Don’t let your memories fade™
FRONT WORDS – 4
ALUM & I – 6
Why every high school reunion needs a website by Rob Hirscheimer
Are high school reunions obsolete?
BRANCH OFFICE – 8
Saving the Stories of the Past by Rick Voight
The Family Heritage Experience
Review: The Trouble of Color: An American Family Memoir by Martha S. Jones
Review: The Stained Glass Window, a Family History as the American Story, 1790-1958 by David Levering Lewis
Review: Your Roots Cast a Shadow, one family’s search across history for belonging by Caroline Topperman
SCRAPBOOK – 12
Reunion School and upcoming workshops
Reunion days organization
Feedback is important
Time to Reunite in Tampa Bay
Juneteenth Day!
Celebrate the National Day of the American Cowboy!
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Aglow sisters reunite by Karen Robertson
MASTERPLAN – 26
Gillyard, Johnson, Mahoney Family Reunion Business Expo by Bettie Gillyard Griggs
Hayes Family Reunion by Robert Stevens, EdD
Webinar: Connecting through family reunions
Cunningham Family Reunion by Natricia Edwards
Powell Moody Family Reunion by Allison Bell
Fosque Family Reunion through the years by Regina Singletary
FEATURES – 40
Hail upcoming reunions!
From potluck to catered fare by Lisa Alzo, MFA
Hospitality Answerman by Dean Miller
MILITARY REUNION NEWS – 50
The National Museum of the United States Army
National Medal of Honor Museum
USS Thomas Jefferson reunion photos from Josephine Scarpello
The Pacific Aviation Museum
Veteran Tickets Foundation - Vet Tix
REUNION RESOURCES – 52
A directory of reunion-friendly places, services, vendors and products.
ON THE COVER
Hayes Family Reunion, OD Wyatt High School Class of 1981, Visit the National Museum of the United States Army, Cunningham military veterans, Fosque Family Reunion
Reunion Celebrations v Summer 2025 Volume 34 v Number 2
PUBLISHER
Rick Voight
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Edith Wagner editor@reunionsmag.com
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
Mary Catherine Stern
ART DIRECTOR
Jennifer Rueth
SALES
Roberta McLoud, Account Manager roberta@reunionsmag.com
WEB WIZARDS
Howard Ehrenberg • Chris Thompson
HOSPITALITY ANSWERMAN
Dean Miller
CONTRIBUTORS
Lisa A. Alzo, MFA • Allison Bell
Natricia Edwards • Bettie Gillyard Griggs
Rob Hirscheimer • Pat A. Robinson
Karen Robertson • Josephine Scarpello
Regina Singletary • Robert Stevens, EdD
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Reunions magazine, Inc., is not liable for information presented as facts in any of our advertising, byline stories or materials. We reserve the right to edit and/or refuse any material submitted for publication. We take responsibility for submitted materials but unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE), submissions and photos will not be returned. All materials sent for publication become property of Reunions magazine, Inc. Advertising information contact Reunions magazine, Inc., PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727 | 414-467-8104 roberta@reunionsmag.com | reunionsmag.com
© 2025 Reunions magazine, Inc.
It’s reunion season again and that means lots of work and lots of fun for millions. Of course, the fact that it’s summer and warm and sunny also helps. For those of you looking forward to a 2025 reunion, we salute you and wish you the best reunion ever!
Mail to Reunions magazine
PO Box 11727
Milwaukee WI 53211-0727
call 414-263-4567
visit reunionsmag.com
e-mail editor@reunionsmag.com
As usual, we’ve assembled a range of articles to help you stage your reunion. To start, there is an explanation of why every high school reunion needs a website. Then, in Branch Office saving stories from the past and explore the new Family Heritage Experience in Boston where genealogy comes alive. Scrapbook includes forms to help
organize your reunion days and reminders about evaluating your efforts to start planning your next event plus several other ideas of interest.
The family reunions in this issue are like a giant joyful picture book! There is the 120-year old Hayes Family Reunion, an exciting Gillyard, Johnson, Mahoney Family Reunion Business Expo! Followed by a run-down of the Cunningham family history and great pictures from the Powell Moody Family and the Fosque Family.
Special features include a summary of reunions coming up this year posted on our webpage. Regular contributor, Lisa Alzo, summarizes her reunion food from potluck to catered fare while Dean Miller, the Hospitality Answerman, summarizes the “pre-convention” meeting with hotel managers.
We look forward to learning about your reunion stories and seeing your reunion pictures and/or videos. Ask members taking pictures to look for ones that help tell your reunion story. Pictures should be pdf or jpg formats at 300 dpi or higher. Pictures and videos can be sent via wetransfer. com; it’s free to use. If you want ideas about what to write, just ask. Send to editor@reunionsmag.com
We partner with our advertisers to help you produce a memorable reunion and we hope you will make both of us a part of your reunion planning. Be sure to tell them you discovered them Reunions magazine
No charge, no cost, and the world will know you’re planning a reunion. It’s simple! Go to reunionsmag.com/add-upcoming-reunion/ and complete the information. Then, tell your members where they can see their reunion!
Want more reunion ideas between issues?
Click here to sign up for our free email newsletter Then, look for newsletters on the 1st and 15th of each month. Finally …. As this reunion season begins, we wish you successful 2025 reunions that will be remembered long after the last hug and farewell. EW
“Remember
That’s what people say after a successful family reunion. Just north of Chicago is beautiful Lake County. We offer so many places for the perfect family event; 75 lakes, forest preserves and picnic locations. You can also enjoy some of the area’s best attractions including Six Flags Great America, Hurricane Harbor water park and the incredible Great Wolf Lodge. We also offer wonderful restaurants, hotels, entertainment and fun. For a truly unforgettable reunion, make it Lake County, Illinois. Contact reunion expert, Kimberly Ghys, Kimberly@LakeCounty.org to start your planning!
Whetherit’s been 20 or 50 years, there’s something special about getting together with the people you knew when your biggest concerns were final exams and who you were going to the Friday night football game with. Planning a high school reunion is no small task and requires a lot of effort. Between tracking down classmates, organizing payments, booking venues, collecting and disseminating information, it can quickly become overwhelming. That’s where a dedicated high school reunion website comes in — and why platforms like MyEvent. com have become must-haves for reunion committees.
These are the top six reasons every reunion committee needs a website to help plan and manage their high school reunion.
A reunion website is your digital headquarters. Instead of juggling email chains, Facebook groups, and printed flyers, you can direct classmates to one central location for all the details, dates, venues, ticket prices, hotel information, dress codes — you name it. With a site like MyEvent.com, everything is
neatly organized and easy to update as plans evolve. You can use the website to do surveys: when and where the event should be held, what the theme should be and so much more. You can also have fun with it and keep people coming back to the website to guess whose baby picture was posted that week or update classmates about various accomplishments your friends have achieved in their careers and lives. A memorial page can pay tribute to those who have passed away, and a who’s missing page can be shared with everyone to help track down those who have not registered on the website.
Forget the hassle of collecting checks or chasing down responses. MyEvent.com lets classmates RSVP online and purchase tickets directly on the site. Organizers can track attendance in real-time and avoid the dreaded spreadsheet chaos. You can also collect donations to help cover reunion costs or fund scholarships for future students in need.
One of the best parts of high school reunions is reconnecting with people you haven’t seen in years. Reunion websites often feature classmate directories and photo galleries where people can post updates, share memories, and even upload their Then & Now photos. It gets the conversation going long before the dance floor opens. This also allows people who cannot make it to the reunion to participate and reconnect with old friends.
Even if you’re not a techie, sites like MyEvent.com offer customizable templates that make your reunion page look polished and professional. You can upload school logos, yearbook photos, and inside jokes from senior year — giving your site the perfect mix of nostalgia and organization. You can also create a flashback page with all the things that happened the year you graduated such as award winners for music, film, television, what was happening in current events and politics and more. This creates a lot of sentimental feelings and makes people want to reconnect and share memories from the good ole days.
Planning a reunion can feel like a full-time job. A good website takes a big load off. MyEvent.com is built specifically for reunions, with built-in tools for sending email invitations, managing volunteers, tracking dietary preferences, and more. It’s like having a virtual assistant who never sleeps. It also facilitates accepting payments and provides easy to download reports that will make tracking things easy and efficient.
After the reunion is over, your website can become a living memory book. Post photos from the event, gather feedback, and keep classmates connected with news of accomplishments or classmates who have passed away. Many groups choose to keep their site live year-round as a space to stay in touch and start planning the next get-together. It’s like a private social network just for your graduating high school classmates.
In a nutshell, a high school reunion deserves more than a Facebook post and a group text. It deserves a real, well-organized digital home. A reunion website not only simplifies planning, it boosts turnout, rekindles connections, and gives everyone a place to celebrate the past and look forward to the future. v
Shared by Rob Hirscheimer, Myevent.com president.
In her book 100 Things We’ve Lost to the Internet, author Pamela Paul, includes high school reunions! She says that once you’ve viewed all the photos and videos online “the urge to go to the next reunion to find out what Jen and Dave have been up to all these years no longer holds the same sense of urgency.”
She summarizes by asking “Will future generations even bother with reunions every five years? … You can’t leave your yearbook and your old high school acquaintances unattended in your mom’s basement the way you used to. Your yearbook is everywhere.” 100 Things We’ve Lost to the Internet by Pamela Paul. New York: Crown, ©2021; 260 pages, $27.00) EW v
BBeing the keeper of your family’s history is an honor…but sometimes overwhelming. There are so many memories to capture before they fade. Photos and memorabilia to digitize and label. Stories to share with loved ones. You want to use the best (and easiest!) technologies, but you don’t want to keep investing in different tools. Where are you in the following three-step process of saving your stories? Consider our recommendation for a single, easy-touse system that can help you all along the way.
eing the keeper of your family’s history is an honor…but sometimes overwhelming. There are so many memories to secure before they fade. Photos and memorabilia to digitize and label. Stories to share with loved ones. You want to use the best (and easiest!) technologies, but you don’t want to keep investing in different tools. Where are you in the following three-step process of saving your stories? Consider our recommendation for a single, easy-to-use system that can help you all along the way.
1. Digitize the stuff. Many family historians have piles of photos, documents and artifacts that capture the faces, places, and stories of the past. These bring memories back to life and reveal loved ones’ personalities. Family documents help build family trees and solve age-old mysteries. But until they’re digitized, they can’t be easily copied, preserved, quality-enhanced or shared.
1. Digitize the stuff. Many genealogists have piles of photos, documents and artifacts that capture the faces, places, and stories of the past. These bring memories back to life and reveal loved ones’ personalities. Family documents help build family trees and solve age-old mysteries. But until they’re digitized, they can’t be easily copied, preserved, quality-enhanced or shared.
Don’t let anxieties about which tools to use (and how to use them) sabotage your digitizing goals. One solution, the Vivid-Pix Memory Station Software, saves time by working with your desktop scanner or all-in-one printer to add important metadata to your digitized files and embed them with stories—in addition to reviving an image’s faded colors and correcting color imbalances.
Don’t let anxieties about which tools to use (and how to use them) sabotage your digitizing goals. One solution, the Vivid-Pix Memory Station Software, saves time by working with your desktop scanner or all-in-one printer to add important metadata to your digitized files and embed them with stories—in addition to reviving an image’s faded colors and correcting color imbalances.
The Memory Station Software works with most scanners. Or you can purchase the full Memory Station, which bundles the software with a fast, space-saving overhead scanner. With it, you can scan even thick books, 3D objects, and large documents or albums.
The Memory Station Software works with most scanners. Or you can purchase the full Memory Station, which bundles the software with a fast, space-saving overhead scanner. With it, you can scan even thick books, 3D objects, and large documents or albums.
2. Record living memories. Chances are you’ve felt the frustration of studying unidentified family photos. Perhaps as you’ve sorted through a deceased relative’s belongings, you wished you knew what everything was. Even more
2. Record living memories. Chances are you’ve felt the frustration of studying unidentified family photos. Perhaps as you’ve sorted through a deceased relative’s belongings, you wished you knew what everything was. Even more
By listening to family historians, social and health providers, and leaders throughout many communities, Vivid-Pix invented the patent-pending Memory Station and tools specifically to help connect people to their past – and future.
heartbreaking can be the regret you feel at not having captured their stories in their own voices.
Start capturing what you can now, before more memories fade. And make it easy on yourself. Open your Memory Station Software and pull up an image you’ve already captured, downloaded, or received from another. Find the person who can best tell the story of that image. (Maybe it’s you.) Then hit a button to record an audio narrative that will be saved with the image, so the item and the story behind it are reunited and preserved together digitally.
By listening to family historians, social and health providers, and leaders throughout many communities, Vivid-Pix invented the patent-pending Memory Station and tools specifically to help connect people to their past – and future.
What if you could fill your free time doing what you love doing and improve your health and well-being. You can!
By Rick Voight, creator of Memory Station and Co-Founder and CEO of Vivid-Pix.
What if you could fill your free time doing what you love doing and improve your health and well-being. You can!
Through our primary research we’ve seen how people living with dementia can benefit when they talk about the past, especially while looking at photos or other personal items. Participating in guided conversations like this is called Photo Reminiscence Therapy (pRT). It can help reduce loneliness, stress and depression and even improve brain function.
heartbreaking can be the regret you feel at not having captured their stories in their own voices.
In the process, you’ve also captured the speaker’s unique voice and turns of phrase—and given them the gift of being heard.
3. Share your family story. Learning about your family’s past can be exciting, even empowering. Many genealogists discover a deepened sense of identity and connection, or answers to long-standing mysteries.
Start capturing what you can now, before more memories fade. And make it easy on yourself. Open your Memory Station Software and pull up an image you’ve already captured, downloaded, or received from another. Find the person who can best tell the story of that image. (Maybe it’s you.) Then hit a button to record an audio narrative that will be saved with the image, so the item and the story behind it are reunited and preserved together digitally.
By Rick Voight, creator of Memory Station and Co-Founder and CEO of Vivid-Pix.
Through our primary research we’ve seen how people living with dementia can benefit when they talk about the past, especially while looking at photos or other personal items. Participating in guided conversations like this is called Photo Reminiscence Therapy (pRT). It can help reduce loneliness, stress and depression and even improve brain function.
This kind of therapy is affordable, and involves no medication. It’s just the kind of resource that our large population of aging adults and their caregivers need. That’s why we developed family and continuing education courses, continue our research, and are working hard to make pRT as widely available as possible.
In the process, you’ve also captured the speaker’s unique voice and turns of phrase—and given them the gift of being heard.
It’s natural to want to share these insights with your relatives. But the challenge remains: how do you turn all those digitized images and research discoveries into a narrative your family will enjoy?
3. Share your family story. Learning about your family’s past can be exciting, even empowering. Many genealogists discover a deepened sense of identity and connection, or answers to long-standing mysteries.
Again, Memory Station Software has an easy answer. Its Stories feature allows you to string together multiple images and voice recordings into the most common movie format, MP4. It’s like creating your own mini-documentary about your family!
tools to use (and how to goals. One solution, the Software, saves time by workall-in-one printer to add digitized files and embed them an image’s faded colors works with most scanners. Memory Station, which space-saving overhead thick books, 3D objects,
Chances are you’ve felt the family photos. Perhaps deceased relative’s belongings, everything was. Even more
This kind of therapy is affordable, and involves no medication. It’s just the kind of resource that our large population of aging adults and their caregivers need. That’s why we developed family and continuing education courses, continue our research, and are working hard to make pRT as widely available as possible.
pRT is not just for those with cognitive decline, though. Healthy brains need exercise, too! Reminiscing reaches into our memory banks and activates multiple parts of our brain, releases happy and healthy endorphins, and can improve overall social well-being and interconnectedness in so many ways.
It’s natural to want to share these insights with your relatives. But the challenge remains: how do you turn all those digitized images and research discoveries into a narrative your family will enjoy?
Again, Memory Station Software has an easy answer. Its Stories feature allows you to string together multiple images and voice recordings into the most common movie format, MP4. It’s like creating your own mini-documentary about your family!
Create short stories—with just one or a few images—or longer narratives. The videos are easy to share with relatives via email, video chat, or at your next family gathering. Upload to social media and take your Throwback Thursday posts to a whole new level. You can even customize different versions with special photos and messages just for certain relatives. Connecting the dots between past and present—and connecting your people to each other—is so much easier when you let Memory Station help you from start to finish. From Missouri, the show-me state? Download a free trial of Memory Station Software onto a Windows computer and create five Stories – you can even fix ten images. No credit card required. Watch quick and easy demonstration tutorials at www.vivid-pix.com/memorystation
Create short stories—with just one or a few images—or longer narratives. The videos are easy to share with relatives via email, video chat, or at your next family gathering. Upload to social media and take your Throwback Thursday posts to a whole new level. You can even customize different versions with special photos and messages just for certain relatives.
Connecting the dots between past and present—and connecting your people to each other—is so much easier when you let Memory Station help you from start to finish. From Missouri, the show-me state? Download a free trial of Memory Station Software onto a Windows computer and create five Stories – you can even fix ten images. No credit card required. Watch quick and easy demonstration tutorials at www.vivid-pix.com/memorystation
pRT is not just for those with cognitive decline, though. Healthy brains need exercise, too! Reminiscing reaches into our memory banks and activates multiple parts of our brain, releases happy and healthy endorphins, and can improve overall social well-being and interconnectedness in so many ways.
Learn more at www.vivid-pix.com/reminisce and www.vivid-pix.com/education.
Learn more at www.vivid-pix.com/reminisce and www.vivid-pix.com/education.
Rick Voight is a lifelong snapshooter, who’s been in the imaging business for a few decades. Founded in 2012, Vivid-Pix invents and harnesses technologies, making it simple for individuals, families, and organizations to relive memories and share stories.
Rick Voight is a lifelong snapshooter, who’s been in the imaging business for a few decades. Founded in 2012, Vivid-Pix invents and harnesses technologies, making it simple for individuals, families, and organizations to relive memories and share stories.
The Family Heritage Experience by American Ancestors® in Boston, Massachusetts, is a new public space dedicated to the joy of exploring family history. It is a fun, interactive, state-of-the-art permanent exhibit that inspires people to think about their ancestors, wonder who they were and how they lived.
Everyone has a family history story worth telling and worth hearing. Prior knowledge of your ancestors is not necessary to enjoy a meaningful visit. The Family Heritage Experience answers questions people commonly have about their ancestors to build curiosity and stir interest in the past.
Only half of all Americans can name all their grandparents but most have a desire to learn more, particularly ancestors’ life stories. When people learn about their family history, they also learn about the more expansive shared human experience.
A self-guided tour of interactive exhibits, unique family history artifacts, and original artworks, the Family Heritage Experience invites visitors to ponder questions about their own family’s
origins, journeys, and cultural traditions, and to learn ways to discover more about their ancestry.
Exhibits explore themes of personal identity, creation of family lore, and almost universal desire to leave a record of one’s existence. On display are objects that various cultures and individuals have used to preserve family history, such as an intricate shell-beaded belt from the local Wampanoag nation, a patchwork quilt depicting scenes from African American family experiences over centuries, photographs and items that document Jewish traditions, and artistic renditions of AngloAmerican family trees from the 19th century. Other exhibits allow visitors to explore events that took place the year they were born, learn how DNA test results shed light on genealogy, and listen to the family history research journeys of people from diverse backgrounds.
The Family Heritage Experience is especially suited to multigenerational family groups. For more information visit FHE.AmericanAncestors.org v
The Trouble of Color: An American Family Memoir by Martha S. Jones (©2025, Basic Books, Harchett Book Group, hardcover, 324 pages, $30).
The Trouble of Color is a thoughtprovoking memoir that will change the way readers understand race. Jones honors her family’s history in a memoir of family, color, and being Black, white, and other in America. She grew up feeling her Black identity was obvious but suffered suspicions of others about her light skin color and the texture of her hair.
A scholar of Black history, Jones delves into her family’s past for answers. In every generation since her great-great-greatgrandmother survived enslavement to raise a free family, color determined her ancestors’ lives. But the color line was shifting and jagged, not fixed and straight. Some backed away from it, others skipped along it, and others still were cut deep by its sharp teeth.
Journeying across centuries, from rural Kentucky and small-town North Carolina to New York City and its suburbs, The Trouble of Color is a lyrical, deeply felt meditation on the most fundamental matters of identity, belonging, and family.
This beautifully written memoir is well worth everyone’s consideration. Reviewed and recommended by Edith Wagner, editor of Reunions magazine
The Stained Glass Window, a Family History as the American Story, 1790-1958 by David Levering Lewis (©2025, Penquin Random House; hard cover, 368 pages, $35)
Sitting beneath a stained-glass window dedicated to his grandmother (using a likeness of Alice King Bell) in the Atlanta church where his family prayed for generations, it struck David Levering Lewis that he knew very little about those ancestors. His family history shifts our understanding of the larger American story. We know there is no singular, quintessential American story, yet the Lewis family contains many defining ones. His lineage leads to two white slaveholding families in Georgia; a mulatto slaveholding family in South Carolina; and to the Lewises, an up-fromslavery black family in Georgia.
In The Stained Glass Window Lewis, a National Humanities Medal recipient and two-time recipient of the Pulitzer Prize, faces his ancestors and all the doors that were closed to them. He examines the intersection of history with his ancestors in the South of slavery, Jim Crow, and the dawn of the Civil Rights Movement. Lewis writes of his family’s pioneering roles in education and commerce, always requiring resistance to white supremacist power and “apartheid reality” that is ongoing. EW
Your Roots Cast a Shadow, one family’s search across history for belonging by Caroline Topperman (©2024, Health Communications Inc; paperback, 309 pages, $17.95)
Author, Caroline Topperman, moves from Vancouver, Canada, to Poland in 2013 to delve into her family history, tracing their migration through pre-WWII Poland, Afghanistan, Soviet Russia and beyond. She discovers their complex experiences which mirror some of what she felt as she adapted to life in a new country.
Your Roots Cast a Shadow explores where personal history intersects with global events to shape a family’s identity. From the bustling markets of Baghdad to the quiet streets of Stockholm, Sweden, Topperman navigates the murky waters of history. She switches between present and past, investigating the relationship between migration, politics, identity, and home. Her family stories bring history into the present. Topperman struggles with new cultural expectations and reconciling with estranged relatives. Your Roots Cast a Shadow explores explosive intergenerational histories that link war zones and foreign shores with questions of identity and belonging. EW
Reunion planning workshops and familiarization (FAM) tours are exciting opportunities for planners to learn about organizing reunions. Workshops and tours are ideal for beginners as well as experienced reunion planners looking for fresh, new ideas. Some workshops are held as conference calls and zoom meetings so you don’t have to leave your home to participate. Most workshops are free and require pre-registration.
Scheduled events are listed here in chronological order for those who have set dates. We add new workshops to the website as soon as we learn about them and announce them in our two monthly newsletters. The list online is followed by a list of organizations who have provided workshops in the past, but have not set new dates. Contact them to ask about their plans for their next workshop. Other good sources for workshops are genealogy society conferences. Check society program plans and if you belong to a society, ask the program chairperson to arrange a reunion planning workshop or program.
Basic listings are provided free to workshop hosts. Between issues, see current list online.
June 14-17, 2025
n MILITARY REUNION NETWORK
Corpus Christi, Texas
Military reunion planners only 425-501-1430; info@militaryreunionnetwork.com; https://militaryreunionnetwork.com/
June 20-23, 2025
n MILITARY REUNION NETWORK EDUCATIONAL SUMMIT 2025
Lubbock, Texas
MILITARY REUNION PLANNERS ONLY
Military reunion planners only 425-501-1430; info@militaryreunionnetwork.com; https://militaryreunionnetwork.com/
September 1, 2025 • 12 PM EST n HEADS UP! GREATER BIRMINGHAM (ALABAMA)
CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
2025 REUNION PLANNER EXPO
For information, contact Tara Walton, CTIS, CTP, Director of Tourism at 205-458-8000, 800-458-8085; twalton@inbirmingham.com; www.inbirmingham.com
October 25, 2025 • 12 PM EST
n FREE VIRTUAL FAMILY REUNION WORKSHOP FOR REUNION PLANNERS
National Family Reunion Institute To register: admin@familyreunioninstitute.net https://familyreunioninstitute.net
Reunion day has almost arrived! It is wise for the planner and committee members, if possible, to arrive at least one day early to go over details with hotel staff and others helping with the reunion. Make sure all the details in your contract have been arranged and are met. If not, you will, hopefully, have time to make changes and/or arrangements. Confirm every detail so that when your members begin to arrive, you will have everything under control.
The forms on pages 31 through 36 in Reunion Planners Notebook include Reunion day responsibilities, a volunteer list and an attendance roster. Pull all of them ahead of time and fill in the details that you’ve already nailed down. Of course, you may have your own set of forms for reunion days, so these are suggestions and/or reminders to help your planning.
Note: Forms for meal planning can be found on pages 26-30 in Reunion Planners Notebook. They include menus outlines, shopping list, picnic checklist, potluck signup and catering questions. v
This three-page form starts the day before the reunion with a list of steps to ensure a smooth reunion kickoff. It includes verifying agreements with the hotel and a checklist of reservations that should be confirmed.
Reunion day includes attendance counts and suggestions for contacts that might prove to be helpful like who to contact in case of emergency. Of course, we hope there will never be an emergency but having a contact will help, should you need it. There is a set-up list which will remind you what your need at all venues. Finally, there’s set up and clean up lists for your picnic site.
In case of emergency
Security
Rental pickup date and time
Confirm transportation needs for elderly and special needs
Check parking, particularly handicap parking
Setup Time/Date
Tables
Chairs _____________________________________________________
Table Covering _____________
Electric Outlets
Sound System
TV/Monitors
Piano
Food on site?
Kitchen
At picnic site
Check: Restrooms
Tables and benches
Grills
Swimming Pool
Play area
Page 2 of 3
At picnic site (continued)
Tennis Courts
Pool Table
Volleyball
Nearby Park
Golf
Clean-up
Pick up room or site and empty trash
Pack and return tables, chairs, rental equipment
Other Requirements:
Notes:
You should have a list before the reunion of everyone you expect to attend, who has registered, paid and who owe fees. Then, on reunion day, you can double check that list by asking everyone to sign in. Include a list of children with each family and their ages so when it’s all over, you’ll have the start of the next generation list!
Use the list ahead of time to confirm that volunteers are ready with their responsibilities and any supplies and equipment they may need. Some such as leaders for games and kids activities will need equipment and supplies planned and coordinated ahead. Having your volunteers list on hand should make the day go more smoothly.
There are sample evaluation forms on pages 37 to 41 in Reunion Planners Notebook These include brief questionnaires for reunion and committee members and an extended form for reunion members. The forms can be downloaded and copied or used as a basis for you to develop your own forms. For more detail about these forms and soliciting feedback see Reunions magazine Summer 2024 v33n2 issue, pages 18-19.
Reunion Name
Reunion Date
Contact ____________
Member Long form
1. Is this the first time you
2. How did you g
3. Were
A. City/location ___yes ___no
B.
C. Reunion activities ___yes ___no If not, please explain problems you had.
4. How con Not at all
5. How convenient was the DATE for you?
6. Were fees for reunion registration an
Registration
The July 4th holiday (or its closest weekends) is the single largest reunion date of the year. It’s already a big family get together time whether for a formal reunion or not. These are some special July 4th phrases that we offer for you to use either at your July 4th event or in invitations to encourage gathering to celebrate.
H Happy Birthday, America!
H Let freedom ring!
H God Bless America!
H Home of the free, established in 1776.
H From every mountainside, let freedom ring.
H Bold stripes, bright stars, brave hearts.
There’s something special about bringing people together— whether it’s family from far-flung cities, classmates you haven’t seen in decades, or a crew of lifelong friends who share inside jokes and unforgettable stories. If you’re planning a reunion that blends fun, relaxation, and authentic connection, Tampa Bay offers the perfect backdrop with its mix of adventure and laid-back vibes..
Tampa Bay isn’t just a destination—it’s a place to reconnect, celebrate, and make memories that last a lifetime. Known for its diversity and vibrant spirit, Tampa Bay is ready to welcome your group with open arms. Whether it’s your first time visiting or a long-awaited return, Tampa Bay makes everyone feel right at home. Just ask Barbara Tripp, Fire Chief of Tampa Fire Rescue, who hosted the 39th annual United Cousins Reunion in Tampa Bay:
“We had family members who traveled from all over the United States to come to Tampa, and they had an awesome time. I am constantly getting phone calls stating how beautiful the city is and how safe they felt while touring the city… Once again, thank you and your team for your assistance with an outstanding event.”
Whether your group prefers to be in the heart of the action downtown or needs value-friendly group blocks, Tampa Bay
offers accommodations to suit every size and budget. Enjoy convenient amenities and access to gathering spaces that help make your reunion seamless, connected, and stress-free.
Every group is different, and Tampa Bay delivers experiences for all. Want thrills? Head to Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay for pulse-pounding roller coasters and animal encounters. Prefer to take it slow? A serene sunset cruise along the bay sets the perfect tone. With sunshine year-round and a laid-back atmosphere, the region allows every reunion to unfold just right.
Visit Tampa Bay’s expert Convention Sales and Services Teams are here to support your reunion every step of the way. From customized RFPs and hotel connections to group discounts and vendor referrals, they’ll help you plan with confidence. Additional perks like welcome bags, local coupons, or souvenirs may also be available depending on your group size. Need transportation, public park reservations, or help with custom signage and AV equipment? They’ll connect you with trusted partners who can bring your event to life.
VisitTampaBay.com offers tools, itineraries, and inspiration to make planning a breeze. And for personalized support, reach out to: Sherri T. Brown, M.A.
Vice
President
of Multicultural Sales and Development
813.342.4062 | SBrown@VisitTampaBay.com
Juneteenth Day commemorates June 19, 1865, when news of Presidents Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation freeing enslaved African Americans reached Galveston, Texas. Word of mouth spread slowly throughout the Deep South and the freedom dates simply became known as Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Jubilee Day. It was recognized as a national holiday in 2021.
Juneteenth celebrations occur across the country and welcome family reunions celebrating at the same time. These community events often include genealogy study and exhibits, talent shows, Hula Hoop competitions, African dancers, stilt walkers, brass bands and domestic and African craft vendors. v
Bandera, Texas, Cowboy Capital of the World, celebrates the National Day of the American Cowboy July 25-26, 2025. It is an immersive experience celebrating heritage and culture as cowboys compete for the Summer Rodeo Series Champions. This celebration offers a true taste of the Old West with its historic charm, friendly folks, welcoming atmosphere, and abundance of Westernthemed activities.
On Saturday in Bandera City Park, along the shaded banks of the Medina River, you can enjoy a chuck wagon breakfast of biscuits and gravy while enjoying cowboy singers and historic gunfight shows, trick roping and a kid’s cowboy playground. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the cowboy with special exhibits and presentations at the Frontier Times Museum. The Bandera County Courthouse is transformed into a hub of Western fun, featuring live music,
reenactment shows, and meet-and-greets with special Old West guests. And Barrels of Barbeque offers free sampling and a no holds barred BBQ cookoff.
For a complete schedule of events and additional details, visit the Bandera, Texas website at www.BanderaCowboyCapital.com v
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, Illinois, documents the life of the 16th US President and the course of the American Civil War. Library and Museum are a rich cultural and historical hub and an extraordinary venue for hosting memorable events. This iconic location offers a unique setting that blends history with modern amenities. The Library is home to an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and exhibits. Hosting a reunion here means guests can experience the legacy of President Lincoln in an immersive, educational environment. The Library’s airy and contemporary event spaces are designed to accommodate a wide range of gatherings, from intimate meetings to larger receptions. Gathering here is more than just a celebration — it’s a chance to honor history while creating unforgettable memories!
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum offers venues seven days a week, based on availability. There are multiple venues for reunion groups of various sizes. The Museum Plaza is the
center rotunda bracketed by a replica of Lincoln’s boyhood Indiana log cabin, and a replica of The White House. The Lincoln Atrium, the first-floor hall in the Library building would be a good space for a weekend reunion lunch event. Or there is The Lincoln Reception Room, a threestory tall rotunda on the first floor often rented in conjunction with the Lincoln
Atrium as it provides space for groups to gather for a reception prior to a lunch or dinner in the Lincoln Atrium. Spaces can be rented for full or half days (four hours) ending at 5 PM.
You can also take a reunion outside by hosting it in Union Square Park just outside Union Station, a restored former passenger train station on the campus.
For details and cost contact Venue Rental Office; 217-558-8873; alplm.rentevents@illinois.gov. v
After 40+ years, these eight sisters enjoyed their first reunion. Seven in person and one on Zoom. They aren’t really family. Among them, talents abound and brought them together in the late 1970s. A piano player, worship leader, Bible teacher, and speaker. They were all members of a growing Aglow Chapter in Temecula, California.
But in the years that followed these women went their separate ways, raising kids, loving grandkids, retiring, and going through life’s trials and victories. They have moved and lived in various parts of the country. During the past four decades, they held positions as classroom teacher, classroom assistants, real estate sales agents, politician, success coach, retail salespersons, clown, standup comedian, and writers. The thing that remained constant was the foundation of their beliefs.
So, what brought these women together after all these years? They don’t live in the same town, go to the same church, or communicate regularly. They share the same faith and consider themselves sisters in Christ. It’s love that brings them together. But how did this
Who doesn’t look forward to the wide array of wonderful smells and tastes of reunion potlucks, picnics and banquets? Do these pictures remind you of wonderful memories and make your mouth water? Add these to why you can’t wait for your next reunion!
reunion come about? One woman invited another to an event and asked about the whereabouts of the others. In a matter of minutes, the idea of planning a reunion was hatched. Three weeks later, the great potluck reunion took place.
On the day of the get-together, there was so much chaotic, unbridled,
exuberance, they’ve decided to do it again . . . soon. They shared some of their stories, rejoiced at the goodness of God, and laughed at how they all still looked the same! Imagine that?! LOL v
Shared by Karen Robertson, Wildomar, California.
As part of our 10th Gillyard, Johnson, Mahoney Family Reunion, we were proud to host our first-ever Family Business Expo, celebrating the talent, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit within our own family.
The event provided a platform for family-owned businesses, aspiring entrepreneurs, and professionals to showcase their products, services, and ideas.
Participants set up tables and displays featuring everything from health and wellness and books, to financial services, culinary creations, and community service and initiatives. Massages, photos from our photobooth operator, and home baked desserts were offered to attendees.
The Expo sparked meaningful conversations, offered opportunities for networking, and inspired attendees to support and uplift one another’s ventures.
This first business Expo was more than a showcase—it was a celebration of legacy, vision, and unity. Businesses were highlighted in our Commemorative Souvenir Journal. We look forward to making this a regular part of our reunions, encouraging future generations to dream big and build boldly—together. The reunion was held in Shreveport, Louisiana. v
Shared by Bettie Gillyard Griggs, Compton, California.
It is October 2, 1904. Teddy Roosevelt is soon to be reelected President. US Army Corp of Engineers have begun work on the Panama Canal. St. Louis is hosting the Louisiana Purchase Exposition, the third Modern Olympic Games and the ice cream cone was invented. Cy Young threw the first perfect game in the
modern era of baseball. And a group of cousins gathered at the Methodist church in Elizabethtown, Hamilton County, Ohio, for the first annual Captain Joseph Hayes Family Reunion.
Joseph Hayes (1732-1812) was grandson of Henry Hayes who emigrated from Oxfordshire, England, and settled in
Chester County, Pennsylvania, in 1705. Joseph fought the English at the Battle of Brandywine in his literal backyard in 1777. Financial hardship in the post-war years motivated Joseph (at age 60) to move his family west and buy land in the newly opened Northwest Territory. The Hayes and related families (Miller, Guard,
McKinney, Dunn, Stevens, Fitch) prospered in the fertile “Big Bottom” land where the Whitewater and Miami rivers flow into the mighty Ohio River. Filling wooden flat-bottomed boats with produce and livestock, they navigated the Ohio River to markets west and then south on the Mississippi to New Orleans. Accumulating wealth, the next generations expanded their land holdings and became financiers for canals, railroads, distilleries and banks. In the meantime, the young men of the family served the nation during peacetime as well as in conflicts in 1812, and the Mexican, Civil and Spanish-American wars. This proud tradition of service continued in the 20th century and into modern times. Some branches of the family migrated south to Texas and Louisiana, while others moved west into Iowa, Kansas and eventually California. Today the Captain Joseph Hayes family diaspora is truly nation-wide. v
Shared by Robert Stevens, EdD, Longmont, Colorado.
NSU Alvin Sherman Library, 2nd Floor, Lab A
In-Person Only: 12:00 Noon Open Computer Lab: Explore genealogy resources with hands-on support
Robert Stevens, EdD, Hayes Family Reunion historian, hosted a zoom webinar for the Genealogical Society of Broward County, Florida, in March. Reunions magazine editor, Edith Wagner, is a guest on the podcast. A video podcast of the webinar is online as well as a very detailed syllabus. Both should be of great interest particularly for beginning reunion planners.
Born in 1830, on an Indian Reservation in North Carolina, Ellen (Noah)
Robeson Washington Cunningham was of mixed heritage, half Black and half Indian. Ellen is the ancestor the Cunningham Family descends from. She was enslaved. Despite her circumstances, she learned to be a midwife. Following receiving her freedom, she would continue delivering babies of all races in Evergreen, Alabama. A legacy rekindled
Scattered across the states, the branches may light, but they do not burn. Only together do they yield a flame. And after six years of separation, the 2024 Cunningham Family Reunion was a roaring blaze. The simple pleasures of kinship and connection lightened the souls in every branch.
Cousin Larry, a great grandson to Ellen, was the president of the Family Reunion Committee. Preparations were set for 2020 until Covid appeared. The Committee’s hard work in coordinating with venues and hotels ensured our largest reunion turnouts.
Reunions give us an opportunity to ignite excitement about our history. We have a rich oral tradition of stories passed down to a few designated family historians. While Cunninghams have a storied history, it was stowed away amongst the elderly. They held the embers that would fuel the next generation, and we could not let them burn out. A Family History Committee was created to do just that. We gathered around the elderly, collecting their stories as they reminisced about days gone by. As more and more stories came to light, the feelings of nostalgia
welled in the hearts of the elderly. While the younger generations found answers to questions they never asked.
One of several missions of my family’s group, Edwards Family Empowerment,
involves conducting oral history interviews and documenting family histories in book format. When I joined the Family History Committee for the Cunningham Family Reunion, it was with the purpose to create a Family History Book for my Cunningham Roots. Using the resources from my Edwards Family Empowerment Group, the effort to capture our family’s history for the reunion became a collaborative one. The Edwards Family Empowerment Group and The Cunningham Family History Committee organized and coordinated oral history interviews. Cameron Edwards, a young adult, conducted the interviews of the elderly. This intergenerational approach proved invaluable; the elderly clearly enjoyed sharing their life experiences with a curious young adult, providing rich material for our Family Reunion Book. The book itself combined excerpts from these oral histories with color-coded lineage charts (create using Ancestry.com and FamilySearch Trees) and accompanying
photographs. Beyond the book, Cousin Denise Greenfield transformed the oral history videos into a captivating video montage. Her creative touch, including an AI-enhanced image that brought our ancestor Ellen Robeson Washington Cunningham to life, delighted everyone. These efforts not only preserved our history but also enriched the reunion experience, offering heartfelt connections to the past. One poignant piece of advice, shared by my mom (Natricia Ann Rogers) in the montage and oral history videos, resonated deeply…the best thing for a
child is to start teaching them when they’re young…’ She emphasized the importance of teaching boys how to treat girls and girls how to be young ladies. Adding to the visual richness of the reunion, our cousin, Cousin Floyd Al’Min, presented a beautifully framed hand-drawn recreation of Ellen in full Indian dress.”
Finally, my family and I had a chance to meet the people we had been talking to and about in the oral history interviews. Not only us but the people who watched and read our works as well. So, the Meet and Greet was full of excitement. Relatives that had not seen each other in years caught up and there was a lot of talking and good food. The energy in the room surged as we launched into some friendly competition! The game, Name That Tune, had everyone humming, guessing, and cheering. The Elders were delighted to receive physical copies of the Family History Book. To save money on publishing costs, digital copies were provided to everyone else. We also set aside time for group photos based on shared traits, which turned out to be a fantastic icebreaker. The DJ would announce a category, like ‘Veterans’ or residents of a particular state, and those family members would gather for a picture. It was a great way for relatives to discover unexpected connections. I, for one, was surprised by how many Veterans we have in the family, and it was fun to see who else hailed from states like Alabama, Florida, Ohio, and California.
The next day consisted of the Legacy Museum Tour in Montgomery, Alabama, in the morning where the powerful display reminded us of how far we have come since the days of Ellen. The next stop, Camp Grandview in Millbrook, Alabama, was where the red family reunion shirts lit up the camp. The Cunninghams took over camp that day. Mouthwatering southern
food, upbeat music, and lots of dancing filled the air-conditioned building, providing a cool retreat for the elderly and others seeking relief from the heat. Adventurous family members went swimming, ziplining, paddle boating, kayaking, and hiking. A wide range of activities allowed everyone to kick back in their own way. We took advantage of every amenity and thoroughly enjoyed Camp Grandview. Good times.
The final day began with family worship at a local church, followed by the closing ceremony at the beautifully decorated Gateway Park. There, everyone had time to socialize, take photos, and connect with newly discovered relatives. The ceremony included expressions of gratitude to the various committees for their work in making
the reunion a success, and concluded with the exciting announcement that Miami, Florida, would be the venue for the next Cunningham Family Reunion.
Best reunion ever? Absolutely! Chalk it up to the fantastic organization and the lifesaving air conditioning for EVERY single venue – a winning combination in the South!! The planning that went into making this happen was phenomenal. Larry Sr., Jamyla, Callie, Larry Jr., and the rest of the Reunion Committee worked tirelessly to make things comfortable and convenient for the Reunion attendees. Walking away, I am more knowledgeable, I am more connected, and I am more grateful. v
Shared by Natricia Edwards, Huntsville, Alabama.
Our family has always cherished visiting each other during the holidays. As our family grew, we realized the importance of coming together as one. From this, the idea of an annual Family Reunion was born. After a family meeting, we decided to hold our reunion every year—rotating locations—unless unforeseen life events prevented us from gathering.
To make planning easier, we established regional teams, each identified by a color:
• Blue Team – Eastern Shore, Maryland
• Green Team – Northern Virginia/Maryland
• Orange Team – North (Philadelphia & Delaware)
• Red Team – Hampton Roads & Tidewater, Virginia
• Yellow Team – Eastern Shore, Virginia
Our reunions are a three-day celebration (Friday–Sunday) filled with love, laughter, and cherished traditions.
• Friday Night: “Meet & Greet” – a time to reconnect.
• Saturday: A family picnic with games, ice cream churning, softball, bounce houses, kiddie pools, dunk tanks, paddle boats, and water parks.
• Saturday Night: A banquet honoring family achievements, recognizing students (kindergarten through college), family games, talent showcases, and a “moment of silence” for those who are no longer with us.
• Sunday: We worship together and close the weekend with a farewell brunch.
Our family reunion is more than an event—it’s a legacy of love, unity, and tradition that continues to grow with each passing year! v
Shared by Regina Singletary, Dumfries, Virginia
“It’s a family affair”
Green Team – Northern Virginia/Maryland – “Let’s stay connected” August 3-4, 2013
Blue Team – Eastern Shore, Maryland – August 9-10, 2014
“Remember the past, embrace the present, plant seeds for our future”
Orange Team – Eastern Shore, Virginia – August 1-2, 2015 “Family….where life begins and love never ends… City of Brotherly Love”
Red Team – Hampton Roads & Tidewater Area, Virginia – August 6-7, 2016
“Family is a link to our past …and a bridge to our future”
Yellow Team – Eastern Shore, Virginia – August 2-4, 2019
“Back to our Roots – where we love is home, a home that our feet may leave, but not our heart”
Blue Team – Silver Spring, Maryland – August 12-13, 2023
“We are family — back together again”
Red Team – Newport News, Virginia – August 2-4, 2024
“Journeys may come to an end… but memories last forever”
Black & White Banquet – New Port News, Virginia – August 2-4, 2024
“Journeys may come to an end but memories last forever”
Before your reunion! Add your upcoming reunion announcement.
After your reunion, continue the celebration!
Add your reunion picture.
Make sure your reunion is memorialized for posterity. Send a report and pictures and/or video to editor@reunionsmag.com
The 2024 Powell Moody Family Reunion was held in July 2025 in Deptford, New Jersey, hosted by Cheryl Barker-Behnett Ali, Jackie Barker-Dennis and Sharifa Lawson of the Powell-Moody Turner branch. This was the 50-year meeting since the reunion’s inception in 1974. v
Shared by Allison Bell, Evans, Georgia.
One long time consistent Reunions magazine feature has been the announcement of upcoming reunions. The presentation format has changed over time but it continues to be a resource for alerting others to your reunion and a source of information for people looking for reunions. The most important detail of these announcements includes the reunion name, date (if known), place and, most importantly, contact information for readers to get more information. Those are basic details and often all that is posted. Post your upcoming reunion at reunionsmag.com/add-upcoming-reunion/
Starting this year in January, we began to see many more details in reunion listings. We learned more about these reunions and were intrigued that they were sharing more details, admittedly for their members but we are so pleased, we decided to share some of these postings. We asked for pictures though were disappointed so few responded but we decided, nonetheless, to share the good news from these upcoming reunion notices. Note: we are not including contact information, which you can find if interested by searching for individual reunions at reunionsmag.com/reunion-listings/
Honoring our Ancestors, by Continuing Their Legacy Psalm 145:4
“One generation will enthusiastically share and celebrate your remarkable deeds with the next, passionately recounting the powerful actions you have taken.” Our ancestors are the foundation of our being, and by honoring them, we honor ourselves. Take a moment to reflect on your family history, the sacrifices they made, and the values they instilled in you. Embrace the richness of your heritage and let it guide you on your journey.
This is the 15th Biennial Reunion of the Ford Family of Walterboro (Colleton County), South Carolina. We are the descendants of the seven children of our earliest known enslaved ancestors, Charles and Rebecca Ford. The seven children were LUCY, ROBERT, FORTUNE, DIANNA, ADAM, BINA, and TOM. We refer to the children as “The Big Seven” and capitalize their names to signify their role in the genesis of our
family. The 2023 book, I Come from Bowman Lane: A Family History Memoir by Margaret Ann Gethers Scott, Ph.D., chronicles the story of the Ford Family.
We have planned a family reunion for Saturday July 19, 2025. The cookout on Saturday will be at Shenango Township Park, 3439 Hubbard-Middlesex Rd West Middlesex, PA 16159. We will be having a meet and greet on Friday July 18, 2025. At Operation Lighthouse 3pm - 6pm at 1031 Roemer BLVD Farrell, PA 16121.
We will be selling T-shirts. They will be pre-order only. We will need every individual name and size for shirts. Money will be due by June 2,2025. T-shirts will be handed out on July 18, 2025
Thank you,
Green Family Reunion Committee
“Generations to Generations: Embracing Life, Love, Joy, and Faith”
Join us as we celebrate the XXI Biennial Arnett-Williams Family
Reunion in Charlotte, North Carolina, from July 10-13, 2025! This milestone event will bring together family members from near and far for a weekend filled with love, laughter, and cherished traditions. Highlights include a Welcome Reception, Royal Masquerade Ball, Family Fun Day, and a Farewell Worship Service.
The Shurn Family Reunion has a rich heritage. Descendants of the Shurn family have been traced back as early as the 1840’s to Drew Shurn and Emmaline Taylor. The Shurn Family Reunion began in Benton Harbor, Michigan in 1951. The celebration started on Labor Day and has been unchanged through the present. The first gathering was small with only a few relatives and their families. Attending relatives at the first gathering included B.B. Shurn, Eles O. Shurn Sr., Robert Shurn, Fred Douglas Shurn, Vinnie Shurn Crenshaw, Annie Shurn Greer, Lula Shurn Bogan, Louise Shurn and Sammie Shurn.
The Hyde Park Community Families Reunion is celebrating the 59th Biennual Reunion. The reunion started in a small community in Wakulla County, Florida called “Hyde Park.” The reunion consists of 18 families in this tiny community. The reunion has been held in many places such as: Tallahassee/ Hyde Park, Florida, Louisville, Kentucky, Washington, DC, Newport News, Virginia, Atlanta, Georgia, Panama City Beach, Florida, Nashville, Tennessee, Dayton, Ohio, Orlando, Florida, and Miami, Florida.
Starting Thursday 10/16 in Ft Pierce delivering T-shirts in the morning....Travelling to Kissimmee in the evening to Medieval
Times Theater and Tournament....Friday 10/17 evening attending Fort Pierce Central football game at Lawnwood Stadium.... Saturday evening, 10/18 **70’s Gala** at Santa Lucia River Club, Port St Lucie --be expecting Great food, Memorable fellowship and Unforgettable fun....Sunday, 10/19 Morning worship at the House of God #1
Check on Ft Pierce Central Alumni on Facebook for more info
This year’s family reunion coming back to Montgomery, Alabama. We want Parhams from around the nation to be there. Our host hotel is Staybridge Suites Montgomery Downtown, an IHG Hotel. Use reservation 29453041 to book early. Make yourself at home in one of their 121 air-conditioned rooms featuring kitchens with full-sized refrigerators/freezers and stovetops.
This year the USS Charles S Sperry dd697 Association is happy to join with the USS Conway shipmates for our reunion at the Radisson Cincinnati Riverfront Hotel, Covington, KY. April 27 -May 1, 2025. Please join us for days of fun activities like a trip to the National Museum of the USAF at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, a riverboat lunch cruise on the Ohio River, a trip to Patriot’s Landing in Williamstown, KY (a faith-based mission to honor those who have served through programs that focus on helping veterans heal). All are welcome. Email or call for more info.
Our Anderson family hails from Greenwood, MS. We are a fun family who loves to get together and have plenty of fun. From two-legged races to talent shows, us Andersons rock! We have our reunions bi-annually in every state that we have family. Let us know if you want us to come to you. We would love to make our way to your state to see you all. These gatherings aren’t just
events; they’re traditions where laughter echoes, memories are made, and bonds are strengthened. Because for us Andersons, family is forever.
The men of the 3rd 8inch Howitzer Battery (SP) are a group of U.S. Marine Corps veterans who served in Vietnam. We gather together, along with wives and significant others once per year. We have held reunions in several states, including Illinois, Missouri, Virginia/DC, California, South Carolina, Texas and North Carolina.
I decided to host my family reunion because it’s the first in over almost 25 years on my mother’s side. This family reunion that will be held in Peoria, Illinois, where most of the elders live. We are striving for at least 100 people and we pray that the number increases as the years go on.
Our Bailey Family Reunion on May 25th will be a day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories! This will be our first reunion in over 10 years, a special gathering to honor the
legacy of our beloved elders who once brought us together and have since passed on. We’re coming together to celebrate our strong family roots, share stories from the past, and create new moments to treasure. This will be our time to reconnect, reflect, and keep the Bailey family tradition alive for generations to come.
Boyd Family Reunion will celebrate 21 years since the 1st family reunion held. The event will take place on Friday, July 4th at the Baker Civic Club and Saturday, July 5th at the NALC on Beaumont Drive, Baton Rouge, LA and church services on Sunday, July 6th at St. Paul Apostle Catholic Church.
The 2025 “All Hands” ship’s reunion will take place October 17-20, 2025 at the Thousand Hills Resort Hotel. Call 877-815-0990 “Option 4” for groups to make your reservation. The hotel will honor the reunion rate three days before and three days after the reunion dates. Rom rate is $99.95 per night. Members staying at the hotel will receive a free breakfast each morning. v
For nearly 60 years, food has been at the heart of my family’s reunions. I have written many articles over the years chronicling our annual ALAFFFA (it stands for Abbott, Lizanov, Alzo, Figlar, Figlar, Figlar, Augenstein) gatherings. Having a reunion with such longevity has provided many opportunities to experiment with different options — from a simple picnic basket at the first reunion in 1967, grilled foods and potluck, to professionally catered meals.
From Potluck to Catered Fare We’ve been to many places. Hawaii, Rome, and Mexico With laughter on our faces.
~ Helen Lizanov
We Will Have ALAFFFA to Remember (July 1992)
Understanding your options can help you tailor the perfect menu for your family reunion and ensure everyone leaves satisfied. Here are a few suggestions taken from the ALAFFFA playbook.
1. Grilling and barbeque. During the 1970s and 80s grilling and barbeque were the standard options for our reunion. This type of food typically appeals to all ages. Grilled food is universally loved and adaptable for different diets, and barbeque spices things up. With the right equipment, both options are easy to scale whether you have 10 or 100 people. As an interactive activity, grilling can become a social focal point of the event. However, any outdoor event is weather dependent and can be disrupted by rain or excessive heat. Since these methods are labor-intensive, which means one or two people are often stuck tending the grill. We worked around this by assigning grill duty in shifts, so everyone had a
chance to enjoy the day. Renting or borrowing multiple grills will reduce wait times. Also be sure to offer vegetarian and gluten-free options.
2. Breakfast or brunch. For those on a tight budget hosting a breakfast or brunch may be a more affordable option. Mid-morning events are often easier for young kids or older adults.
The informal and casual atmosphere may also ease some of the pressure if you can prepare foods (casseroles or slow cooker dishes) in advance if you have a way to keep them hot (warming trays, and plenty of electrical outlets). However, it may require an early setup time. Since people may not linger as they would at a lunch or dinner, you will need to plan activities accordingly. Look for sales on coffee and other non-perishables. Use insulated carriers for eggs, bacon, and pancakes. My family has never done just a breakfast or brunch, but we have offered coffee and light breakfast foods for those who volunteer to come early to set up the event.
3. Buffet lunch or dinner. For most of our ALAFFFA reunions, we have served the food buffet style. We usually serve a bigger lunch (fried chicken, potatoes and/or pasta, assorted salads, a vegetarian dish, fruit and vegetable trays). We also have our standard items that we serve — a pot of kielbasa and sauerkraut (ALAFFFA secret recipe) and plenty of cookies. Family favorites are Lady Locks and Apricot Sheet Cake (see recipe). We have also tried a taco bar with all the fixings for steak or chicken tacos which seemed to be popular. The second meal of the day would be hamburgers, hot dogs, and any lunch leftovers. During years where our reunions were held at a family member’s home, or in years with low attendance (such as 2020 during COVID), we ordered a variety of pizzas for the second meal. While buffets offer flexible portions and guests can choose how much or little they want, it can be pricey and prone to over-planning. If you have a large group, keep the lines moving by clearly labeling all the dishes. Be sure to address hygiene concerns with utensils and use sneeze-
guards or lids. Place desserts at a separate table to manage traffic flow. Decide how to handle leftovers to minimize food waste.
4. Potluck. A potluck is a classic communal meal where each guest or family unit brings a dish to share. It’s a popular choice for family reunions due to its low cost, variety, and spirit of sharing. Since costs are shared, no single person bears the financial burden. You get an array of home-cooked meals, often representing different family traditions or cultural backgrounds. Address allergy dietary concerns in advance and make sure all dishes are labeled. Consider the same food safety issues as a buffet style meal, such as keeping foods hot or cold, and using clean dishes and serving utensils. Participation encourages bonding and discussing the dishes fosters connection. We have done variations on potluck over the years. Coordination is required. Create a digital sign-up sheet to avoid duplicates and balance meal components or you may end up with six potato salads, too many desserts, and no main course. We currently use Sign-up Genius, but you can search online for other tools or services.
M&Ms ordered for
However, a caterer is typically the most expensive option and will require early action since popular caterers may be booked months in advance, especially for summer weekends or major holidays. ALAFFFA has used professional caterers four our milestone reunions (25th, 50th, etc.). The meals fit the occasion but many of our attendees prefer the home-cooked aspect of a potluck and preparing foods onsite. Smaller groups might like the festival-like vibe or a food truck or mobile vendor, or options such as Bento boxes for personal customization.
6. Theme-based menu. A theme unifies your event. ALAFFFA themes go back to 1976 (Bicentennial) and then officially became a staple starting in 1986 with a Hawaiian Luau theme. You can see a list of our other themes in my article Telling a Reunion Story Through Themes March 2025 issue. A themed reunion is fun to plan and encourages participation. Menus can match invitations, decorations, music, and activities. Choose a theme with broad appeal and shop bargain sales for decorations and specialty items to reduce costs.
5. Professionally catered meal. Using a professional caterer offers convenience: Everything is handled, from prep to cleanup. Professional chefs/cooks deliver visually appealing and tasty meals, and menus can be tailored for dietary needs and preferences. Be sure to schedule a tasting before finalizing the menu. Also ask about a children’s menu.
Whether your event is an intimate backyard get-together or a large-scale affair at a rented venue, food planning is one of the most crucial aspects. Careful planning and understanding your options can help you tailor the perfect menu for your family reunion and ensure everyone leaves satisfied with fond memories of time spent together. v
From regular contributor Lisa A. Alzo, MFA, Ithica, New York.
One of the most-requested desserts my mother would make for family gatherings.
8 ½ lb. margarine (softened) 8 ½ cake of large yeast 8 3 c. flour
8 ¼ c. warm water 8 2 eggs (slightly beaten) 8 1 to 2 jars apricot filling Nut Filling: 8 2 c. ground nuts 8 1-¼ c. sugar 8 7 tbsp. canned milk 8 2 tsp. vanilla
Mix yeast and water together in a small bowl. Combine flour, eggs, margarine and yeast mixture in a separate large bowl. Mix well and divide dough into 3 parts. Roll out between wax paper (cut a piece of wax paper the size of a baking pan) one part at a time. Put first part on 11x17 inch sheet pan. Spread nut mixture filling on dough. Space evenly – nut mixture should be thick. Place second layer of dough on top of nuts; then spread apricot filling on top. Roll out third part and cut in strips for lattice topping. Put strips on top of apricot. Brush with canned milk to make lattice brown evenly and shiny. Sprinkle with ground nuts. Bake 30-35 minutes at 350 °F.
Note: Roll dough between wax paper, then put in sheet pan and pat dough to fit the pan. Pat dough up sides a little. Use a little more dough for the first layer. The dough will be moist.
Recipe from Baba’s Kitchen Slovak & Rusyn Family Recipes & Traditions Second Edition by Lisa A. Alzo lisaalzo.com/2011/05/babas-kitchen-slovak-rusyn-family-recipes-and-traditions-2nd-edition/ Anna Alzo’s “Apricot Sheet Cake” is still a favorite for ALAFFFA reunions. Anna passed away in 2000, but her recipe has been passed down and is often made by her sister, Margie Augenstein.
(2012, Oglebay, West Virginia)
Tossed spring green salad with assorted dressings, croutons, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, and shredded cheese
Domestic cheeses
Crudites
Seasonal Fruits and Berries
Marinated cucumbers and tomatoes
Jicama and mango salad with oranges, honey nd cilantro citrus vinaigrette
Chef carved prime rib of beef au jus
Dried cranberry stuffed loin of pork
Baked filet of cod with white grapes, almonds and champagne cream
Potato soufflé
Wild rice pilaf
Pasta (w/sauce on the side)
Stacked Ratatouille (roasted squash, zucchini, eggplant mushroom with wilted spinach and saffron broth)
Apple custard tarts, mile high cheesecake and chocolate decadence
Soft drinks, bottled water, coffee and iced tea
Cash Bar for alcoholic drinks
Q:I’m meeting next week with the staff of the hotel where we’re having our reunion for our “pre-convention” meeting? What sort of questions should I be asking? In particular, what do I need to do to make sure our dinner on Sunday night goes well? This is the “big” event of the reunion when everyone will be together, and I want to make sure everything is perfect!
This is a great question. Typically, the “dress up” luncheon or dinner where everyone gathers is one of the highlights of any reunion, and you’re to be commended for paying extra attention to all the details … this will be something everyone will remember!
For starters, you should already have worked out your menu details with your hotel catering representative, so you’ll know exactly what is being served. If the “event order” for your meal is vague about certain items, such as “Chef’s choice of dessert,” ask to have these clarified.
If anyone in your group has a special dietary need, food restriction, or allergy, now is the time to let the catering representative know, not on the day of your event as the meal is being served. Work out details for how the service staff will know who is to receive a special meal.
If you’re having a special décor scheme (say, table linens in specific colors, or special centerpieces) review these details. Likewise, if you’re going to be providing programs, seating cards, or place favors, review the details for how and when these will be delivered to the hotel, and who is responsible for putting them at each place setting. Some hotels will do this for you; some will ask that you do this yourself.
event the band/disc jockey/talent show participants will have access to the room for set-up and rehearsal. Likewise, review your need for electrical outlets, as well as for any audio-visual equipment the hotel may be providing. Note: If the stage is set up on the side of the room where there are no electrical outlets for the disc jockey, you’ve got problems!
If people will be speaking/telling stories, and the group is larger than 40 or so people, you’ll definitely want to have a microphone so that everyone in the room (including those who may be hard of hearing) can hear the speakers clearly.
Ask if there will be any other groups holding events in the hotel at the same time as yours. If you are conducting a solemn service of remembrance, or asking your patriarch/matriarch to speak at your meal, you don’t want to be drowned out by a band playing at full volume in the next room.
Many hotels have centerpieces and décor items on hand that you may be able to use at no charge or for a nominal fee. Ask to see these set up on a sample table so you’ll know exactly how everything will look for your event.
If you’re serving alcohol, review how this is to be served. Are you having a cash bar? A hosted bar? Wine service only?
Review times when someone will be speaking to/performing for the group. As a general rule, you won’t want food being served or dishes being cleared while someone is trying to speak!
Ask to meet (and get to know) the banquet captain/maitre d’ who will be overseeing your meal; he or she will be the one with the ultimate responsibility for making sure that everything goes smoothly during your event.
If you’re going to be having a stage and/or a dance floor set up for a band, a disc jockey, or a talent show, review the size and location of these in the room. Review how early before the
If you’re going to be taking home leftovers or donating these to a local charity, review the details for this. This would include any unopened bottles of wine you may have purchased. Some hotels will allow you to do this and some will not; in many cases, this will be governed by state and local regulations. And finally, review and make sure everyone understands who is signing the banquet check at the end of the event, and who is allowed to make any changes/additions to the menu during the course of your meal. (If you don’t tell the hotel otherwise, they’ll gladly bring one of your attendees a second steak if asked, and it will end up on your bill!)
I hope that you have a marvelous event!! v
Dean Miller, national sales director for Visit Fairfax (www.fxva.com), the convention and visitors bureau in Fairfax County, Virginia, is a great friend of reunions. Contact him (dmiller@fxva.com; 703-790-0643) when you are planning a reunion in the Washington, DC, area. Fairfax County is nearby, affordable, and conveniently located to all the area has to offer.
The National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas, is open and inviting visitors to explore the incredible stories of bravery and selflessness that define the Medal of Honor. The Museum preserves and promotes the legacy of Medal of Honor recipients through state-of-the-art, interactive experiences that inspire visitors to live and lead with honor. It illustrates the historical thread of sacrifice, patriotism and courage that runs through all US military service members, past
A historic symbol of great sacrifice and courage, the Medal of Honor has remained largely unaltered in appearance for over 150 years. There are currently three variations of the Medal: Army, Navy and Air Force. Though similar in style, each has its own rich narrative.
Even in design, the Medal of Honor differentiates itself. It’s unique upside-down design has five points: one point aims down, and two points attach to the ribbon, providing symmetry and balance as it adorns the recipient’s neck.
and present. Beyond its state-of-the-art, interactive experiences, a critical part of the Museum’s mission will be to use the stories of Medal of Honor recipients to inspire fellow Americans. See mohmuseum.org/ v
The center portion of the ribbon - the most important part as it holds the Medal - is inscribed with 13 white stars representing the original 13 colonies of the Union.
Since 1944, the Medal of Honor has been attached to a light blue colored moiré silk neck ribbon. Placed around the recipient’s neck, the blue ribbon signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice.
Many of the family and military reunion groups who come to Fairfax County say that they like getting together here because of the large number of family-friendly attractions the county offers, many of which are completely free … or very reasonably priced!
The White House, the US Capitol, the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, the other Smithsonian museums, the national battlefields, national parks, and national memorials throughout the area are all great spots to visit with your family members … and all of them are free!
Fairfax County’s latest free attraction is the National Museum of the United States Army, located at Fort Belvoir near George Washington’s Mount Vernon. The museum is a stunning tribute to the service and sacrifice of the more than 30 million Americans who have worn the Army uniform since 1775.
The Army’s history, from the Revolutionary War to the present day, is brilliantly presented in a series of six historic galleries featuring rare artifacts, interactive displays, and life like figures modeled after present-day Army soldiers. If you have a family member who served in the Army, visiting the museum will have special resonance. A seventh gallery shows how innovations pioneered by the Army have helped to advance American society for 250 years.
Family members of all ages will enjoy watching the interactive movie “Of Noble Deeds,” which is presented numerous times throughout the day in the Army Theater. Hold on to your seat when the tanks go rumbling by!
In the Experiential Learning Center, special exhibits geared towards pre-school, middle school, and high school children introduce subjects that Army soldiers use to solve real-world challenges – geography, science, technology, engineering, and math.
Youngsters (and those young at heart) can check out the exciting simulator rides in the Army Action Gallery, where you can command a tank or pilot a helicopter. There is a nominal charge to enjoy the rides in the Army Action Gallery.
APlus, everyone can relax in the museum’s Café and check out the unique items in the Museum Store. The museum is open every day except Christmas and offers free timed-tickets and free parking. Visit www.thenmusa.org
A A trip to the museum is an exciting addition to your reunion in Fairfax County and the National Capital area. Visit www.fxva.com v
The Pacific Aviation Museum at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is the site of the nation’s first aviation battlefield of World War II and the attack on December 7, 1941. The museum encompasses three hangars and the control tower built in 1938. Visitors to the Museum can stand in the epicenter of the attack. Bullet holes are still visible in the hangar glass, strafe marks are still on the ground, and the bomb crater is still evident from the moment Pearl Harbor was attacked. Stand on the actual battlefield and inside authentic WWII hangars that withstood
the attack on Pearl Harbor. Ascend the historic Ford Island Control Tower, that stands 168-feet above the battlefield, and get a birds-eye view of all the attack-points across Oahu.
The aviation battlefield mission is to share the artifacts, personal stories, the impact and response to the attack on the Pacific region battles that followed and to honor those who defended our freedom to educate and inspire future generations. Visit pearlharboraviationmuseum.org/ v
Veteran Tickets Foundation - Vet Tix is a nonprofit that honors military personnel, veterans, KIA families, first responders and their families by providing free tickets to entertainment and events. They provide lasting memories and reintegration opportunities to sporting events, concerts and family activities with a very small delivery fee. As of 2024, they have distributed 26.5 million tickets valued at over $1.6 billion.
Responses from their beneficiaries have been very positive. One says “My family and I love going to concerts and sporting events, however the price of tickets and food at premium events (Padres games, festivals, big concerts) has increased significantly over the years. VetTix has made it possible for me and my family to still attend these events despite limited funds.”
A first responder reported that “The process was easy, and the tickets I received gave me and my family a much-needed chance to relax and enjoy quality time together — something that’s rare with the demands of this line of work.”
Thank you for honoring those who serve. Visit vettix.org/ v
We received an email with the subject line: Group Photos from WWII Reunions. Of course, we were curious! It was from Josephine Scarpello who has spent five years trying to figure out what to do with a collection of her father’s reunion pictures. She wrote:
I don’t remember the last year dad’s group had a reunion. But I am sure the crew aboard his ship during WWII have not gotten together for several years. … My dad was aboard the USS Thomas Jefferson during WWII.
Upon his retiring from work he was able to attend his annual Navy Reunions.
I have 8 x 10 photographs from 1981 to 2000 (Missing the year 1998) from his reunions. Dad is gone now as I am sure most of his shipmates are too. Before I toss the pictures, I have been trying to find a home for them. I have attached two pictures to show a sample of what I have.
There were usually 2 group photos taken each year — one of just the crew members and then a second one including family members who made the trip to the reunion with the crew member.
I printed labels and attached to each picture in the lower left-hand corner to designate the location and year of the reunion. The pictures are in great shape as I have them in stored in sheet protectors. Colored photos that have not faded.
Thank you for taking the time to review my inquiry. Just know once I toss the pictures an organization will come forward and say “we would have taken them.” Isn’t that how life goes?
If you or someone you know might be interested, please contact Josephine Scarpello at jls101arl@hotmail.com. v
We encourage you to tell the listings you contact that you learned about them from Reunions magazine. Notify us immediately at editor@reunionsmag.com if you find any info that is inaccurate or e-mail or web links do not work; or write us at PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727. And by all means, feel free to comment and/or suggest changes and additions you’d like to see in this section.
Reunions magazine will not be held liable for information presented as facts in these ads.
GREATER BIRMINGHAM CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
950 22nd St. North, Suite 550, Birmingham, AL 35203 Birmingham is becoming one of the most celebrated reunion cities in the southeast. The success of your reunion depends on its early groundwork. The Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau is here to help. For more information regarding reunion services, please contact the Convention Bureau at 205-458-8000 | 800-458-8085 Email info@inbirmingham.com www.inbirmingham.com
ARIZONA
RANCHO DE LOS CABALLEROS 1551 S. Vulture Mine Road Wickenburg, AZ 85390
928-684-5484
info@ranchodeloscaballeros.com www.RanchoDeLosCaballeros.com
STAGECOACH TRAILS GUEST RANCH
19985 S Doc Holliday Rd. Yucca , AZ 86438
928-727-8270
vacation@stgr.com www.StagecoachTrailsRanch.com
CALIFORNIA
MARBLE MOUNTAIN RANCH 92520 Hwy 96 Somes Bar, CA 95568 530-469-3322
guestranch@marblemountainranch.com www.MarbleMountainRanch.com
COLORADO
SYLVAN DALE GUEST RANCH
2939 N County Road 31D
Loveland, CO 80538
970-667-3915
ranch@sylvandale.com www.SylvanDale.com DELAWARE
SOUTHERN DELAWARE TOURISM
Looking for the perfect place for your next reunion? How does this sound – 5 Star beaches. Comfy accommodations to fit every budget. A jam-packed events calendar. Lots of group activities on land and on the water. A huge variety of visual and performing arts & entertainment. Scenic and historic sites, events, and venues ideally suited to group events. Exceptional Culinary Coast™ dining. Southern Delaware is a great place to gather! 827 E Market St, Georgetown , DE 19947
800-357-1818
SouthDel@VisitSouthernDelaware.com
www.visitsoutherndelaware.com/ FLORIDA
PANAMA CITY BEACH CVB
VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER
17001 Panama City Beach Pkwy
Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Phone: 850-233-5070 | Toll Free: 1-800-722-3224 www.visitpanamacitybeach.com
Known for its sugar-white sands and turquoise waters, Panama City Beach is the ultimate reunion destination. Visit www.visitpanamacitybeach. com/groups/reunions and plan your trip now to PCB, the Real. FUN. Beach.
VISIT TALLAHASSEE
ExperiencethewarmthandhospitalityofTallahassee,Floridaofferingaperfectblendofhistory, culture,andoutdooradventuresforyournext reunion.Explorescenicparks,visitfascinating museums,andenjoydeliciousSoutherncuisine withfriendsandfamily.Witharangeofaccommodationsandplentyoffamily-friendlyactivities, Tallahasseeprovidestheidealsettingforcreating lastingmemories.Takeadvantageofspecial incentivesforreunionsoccurringMaythrough August2025 918RailroadAve.,Tallahassee,FL32301 P:850.606.2320
Janet.Roach@VisitTallahassee.com
Planning a reunion is easy in Tampa Bay, where sunshine, adventure, and laid-back vibes create the perfect setting for reconnecting with family, classmates, or lifelong friends. With hotel deals, vendor referrals, welcome perks, and expert support from Visit Tampa Bay’s Convention Sales and Services Teams, every detail is covered. Whether it’s a small gathering or a large celebration, the tools and resources you need are ready. Start planning at VisitTampaBay.com.
Sherri T. Brown, M.A.
Vice President of Multicultural Sales and Development 813.342.4062
SBrown@VisitTampaBay.com
SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGES 20 & 21.
GEORGIA
ALPHARETTA CVB
Want to plan an AWESOME reunion in metro Atlanta? Don’t know where to begin?
Worry no more and gather your group in Alpharetta! Attend our free workshop for a collection of insider tips from our reunion planning specialist. Contact Alpharetta CVB at 800-294-0923 or visit www.awesomealpharetta.com
IDAHO
WESTERN PLEASURE GUEST RANCH 1413 Upper Gold Creek Rd Sandpoint, ID 83864 208-263-9066
stay@westernpleasureranch.com www.WesternPleasureRanch.com
RED HORSE MOUNTAIN RANCH 1413 Upper Gold Creek Rd Sandpoint, ID 83864 208-263-9066
info@redhorsemountainranch.com www.RedHorseMountainRanch.com
ILLINOIS
LAKE COUNTY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Visit Lake County Illinois
Plan an unforgettable reunion in Lake County, Illinois, offering a convenient, centralized location close to Chicago. We’ll work together to plan an event that lets you explore all the excitement of Lake County and enjoy your time with family and friends. From our county’s natural beauty and scenic picnic areas, to entertaining attractions like Six Flags, there are so
many reasons to choose Lake County for family-friendly fun. For FREE Reunion Planning Assistance call or email us with your questions. 5465 West Grand Avenue Suite 100 Gurnee, IL 60031 | 847-662-2700
kimberly@lakecounty.org
www.visitlakecounty.org
SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGE 5.
VISIT CHICAGO SOUTHLAND
Great memories start with great locations. Reunions of all kinds can find superior facilities conveniently located to anywhere in the Midwest – and across the country. With our true Midwestern hospitality, the Chicago Southland feels like family. We offer complimentary services to ensure your reunion’s success. Call 888-895-3211 or visit www.ReuniteInChicagoSouthland.com
MARYLAND
TURF VALLEY RESORT
Turf Valley Resort wants to help you create a lifetime of family traditions and memories. For more than 30 years, we have had the pleasure of being a part of the grins and giggles, milestones and merriment, simple times and celebrations that make up a truly great family reunion. Many family reunions take a lot of work: lighting up the grills, asking everyone to bring a dish, and cleaning up afterwards. At Turf Valley Resort, we have culinary experts ready to prepare fantastic meals for you and your family so that you can relax; leave the work to us!
www.turfvalley.com
410-465-1200
Info_sales@turfvalley.com
2700 Turf Valley Road, Ellicott City, MD 21042 MISSOURI
EXPLORE BRANSON Missouri — your new favorite Midwest Destination! Surrounded by the beauty of the Ozark Mountains, Branson offers world-class entertainment and exciting attractions for all ages. Whether your reunion is family, military, or a graduating class, the Explore Branson team is here to assist you in securing the perfect lodging and creating an itinerary that the whole group is sure to enjoy. Served up with a generous side of authentic southern hospitality, Branson will have your group creating memories that are worth repeating! Feel free to reach out and request our complimentary Welcome Bags or our comprehensive Group Travel Planner Kit.
Contact: Yvonne Long, Assistant Director of Meetings & Conventions | 417-243-2121
Email: ylong@bransoncvb.com or Visit: www.ExploreBranson.com/groups
LAKE OF THE OZARKS
Offering over 1,150 miles of shoreline, Lake of the Ozarks is the premier family reunion destination in mid-America. Readers of USA Today and 10Best voted this scenic spot as the Best Recreational Lake in the nation. Centrally located just 175 miles from St. Louis, 165 miles from Kansas City and less than a day’s drive from anywhere in the central United States. The affordable, family-friendly Lake area offers outstanding activities for visitors of any age. Lake of the Ozarks
Group Business Development Manager jen@funlake.com 573-348-1599
MONTANA
BAR W GUEST RANCH
2875 Hwy 93 West Whitefish, MT 59937 406-863-9099 info@thebarw.com www.TheBarW.com
ELKHORN RANCH
33133 Gallatin Rd Gateway, MT 59730 406-995-4291 reservations@elkhornranchmountain.com ElkhornRanchMontana.com
TENNESSEE
PIGEON FORGE DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM
PIGEON FORGE, TENNESSEE — We’re a gold mine for reunions. Need attractions? Try Dollywood, TITANIC Museum Attraction, mountain coasters and the action-packed Parkway. Want nature? Great Smoky Mountains National Park is next-door. Want entertainment? More than a dozen theaters await you. Hungry? We’ll feed you well. Details: 1-800-251-9100 or visit pigeonforgereunion.com
VIRGINIA
FAIRFAX COUNTY, VIRGINIA 10560 Arrowhead Drive Suite 350 Fairfax, VA 22030
Enjoy everything that Northern Virginia has to offer. From the monuments and memorials of nearby Washington, DC to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center to George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Fairfax County is the ideal location for your military or family reunion. The spectacular new National Museum of the United States Army is open and welcoming visitors.
Call Visit Fairfax at 703-752-9509, and Dean Miller, our reunion specialist, will go to work for you! dmiller@fxva.com | www.fxva.com
SEE OUR DISPLAY AD ON PAGES 48 & 49.
WYOMING
DUDE RANCHERS ASSOCIATION
1122 12th Street Cody, WY 82414 307-587-2339 www.duderanch.org
Helping people find quality Dude and Guest Ranch vacations since 1926
Let us help you find the perfect all-inclusive location for your next reunion.
THE HIDEOUT LODGE & GUEST RANCH 3170 County Rd 40 ½ Shell, WY 82441
307-765-2080 info@thehideout.com www.TheHideout.com
MORRIS PRESS COOKBOOKS
Preserve treasured family recipes and family heritage with a custom family reunion cookbook. Create a unique keepsake that can be handed down for generations. Everyone can enter their own recipes online and save 25¢ per cookbook. A family cookbook can also be used to raise funds for future reunions. Morris Press Cookbooks, the nation’s oldest and most trusted Cookbook Publisher!
Visit morriscookbooks.com for information and FREE samples. 800-445-6621 https://www.morriscookbooks.com/RMAG1224
