer@marriottt.com
ID
Boise
The Boise Hotel & Conference Center
Curt Asmussen
208-914-3957
casmussen@ardenthotels.com
IL
Deerfield
Embassy Suites Chicago North Shore
Dawn Brandau
847-945-4596
dbrandau@destinationhotels.com
IL
Northbrook
Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel
Susan Fox
847-897-5421
sfox@renaissancechicagons.com
IL
Oak Brook
Doubletree Chicago Oak Brook
Ruby Lane-Hodges
630-472-6009
ruby.lane-hodges@hilton.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 Baton Rouge South
Heather Day
225-924-7021
hday@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
MD
Gaithersburg
Holiday Inn Gaithersburg
MD
Ocean City
MD
Rockville
ME
S Portland
ME MN
Debbie Reed
301-948-8900
debbie.reed@bfsaulco.com
Lauren Prendergast
800-523-2888
lauren@dunesmanor.com
Crowne Plaza Washington DC-Rockville
Jessica Greene
301-795-3280
jessica.greene@cprockville.com
Best Western Merry Manor Inn
Donald Haggett
207-774-6151
dhaggett@merrymanorinn.com
Waterville
Best Western Plus Waterville
Karen Spaulding
207-873-0111
kspaulding@girihotels.com
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
Stone Castle Hotel & Conf Center
Rachael James
417-231-4721
rachael@bransonstonecastle.com
MO
Branson
Welk Resort Branson
Susan Smith
417-243-1232
s.smith@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
NM
Albuquerque
MCM Elegante Hotel & Event Center
Kara St John
505-884-8723
karastjohn@mcmelegante.com
NM
Albuquerque
Sheraton Albuquerque Airport Hotel
Jacque Rankin
505-843-7000
jacque.rankin@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
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
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
Billie Meeks
937-879-2698
billie.meeks@hopehotel.com
p 30
Dunes Manor Hotel
Reunion Friendly News
•
W i n t e r, 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3
Page 43
RFN Members
FL
RFN Members
Hotels, continued OK
Norman
NCED Hotel
Candie Westbrook
405-366-4976
candie.westbrook@marriott.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
Katie Reichel
717-558-4608
katie.reichel@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
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
Pat Emmons
843-448-9441
pemmons@landmarkresort.com
SC
Myrtle Beach
Sea Mist Oceanfront Resort
Leanne McCulloch
843-282-5125
leanne@seamist.com
SC
Myrtle Beach
Springmaid Beach Resort
Sharon Kemerer
843-315-7173
skemerer@springmaidbeach.com
SC
North Charleston
Radisson Hotel Charleston Airport
Stacie Lynam
843-744-2501
stacie.lynam@radisson.com
SC
North Charleston
Sheraton Charleston Airport Hotel
Lindsey Stedman
843-529-2312
lstedman@sheratoncharleston.com
SD
Rapid City
Cambria Suites
Jasmin Marcus
605-341-0101
dos@cambriasuitesrapidcity.com
SD
Rapid City
Grand Gateway Hotel
Bob Hodet
866-742-1300
bhodet@grandgatewayhotel.com
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
Noami Herring
901-872-3640
dos@pagepropertiestn.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
Nashville Airport Marriott
Tracy Porier
615-684-5067
tracy.porier@marriott.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
Doubletree by Hilton San Antonio Airport
Judy Sandoval
210-321-4815
judy.sandoval@us.whg.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
VA
Alexandria
Hilton Alexandria Mark Ctr
Michael Sicheri
703-845-2645
msicheri@hiltonalexandriamc.com
VA
Alexandria
Holiday Inn & Suites Historic District
Rodrigo Vera
703-299-4962
rodrigo.vera@ihg.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
Falls Church
The Westin Tysons Corner
Alex Lindemann
703-893-1340
alindemann@westintysonscorner.com
VA
Herndon
Hilton Washington/Dulles
Leslie Bauman
703-834-1991
leslie.bauman@dulleshilton.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
Point Plaza Suites & Conf Ctr
Kelli Lantz
757-952-0116
kelli@beckcompanyhotels.com
VA
Norfolk
Holiday Inn Norfolk Airport
Donna Faison
757-213-2231
faisond@gfhotels.com
VA
Norfolk
Norfolk Plaza Hotel Downtown
Donna Faison
757-802-9283
donna.faison@ahghotels.com
Page 44
Reunion Friendly News
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Hotels, continued 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
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
Tukwila
DoubleTree Suites-Hilton Seattle Arpt SC
Diane Witt
206-777-3300
dianewitt@dtseattle.com
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
Jennifer.Simonar@rhccgb.com
920-494-7300
¸
Hotel Management Companies Hotel Management Companies and Hotel Chains are increasingly aware of the military reunion market. These RFN 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 Hospitality Group
Cathy Bokman
301-986-6321
cathy.bokman@bfsaul.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
423-501-1430
sharon.danitschek@redlion.com
General Attractions These RFN Members provide additional services and support for your reunions. Help yourself and help RFN 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
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
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
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Page 45
RFN Members
VA
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 Preston
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
RFN’s Military Reunion Handbook Thousands of copies of Reunions Step by Step, written by “Reunion Guru” Paul Spiewak, was the first and only book about organizing, planning, and running military reunions. A three year effort to update and rewrite this work led to the printing of RFN’s Military Reunion Handbook in 2011. This new work is now available from all major book resellers at a list price of $99.95. Military reunion planners get a FREE copy by registering and attending an RFN ConFAM©. If you cannot attend a ConFAM©, you can purchase the book at a 50% discount (plus $10 shipping and handling) directly from RFN. Planners who already have the book who are registering for a new ConFAM© may elect to receive a $40 refund instead of the book. Note that those attending a WorkFAM© do not receive a copy of RFN’s Military Reunion Handbook because they will have already received a copy when they attend the pre-required ConFAM©. Instead, they receive a copy of Ins & Outs of Military Reunion Contracts, a book written specifically for use and exclusive distribution at WorkFAMs©. zac@reunionfriendly.com
In The Next Issue: 1) Look for additions to the 2013 ConFAM© schedule 2) FINANCE CORNER: Getting Out of Trouble with the IRS
Page 46
Reunion Friendly News
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CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE MEETING PLANNERS GUIDE
1-866-223-5961 www historicstcharles.com
Plan A Reunion That’s As Memorable As It Is Successful! When you plan your next meeting or convention think
Saint Charles offers more to see and do than your group
Saint Charles! Because we’re a smaller city, we pay special
will have time for outside their reunion. Start with a tour of
attention to safety, comfort and convenience. Saint Charles,
Missouri’s First State Capitol, visit the Foundry Art Centre, or
Missouri is Easy to Find – Hard to Leave, located 10 minutes
stroll through the historic shopping district featuring more
from the Saint Louis Airport, easy access off I-70 and 25
than 125 specialty shops and over 25 restaurants. Take in a
minutes from Downtown Saint Louis. Saint Charles offers
concert or try your luck at one of our casinos. Saint Charles
lodging for groups with over 3,000 hotel rooms plus several
offers something for everyone – from family amusement
bed and breakfasts throughout the city and historic districts.
to museums and galleries.
Saint Charles is also home to the largest historic district in
adventure, visit nearby area attractions like The Arch, St.
Missouri and features a total of 88 authentically restored
Louis Zoo or Missouri Botanical Gardens. Still not enough?
buildings. This charming area of gaslights and brick streets
Plan a day trip to Missouri Wine Country and visit the Daniel
provides a unique backdrop for a wide variety of off-site
Boone Home & Village, or ride the ferry to Eckert’s Country
meetings and other visitor activities.
Store and Farm.
Saint Charles boasts 4-star accommodations and state-of-
There are few places where you will find as much as Saint
the-art facilities, including the Saint Charles Convention
Charles has to offer. The Greater Saint Charles Convention
Center and the Ameristar Conference Center. In addition,
and Visitor’s Bureau will help you find the setting and price
Saint Charles offers many smaller venues to accommodate
that’s right for your group. In addition to personalized
groups of any size and activity. Some interesting meeting
services, their professional staff can help fulfill unusual
spots include the Missouri Wing Commemorative Air Force
and unique requests. Call 1-800-366-2427 or visit www.
Airplane Hanger, Boone’s Colonial Inn and Market, Train
historicstcharles.com for online resources. It is important
Station, the Foundry Art Centre and the Lewis & Clark Boat
for you to know that we will take your priorities and make
House.
them ours for a successful and memorable reunion! Reunion Friendly News
•
W i n t e r, 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3
If you’re up for even more
Page 47
this:
THE REUNION NETWORK 2450 HOLLYWOOD BLVD. SUITE 504 THE REUNION NETWORK 2450 HOLLYWOOD BLVD. HOLLYWOOD FL 504 SUITE33020
Reunion Friendly Network FL 33020 HOLLYWOOD sm
1835 E. Hallandale Beach Blvd., Suite 332 Hallandale Beach FL 33009
allows the protester to burn the flag!”
“Serving Those Who Winter, 2012-2013 Served Our Country” “Serving Those Who Served Our Country”
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We’ve Moved! Reunion Friendly Network 1835 East Hallandale Beach Blvd., Suite 332 Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009