10 Ho th A te nn l I ua ss l ue Bringing Reunions and Locations Together Since 1991 Published by THE Reunion Network, Inc.
Volume XV • Spring, 2013
Providing GREAT service ...
... and keeping costs down
99Telephone Service 99Parking 99In-Room Safe 99Internet Access 99Restaurant(s) 99Meeting Space 99and many more
s
Hotel
Four Sides p. 2 Patterns p. 22 Safety p. 23
©
Ms ConFA
Complete ConFAM© Schedule pp. 7–16
s
Hotel
Industry Watch p. 26 Menus p. 35 Second Tier p. 37
Four Sides When a planner likes a hotel, decides that’s where he wants to hold the next reunion, sits down with the Sales Manager, what is the first question asked? You all know the answer. It is “What is the room rate?” Life is not so simple or easy anymore, because there are actually four sides to that question. The first, of course is the rate quoted, but the fact is that there is a lot more to it! You simply cannot take a rate quote and effectively compare hotels on that basis. Room rate is only one side of the room. The second side of the room is taxes. The hotel hasn’t any control over this, because it is set by governmental agencies, especially the local ones. With bed tax rates generally in excess of 10%, the taxes imposed on the room have a substantial impact on what you will pay. In New York City, for example, there is a State sales tax and a City sales tax totaling 8.875%, plus a New York City Hotel Room Occupancy tax. This last is not fixed, but in most cases amounts to $2 per day plus 5.875% of the room rate. The total rate, which was sharply reduced a few years ago, still comes out to 14.75% plus $2. Sticking to New York City for the moment, the ADR (Average Daily Room Rate) was up to $324 in December 2011. This means that the tax alone came to just under $50/day.
to a Room Shuttles & Parking
Every reunion attendee may have an additional cost, depending upon how he came to the reunion. Driving a vehicle may result in a daily parking fee. The larger the destination city, the higher this tends to be, although many hotels still offer free parking. In some locations, it may run as high as $75 per day, so it is not to be taken lightly. If there is a parking fee, be sure that it is spelled out in the contract as a single fee including taxes. Parking fees may or may not be negotiable depending on who controls the parking space. The hotel has a lot less leeway where parking has been sold as a concession. For those who do not arrive by automobile, but by air, bus, or train, there is the question of how much it costs to get from the terminal to the hotel. Many hotels offer free shuttles, but many do not. In some case, it may cost as much as $75 per person each way, so that if two people arrive together, and take a shuttle to and from a terminal, at a rate of $50 per person, it comes to an additional $200 or $50 additional per night cost for the room if they stay four days.
The Fourth Side
On top of all this, there is another side to the room of growing importance. This side is called surcharges, and they are growing rapidly in dollar amounts as well as variety. Once again, you Even in parts of the Midwest, where need to have charges clearly stated the ADR is only $70, plus a tax as and limited in your contracts. low as 8%, so that the average total Attendees at RFN’s ConFAMs© learn room tax is a mere $5.60 per day. ways to avoid many of these through It appears obvious that it pays to proper contract language. inquire what the tax is before signing an agreement. This is particularly These charges originate largely true if you are comparing cities, because hotels, like air lines, believe because many individual cities and that raising rates and “throwing in” counties have imposed these taxes. various items will make them look Additionally, these are constantly more expensive, and thus cause them changing as local authorities decide to lose business, have taken this to “sock-it” to the tourists. tactic. For savvy reunion planners, Page 2
these can often be negotiated away. However, bear in mind that just a few years ago, hotels made a great deal of money on telephone surcharges. With the advent of almost universal cell phone use, this profit has vanished. Some hotels still charge for telephone access, as well as Internet connections, room safe, resort fees, newspapers, energy, among others, whether you asked for or want any of these particular items. There are other kinds of charges as well. You may be charged a room service fee, either as a flat daily rate or each time you use room service. If you open the mini-bar in the room, there may be a daily “restocking” fee. If you want to use the exercise room, the swimming pool, or the golf course, you may have to pay each time, or as a standard daily fee.
Your Job
Every reunion planner we have ever met took the job of reunion planner with the idea that he or she would do the best possible job. We commend all of you who are planners for doing that service. At the same time, even if it is just for your personal satisfaction, you want to be sure that you have done your best. When it comes to comparing hotels, be sure you have the facts to make a legitimate comparison between rates. Room cost is a big expense factor, and needs to be examined carefully to make sure that you are comparing grapefruit to grapefruit. Sloppy research may cost a lot of money to your buddies, so take your time. Ask the questions, and then make your comparisons. Sometimes, the result may give you a shock. If you want to know more, come to the RFN WorkFAM© in the Washington DC Area June 23-26, 2013. I hope to see you there. paul@reunionfriendly.com
Reunion Friendly News
•
Spring, 2013
IN BRANSON, YOUR MILITARY REUNION GROUPS WILL TAKE
CENTER STAGE CeNTER FEATURING OVER 100 LIVE SHOWS • SILVER DOLLAR CITY • TITANIC MUSEUM ATTRACTION THREE PRISTINE LAKES • BRANSON LANDING • FISHING • BOATING • MUSEUMS • SPAS • GOLF • ZIPLINES OUTLET SHOPPING • DINING • RESORTS • HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
9TH ANNUAL MILITARY REUNION PLANNERS CONFERENCE - AUGUST 19-22, 2013 | To Request the 2013 Reunion Planner Sales Kit, Contact: Julie Peters, CTIS, Leisure Group 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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Spring, 2013
Page 3
in this issue 2 ��
Four Sides to a Room
6 ��
A Time For Change
22 ��
Hotel Patterns Changing
23 ��
Safety & Security
26 ��
Industry Watch
35 ��
Menus for 2013: What’s Hot and What’s Not
36 ��Come to A NEW ConFAM
Books by Paul J. Spiewak
37 ��
Second Tier is Not Second Class
The latest book on:
Planning, Organizing, & Running Military Reunions! Available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and all fine book sellers at $99.95 • Kindle Version $39.95 Order Direct from RFN & SAVE!
Planner Special Price: $59.95 CVB & Hotel Members: $69.95
All Others $79.95 The Day I Flew In My Car and Other True Stories Anecdotes by an Octogenarian and other true stories
By Paul Spiewak
Regular price $39.95 Now available to RFN members at $29.95 plus shipping and handling
Do You Want to be a Leader? Do
YOU
Want To Be a Leader? by Paul J. Spiewak
A NEW, easy-to read, fast-paced guide for both Leaders and “want-to-be” Leaders.
SHIP TO:
A philosophical analysis at the practical level of leadership and how to evaluate the effectiveness of any leader. In an “easy-to-read” fast-paced style; richly endowed with quotations and personal anecdotes. The book is based on the author’s 60 plus years as an employee, employer, consultant and entrepreneur in more than 19 different situations. Regular Price: $14.99 + s&h
Now available to RFN members at $12.95 postage paid!
Name
in every issue 5 ��Editorial: From the Situation Desk
ConFAM© / WorkFAM© Parade 9 �� D.C. Area/McLean, Virginia 10 �� Washington, D.C. 11 �� Nashville, Tennessee 12 �� Boise, Idaho 13 �� Branson, Missouri 14 �� New London, Connecticut 15 �� Albuquerque, New Mexico 16 �� St. Augustine, Florida 17–21 New & Renewing Members 24 �� Member Memos 30 �� Finance: Getting Out of Trouble with the IRS 32 ��From A Woman’s Point of View 33 ��Think Before You Donate 34 �� Paul’s Opinion 38 ��Email & Letters
Address City
40–46 Member Listing
State, ZIP
Books will be sent on receipt of check made payable to RFN, 1835 E. Hallandale Beach Blvd., Suite 332, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009. Page 4
Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
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
Situation Desk
It took two issues, but we finally have it… the complete ConFAM© / WorkFAM© schedule for 2013 (see the new page 7) and due to Charlene’s seemingly tireless efforts there are some changes since the Winter 2012-13 issue. Please note the date change and the new venue for the ConFAM© in New London.
1-800-225-5044 • 954-454-0904 Fax: 954-454-0978 Website http://www.reunionfriendly.com
There is a new combined and updated registration form on page 8. We are in the process of rebuilding our website and when that is completed you’ll be able to complete the form on-line if that is easier for you. Please see page 19 for more information on our updated website.
President / Founder Paul J. Spiewak “The Reunion Guru” paul@reunionfriendly.com
It’s amazing to me how this year seems to be zooming right along. Maybe it seems a little bit faster than ever before. Is this possible? It’s probably because I had another battle with a kidney stone; the kidney stone lost, but so did I… about 4 weeks.
Executive Vice President Charlene Adamson charlene@reunionfriendly.com
My setback aside, this is one of the best Spring issues we’ve ever put together because there are more articles about the Hotel side of the business than we’ve ever had in a single Spring issue. And the articles run the gamut of the hotel industry and should ultimately help you understand how the pressures that are facing the hotels will affect the contracts you make for your reunions. For example, please take a look at page 26 for Industry Watch, the birds eye view of the entire hotel industry and page 35 for creative ways to handle your banquet menus. But it doesn’t end with those two articles; there are additional articles about some aspect of having a reunion at a hotel on pages 2, 22, 23, and 37.
Vice President – Finance Marc Spiewak marc@reunionfriendly.com Managing Editor Zachary M. Spiewak zac@reunionfriendly.com Manager of Membership Sales and Development Jane Martin jane@reunionfriendly.com
We’ve had a good time putting this issue together and it was very different than any issue I’ve worked on so far because we did not have a single article recapping one of our ConFAMs©. Those articles are also known as ‘Traveling with RFN’ will return in the Fall issue following the ConFAMs© in Washington DC, and Nashville Tennessee.
Director of Communications Gale Helser 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
My thought for Memorial Day is “Today is life. The only life you’re sure of. Make the most of today.” See you in three months and since I can’t resist because baseball season (my personal favorite) is just around the corner… Play Ball!
Reunion Friendly News (Reunion Friendly Network) is not responsible for opinions expressed in editorial material. The opinions are exclusively those of the authors and do not express the opinions of the Reunion Friendly Network, its staff, its members, its advertisers, or its readership. All editorial material is for information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The Reunion Friendly Network assumes no liability or responsibility for errors, mistakes, misprints, missing information, or content of advertising and advertorial copy. Reproduction of any portion of this publication is permitted for use in reunion group newsletters, providing attribution is given to the Reunion Friendly Network.
Reunion Friendly News
the
This issue brought to by the support of these organizations
•
CO Colorado Springs CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
NY Niagara Tourism & Convention Corp . . . . . 25
ID Boise CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
OH Greene County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
LA Jefferson County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
SD Rapid City CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-29
MO Branson Lakes Area CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
TN Chattanooga CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
MO Pulaski County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
VA Fairfax County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Spring, 2013
Page 5
A Time for Change It’s funny the way things often work out. For us at RFN, some unexpected circumstances occurred that moved all of the ConFAMs© to the second half of the year, at least to mid-June and beyond. This gave us an extended time period to make changes. First , the RFN website is undergoing a complete revision. If it is not in place by the time you receive this, it will be shortly. Second, it has allowed us to review what we do at the ConFAMs©. This has led to a new schedule to meet current needs of both the host and the planners.
ConFAM© Changes
Recognizing that the addition of the reception on the evening prior to the seminars has created difficulties. Either planners pay for a room night or the host hotel has to furnish those extra room-nights at no cost. Either way, it is an additional and unnecessary expense. The idea behind it was to have a time when planners and exhibitors could meet each other in a relaxed atmosphere. To overcome this situation, we have added a welcome brunch on the first seminar day and added a reception for both exhibitors and planners on the evening of the seminar day. To make it possible, we have packed our PowerPoint presentation a little tighter, and eliminated the last short session. Because the event starts with a brunch, planners have a little more time to arrive, and we believe everyone should benefit as a result. In the case of the Washington DC Area ConFAM©, for example, that extra night with tax would have cost the attending planners to spend well over $200 to attend the reception. Even if a planner has to travel a distance, a room can be booked the night prior to the event anywhere within a couple of hours drive. Here is what the new schedule looks like:
New Day One 10:00A-10:15
Planner Registration
10:15A-10:30
Opening Ceremony/Welcome
10:30A-10:45
Planner Briefing– re 1-on-1
10:45A-11:15
30 Minute Marketplace
11:15A-12:15P
Joint Planner/Exhibitor BRUNCH
12:15P–12:45
30 Minute Marketplace
12:45P–1:30
NEW SESSION #1
1:30P–2:00
30 Minute Marketplace
2:00P- 2:45
NEW SESSION #2
2:45P–3:15
30 Minute Marketplace
3:15P-4:00
NEW SESSION #3
4:00P- 4:30
30 Minute Marketplace
4:30
Exhibits Close & Breakdown
4:30P-5:15
NEW SESSION #4
5:15P-6:30
Planner Rest
6:30P-8:00P
Planner/Exhibitor Reception
Day Two – No Change 7:00A-8:00
Continental Breakfast w/ Exhibitors
8:00A-8:45
EXHIBITOR PANEL & FORUM
8:45A-9:15
Door Prizes
9:15A–NOON
Planner/Exhibitor Interviews
NOON
Conference ENDS
12:30
Planner FAM Departure
Day Three – No Change All Day Planner FAM — Event ends after Dinner Summary In short, we have responded to every reasonable request to give you more value for your time spent with us. It has been a huge effort on our part to provide better service. We hope you like the changes. paul@reunionfriendly.com
Page 6
Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
A ConFAM© is an all-expense-paid multi-day event combining a Reunion Conference and a FAMiliarization tour of the area. Rooms (three [3] free room-nights only), meals, admission, local transportation, instruction and instructional materials are furnished — at no cost to you — by RFN, the local CVB host hotel, other participating hotels and local attractions. You only pay to get there and return, alcoholic beverages and personal ConFAM©/WorkFAM© Location purchases, including items VA/DC Area A ConFam© charged to your hotel room. VA/DC Area B ©
D
A B
NEW PRICING Registration Fee: $199* for a planner with guest; $149* for a single person.
ConFam©
D
ConFam©
E
ConFam©
F
ConFam©
G
ConFam©
H
ConFam©
E
G
C
H
Month
Conf
FAM
Leave On
June
Th-F 20-21
F-Sa 21-22
Sun 23
June
Mon 24
Tues 25
Wed 26
Nashville, TN
August
Th-F 8-9
F-Sa 10-11
Sun 12
Boise, ID
August
M-T 19-20
T-W 20-21
Thur 22
Branson MO†
Sept
M-T 16-17
T-W 17-18
Thur 19
New London, CT
Sept-Oct
M-T 30- 1
T-W 1-2
Thur 3
Albuquerque NM
Oct
M-T 21-22
T-W 22-23
Thur 24
St. Augustine FL
Nov
R-F 13-14
F-Sat 14-15
Sun 16
Work FAM
C
F
Branson’s Pre-Conference reception is on Sunday, September 15th at 6:30 pm.
†
*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. Details: ©
To register:
➀ Tear out this page from the magazine. ➁ Complete the form on the back. ➂ Mail with your check to RFN, 1835 E. Hallandale Beach Blvd., Suite 332, Hallandale Beach FL 33009 Incomplete applications will be rejected!
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
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. Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
Page 7
REUNION PLANNER REGISTRATION FORM
PLEASE ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS IN BLACK INK TO QUALIFY
Sign me UP for (Location) _________________________ On Date _________________ Do YOU or YOUR Guest have any disability or dietary need that requires special attention? ___________________________________________________________________________________
Please note that each event requires frequent on and off bus stops, plus walking through attractions and hotels In case of emergency while at the event, please contact: (NAME) ___________________________________________ Telephone ____________________________
Date ___________________ Signature ______________________________________ Print Name ______________________________________________________________ Spouse Name ______________________________ Primary Address ___________________________________________________________________________________ City ____________________________________________________________________________ State __________________ Zip __________________________ Preferred Telephone ________________________________ E-Mail Address _____________________________________________________________________ YOUR Group Name __________________________________________________________________________ Military: Branch of Service ___________________ # Members You Send Newsletter to? __________
Your Group Years in Active Service: From ________ To __________
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Your LAST Reunion: YEAR ________ MO ___________ How Many Came Incl Guests ____________ Banquet Cost _________________ Where? Hotel ______________________________________________ City _______________________________________ State _______ Room Rate _____ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Your NEXT Reunion: YEAR _________ MO ___________How Many Expected Incl Guests _________
BNanquet Cost _____________________
Where? Hotel ______________________________________________ City _______________________________________ State _______ Room Rate _____ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Your NEXT UNBOOKED Reunion: YEAR _________ MO ___________ Preferred Dates __________________________________________________________ How Many Expected Incl Wives & Guests _________
Expected # Rooms Peak Night ____________ How Many Nights? _________________
What Part of the Country (Circle): NorthEast Mid-Atlantic SouthEast Midwest North Do You Need (check all those that apply) ____ Hospitality Room What Type of Tours Do You Want? ___ Military Related
Midwest Central
____ Separate Meeting Room
Midwest South
SouthWest
NorthWest
_____ Memorial Service Location
___ Nature Oriented ___ OTHER HELP _______________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
HOW DOES YOUR GROUP SELECT THE NEXT REUNION LOCATION ? PLEASE CHECK ONE:
___I MAKE THE DECISION
___I AM PART OF THE COMMITTE THAT DECIDES
___ WE PUT IT TO A VOTE
Registration Fee $149 – Single
PAY NOW
Or Print Form & Mail to RFN
$199 – w.Guest (sharing Room)
The Reunion Friendly Network, Inc. 1835 East Hallandale Beach Blvd, St, Hallandale Beach FL 33009 Toll-Free 800-225-5044 954-454-0904 Fax 954-454-9078 email: paul@reunionfriendly.com Visit our Web Site: www.reunionfriendly.com FAMReg 2/11/13 Page 8
Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
©
D.C. Area/McLean, Virginia June 20–23, 2013
Crowne Plaza Tyson’s Corner
U.S. Marines Memorial
Mount Vernon
WWII memorial
A McDonnell FH-1 (FD-1) Phantom on display at the National Air and Space Museum. Photo by Eric Long/NASM, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution. Copyright Smithsonian Institution. Enola Gay Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
Page 9
©
©
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 Page 10
Arlington National Cemetery AND MORE! Sign Up Now — Limited Space Attendees eligible for RFN Planner Certification Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
©
Nashville, Tennessee August 8–11, 2013
Holiday Inn Opryland Airport
Everybody knows about “Music City, USA.” but there’s a whole lot more to Nashville than the Country Music Hall of Fame. Officially there are 197 major attractions encompassing history, architecture, gardens, and performing arts. One of the most popular is the Hermitage, Home of President Andrew Jackson. Another is the Belle Meade Plantation, but there is also the Lane Motor Museum with the largest collection of European cars and motorcycles in the U. S. Keeping the ladies in mind there is the Relache Spa and the Cheekwood Botanical Gardens. Just a few miles out of the city you can enjoy the Yazoo Brewing Company (especially on Saturday), the Blackstone Brewpub & Brewery, the Big Bang Bar, and even a winery. You can sign your group up for several choices of a dinner theatre including a 2½-hour mystery dinner, or dine on the General Jackson Showboat. There’s even a special place with Dukes of Hazard memorabilia. Nashville is the home of Vanderbilt University and the Nashville Speedway, too. If that isn’t enough, there’s a long list of restaurants, many featuring country music or jazz, and for any old-timer the Tennessee Central Railway Museum including a tour.
War Memorial Plaza
Tennessee State Capitol
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
Page 11
© ConFAM hosted by the Boise Convention Bureau and the Riverside Hotel.
Airfare will be complimentary for one pre-qualified planner per organization.
Boise, Idaho
August 19 – 22, 2013 The Riverside Hotel
MILITARY ATTRACTIONS
✭✭ Warhawk Air museum ✭✭ Idaho Military History Museum ✭✭ Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial ✭✭ J. Curtis Earl Memorial Arms Exhibit at the Old Idaho Penitentiary ✭✭ Gowen Field (Idaho Air Nat’l Guard and Idaho Army Nat’l Guard) ✭✭ Mountain Home Air Force Base ✭✭ Idaho Veterans Cemetery ✭✭ USS Boise Memorial
Boise Street Scene
GENERAL ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES
✭✭ The only Basque Museum in the United States ✭✭ Old Idaho Territorial Penitentiary (one of only 4 in the U.S)) ✭✭ Thunder Mountain Train – scenic rail and dinner train ✭✭ The World Center for Birds of Prey ✭✭ Idaho State Capitol Building ✭✭ Idaho Historical Museum ✭✭ Idaho Botanical Garden ✭✭ Idaho Shakespeare Festival ✭✭ The Boise River Greenbelt (26 mile path) ✭✭ Boise Art Museum ✭✭ Idaho Black History Museum ✭✭ Boise State University – Blue Turf of Bronco Stadium ✭✭ Snake River Valley Wine Region (over 20 wineries) ✭✭ Capitol City Public Market
Boise Street Scene
Boise Art Museum
ACCESS
✈✈
Boise Airport (BOI) – served by Southwest Airlines, United, Delta/Skywest, US Airways, Allegiance and Horizon/Alaska Air
``
22 Page 12
Free Hotel Shuttles to all area hotels Interstate 84
Boise Basques Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
©
Branson, Missouri September 15–19, 2013 Radisson Hotel Branson
www.explorebranson.com MILITARY ATTRACTIONS
✭✭ Veteran’s Memorial Museum ✭✭ Ride the Ducks ✭✭ Hall of Heroes
GENERAL ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES
✭✭ 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
ACCESS
✈✈ ✈✈
22
Showboat Branson Belle
Branson Landing
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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Spring, 2013
Page 13
©
New London, Connecticut September 30–October 3, 2013 Holiday Inn New London North 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 Page 14
Thames River Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
©
Albuquerque, New Mexico http://itsatrip.org
October 21–24, 2013 MCM Elegante MILITARY ATTRACTIONS
✭✭ New Mexico Veterans Memorial ✭✭ National Museum of Nuclear Science & History ✭✭ Ernie Pyle Home & Library ✭✭ Bataan Memorial Park ✭✭ Bullhead Park
GENERAL ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES
✭✭ 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
ACCESS
✈✈
22
Albuquerque Sunport International (ABQ) I-40, I-25
Tram Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
Page 15
©
St. Augustine, Florida November 13–16, 2013 Holiday Isle Oceanfront Resort Attractions:
Villa Zorayda Museum
✭✭ Anastasia State Park ✭✭ Castillo de San Marcos ✭✭ Fountain of Youth ✭✭ Marineland Dolphin Adventure ✭✭ Old St. Augustine Village ✭✭ Old Town Trolley Tour of St. Augustine ✭✭ St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park ✭✭ St. Augustine Beach ✭✭ St. Augustine Old Jail ✭✭ St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum ✭✭ Villa Zorayda Museum ✭✭ Whetstone Chocolate Factory
Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley
Military Attractions:
✭✭ Fort Matanzas ✭✭ Fort Mose Historic State Park ✭✭ St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum
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Access: St. Augustine Lighthouse
✈✈
I-95 Northeast Florida Regional Airport (UST) Fort Mose
Schooner Freedom at sunset Page 16
Castillo de San Marcos
Fort Matanzas Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
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 40. Convention and Visitors Bureas
CO Colorado Springs Colorado Springs CVB 515 S Cascade Avenue 80903 Natalie Hirsch 719-685-7638 www.visitcos.com natalie@visitcos.com
PA
Baton Rouge Baton Rouge Area CVB 359 Third Street 70801 Jennye Snider 225-382-3584 www.visitbatonrouge.com jennye@visitbatonrouge.com
King of Prussia Valley Forge CVB 1000 First Ave Ste 101 19406 Courtney Pozo 610-834-7971 www.valleyforge.org pozo@valleyforge.org
LA Jefferson Jefferson Parish CVB 1221 Elmwood Park Blvd, Suite 411 70123 Magan Adams 504-731-7083 www.experiencejefferson.com magan@experiencejefferson.com
IL Gurnee Lake County CVB 5465 W Grand Ave Ste 100 60031 Kimberly Ghys 800-525-3669 www.lakecounty.org kimberly@lakecounty.org
MO Branson Branson Lakes Area CVB PO BOX 1897 65615 Julie Peters 417-243-2117 www.explorebranson.com jpeters@bransoncvb.com
IL Lisle Lisle CVB (Chicago Area) 925 Burlington Ave 60532 Jay Allen 630-769-1000 www.StayInLisle.com allen@stayinlisle.com
NC Fayetteville Fayetteville Area CVB 245 Person St 28301 Myron Jones 800-255-8217 www.visitfayettevillenc.com mjones@visitfayettevillenc.com
IL Schaumburg Woodfield Chicago NW Conv Bureau 1375 E Woodfield Rd Ste 120 60173 Melinda Garritano 847-278-3446 www.chicagonorthwest.com mgarritano@chicagonorthwest.com
Reunion Friendly News
LA
PA
Tunkhannock Endless Mountains VB 5405 State Route 6 18657 Jean Ruhf 570-836-5431 www.endlessmountains.org jean@endlessmountains.org
TX San Angelo San Angelo CVB 418 W Avenue B 76903 Pamela Miller 325-655-4136 www.visitsanangelo.org pamela@sanangelo.org
UT Ogden Ogden/Weber CVB 2438 Washington Blvd 84401 Joni Wall 801-778-6253 www.visitogden.com joni@ogden.travel
VA Fredericksburg Fredericksburg Regional Tourism Partn. 706 Caroline St 22405 Kimberly Herbert 540-372-1216 www.VisitFred.com ksherbert@fredericksburgva.gov •
Spring, 2013
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Thank You NEW & Renewing Members CVBs, continued
VA Norfolk Visit Norfolk 232 E Main St 23510 Melissa Hopper 757-664-6620 www.visitnorfolktoday.com mhopper@norfolkcvb.com
Destination Managers
FL Jacksonville Active Escapes Jax/St Aug 1177 Garrison Drive 32092 John Aguilera 904-230-8787 www.activeescape.com john.aguilera@activeescape.com
SC Charleston Charleston Convention & Group Services 1 Carriage Lane, Bld G 29407 James Mellen 843-571-5882 www.DestinationCharlestonSC.com jmellen@destinationCharlestonSC.com
Hotels
AL Mobile Renaissance Hotel Mobile 64 South Water St 36602 Derrick Williams 251-415-3086 www.renaissanceriverview.com derrick.williams@renaissancemobile. com
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CA
LA
Buena Park Holiday Inn Buena Park Hotel & Conf Ctr 7000 Beach Blvd 90620 Dennis Fyda 714-690-4603 www.hibuenapark.com dennis.fyda@hibuenapark.com
Metairie Ramada Metairie-New Orleans 2713 N Causeway Blvd 70002 Gina Abernathy 504-648-3821 www.ramadametairie.com gabernathy@ramadametairie.com
CT Groton Groton Inn & Suites P 0 Box 807 06340 Nancie Keenan 860-445-9784 www.grotoninn.com nkeenan@grotoninn.com
IL Deerfield Hyatt Deerfield 1750 Lake Cook Rd 60015 Dawn Brandau 847-597-4521 www.deerfield.hyatt.com dawn.brandau@hyattdeerfield.com
IL Elk Grove Village Wyndham Garden Elk Grove VillageO-Hare 2550 Landmeier Road 60007 Rina Patano 847-593-6200 www.wyndham.com/elkgrove rpatanowgh@yahoo.com
KY Erlanger Holiday Inn Cincinnati Airport 1717 Airport Exchange Blvd 41018 Molly Fruin 859-746-5612 www.holidayinn.com/cvg-airport molly.fruin@hicincinnatiairport.com
ME S Portland Best Western Merry Manor Inn 700 Main St 04106 Donald Haggett 207-774-6151 www.merrymanor inn.com dhaggett@merrymanorinn.com
MO Branson Radisson Hotel Branson 120 S. Wildwood Drive 65616 Sarah Hord 417-690-4026 www.radisson.com/bransonmo sarah.hord@radisson.com
NV Laughlin Edgewater-Colorado Belle Casino Resorts 2020 South Casino Drive 89029 Kathy Millar 702-807-4470 www.edgewater-casino.com kmillar@cb-ew.com
SC Hilton Head Island Comfort Inn - South Forest Beach 2 Tanglewood Drive 29928 Arlene Anderson 843-842-6662 www.comforthiltonhead.com arlene.anderson@snbhotels.com
Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
Thank You NEW & Renewing Members Hotels, continued
SC Myrtle Beach Sands Resorts 201-75th Avenue N 29572 Jessica Grella 843-692-5264 www.sandsresorts.com jgrella@sandsresorts.com
SC Myrtle Beach Springmaid Beach Resort 3200 S Ocean Blvd 29577 Sharon Kemerer 843-315-7173 www.springmaidbeach.com skemerer@springmaidbeach.com
WI
SC
Appleton Radisson Paper Valley Hotel 333 W College Ave 54911 Nancy Hollis 920-733-8000 www.radissonpapervalley.com nhollis@radissonpapervalley.com
North Myrtle Beach The Alabama Theatre 4750 Highway 17 S 29582 CMP, Kathy B Flowe 843-272-5758 www.alabama-theatre.com kflowe@alabama-theatre.com
WI
TN
Green Bay Radisson Hotel Green Bay 2040 Airport Dr 54313 Jennifer Simonar 920-494-7300 www.radisson.com/greenbaywi Jennifer.Simonar@rhccgb.com
Nashville Grand Ole Opry 2802 Opryland Drive 37214 Wayne Chandler 615-882-5435 www.opry.com/groups wchandler@opry.com
Hotel Management
MN
VA
Rochester Carlson Rezido Hotel Group 9002 11th Ave NE 55906 Janelle Smith 507-884-9610 www.carlsonrezidor.com janelle.smith@carlsonrezidor.com
Norfolk Norfolk Plaza Hotel Downtown 700 Monticello Avenue 23510 Donna Faison 757-802-9283 www.besthotelsva.com donna.faison@ahghotels.com
VA Reston Sheraton Reston 11810 Sunrise Valley Dr 20191 Bob Ciccone 703-262-5931 www.sheraton.com/reston bciccone@sheratonreston.com
Seattle Crowne Plaza Seattle Downtown 1113 Sixth Avenue 98101 Beth Harwood 206-676-3923 www.cphotelseattle.com bharwood@cphotelseattle.com
Reunion Friendly News
•
Recognizing that our world is rapidly becoming more technical and more tied to the Internet convinced us that the RFN web site required updating. Accordingly,
Attractions - Non-Military
an extensive rewriting has occurred and
AK
includes easier and faster navigation. Many
Wrangell Nolan Center PO BOX 1050 99929 Terri Henson 907-874-3699 www.wrangellalaska.org terri@wrangellalaska.org
WA
Web Site Changes Coming Soon
new features have been added, including the ability for YOU to post comments. The monthly RPM (Reunion Planner Memos) is now posted directly on the web site, thus eliminating extra e-mail. Searching for a reunion location has been made faster.
MO
Reading Reunion Friendly News, both the
Branson Showboat Branson Belle 4800 State Hwy 165 65616 Teina Woodburn 417-336-7411 www.silverdollarcity.com twoodburn@silverdollarcity.com
current and prior issues on-line has been
Spring, 2013
simplified. Registration for ConFAMŠ which previously required mailing a form can now be completed on-line.
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HOTELS - RED LION
CA
ID
OR
Anaheim Red Lion Hotel Anaheim 1850 South Harbor Blvd 92802 Jennifer Mendoza 714-750-2801 www.anahaimredlion.com jennifer.mendoza@redlion.com
Lewiston Red Lion Hotel Lewiston 621 21st Street 83501 Laurie Wilson 208-799-1000 www.redlionlewiston.com lwilson@redlionlewiston.com
Pendleton Red Lion Hotel Pendleton 304 SE Nye Ave 97801 Cheryl Rolstad 541-276-6111 www.redlion.com/pendleton cheryl.rolstad@redlion.com
Cathedral City Red Lion Hotel Cathedral City 69 151 E Palm Canyon Drive 92234 Marlo Amelio 760-324-5939 marlo@williamryanlc.com
MT
Portland Red Lion on the River Jantzen Beach 909 N Hayden Island Dr 97217 Felicia Patterson 503-283-4466 www.redlion.com/jantzenbeach felicia.patterson@redlionontheriver.com
Redding Red Lion Hotel Redding 1830 Hilltop Drive 96002 Carol Owens 866-430-2692 carol.owens@redlion.com
CO Aurora Red Lion Hotel Denver Southeast 3200 South Parker Road 80014 Shelby Rushbrooke 303-695-1700 www.redlion.com/denverse shelby.rushbrooke@redlion.com
ID Boise Red Lion Boise Downtowner 1800 Fairview Avenue 83702 Mowbray Brown 208-344-7691 www.redlion.com/boisedowntowner mowbray.brown@redlion.com
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Kalispell Red Lion Hotel Kalispell 20 North Main Street 59601 CJ Getty 406-751-5050 www.redlion.com/kalispell cj.getty@redlion.com
OR
Missoula Red Lion Inn Missoula 700 W Broadway Street 59802 Kimberley Best 406-728-3300 kimberley.best@redlion.com
Salem Red Lion Hotel Salem 3301 Market ST NE 97301 Kara Campuzano 503-370-7888 sales2@redlionsalem.com
NM
UT
Gallup Red Lion Hotel Gallup 3009 W Hwy 66 87301 John Hughes 505-722-2221 gm@redliongallup.com
Salt Lake City Red Lion Hotel Salt Lake Downtown 161 West 600 S 84101 Josh Porter 801-521-7373 www.redlion.com/saltlake josh.porter@redlion.com
OR Eugene Red Lion Hotel Eugene 205 Coburg Road 97401 Cedric Rudd 541-348-2520 cedric.rudd@redlion.com
Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
WA
WA
WA
Bellevue Red Lion Hotel Bellevue 11211 Main Street 98004 Raquel Wheeler 425-455-5240 www.redlion.com/bellevue raquel.wheeler@redlion.com
Port Angeles Red Lion Hotel Port Angeles 221 N Lincoln Street 98362 Vickie Stafford 360-452-9215 vickie.stafford@redlion.com
Spokane Red Lion River Inn 700 N Division 99202 Stephanie Stobie 509-326-5577 stephanie.stobie@redlion.com
Richland Red Lion Richland 802 George Washington Way 99352 Genevieve Speegle 509-946-7611 www.redlion.com/richland genevieve.speegle@redlion.com
Tacoma Red Lion Hotel Tacoma 8402 S Hosmer Street 98444 Brandie Hesson-Bullard 253-548-1212 brandieb@redliontacoma.com
Kelso Red Lion Hotel Kelso/Longview 510 Kelso Drive 98626 Ginny Whiffen 360-636-4400 www.redlion.com/kelsolongview ginny.whiffen@redlion.com Kent Red Lion Hotel Kent 25100 74th Ave South 98032 Paul Sandhu 253-520-6670 paul@guestkeeper.com Olympia Red Lion Hotel Olympia 2300 Evergreen Park Dr SW 98502 Kyla Cavanagh 360-943-4000 www.redlion.com/olympia kyla.cavanagh@redlion.com Pasco Red Lion Hotel Pasco 2525 North 20th Ave 99301 Genevieve Speegle 509-547-0701 www.redlion.com genevieve.speegle@redlion.com
Seattle Red Lion Hotel Fifth Avenue 1415 Fifth Ave 98101 Michelle Dayan mdayan@destinationhotels.com Seattle Red Lion Hotel Sea Tac 18220 International Blvd 98188 Ruby Turner 206-246-5535 www.seatttleairportredlion.com ruby.turner@redlion.com Spokane Red Lion Inn at the Park W 303 North River Drive 99201 Stephanie Stobie 509-326-8000 www.redlion.com/park stephanie.stobie@redlion.com
Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
Vancouver Red Lion Hotel Vancouver at the Quay 100 Columbia Street 98660 Michele Dunn 360-694-8341 www.redlion.com/vancouver michele.dunn@redlion.com Yakima Red Lion Yakima 607 East Yakima Ave 98901 Erica Moloney Erica.Moloney@redlion.com
Hotel Management RED LION
WA Spokane Red Lion Hotels Corporation 201 W North River Dr, Ste 100 99201 Sharon Danitschek 425-501-1430 www.redlion.com sharon.danitschek@redlion.com
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Hotel Patterns Changing
N
ow that the dust is settling, and as the hospitality industry begins a recovery, there are changes that have taken place which directly affect military reunion planners. Military reunions make up a tiny part of the meetings business for hotels; and it is those booking corporate meetings who set the pattern.
What has emerged over the last four years is a far different scenario than that which was prevalent throughout the last twenty years. Professional and corporate meeting planners are clearly opting for smaller and shorter meetings. Hoteliers are scurrying for strategies to minimize the negative effects.
That’s the outcome that is best allaround. The hotel wants to make a good profit. The planner wants to get a good deal for his group. If both get what they want, that’s perfect.
The list may be short or it may be long, but if you do not ask for it, The way this is done, is to understand chances are pretty strong that you what the other party wants. Give will not get it! what they want, and then ask for what you want. Watch those surcharges, because there are more and more of them. Here are a few things you can do or They can really add up, and attendees offer to do that will give a hotel an hate it when they get a battery of incentive to extend themselves to get charges that drives up the cost of your business. staying at the hotel.
In particular, those planners are resisting guarantees more than ever before. Food and beverage minimums, a mainstay of corporate business are either shrinking or going by the boards. Guaranteed room blocks are also shrinking and in many cases are Book early – make the deal at least a going out the window. year in advance, rather than waiting. Future booked business means a hotel can plan its finances and its personnel Military reunion planners needs well in advance. take heed! Prior advice to military reunion planners to avoid Tuesdays and Wednesdays for their reunions is more important than ever before. For a corporate hotel, these are the “hot” days. These are the days when you meet the hotels terms or they may walk away.
Even Worse for Hotels Forward planning periods seem to be shrinking also. This really makes it tough for hotels to plan future occupancy and, of course, future revenue. As a planner, you can use this to your negotiating advantage!
The Perfect Negotiation
extras you want, the things that you expect to be “thrown in,” and the absolute necessary concessions.
Stay away from mid-week! For most hotels, the ideal reunion period is Thursday through Sunday. That’s when they need the business the most. That’s when they tend to make the most concessions.
Above all, remember that no matter what they promise you, it does not count unless it is in the contract. The contract governs as a matter of law! As you negotiate, write down every point that you agree on. Write down every item that is offered. Then, when the contract arrives, go through the contract and be sure it covers every single item. If it does not, send it back and tell them why.
It is not unusual for a meeting contract Figure out what the banquet total bill to go back and forth a number of will be, knock off 30% and that should times before both sides can agree. be the absolute highest food total you should guarantee. The fact is that Be careful, too, of the fine print — the more and more corporate groups are language the hotel put in that you did not having sit-down dinners at all. not know about. It counts just as much! They are moving toward receptions, but the kitchen facilities still have to Be sure that it states somewhere be used. When you come along with that the charges listed are the whole a banquet, you are welcome indeed. charges, and that no additional fees will be charged for any reason.
Make A List
Then, go forth, and have a great Everybody wins! Everybody gets what Before you start negotiating with a reunion! paul@reunionfriendly.com he wants! It’s a Win-Win situation! hotel, you ought to have a list of the Page 22
Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
Safety & Security
Are you aware of the enormous number of changes that have occurred in the hotel industry to make you physically safer, and your personal information more secure?
have simply been bypassed.
Still another major improvement was in the replacement of almost all the ice making machines with high hotels had subjected consumers’ data technology, with silver based bacteria to an “unfair and deceptive” lack of protection. This, the FTC claims, Are you aware of the new demands on prevention. led to a series of breaches that in hotels that create problems for hotels This effort is on-going. Over the past 2008 compromised more than a and increase their costs? few years the industry has made half-million credit cards. No matter The industry as a whole has made a giant effort to replace bedding the outcome of the lawsuit, hotels huge strides in protecting you. Those with bedbug proof sheets and other will have to take steps to insure the actions have unquestionably been a devices to combat the surge brought safety of information and credit cards in additional ways. This, inevitably, big factor contributing to increases in in by visitors from other countries. means that hotels are going to spend room rates. money, time, and an on-going effort The New Age Physical Improvements In September 2008, we received notice to protect those who stay at their Over the last ten years or so, we from a planner about credit card fraud properties. have witnessed a massive movement at a California hotel. Attendees at the away from the motels which were so reunion were confronted with large Plain Facts popular in the 1970s and 1980s. It cost charges on the credit cards which had Because hotels are getting safer, more more to build and to maintain inside been tendered for payment to the comfortable, and more secure, it corridors, but the threats to personal hotel. obviously means that they will have security from “drive up and open the to charge more if they want to stay in door rooms” were very real. Eventually this was tracked down business. Unfortunately, modern day to an employee of the credit card problems only make the problems processing company used by the hotel. of safety and security more intense. Since then other cases have emerged Anyone can see that threats are where the problem arose from illegal increasing. actions by the night auditor. RFN regularly receives complaints New precautions have been installed about hotel charges. Some are in many hotels largely in the form of reasonable. Many, if not most are not. new computer software. Computers, While many protest the “high cost” of however, have created a new problem a hotel room, the fact is that there have Electronic door locks have replaced for both the hotels and the guests. The been a huge number of improvements the old room key in the great majority name of the problem is Wi-Fi. What made almost universally. On top of all of properties. One of the effects has Wi-Fi allows is access to the Internet these improvements, primarily made been to eliminate a stranger who and email without a wired connection. for your safety and protection, the this technique, value of the dollar is less than half stayed in a room previously from Unfortunately, coming in and surprising the new available in many locations, and of what it was when RFN started in occupants. This happened to us a few which will probably become available 1991. years ago when the fellow (I can’t on airplanes this year, also applies really call him a gentleman) unlocked to the hotel computer. The fact is While none of us likes to pay more, it is our hotel room door, marched in, and that it can be “hacked!” Hacking the simply unavoidable. Rates today have stated “What are you doing here? I hotel computer means that all of the to reflect the costs of construction, information that the hotel has about refurnishing, and inclusion of every always stay in this room!” you, your credit card, etc. is open to safety and security action the hotel can reasonably provide. It is a huge The installation of individual room the hacker. task, and we need to applaud the safes were another protective measure for hotel guests. Scenarios Last June, the FTC (Federal Trade industry for keeping the rates as low like those in many movies where theft Commission) filed a suit against as they are today. paul@reunionfriendly.com from an entire bank of vaults occurs Wyndham hotels, charging that the Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
Page 23
The hotel is Holiday Inn Dumfries Quantico Center in Dumfries, VA. Subject: VMF/VMA-311 Alumni Reunion 2012 Greetings, We just finished up our reunion in Quantico and I have to mention that the Holiday Inn Quantico Center ranks as one of the best I have every dealt with as a planner. Petra Carr and her entire staff made for a great week. Our reunion was attended by eighty some all week and then for the banquet on last night we had 96 in attendance. 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 in the house. We toured MCB, ate lunch at the base and visited the Marine Corps Museum one day, Pentagon and Lockheed-Martin the next. we also threw in a short tour to Manassas. All which went well. Academy Bus was our carrier and also did a very professional job. I had Marine buses lined up but got cancelled less than 3 weeks out and had to scramble to get some more buses off Academy which we had already set up as “Plan B”. I would recommend this hotel for any group that may be going to Quantico. They let us use the banquet hall all week for a hospitality room at no charge and set up a comp breakfast outside of that hall for us every morning. The staff was superb. Very friendly and very professional. There was nothing we needed that wasn’t taken care of. The only glitch to the whole thing was the service on banquet night which was very slow and confused partially for me not conveying the exact instructions to the staff and partially Page 24
because half the staff serving banquet any info concerning the Holiday Inn was inexperienced. Ms. Carr and I sat Quantico Center or the tours. down and discussed this at length. She felt badly that anything had gone Semper Fidelis, wrong. The greats far outweighed the Jim Galchick, President bad and we had a great time. Marines VMF/VMA-311 Alumni Assn. adapt to the problems and we go on. jgalchick@neo.rr.com 330-337-9383 Just wanted to pass that along. Please use me as a POC for anyone wanting
Thanks for the referral of USS Point Defiant!!!! Hello Jane and Charlene! I wanted to say thank you so much for giving John Picolosi of the USS Point Defiant my contact info. We had a chance to chat at length yesterday about his potential 2013 reunion. I’ve already sent out his contact info to 5 different hotels in Kissimmee that I think will work very well for him! In our database I put that it was a referral that came as a direct result of us participating in your ConFams. It is a great way to show our County Manager how important ConFam participation and hosting are for our area. So thank you again!!! I look forward to seeing you next June! Jadeine Shives Sr. Sales Representative Kissimmee Convention & Visitors Bureau Osceola County Department of Tourism Development 1925 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy., Kissimmee FL 34744 VisitKissimmee.com/407-742-8255 jshives@visitkissimmee.com Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
T h ro u g h o u t the economic downturn, hotels have suffered along with many other industries. A fair number of hotels have gone out of business. Others, who had sufficient capital, took the opportunity to upgrade their properties. Now, there is a general feeling in the industry, largely due to a surge in the last month or two of 2012, that the industry will turn around in 2013. In general, hotel rates will go up a few percent in 2013, despite indications that the supply of rooms from new hotels will exceed the expected growth in demand. Whether increases in hotel revenue come from increases in room rates, there is evidence that most hotels will prefer adding surcharges and fees that they never imposed before. Most hotel users are already familiar with surcharges ranging from telephone access charges to a daily charge for the use of a room safe, even though they do not need, want, or use those services. Be aware that there is pending action by the Federal Trade Commission to make it illegal to impose any surcharges without first disclosing them at or before you register. There are five fees, not necessarily new, that you can expect in 2013 from hotels that never previously dreamed of using them. These are: • Mini-bar Restocking Fees – as if the cost of using an item in the minibar isn’t high enough, you can also expect a “Mini-Bar Restocking Fee” as soon as you take the first item. Typically, this fee ranges from $2.50 - $6.00 PER DAY. • Baggage Holding Fees – if you just Page 26
want to leave your bags with the bellman so you avoid paying for an extra day’s room, instead of just a tip, you can expect a per bag fee of $2 in many hotels. • Early Departure Fee – if you decide to checkout sooner than you planned, many hotels will charge you anyway • Cancellation fees have been around for a while, but many hotels are making the window smaller, so that you have to cancel at least two, and in some cases, three full days if you do not want to pay. • Internet charges for movies IN ADDITION TO any movie cost. This charge is commonly termed “Internet Bandwidth Usage.
fees are added and included in the cost of an airplane ticket. Almost all U.S. airports are municipally owned, so that the emphasis is not on profit, but actually having service in that locale. The airport in Branson is the only privately owned, privately operated, commercial service airport in the country. It happens to be one of the nicest airports in the country, and surely has the most scenic approach road of any airport in the country. Unfortunately, it has not been a financial success, and at last reports was up for sale.
Airport fares have been kept low by virtue of extra fees and surcharges. Reduced Air Service Many travelers resent these charges, As indicated in the February issue of but the plain, simple fact is that Reunion Planner Memos (RPM) reduced airlines have a very poor record of air service is now a matter of fact at earnings, and have a high rate of many of the nation’s airports. financial failure. This is evidenced by bankruptcy of major airlines, and at Note: If you are not receiving RPM by the time of this writing, the potential email every month, it is because you takeover of bankrupt American have not given us a valid email address Airlines (the 4th largest) with U.S. OR you are blocking it. Let us know (by Airways (the 5th largest), which is email) if you want us to include you for substantially smaller. future issues. Overall 2013 Forecast On June 1, 2009, the U.S. Dept. of Within the hospitality industry, there Transportation was authorized to are quite a few organizations who provide subsidies to airlines for have made forecasts regarding rates serving rural communities that would and air fares for 2013. otherwise have no commercial air service. There are 152 such airports (45 In general, the expectation is that in Alaska), and the subsidies run from airfares will go up by approximately a low of about $75 per flight to a high 5%. Hotel room rates are anticipated of about $800. This has saved service to increase by approximately 3%. at these airports, but the subsidies are not passed on to the passenger. The Fortunately, the astounding increases one hour and twenty minute flight in U.S. oil production, mostly due to from Albuquerque to Carlsbad, NM improved extraction techniques, is still runs nearly $200 per person. helping to keep the cost of fuel down, and slowing the rise in prices. It is a rare airport that has not suffered some reduction in service since the Hotels and airlines are striving to bottom fell out of the economy in mid- maintain profitability, and in some 2008. Airports are expensive to build cases staying alive, in the face of and expensive to maintain. The only poor economic conditions. The fact way to pay for them, short of general remains, however, that you can expect taxation in the area is for the airport to pay more in the future. owners to charge landing fees. These paul@reunionfriendly.com Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
Page 27
City of Presidents – Rapid City, South Dakota
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 the 2011 “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 Main Street Square Air Force Base, home to the 28th Rapid City. For decades, Ellsworth Bomb Wing’s B-1B Lancers, is has been a part of protecting the located on the eastern side of 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. Nothing inspires you like being surrounded by towering pine forests, abundant wildlife and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy Native American heritage, free attractions, wildlife parks, hiking trails, golf courses and a variety of © Crazy Horse Memorial Page 28
outdoor recreation located within Rapid City or just minutes from the 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. Rapid City is easy to reach, located in the center of the United States. Serviced by four major airlines with direct flights from Chicago, Denver, Dallas/ Fort Worth, Houston, Las Vegas, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Phoenix/ Mesa and Salt Lake City and Interstate 90 running through the city, the problem isn’t getting here, it’s convincing yourself to go home.
Reunion Friendly News
Ellsworth Air Force Base •
Spring, 2013
Experience a different kind of military reunion or meeting when you come to Rapid City, South Dakota in the Black Hills. Explore patriotic places like Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the City of Presidents, the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, Ellsworth Air Force Base and more. Conveniently located in the center of the country, Rapid City has all the reunion amenities you expect and some you don’t.
Contact Lisa Storms – Storms@VisitRapidCity.com |
1-800-487-3223 ext. 8487
R e u n i o n F r i e n d Download ly News • Meeting S p r i n gProfessionals , 2 0 1 3 Guide at RapidCityMeetings.com a free
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CE AN FIN by Marc A Spiewak, Certified Public Accountant marcspiewak@gmail.com Twitter: @marcspiewak
IRS Correspondence
The IRS is sending you threatening letters. Letters that say you haven’t filed or that you owe money. They are going to garnish, levy, lien or maybe even arrest you and throw you in jail (the jail part I made up – they don’t throw you in jail, for the most part). The letter itself is scary. You don’t know where you stand and you don’t know what the next step is.
For the Self-Employed
Getting out of
TROUBLE
with the Taking Away the Misery
The second rule in survival training is to take control of the situation. Let’s see if we can reduce the tax liabilities and slow down the IRS in their collection efforts.
First order of business is to contact the IRS and let them know that we have tentative changes and to put a hold on the account for 45 days. They will do this for a tax professional just I have had clients that give me for the asking. unopened IRS letters because they are too scared to open them. There Second, make sure that the taxpayer have been clients calling me because is in compliance. All tax returns must the IRS is knocking at their door or at be submitted. Many times the IRS their place of business. They give me will file a return for a taxpayer if the letters that they received months ago taxpayer hasn’t filed one themselves. and just couldn’t deal with it. (Note: This is never good for the taxpayer. the longer you procrastinate, the harder the job it is for me to help you). Third, let’s see if we can get the tax liability down. This can be accomplished by making sure that the Taking Away the Mystery The first rule in survival training is tax return is prepared properly and to take inventory of the situation. We aggressively as possible. need to know what the IRS knows. Let’s open those envelopes, put them Fourth, do not forget that I will be in order, throw away the duplicates, requesting the abatement of penalties collectively and figuratively take if at all possible. a deep breath and see what it is all In one case, recently, the taxpayer/ about! client owed money per the IRS (and The IRS has a transcript on each and lots of it) and I actually got the every one of us. After I get the client/ client refunds instead. This was all taxpayer to sign off on a POA (power accomplished from what I outlined of attorney), I then contact the IRS above. and get from them all detail on open years (years that you either haven’t filed or still owe money on). Now we know where we stand!
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IRS
Be Pro-Active
Pro-active rules to follow: 1. File all tax returns timely. 2. File an extension if you cannot follow rule #1. 3. If you are self-employed, consider incorporating to save money on taxes. This is going to make your tax filings more involved. Your professional accounting fees will be higher, but your tax liability will be less in most cases and your chances of being audited will be less. Discuss this with a qualified tax and accounting professional. 4. If you owe money to the IRS make arrangements with them to pay the obligation. Do not ignore tax liabilities. They only get worse and they get worse fast. 5. Keep track of your business income and expenses. Document everything. If you have a phone with a calendar feature, use it. It will make your life a whole lot easier at the end of the year when you are trying to determine what your expenses were. I know there are ways to file tax returns by yourself, but if you are selfemployed, you better be a bit more knowledgeable and sophisticated than the average layman.
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.
Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
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 Steven F. UdvarHazy Center features one of the country’s leading collections of historic aircraft and spacecraft, including the space shuttle Discovery, which permanently docked at the museum in 2012. Admission to the museum is free. Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
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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From a Woman’s Point of View … By Charlene Adamson
P
aul and I make a point of the importance of the planners’ spouses and the responsibilities they share with their planners in creating a successful military reunion. We observe them taking detailed notes in the seminars and sharing experiences over the dinner tables at our events. Planners’ spouses are serious about the role they play. At one event, a female planner with a male spouse laughed at the fact that it is assumed that all planners are male and all spouses/companions are female. This “old school” philosophy is what my daughter calls “gender bias.” I made the error early in my career with the company that all spouses were husbands or wives. Imagine my chagrin when a female companion let me know very quickly that she was not a wife nor did she plan to become a wife. What about the couple in their early eighties who were so attentive to each other it evoked my interest. I asked how many years
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they had been together and as they held hands they told me they had married early the prior week before coming to our event! To those of you who have been married for so many years, my applause is for you. To those of you who have chosen to share a life without marriage, I also applaud you. After all, we are in the second group and we made a serious commitment in this shared life. Between us we have seven children, twelve grandchildren and three great grand-children. We can hold our own reunion! Male or female, single or married, the important fact is that each of us focuses on the pride of country, the patriotism we share, and the commitment to celebrate and honor all who are veterans and all who have shared in this life. This is a “Woman’s point of view.”
Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
Think Before You Donate Something To Think About Before You Make Contributions:
As you open your pockets to do a good thing and make yourself feel good, please keep the following facts in mind: The American Red Cross President and CEO Marsha J. Evans’ salary for the year was $651,957 plus expenses
March Of Dimes
The United Way
UNICEF
It is called the March of Dimes because only a dime for every 1 dollar is given to the needy.
President Brian Gallagher receives a $375,000 base salary along with numerous expense benefits.
CEO Caryl M. Stern receives $1,200,000 per year (100k per month) plus all expenses including a Rolls Royce. Less than 5 cents of your donated dollar goes to the cause.
Goodwill CEO and owner Mark Curran profits $2.3 million a year. Goodwill is a very catchy name for his business. You donate to his business and then he sells the items for PROFIT. He pays nothing for his products and pays his workers minimum wage! Nice Guy. $0.00 goes to help anyone! Stop giving to this man.
Instead, go “green” and put your money where it will do some good — give it to any of the following: The Salvation Army Commissioner Todd Bassett receives a small salary of only $13,000 per year (plus housing) for managing this $2 billion dollar organization. 96% of donated dollars go to the cause.
The American Legion National Commander receives a $0.00 zero salary. Your donations go to help Veterans and their families and youth!
The Veterans of Foreign Wars National Commander receives a $0.00 zero salary. Your donations go to help Veterans and their families and youth!
The Disabled American Veterans National Commander receives a $0.00 zero salary. Your donations go to help Veterans and their families and youth!
The Military Order of Purple Hearts National Commander receives a $0.00 zero salary. Your donations go to help Veterans and their families and youth!
The Vietnam Veterans Association National Commander receives a $0.00 zero salary. Your donations go to help Veterans and their families and youth!
Make a Wish For children’s last wishes. 100% goes to funding trips or special wishes for a dying child.
St. Jude Research Hospital 100% goes towards funding and helping Children with Cancer who have no insurance and can not afford to pay.
Ronald McDonald Houses All monies go to running the houses for parents who have critical Children in the hospital. 100% goes to housing, and feeding the families.
Lions Club International 100% of donations go to help the blind, buy hearing aides, support medical missions around the world. Their latest undertaking Is measles vaccinations (only $1.00 per shot).
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Paul’s Opinion This article is a personal opinion, and does not necessarily represent the views of The Reunion Friendly Network, its employees, customers, or reunion planners.
An editorial by Paul Spiewak “Gung Ho!” (literally, “work together”) was a watchword when we were in service, yet we still enjoyed our differences. Think about it for a moment. In major cities throughout the U.S, there are “Chinatowns.” Almost every city of size has a “Little Italy.” There are cities dominated by one ethnic group after another. The U.S. is a melting pot, but somehow people, even though they may work with others or meet socially with others, still like to congregate with their own “kind,” whatever their kind happens to be. That’s why it puzzled me just a little nearly eight years ago when the European Union was formed. I could not imagine, particularly after the animosities generated by WWII that a political entity of this nature could ever be put together. In my mind, this was far more complex than settling the Arab-Israeli issue. Yet, it seemed to work. During my first visit to Europe (Italy, Greece, Turkey, and Israel) in 2011, the Euro was strong and the dollar was weak. Euros were used in Turkey, Greece and Italy, but look at what’s happened. Even better, let’s take a look at why it happened. Fundamentally, I think that the people in Spain want to be Spanish; the people in Portugal want to be Portuguese; the people in Greece Page 34
want to be Greek; and surely the The Tale of the Farmer, the Pig, people in France want to stay French. the Cow, and the Mouse Even worse, none of them want to be The farmer’s wife saw a mouse, and Germans! sent the farmer to buy a trap. The mouse told his barnyard friends about Rightly or wrongly, the fact is that his, but they all shrugged it off, saying there are a variety of nationalistic, to the mouse that it was his problem, perhaps even tribal, and political not theirs. Meanwhile, the trap was viewpoints that are in conflict with baited, and a snap was heard in the the conformity required for political middle of the night. The wife went to and financial union. investigate, but the trap had caught a snake by the tail. When the wife got close, the snake bit her. The farmer Why is the U.S. Different? For one thing we have a Constitution, rushed his wife to the hospital, and a political document agreed to in the whole family came visiting to advance of any economic or financial see her. First, the farmer killed the chicken to make chicken soup for his union. wife. Then he killed the pig to feed That seems to be sensible, as we the visiting family. This was all to no still have something called the Tenth avail, because the wife died from the Amendment, which clearly states snake bite. There was a big funeral, that powers not specifically allocated and the farmer killed the cow to feed to the Federal government remain all those who attended. “It’s not my with the individual states. This split problem,” said the mouse! enables us to build the greatest political entity the world has ever Day of Reckoning seen, and it lasted from 1789 when Back home, it is even worse, because George Washington was inaugurated we may be faced with the matter to 1933, when FDR began to amass of war crimes. Quite candidly, I do Federal power. not know about you, but I felt the war crime trials after WWII were I was a mere seven years old when righteous. There are many problems I clearly remember my father saying in International Law that makes such to my mother that the National prosecutions difficult. Even putting Recovery Act (NRA) that President aside any question of legality, the Roosevelt was trying to push through President of the United States has was awful. Almost all of it, or at been personally selecting targets for least the worst parts) was (thank the assassination. As of June 30, 2012, good Lord) subsequently declared more than 2,000 people have been unconstitutional. But! Here we go killed by drone attacks in Afghanistan, again! Yemen, Somalia, and Pakistan. Many of these are terrorists, but there are many, including wives and children Freedom is Under Attack! Every day our government, we the who are not. Note that we are not at people, is becoming more intrusive. war with these countries. Thousands of new regulations are pouring out of Washington with the Day of Reckoning express aim of controlling people and One day, these actions may be deemed their actions. “war crimes.” It will be a sad day when a President – or former President – of Things that belong to the individual the United States is brought before states are gradually coming under an International Court and declared a Federal control in direct violation of war criminal. What do you think? the Constitution, and sadly, we look the other way. Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
Menus for 2013
What’s Hot & What’s Not 99 Champagne with blood orange flower water pearls dancing with the bubbles 99 Gin with pineapple and jasmine 99 Citrus Vodka with pureed Granny Smith apples and sprayed with thyme syrup 99 Fresh basil gimlet with balsamic vinegar on the rim and a tomato-mozzarella flower 99 Cucumber inundated with gin using a vacuum seal machine 99 Spice infused tequila with agave nectar, lemon & hot water 99 Bourbon Manhattan infuse with cherry wood smoke 99 Vodka pumpkin martini
The National Restaurant Association surveyed professional chefs and bartenders to predict the hottest trends on restaurant menus in 2013. A good deal of opinion aimed at more healthful children’s items, adults weren’t ignored. There appears to be a definite movement toward local food sources. This is probably true because of the escalating costs of transportation and storage.
You can expect to see new cuts of meat such as: teres major (shoulder steak), Denver steak (between the shoulder and neck), and pork flap meat or flap steak. Beef flap meat is actually better known as sirloin tip, and is probably For those with stronger tendencies, both the least expensive and one of how about Gray Goose vodka out of the freezer over dry ice. This one is the tastiest steaks when grilled. definitely not for beginners, You can also expect to see more whole grain foods, especially those that Other Trends are gluten-free. Quinoa, pronounced There is a growing awareness among as “keen-wa” will start to make chefs and restaurants that recipes significant inroads as a gluten-free need greater emphasis on health. rice substitute. Well over half of the chefs surveyed indicated that they are trying much Changes in Drinks Coming, Too! harder, and even eliminating some The trend toward micro-breweries, dishes which have unhealthful and local beer will continue to ingredients. accelerate, but the new big deal will be “Culinary Cocktails.” These What about Cost? concoctions started to enter the scene With economic conditions still a major in a big way in 2011, moved forward factor, it is interesting that only 4% in 2012, and are ready to overtake the reported that prices had to be raised bar and lounge market in 2013. The in order to accommodate the changes. focus is fresh ingredients plus spices The balance were nearly equally and fruits, blended in new ways, divided between changing menu including some new machinery. While selections, changing ingredients of they sound weird to those of us who existing dishes, and exploring new prefer vodka or gin tonics, or a shot of sources of supply as a means to avoid bourbon, or even a martini (shaken or raising prices. stirred) these are really wild. Here are a few examples: For those who are more interested in the top trend ranking, here is the top twenty list from the National Restaurant Association (NRA). Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
Vodka Pumpkin Martini
NRA’s Top 20 Trends for 2013 1. Locally sourced meats and seafood 2. Locally grown produce 3. Healthful kids’ meals 4. Environmental sustainability as a culinary theme 5. Children’s nutrition as a culinary theme 6. New cuts of meat (e.g. Denver steak, pork flat iron, teres major) 7. Hyper-local sourcing (e.g. restaurant gardens) 8. Gluten-free cuisine 9. Sustainable seafood 10. Whole grain items in kids’ meals 11. Farm/estate branded items 12. Non-wheat noodles/pasta (e.g. quinoa, rice, buckwheat) 13. Non-traditional fish (e.g. branzino, Arctic char, barramundi) 14. Ethnic-inspired breakfast items (e.g. Chorizo scrambled eggs, coconut milk pancakes) 15. Fruit/vegetable children’s side items 16. Health/nutrition as a culinary theme 17. Half-portions/smaller portions for a smaller price 18. House-made/artisan ice cream 19. Black/forbidden rice 20. Food trucks paul@reunionfriendly.com Page 35
Come to a NEW ConFAM© After 22 years of presenting the way Major and expensive Hotel Upgrades to go about planning, organizing, and 1. Security, safety, & health consciousness that is everywhere running a reunion; and after writing today was not much of an issue four books on the subject, it’s time to back in 1991 when we started. step back and review the program. Guest security and safety has lead to the disappearance of most of Everything that has been covered the “drive-up” motels that seemed is still in effect, but the fact is that to be everywhere back in the ‘80s the hospitality industry, itself, and 90s. has undergone some incredible transformations over the years. As we 2. Electronic door locks have largely replaced the old style numbered look back, we note these milestones. keys. Recognition of Military Reunions 3. Ice Machines have almost all been replaced with new silver iodide as a solid and lucrative off-season machines that kill bacteria. market segment. RFN was founded to assist veteran reunion planners 4. The “bedbug crisis” has largely been eliminated with new protective get a better deal; and this industry bed linens. acknowledgment paved the way for 5. Room safes under the access thousands of reunions control of the guest have been added to more than half of all hotel The 1999 Attrition decision in the rooms. While many do not need or case filed by Hyatt Hotels against want them, this is perceived as a the Women’s International Bowling security issue. Congress, the largest women’s sports activity in the U.S. The two major 6. Expanded security staffing almost everywhere, not just in hotels. factors were: 1. If attrition is not mentioned in the 7. Internet access from your room may not be very important to most contract, you don’t owe attrition reunion attendees; it is to most penalties. You cannot be legally other guests. forced to pay for unused rooms unless there is specific language in the contract allowing the hotel to The 2008 economic collapse took a terrible toll on the hospitality industry, do so. 2. “Double dipping” by hotels is especially on CVBs and hotels. CVB legal. It is legal, though perhaps budgets were drastically cut, and unethical for hotels to “double dip” in some cases eliminated entirely, by charging attrition penalties on forcing some out of business. Some rooms which were resold to guests hotels could not handle the losses and simply shut down. Others, with outside the meeting group. This decision unexpectedly led to adequate resources, took advantage the addition of attrition clauses in of the lull to make major renovations contracts throughout the country. to their properties. Many new hotels Most meeting planners, not just were and are being built as this is military, hate them be cause they being written. There also has been work against the customer, and only a consolidation as franchise hotels tighten standards. in the hotel’s favor. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) The Effect on YOU! specifying access requirements. In view of all the foregoing, the most Many hotels, conscious of our safety visible change has been in room rates. have voluntary added measures, such Long gone are the simple drive-up as grab bars, even when not required. Page 36
motels offering a $25 room. Even considering inflation, room rates are more of a bargain today than ever before, as quality continues to improve. At the same time, you can expect a safer and more secure place to put your head.
The Effect on RFN
Those of us who put the ConFAMs© and WorkFAMs© together are working harder. We want to assure you of a stay at a nice hotel during the event. Yet, when times are tough, as they are right now, it is harder for hotels to use their scarce resources for events. This occasionally leads to rescheduling or even cancellation due to unexpected conditions. The St Augustine ConFAM© had to be shifted a week because of unexpected conditions. Hurricane Sandy and a subsequent snowstorm delayed the opening of the hotel in New London, and that event had to be shifted from April to September.
Change or the Same?
There is an old French proverb when translated says “The more things change, the more they are the same.” This is surely true when it comes to the broad scoped of planning a reunion. Nevertheless, things have changed, and I believe that you need to change the way you plan, the way you negotiate, and surely the way you handle the contract phase. The idea of a hotel just sending off a letter and asking the planner to sign it instead of a contract is fraught with danger. For those of you who are old enough to remember the words of Arthur Donovan, the referee at most of Joe Louis’ bouts, “Remember to protect yourself at all times!”
Reunion Friendly News
paul@reunionfriendly.com
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Spring, 2013
Second Tier Is NOT Second Class! Too often, those who select locations for military reunions confuse city size with city quality. As a result, they tend to pick only large cities for their reunions. This is not knocking the larger cities, but the fact is that the larger cities have only two advantages. First, almost all are easier to get to, because of both more choices in air service and usually more super-highways. Second, in many cases the major general attractions are in the larger cities, but when it comes to military attractions that advantage is questionable.
Idea Fixation
Reunite. Reminisce. Renew.
Somehow, as part of our cultural makeup, we want to be Numero Uno. As a result, locations that are not considered “First-Tier” are also considered as not being the best. Nothing could be farther from the truth.
Christina Petro Chrisp@chattanoogacvb.com 423-424-4417
From the reunion planner, the actual reunion venue is of far lesser importance than considerations of nearby attractions and restaurants, type of accommodations, access to both military oriented and general attractions, The intelligent reunion planner will pick a place that offers a good all-around deal. A good all-around deal and of course, prices. means that the prices and terms are within the range that Price is a consideration by itself. For many planners this is the attendees can afford to pay. A good all-around deal the prime factor. If that is the case, it is an absolute fact means that the contract conditions are fair and do not that the highest hotel rates are invariably in the larger unnecessarily penalize the group. A good all-around deal cities. It is also a fact that you can invariably do better means that there are enough things to see and do within when it comes to price in the outskirts of a larger city, a reasonable distance. Most of all, a good all-around deal than in the heart of a metropolis. It is a rare reunion group means that the hotel staff is welcoming, accommodating, that can afford the rates in the likes of San Francisco, or and proud to serve a veterans group. New York City. Indeed, we recently stayed at a hotel in Brooklyn, avoiding Manhattan rates, but wound up paying Picking a Place $300 plus another $25 to park the car overnight. So how do we pick a place for the reunion? The roster of RFN Members has many locations that satisfy these requirements. How do you select one over another? Third Tier
Is NOT Third Rate Either!
Who decides what is first-tier, second-tier, or third-tier, anyway? Some say it is population, some economic activity, some say transportation facilities, we say hogwash! These measurements provide no benefit to military reunion groups, so why don’t we just drop those designations and go to a place that’s good for the reunion.
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The answer is not the same for every group, because the attendees are not the same from one group to another. Many groups decide by committee. They get together, discuss some potential locations, and then take a vote. If that works for you, fine; but it is one of the poorest ways of getting the best deal. If you want to do this in a logical manner.
Spring, 2013
paul@reunionfriendly.com Page 37
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Home to Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods and five military installations, Colorado Springs provides an inspirational setting for sharing memories and reconnecting. With the convenient Colorado Springs Airport, endless scenic beauty and more than 55 group-friendly attractions, you will elevate your reunion when you gather in Colorado Springs.
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That’s unbelievable about Boise paying the airfare. What a deal! It would be great if more cities could afford to do that. Too bad we had a reunion there already. However, I can attest to the professionalism we received from the CVB and the hotel where we stayed. There are so many things to do in Boise that folks don’t know about. I hope they do well with this. George H. Overman (RM 64-66) USS Cogswell DD-651 Association My participation in your services was very rewarding for our reunions. Thanks for the many years of putting to use the many things you have taught. But now, at 90 years of age, my reunion days are past. Please remove me from your mailing list. Good health to you, Paul, & God’s blessing. Glen E Edquist 156 FA Bn., 44th Div
Glad to have been of service to you. We regret seeing you go and all those who served in WWII. I will always treasure our association. Paul Page 38
The 2013 USS Rogers Reunion. I am alive and well. As many of you know, after retirement my wife and I became certified Adjusters for the NFIP National Flood Insurance Program. We are deployed anytime the US is hit by a Hurricane. Hurricane Katarina was a bad one we worked on that one four months. Hurricane Sandy is no lady, We were deployed Oct 29th. Our first losses were on Staten Island NY. As we arrived the streets were completely blocked with debris. There was no food or water. Everyone within one half mile of the ocean had either lost their home or they were standing in 6 to 8 feet of salt water wondering what to do now. I never saw friends, neighbors, and family come to the aid of so many so fast. That NY bunch, I tip my hat because they showed me a spirit within I have never seen in any other natural disaster and I have seen a few. Well done NY, you should be very pleased with what you have done. Many young people came from the Bronx, Rye, Brooklyn, and many other places with fifty pounds of meat and a grill in the trunk setup on the beach and started cooking for the victims of Sandy. Individuals came from all around and gave what they had to help. The larger groups began to get it together and you would see different churches come setup a tent, bring clothes, water, toiletries, and many other needed supplies. If you have never seen the heart and soul of a people come together you would have been blow away with Hurricane Sandy. I will post some photos on the Rogers web page in a few days.
Reunion Friendly News
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Spring, 2013
Not Lost in the Woods Anymore!
Pulaski County USA, Missouri —
Bring your reunion group to Ft. Leonard Wood, MO, centrally locaed in the United States - We’re right along I-44 between St. Louis & Branson!
A Welcome Place in America’s Heartland
www.reunionsatftwood.org/TRN • Home to Fort Leonard Wood, the largest training installation in the country • Guided driving tours of the fort & Rt. 66 • Daily direct flights to Fort Leonard Wood • State-of-the art military museums • Complimentary itinerary planning • Assistance obtaining bids for restaurants, hotels, meeting space & much more
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 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.
Pulaski County Tourism Bureau - St. Robert, MO
877.858.8687
Now to our question what about the 2013 reunion? IT IS A GO. I have a strong right hand with Bruce and Marilyn. Just about everything else is in place. The Choo Choo and the Chattanooga Chamber are working for us and I may need to call on some of you guys that were planning on sitting in the back row to come forward. I still believe this will be the best ever reunion. I plan to contact many of our guys that live in the NY NJ area while I am here and hope to incur rage in them to take a more active part in the 2013 reunion we need you…. Rogers reunion date and place May 24th 27th 2013 Chattanooga TN. At The CHoo Choo Hotel click link below for more details. http://www.choochoo.com/ChattanoogaTN/ reunions/?dest=54 Rogers Reunion staff: Host - Vick, David & Shirley 1st - Co Host - 2013 Reunion Greater - Rogan, Bruce & Maryland 2nd - Co Host - 2013 Reunion Hospitality room Stockwell, Bob & 3rd - Co Host - reserch Bob Orta David Vick 906 W Terrace Dr Plant City, Fl. 33563 Dvick@tampabay.rr.com 813-441-4931 leave message http://www.whc.net/rjones/USN/USN_team.html Reunion Friendly News
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http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/USS-Rog ers/146471288707451?v=info&edit_info=all Thank you for the mention in the RFN News that arrived today regarding the scam photographer Robert Good from Circleville Ohio. I failed to mention that there is a reputable photographer under the same name located in Virginia. He has a FB profile and a great website. I hope that your mention of the ‘good’ Robert Good Photographer does not besmirch his business or character. OUR Robert Good from Circleville, Ohio is not that savvy and does not have a website or FB account. I have learned that there are dozens of reunion groups that now are still waiting on their products. Mr. Robert Good has even hit closer to home. One of my groups and a couple more who hosted in Dayton were scammed as well. I have encouraged any and all to contact the Ohio Attorney General’s office – Mike Dewine to report their losses. It still burns me up that our veterans are being taking advantage of by this crook. Thanks for all you do! Lisa Willis Greene County Convention & Visitors Bureau 1221 Meadowbridge Drive, Suite A Beavercreek, Ohio 45434 (937) 320-9865 direct (937) 429-9100 front office 1-800-733-9109 Greenecountyohio.org
Spring, 2013
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RFN Members
CVBs (Convention & Visitors Bureaus & Tourism Development Agencies) These CVBs help the military reunion community in many ways, and offer a variety of free services to help you have the best reunion possible. When you work with a member CVB, you help us ALL! 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
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
916-808-7275
blongmire@cityofsacramento.org
CO
Colorado Springs
CO
Pueblo
p 38
Natalie Hirsch
719-685-7638
natalie@visitcos.com
The Greater Pueblo COC
Colorado Springs CVB
Jeanne Santillanez
719-542-1100
jeanne_s@puebloconventioncenter.com
DE
Dover
Kent County CVB
Kimberly Bailey-Thomas 800-233-5368
kthomas@visitdover.com
DE
Rehoboth Beach
Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach COC
Meghan McCalley
800-441-1329
meghan@beach-fun.com
FL
Auburndale
Central Florida VCB
Joni Allen
863-551-4708
joni@visitcentralflorida.org
FL
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
Experience Kissimmee CVB
Jadeine Shives
407-742-8255
jshives@experiencekissimmee.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
p4
Lonnie Elmore
319-233-8350
lonnie@travelwaterloo.com
IL
Gurnee
Lake County CVB
Kimberly Ghys
800-525-3669
kimberly@lakecounty.org
IL
Lisle
Lisle CVB (Chicago Area)
Jay Allen
630-769-1000
allen@stayinlisle.com
IL
Oak Brook
DuPage CVB
Julie Scholle
630-575-8070
julie@discoverdupage.com
IL
Schaumburg
Woodfield Chicago NW Conv Bureau
Melinda Garritano
847-278-3446
mgarritano@chicagonorthwest.com
KS
Salina
Visit Salina Area COC
JoAnn McClure
785-827-9301
jmcclure@salinakansas.org
KS
Wichita
Go Wichita
Andre- Mboule
316-660-6312
amboule@gowichita.com
KY
Bowling Green
Bowling Green Area CVB
Duncan Hines
270-782-0800
duncan@visitbgky.com
KY
Covington
Northern Kentucky CVB
Barbara Dozier
800-447-8489
bdozier@nkycvb.com
KY
Lexington
Lexington CVB
Roseanne Mingo
800-848-1224
rmingo@visitlex.com
LA
Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge Area CVB
IA Waterloo
LA Jefferson
p 47
Waterloo CVB
Jefferson Parish CVB
Jennye Snider
225-382-3584
jennye@visitbatonrouge.com
Magan Adams
504-731-7083
magan@experiencejefferson.com
LA
Lafayette
Lafayette CVC
Irene T. Hodge
337-232-3737
irene@lafayettetravel.com
MA
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
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
MO Branson MO
Independence
Page 40
p3
Branson Lakes Area CVB
Independence Missouri Tourism Dept
Jay Gunnarson
507-424-0818
jgunnarson@rochestercvb.org
Julie Peters
417-243-2117
jpeters@bransoncvb.com
Amanda Wadington
816-325-7108
awadington@indepmo.org
Reunion Friendly News
•
Spring, 2013
CVBs (continued) MO
Joplin
MO MO
Joplin CVB
Lenny Brubaker
417-625-4789
lbrubake@joplinmo.org
Maryland Heights Maryland Heights CVB
Laura Brahan
314-738-2497
laura@mhcvb.com
St Charles
Karen Fraser
800-366-2427
kfraser@historicstcharles.com
St Charles CVB
p 39
St Robert
573-336-6355
bethw@visitpulaskicounty.org
Fayetteville
Fayetteville Area CVB
Myron Jones
800-255-8217
mjones@visitfayettevillenc.com
ND
Fargo
Fargo-Moorhead CVB
Jill Gates
701-365-4560
jill@fargomoorhead.org
NE
Omaha
Omaha CVB
Bill Slovinski
866-937-6624
bslovinski@visitomaha.com
NM
Albuquerque
Albuquerque CVB
Serena Sullivan
505-222-4355
sullivan@itsatrip.org
NV
Laughlin
Southern Nevada Regional Office - NVCVA
Cherie Westbrook
702-298-3022
cwestbrook@lvcva.com
NY
Niagara Falls
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 Beavercreek
p 25 p 26
Pulaski County Tourism Bureau Beth Wiles
OH
Dayton
Dayton/Montgomery Cnty CVB
Carman Huffman
937-226-8292
chuffman@daytoncvb.net
OH
Toledo
Destination Toledo,Inc - CVB
Julie Bolfa
800-243-466
jbolfa@dotoledo.org
PA
Gettysburg
Gettysburg CVB
Jenny McConnell
717-338-1053
jenny@gettysburg.travel
PA
Harrisburg
Hershey Harrisburg Regional VB
Sandy Wenner
717-231-2988
sandy@hersheyharrisburg.org
PA
King of Prussia
Valley Forge CVB
Courtney Pozo
610-834-7971
pozo@valleyforge.org
PA
Tunkhannock
Endless Mountains VB
Jean Ruhf
570-836-5431
jean@endlessmountains.org
RI
Providence
Providence Warwick CVB
Sheila Lindemann
401-456-0228
slindemann@pwcvb.com
SC
Charleston
Charleston Area CVB
John Michel McCants 843-805-3098
jmmccants@explorecharleston.com
SD
Rapid City
Lisa Storms
605-718-8487
storms@visitrapidcity.com
Chris Petro
423-424-4417
chrisp@chattanoogacvb.com
TN Chattanooga
p 28-29 Rapid City CVB p 37 Chattanooga Area CVB
TN
Nashville
Nashville CVB
Amy Spear
615-259-4716
amy@visitmusiccity.com
TN
Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge Dept of Tourism
Kay Poole
865-453-8574
kpoole@mypigeonforge.com
TX
Amarillo
Amarillo CVB
Emilea white
806-342-2017
emilea@visitamarillotx.com
TX
Beaumont
Beaumont CVB
Rebecca Woodland
409-880-3749
rwoodland@ci.beaumont.tx.us
TX
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
325-655-4136
pamela@sanangelo.org
UT
Ogden
Ogden/Weber 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
Jeff Bunn
757-502-4898
jbunn@cityofchesapeake.net
VA Fairfax
p 31
Dean Miller
703-790-0643
dmiller@fxva.com
VA
Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg Regional Tourism Partn.
Visit Fairfax
Kimberly Herbert
540-372-1216
ksherbert@fredericksburgva.gov
VA
Hampton
Hampton CVB
Julie A. Williams
757-728-5318
julie@hamptoncvb.com
VA
Leesburg
Visit Loudoun
Jennifer Ritter
703-771-7525
ritter@visitloudoun.org
VA
Manassas
Discover Prince William & Manassas
Michael -Mike- Stoupa 571-482-7049
mstoupa@discoverpwm.com
VA
Newport News
Newport News T & D
Barb Kleiss
757-926-1442
bkleiss@nngov.com
VA
Norfolk
Visit Norfolk
Melissa Hopper
757-664-6620
mhopper@norfolkcvb.com
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
Vancouver
Vancouver USA Regional Tourism Office
Debbie Picard
360-750-1553
dpicard@visitvancouverusa.com
WI
La Crosse
La Crosse Area CVB
Clarissa Erickson
608-782-2220
erickson@explorelacrosse.com
WI
Waukesha
Waukesha & Pewaukee CVB
Deana Birmingham
262-542-0330
deana@visitwaukesha.org
Reunion Friendly News
•
Spring, 2013
Page 41
RFN Members
MO NC
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 West
Gatherings Plus
Pam Brown
417-338-4048
pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com
MO
St Louis
Precise Plans, Inc.
Christal Rogers
314-334-0158
inquire@precise-plans.com
SC
Charleston
Charleston Convention & Group Services
James Mellen
843-571-5882
jmellen@destinationCharlestonSC.com
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 TRN could not exist without the support of member hotels. They want to help you have the best reunion you possibly could have. We urge you to think of these folks first! AL
Mobile
Renaissance Hotel Mobile
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
CA
Anaheim
Red Lion Hotel Anaheim
Jennifer Mendoza
714-750-2801
jennifer.mendoza@redlion.com
CA
Buena Park
Holiday Inn Buena Park Hotel & Conf Ctr
Dennis Fyda
714-690-4603
dennis.fyda@hibuenapark.com
CA
Cathedral City
Red Lion Hotel Cathedral City
Marlo Amelio
760-324-5939
marlo@williamryanlc.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
Redding
Red Lion Hotel Redding
Carol Owens
866-430-2692
carol.owens@redlion.com
CA
San Diego
Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside
Jodie Langhammer
800-650-6660
jodie@holinnbayside.com
CA
San Diego
The Handlery Hotel & Resort
Amber Matheney
619-398-8334
amatheney@handlery.com
CO
Aurora
Red Lion Hotel Denver Southeast
Shelby Rushbrooke
303-695-1700
shelby.rushbrooke@redlion.com
CT
Groton
Groton Inn & Suites
Nancie Keenan
860-445-9784
nkeenan@grotoninn.com
CT
New London
Holiday Inn New London
Joan Garcia
860-443-7000
msjoangarcia.hinl@gmail.com
CT
Norwich
Holiday Inn Norwich
Katie Weber-Coleman 860-889-5201
katie.weber@hershahotels.com
DC
Washington
The Melrose Hotel
Mekdim Yemane
202-955-3836
mekdim.yemne@melrosehoteldc.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
Page 42
Reunion Friendly News
•
Spring, 2013
Hotels (continued) Orlando
Renaissance Orlando Hotel Airport
Stephen Russell
407-513-7226
stephen.russell@renaissancehotels.com
FL
Orlando
Sheraton Orlando Downtown Hotel
Kristine Floyd
407-244-7465
kristine.floyd@sheratonorlandodowntown.c
FL
St Petersburg
Hilton St Petersburg Bayfront
Debbie Sanders
727-894-5000
deborah.sanders@hilton.com
FL
Tampa
Mainsail Suites Hotel & Conference Ctr.
Kelly Nixon
813-243-2635
knixon@mainsailhotels.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
Red Lion Boise Downtowner
Mowbray Brown
208-344-7691
mowbray.brown@redlion.com
ID
Boise
The Boise Hotel & Conference Center
Curt Asmussen
208-914-3957
casmussen@ardenthotels.com
ID
Lewiston
Red Lion Hotel Lewiston
Laurie Wilson
208-799-1000
lwilson@redlionlewiston.com
IL
Deerfield
Embassy Suites Chicago North Shore
Dawn Brandau
847-945-4596
dbrandau@destinationhotels.com
IL
Deerfield
Hyatt Deerfield
Dawn Brandau
847-597-4521
dawn.brandau@hyattdeerfield.com
IL
Elk Grove Village
Wyndham Garden Elk Grove Village-O-Hare
Rina Patano
847-593-6200
rpatanowgh@yahoo.com
IL
Northbrook
Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel
Susan Fox
847-897-5421
sfox@renaissancechicagons.com
IL
Wheeling
The Westin Chicago North Shore
Jim Straus
847-777-6559
jim.straus@westin.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
KY
Erlanger
Holiday Inn Cincinnati Airport
Molly Fruin
859-746-5612
molly.fruin@hicincinnatiairport.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 Metairie-New Orleans
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
MD
Gaithersburg
Hilton Wash DC North/Gaithersburg
Bernard Howe
301-591-9906
bhowe@hiltongaithersburg.com
MD
Ocean City
Dunes Manor Hotel
Lauren Prendergast
800-523-2888
lauren@dunesmanor.com
MD
Rockville
Crowne Plaza Washington DC-Rockville
Jessica Greene
301-795-3280
jessica.greene@cprockville.com
ME
S Portland
Best Western Merry Manor Inn
Donald Haggett
207-774-6151
dhaggett@merrymanorinn.com
ME
Waterville
Best Western Plus Waterville
Karen Spaulding
207-873-0111
kspaulding@girihotels.com
MN
Rochester
Kahler Grand Hotel
Chris Wagner
507-285-2740
chris.wagner@ihrco.com
MO
Branson
Grand Plaza Hotel
Darlene Burkhart
417-336-6646
darlene@bransongrandplaza.com
MO
Branson
Radisson Hotel Branson
Sarah Hord
417-690-4026
sarah.hord@radisson.com
MO
Branson
Stone Castle Hotel & Conf Center
Rachael James
417-231-4721
rachael@bransonstonecastle.com
MO
Branson
Welk Resort Branson
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
MT
Kalispell
Red Lion Hotel Kalispell
CJ Getty
406-751-5050
cj.getty@redlion.com
MT
Missoula
Red Lion Inn Missoula
Kimberley Best
406-728-3300
kimberley.best@redlion.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
NM
Gallup
Red Lion Hotel Gallup
John Hughes
505-722-2221
gm@redliongallup.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
Reunion Friendly News
•
Spring, 2013
Page 43
RFN Members
FL
RFN Members
Hotels (continued) 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
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
Sue Edlen
937-879-2698
sue.edlen@hopehotel.com
OK
Norman
NCED Hotel
Candie Westbrook
405-366-4976
candie.westbrook@marriott.com
OR
Eugene
Red Lion Hotel Eugene
Cedric Rudd
541-348-2520
cedric.rudd@redlion.com
OR
Pendleton
Red Lion Hotel Pendleton
Cheryl Rolstad
541-276-6111
cheryl.rolstad@redlion.com
OR
Portland
Red Lion on the River Jantzen Beach
Felicia Patterson
503-283-4466
felicia.patterson@redlionontheriver.com
OR
Salem
Red Lion Hotel Salem
Kara Campuzano
503-370-7888
sales2@redlionsalem.com
PA
Camp Hill
Radisson Hotel Harrisburg
Kelly Lehr
717-433-9737
klehr@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
SC
Charleston
Holiday Inn Charleston Riverview
Rose Guinn
843-460-1441
rguinn@hiriverview.com
SC
Hilton Head Island Comfort Inn - South Forest Beach
Arlene Anderson
843-842-6662
arlene.anderson@snbhotels.com
SC
Myrtle Beach
Landmark Resort Hotel
Pat Emmons
843-448-9441
pemmons@landmarkresort.com
SC
Myrtle Beach
Sands Resorts
Jessica Grella
843-692-5264
jgrella@sandsresorts.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
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
Catherine E. Spivey
615-313-1366
cspivey@mill-usa.com
TN
Nashville
Nashville Airport Marriott
Tracy Porier
615-684-5067
tracy.porier@marriott.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
UT
Salt Lake City
Red Lion Hotel Salt Lake Downtown
Josh Porter
801-521-7373
josh.porter@redlion.com
VA
Alexandria
Hilton Alexandria Mark Ctr
Michael Sicheri
703-845-2645
msicheri@hiltonalexandriamc.com
VA
Alexandria
Holiday Inn & Suites Historic District
Jamila Ahmed
703-299-4960
jamila.ahmed@ihg.com
VA
Ashburn
Embassy Suites Dulles North
Jolene Pardee
703-554-6051
jolene.pardee@hilton.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
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
Page 44
Reunion Friendly News
•
Spring, 2013
Hotels (continued) Norfolk
Norfolk Plaza Hotel Downtown
Donna Faison
757-802-9283
donna.faison@ahghotels.com
VA
Reston
Sheraton Reston
Bob Ciccone
703-262-5931
bciccone@sheratonreston.com
VA
Virginia Beach
Best Western Plus Virginia Beach
Rachel Hayes
757-428-5370
rhayes@bestwesternoceanfront.com
VA
Virginia Beach
Cavalier Hotel & Convention Center
Cindy Woolfolk
757-352-2764
cindyw@cavalierhotel.com
VA
Virginia Beach
Crowne Plaza Virginia Beach
Valencia Moore
757-213-4386
vmoore@cpvabeach.com
VA
Virginia Beach
Holiday Inn & Suites North Beach
Amanda Mason
757-419-3665
amanda.mason@crestlinehotels.com
VA
Virginia Beach
Holiday Inn Virginia Beach Norfolk Hotel
Katie Casson
757-499-4400
kcasson@hiexeccenter.com
WA
Bellevue
Red Lion Hotel Bellevue
Raquel Wheeler
425-455-5240
raquel.wheeler@redlion.com
WA
Kelso
Red Lion Hotel Kelso/Longview
Ginny Whiffen
360-636-4400
ginny.whiffen@redlion.com
WA
Kent
Red Lion Hotel Kent
Paul Sandhu
253-520-6670
paul@guestkeeper.com
WA
Olympia
Red Lion Hotel Olympia
Kyla Cavanagh
360-943-4000
kyla.cavanagh@redlion.com
WA
Pasco
Red Lion Hotel Pasco
Genevieve Speegle
509-547-0701
genevieve.speegle@redlion.com
WA
Port Angeles
Red Lion Hotel Port Angeles
Vickie Stafford
360-452-9215
vickie.stafford@redlion.com
WA
Poulsbo
Poulsbo Inn & Suites
Terri Douglas
360-779-3921
manager@poulsboinn.com
WA
Richland
Red Lion Richland
Genevieve Speegle
509-946-7611
genevieve.speegle@redlion.com
WA
Seatac
Seattle Airport Marriott
Kris Lafata
206-241-2000
kristina.lafata@marriott.com
WA
Seattle
Crowne Plaza Seattle Downtown
Beth Harwood
206-676-3923
bharwood@cphotelseattle.com
WA
Seattle
Red Lion Hotel Fifth Avenue
Michelle Dayan
--
mdayan@destinationhotels.com
WA
Seattle
Red Lion Hotel Sea Tac
Ruby Turner
206-246-5535
ruby.turner@redlion.com
WA
Spokane
Red Lion Inn at the Park
Stephanie Stobie
509-326-8000
stephanie.stobie@redlion.com
WA
Spokane
Red Lion River Inn
Stephanie Stobie
509-326-5577
stephanie.stobie@redlion.com
WA
Tacoma
Red Lion Hotel Tacoma
Brandie Hesson-Bullard 253-548-1212
brandieb@redliontacoma.com
WA
Tukwila
DoubleTree Suites-Hilton Seattle Arpt SC
Diane Witt
206-777-3300
dianewitt@dtseattle.com
WA
Vancouver
Red Lion Hotel Vancouver at the Quay
Michele Dunn
360-694-8341
michele.dunn@redlion.com
WA
Yakima
Red Lion Yakima
Erica Moloney
--
Erica.Moloney@redlion.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 TRN Management Company & Chain Members offer the reunion planner an opportunity to look at a number of locations and sites using one source. 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
425-501-1430
sharon.danitschek@redlion.com
Reunion Friendly News
•
Spring, 2013
Page 45
RFN Members
VA
General Attractions
RFN Members
These RFN Members provide additional services and support for your reunions. Help yourself and help TRN continue its work. Always go to RFN Members first! AK
Wrangell
Nolan Center
Terri Henson
907-874-3699
terri@wrangellalaska.org
DC
Washington
Phillips Seafood Restaurants
Debra Morroni
202-488-8192
dmorroni@phillipsfoods.com
FL
St Augustine
Ripley-s Believe It or Not Museum
Kathi Ellison
904-824-1606
ellison@ripleys.com
MO
Branson
Branson Variety Theater
Lisa Martin
888-462-7267
salesbvt@aol.com
MO
Branson
Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction
Kamber Sperle
417-336-7974
kambers@dixiestampede.com
MO
Branson
Flash Photo Group Photography
David Cain
417-334-0073
dave@flashphotobranson.com
MO
Branson
Showboat Branson Belle
Teina Woodburn
417-336-7411
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
Wayne Chandler
615-882-5435
wchandler@opry.com
WA
Tacoma
Emerald Queen Hotel & Casino
Doreen Vitek
253-441-3189
doreen_vitek@emeraldqueen.com
Promotional Associates, Inc.
Stephen C. Greenberger 954-295-5955
USA Promotion FL
Hollywood
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
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
In The Next Issue: • RFN’s Hall of Certified Planners • Poll Results – Best Reunion Location(s) • Finance Opinion – Saving the Small Business in America Page 46
Reunion Friendly News
•
Spring, 2013
Co nvention
C onvent i on
& Vis ito r s
& Vi s i t o r s
B u r eau
B u r e au
Explore Jefferson Parish, a place of great heritage, tradition and diversity. Visit the Century of Sentries Veterans Park with A-4 Skyhawk and F-14 Tomcat displays. Shop and dine in historic Old Metairie or cross the Mississippi River strolling Huey P. Long Avenue. Visit the famous National WWII Museum, just minutes from Jefferson Parish. Live theatre, outdoor markets, and friendly people make Jefferson a place to experience!
C o n v e n t i o n
&
V i s i t o r s
B u r e a u
To learn more, ask for our Group Tour Planner Guide. Call 504-731-7083 or TOLL FREE 1-877-572-7474. Reunion Friendly News
•
Spring, 2013
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 Spring, 2013 Served Our Country” “Serving Those Who Served Our Country”
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID FORT LAUDERDALE, FL PERMIT 5395
TRN2003-Fall.indd 64
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID FORT LAUDERDALE, FL PERMIT 5395
10/10/2003, 11:55:42 AM
TRN2003-Fall.indd 64
10/10/2003, 11:55:42 AM
Now hear this! Now Hear this! Now hear this! Now hear this! Now hear this!
RFN Has Moved! Reunion Friendly Network 1835 East Hallandale Beach Blvd., Suite 332 Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009 RFN’s new telephone numbers are: 954-454-0904 Fax – 954-454-0978 Now hear this! Now Hear this! Now hear this! Now hear this! Now hear this!