Reunions Magazine Volume 20, Number 1. August/September/October 2009 (SOLD OUT) by Reunions Magazine

in this issue

D E PA RT M E N T S

F R O N T W O R D S – 4

A L U M & I – 6

Mexia Class of ’99 holds garage sale fundraiser by Lindsay Liepman Spinetto

B R A N C H O F F I C E – 8

Treasure passed at Deschner Family Reunion by Marsha Hoffmann Rising

Neal Family tree chart by Carole Neal

Relatively speaking by Carllene Marek

American Flag of Faces™, remembering at the reunion

SC R A P B O O K – 10 Reunion School

Capitol Visitors Center, Jackson Automobile Co , search ideas

New book: Southern Fried Reunion

M A ST E R P L A N – 12

Spaulding descendants meet in DC by Deirdre W Spaulding-Yeoman DSc

A hearty homecoming by Andrew Walker

Younger generation steps up by Lindsey Clark

Making mountains of memories by Angeline Warren

Back for our future by Delphine Steficek

BBQ, Beale Street and the Branches by Diane Gentry Martin

Stepping- Chicago style by Steven C Thedford

Half century of clan gatherings by Dr Cheryl Conetsco, and David Conetsco

R E U N I O N V E N U E S & F E AT U R E S – 20

Looking for a reunion place?

Getting quotes and proposals

Special place for special memories by Steve Okuno

The easiest family reunion ever by Deborah Hicks

A tribute to the perfect location by Amanda Hamm

Reasons to book an all-inclusive

Plant a “Family Tree” in Ohio State Parks

Arkansas, a natural reunion place by Edith Wagner

Owen family has zip by Elizabeth Leis-Newman

More family reunions in Arkansas: Thomas, Parker, Dixon

M I L I TA R Y R E U N I O N N E W S – 30

The Alliance of Military Reunions: join now!

The Pledge by John J Lesjack

52nd Fighter Group, Veterans Day/Branson’s Celebration, Planners in Newport News, Virginia, Vietnam Veterans 9th Infantry Division, Gold Star Families, Sands Resorts “Hall of Heroes”

R E U N I O N R E SO U R C E S – 34

A directory of reunion-friendly places, services, vendors and products

ON THE COVER

Hanlon Family Reunion, Elm Grove, Wisconsin Photo credit: Karla Lavin

Edith Wagner

Jacky Runice

Jennifer Rueth

Marion Liston Senior Account Manager

Karla Lavin

Andrew Russell Bordeaux

Nicole Dettmering Ksioszk S

Ashley Marie Andrews

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee C O N T R I B U TO R S

Lindsey Clark • Dr Cheryl Conetsco

David Conetsco • Kevin Donohue

Amanda Hamm • Deborah Hicks

Elizabeth Leis-Newman

John J Lesjack • Carllene Marek

Diane Gentry Martin • Doris Dixon McCall

Mary Mitchell-Davis

Mona L Muhammad • Carole Neal

Steve Okuno • Marsha Hoffman Rising

Sylvia Robinson • Skip Sander

Ruth Schmelzer

Deirdre W Spaulding-Yeoman DSc

Vincent Spaulding • Lindsay Liepman Spinetto Jeri Sprecher • Delphine Steficek

Steven C Thedford • Andrew Walker

Angeline Warren

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Further irony: our start-up took place in an economy when everyone warned us not to do it “This is not the time ” But we persevered and thrived in time and captured an audience that has never failed to keep our spirits up

B e i n t o u c h !

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Our look and feel are the responsibility of Jennifer Rueth who has been our art director for at least 15 years She makes each issue a reality Mary Thiele Fobian edits me in Pacific Grove, California And new to our magazine-making team is Nicole Dettmering Ksioszk, who does machine editing

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Relatively Speaking

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s o l i c i t a n d c o l l e c t f a m i l y h i s t o r y d a t a

f r o m m e m b e r s .

Reunions are the best place to share the

f r u i t s a n d t r i u m p h s o f y o u r g e n e a l o g i c a l

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t h e S c h o w a l t e r Vi l l a , a M e n n o n i t e r e t i r e m e n t c o m m u n i t y,

w h e r e t h e o l d e s t c o u s i n s l i v e , a n d t h e n a l l w e n t o u t t o t h e

h o m e s t e a d t h a t h a s b e e n r e s t o r e d . T h e c o u p l e w h o o w n t h e

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b a r n . M a n y o l d m e m o r i e s w e r e s h a r e d . I h a d p l a n n e d s o m e

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a n d i t w a s g o o d t o b e a b l e t o d o i t i n p e r s o n . T h e o l d S e t h

T h o m a s c l o c k w a s t h e h a r d e s t t o g i v e a w a y, b u t m y c o u s i n

J a n l i t e r a l l y c r i e d w h e n s h e l e a r n e d s h e w a s t o h a v e i t .

S h e w a n t e d i t w h e n G r a n d m a d i e d i n 1 9 7 3 , b u t I b e a t h e r

t o t h e r e q u e s t I e n j o y e d i t f o r o v e r 3 0 y e a r s

Reported by Marsha Hoffman Rising, Springfield, Missouri

Th e N e a l Fa m i l y Tr e e c h a r t

M a r s h a H o f f m a n R i s i n g , t h e a u t h o r, a n d M i l f o r d We a v e r a r e f i r s t c o u s i n s

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o t h i n g w a s w r i t t e n i n t h e c o l u m n s o f t h e N e a l F a m i l y Tr e e c h a r t T h e i d e a w a s

f o r f a m i l y m e m b e r s t o w r i t e i n w h e r e t h e y f i t i n t h e f a m i l y R e u n i o n o r g a n i z e r

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t h e c h a r t ( 3 ' x 3 ' ) a t t a c h e d t o a c a r d b o a r d b a c k i n g a n d d i s p l a y e d i t a t t h e We l c o m e

R e c e p t i o n / M e e t a n d G r e e t s o f a m i l y m e m b e r s c o u l d w r i t e t h e i r n a m e s i n t h e

a p p r o p r i a t e f a m i l y b r a n c h

J u s t a n o t e : o n e o f o u r c o u s i n s w h o a t t e n d e d t h e re u n i o n p a s s e d a w a y s e v e r a l m o n t h s l a t e r S h e w a s o n l y 5 5 H e r b ro t h e r h a d d i e d t w o m o n t h s p r i o r W h i l e w e w e re e x p e c t i n g h i s d e a t h ( h e s u ff e re d f ro m l u n g c a n c e r ) , h e r s w a s t o t a l l y u n e x p e c t e d I t j u s t u n d e r s c o re s

t h e i m p o r t a n c e o f h a v i n g f a m i l y re u n i o n s b e c a u s e o n e n e v e r k n o w s w h a t t h e f u t u re h o l d s

Most of these events are sponsored and presented by convention and visitors bureaus and take place on Saturdays unless noted. All prefer or require advance reservation, and are free or at nominal cost. For more information, visit reunionsmag.com.

A L P H A R ET TA , G EO R G I A

c a r o l @ a w e s o m e a l p h a r e t t a . c o m

AT L A N TA , G EO R G I A

C o n t a c t N i n

B R A N SO N , M I SSO U R I

Military Reunion Planners Conference hosted by the Branson/Lakes

A r e a C h a m b e r o f C o m m e r c e a n d C V B C o n t a c t D e b b i e C h e s n o k o v, L e i s u r e G r o u p S a l e s M a n a g e r, 8 0 0 - 2 1 4 - 3 6 6 1 ; dchesnokov@bransoncvb com; ExploreBranson com/MilitaryReunion

CO B B CO U N T Y, G EO R G I A

S e p t e m b e r 1 9 , 2 0 0 9 1 0 : 0 0 a m – 1 : 0 0 p m

Complimentary luncheon, family reunion planning guide, tradeshow

( h o t e l s , a t t r a c t i o n s , e t c ) F r e e t o a n y o n e p l a n n i n g a f a m i l y r e u n i o n

i n C o b b C o u n t y ; s e a t i n g l i m i t e d t o t w o g u e s t s p e r r e u n i o n .

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D E K A L B CO U N T Y, G EO R G I A

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N o v e m b e r 7 a n d N o v e m b e r 2 1 , 2 0 0 9

C o n t a c t C a r o l M u r r a y, D e K a l b C o u n t y C V B , 8 0 0 - 9 9 9 - 6 0 5 5

D ET R O I T, M I C H I G A N

O c t o b e r 1 7 , 2 0 0 9 9 : 0 0 a m – 1 : 3 0 p m

F R E E F a m i l y R e u n i o n P l a n n i n g S e m i n a r

“ P l a n n i n g a S u c c e s s f u l R e u n i o n i n t h e “ D ” !

T h e D e t r o i t M e t r o C o n v e n t i o n & Vi s i t o r s B u r e a u ( D M C V B )

Vi s i t w w w v i s i t d e t r o i t c o m C o n t a c t N i k k i D o n a l d ,

n d o n a l d @ v i s i t d e t r o i t . c o m

EST ES PA R K , CO LO R A D O

N o v e m b e r 1 3 - 1 5 , 2 0 0 9

F a m i l y R e u n i o n U n i v e r s i t y

Y M C A o f t h e R o c k i e s , E s t e s P a r k C e n t e r

C o n t a c t C o n f e r e n c e O f f i c e a t 8 0 0 - 7 7 7 - 9 6 2 2

FA I R FA X , V I R G I N I A

F e b r u a r y 2 0 , 2 0 1 0

M e e t R e u n i o n s M a g a z i n e e d i t o r, E d i t h Wa g n e r

C o n t a c t D e a n M i l l e r, Vi s i t F a i r f a x , 7 0 3 - 7 5 2 - 9 5 0 9

F L I N T, M I C H I G A N

M a r c h 2 7 , 2 0 1 0

Contact Renee Cobb, Flint CVB, 888-230-2586; rcobb@flint travel

J a c k s o n A u t o m o b i l e

C o m p a n y c a r s wanted for reunion

b o u t 2 0 , 0 0 0 c a r s w e r e p r o d u c e d b y J a c k s o n

A u t o m o b i l e C o m p a n y b e t w e e n 1 9 0 2 a n d 1 9 2 3 . To d d

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m a n y a s p o s s i b l e t o J a c k s o n , M i c h i g a n , S e p t e m b e r 1 8 - 2 0 ,

2 0 0 9 , f o r t h e J a c k s o n N a t i o n a l A u t o m o b i l e E v e n t C a r s

m a d e b y F u l l e r B u g g y C o , b o u g h t o u t b y J a c k s o n

A u t o m o b i l e , a r e a l s o p a r t o f t h e e v e n t

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f i n d p h o t o g r a p h s o r m e m o r a b i l i a t o a d i s p l a y.

C o n t a c t To d d H o l t o n a t 5 1 7 - 2 0 6 - 5 4 4 8 or 6071 Parsons

Road, Concord MI 49237

F r o m a s t o r y b y B i l l C h a p i n

i n T h e J a c k s o n C i t i z e n P a t r i o t ,

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C a p i t o l Vi s i t o r C e n t e r

Ro t a t i o n o f d o c u m e n t s a t t h e U S C a p i t o l Vi s i t o r C e n t e r i n Wa s h i n g t o n , D C , k e e p s t h e C e n t e r ’ s E x h i b i t i o n

H a l l e x h i b i t a b o u t C o n g r e s s f r e s h f o r r e t u r n i n g v i s i t o r s .

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A r c h i v e s a n d R e c o r d s A d m i n i s t r a t i o n ( N A R A ) a n d t h e

L i b r a r y o f C o n g r e s s

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d r a f t s o f t h e C o n s t i t u t i o n f o r d i s c u s s i o n T h e s e c o n d d r a f t ,

o n d i s p l a y a t t h e Vi s i t o r C e n t e r, r e p l a c e d a l i s t o f s t a t e s

w i t h t h e p h r a s e , “ We t h e P e o p l e o f t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s . ”

I n 1 8 6 2 , P r e s i d e n t L i n c o l n s i g n e d a n a c t e m a n c i p a t i n g

s l a v e s i n t h e n a t i o n ’ s c a p i t a l . O r i g i n a l n o t e s f o r t h e

l e g i s l a t i o n a r e o n d i s p l a y. Vi s i t w w w. v i s i t t h e c a p i t o l . g o v.

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M e r i w e t h e r L e w i s , i s o n d i s p l a y a t t h e

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R e c o r d s o f t h e O f f i c e o f t h e

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I n d e p e n d e n c e M e e t i n g s c o m

L o o k i n g f o r f r i e n d s ?

Jim Miller, editor of the Savvy Senior column in Richmond, Virginia’s Richmond Times Dispatch, made these suggestions to someone who wanted to reach long-lost friends from years ago He suggests, before you start, jot down any information you remember about the person: full name, age or birth date, last known address or phone number, email address, names of family members, etc It will help turn up clues

A g o o d p l a c e t o s t a r t i s g o o g l e . Ty p e i n t h e p e r s o n ’ s f u l l

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c a l l a n d r e t u r n s h o m e t o P i t t C o u n t y, N o r t h C a r o l i n a , f r o m N e w Yo r k f o r h i s f a m i l y r e u n i o n . H e i s f e e l i n g p r e t t y g o o d a b o u t h i m s e l f a n d h i s l i f e b u t d u r i n g h i s v i s i t , h e l e a r n s f a m i l y

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M I N N E A P O L I S , M I N N ESOTA

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f r o m t h e W h i t e H o u s e T h e t h e m e f o r t h i s 1 4 t h b i e n n i a l f

i s p r o g r e s s , w o r k i n g t o g e t h e r i s s u c c e s s . ” R e u n i o n a t t e n d a n c e

n u m b e r e d a

R e u n i o n , o f c o n v e n t i o n p r o p o r t i o n , h e l d a g o l f o u t i n g ,

e d u c a t i o n a l w o r k s h o p s , f a m i l y b u s i n e s s a n d s t o c k h o l d e r s

m e e t i n g s , c h i l d r e n ’ s a c t i v i t i e s , b u s i n e s s f a i r a n d n e t w o r k i n g

e v e n t , s i l e n t a u c t i o n a n d a w a r d s b a n q u e t B S D m e m b e r s

n u m b e r i n t h e t h o u s a n d s a n d t h e y a r e a m o n g t h e l a r g e s t

o r g a n i z e d f a m i l i e s i n t h e U S , e n c o m p a s s i n g b o t h f o r- p r o f i t a n d

n o n - p r o f i t c o r p o r a t i o n s ( w w w s p a u l d i n g f a m i l y c o m )

S p e a k e r s a l l S p a u l d i n g s i n c l u d e d t h e H o n o r a b l e S a n d r a

S p a u l d i n g H u g h e s , m e m b e r o f t h e N o r t h C a r o l i n a S t a t e

L e g i s l a t u r e , M a c e o K . S l o a n , o n e o f B l a c k E n t e r p r i s e M a g a z i n e ’ s

To p 5 0 A f r i c a n A m e r i c a n s o n Wa l l S t r e e t , a n d S t e a d m a n

M O R E A B O U T T H E S PA U L D I N GS

Writing in Washington DC’s Washington Times, Kate Tsubata said the Spaulding Family Reunion is more like a convention,

w i t h h u n d r e d s o f a t t e n d e e s a n d a w i d e v a r i e t y o f e v e n t s

Bernardine Spaulding Evans, adjunct professor at Montgomery

C o l l e g e a n d m o t h e r o f t h r e e c h i l d r e n , i n i t i a t e d a c h i l d r e n ’ s

p r o g r a m f o r t h e r e u n i o n . Wi t h a s i s t e r a n d c o u s i n s , E v a n s

c r e a t e d a p r o g r a m t h a t h e l p e d t h e c h i l d r e n c o n n e c t w i t h o n e

a n o t h e r a n d w i t h t h e i r h i s t o r i c a l l e g a c y.

G r a h a m , a u t h o r o f t w o N e w Yo r k Ti m e s b e s t s e l l e r b o o k s

B e n j a m i n S p a u l d i n g ( 1 7 7 3 - 1 8 6 2 i n D u p l i n C o u n t y, N o r t h

C a r o l i n a ) a n d E d i t h D J a c o b s ( 1 7 8 6 - 1 8 7 1 ) h a d t e n c h i l d r e n

B e n j a m i n a n d h i s c h i l d r e n w e r e l a n d o w n e r s i n C o l u m b u s a n d

B l a d e n C o u n t i e s , N o r t h C a r o l i n a , a n d p r o d u c e d d e s c e n d a n t s

w h o h a v e l e f t t h e i r m a r k i n a l l w a l k s o f l i f e . S p a u l d i n g

d e s c e n d a n t s h a v e d i s t i n g u i s h e d t h e m s e l v e s i n i n t e r n a t i o n a l ,

n a t i o n a l a n d l o c a l a r e n a s , i n t h e f i e l d s o f L a w, G o v e r n m e n t

S e r v i c e , P u b l i c S a f e t y, B u s i n e s s , F a r m i n g a n d A g r i c u l t u r e ,

Te c h n o l o g y, E d u c a t i o n a n d M e d i c i n e

C i t a t i o n s a n d p r o c l a m a t i o n s w e r e r e c e i v e d f r o m a l e t t e r o f

g r e e t i n g s f r o m t h e P r e s i d e n t , C o n g r e s s w o m a n E l i n o r H o l m e s

N o r t o n , Wa s h i n g t o n D C M a y o r A d r i a n F e n t y, a n d D C

C o u n c i l m e m b e r s a n d M a r y l a n d , Vi r g i n i a a n d N o r t h C a r o l i n a

l e g i s l a t o r s . F ro m a re p o r t p re p a re d b y D e i rd re W. S p a u l d i n g - Ye o m a n D S c , Wa s h i n g t o n , D C , C h a i r p e r s o n o f t h e 2

“ We a s k e d t h e c h i l d r e n t o f i n d w h i c h f a m i l y m e m b e r w a s a n

A i r F o r c e O n e p i l o t , w h i c h w a s a f i r e f i g h t e r, b u s i n e s s m a n ,

c u r r e n t a w a r d w i n n e r I n t h i s w a y, t h e y c o u l d c o n n e c t t o t h e

f a m i l y h i s t o r y, a n d l e a r n t h e i r o r i g i n s , ” E v a n s s a i d

T h e S p a u l d i n g f a m i l y h a s l o n g c h a m p i o n e d e n t r e p r e n e u r s h i p

a n d e d u c a t i o n T h e y h a v e o r g a n i z e d f o r- p r o f i t a n d n o t - f o r- p r o f i t

e n t i t i e s , a n d s p o n s o r s c h o l a r s h i p s , s u p p o r t p r o f e s s i o n a l

n e t w o r k i n g , a n d m o d e l t h e v a l u e s o f e d u c a t i o n , d i l i g e n c e ,

s t e w a r d s h i p a n d p u b l i c s e r v i c e .

A he a r ty home coming

y A n

Co m i n g H o m e W h e r e T h e H e a r t I s ”

w a s t h e t h e m e o f t h e Wi n s t o n F a m i l y

R e u n i o n i n S h r e v e p o r t , L o u i s i a n a . I t

b e g a n o n T h u r s d a y w i t h r e l a t i v e s t r e a t e d

t o a “ Ta s t e o f H o m e , ” c o n s i s t i n g o f

d e l e c t a b l e d i s h e s ( f r i e d c a t f i s h , m u s t a r d

g r e e n s , p o t a t o s a l a d , p o u n d c a k e t o n a m e

j u s t a f e w ) p r e p a r e d b y t h e f a m i l y ’ s b e s t

c u l i n a r y e x p e r t s E v e r y o n e s i g n e d

c o m m e m o r a t i v e r i b b o n s t o p l a c e o n f a m i l y

m e m b e r s ’ g r a v e s o n S a t u r d a y.

A f t e r d e v o t i o n F r i d a y m o r n i n g ,

e v e r y o n e w e n t t o G r a n d B a y o u R e s o r t i n

C o u s h a t t a , L o u i s i a n a , f o r o u r p i c n i c

A c t i v i t i e s i n c l u d e d f u n k y - s t y l e d a n c i n g ,

f o o t b a l l , a p i ñ a t a , f i s h i n g , t h e Wi n s t o n

F a m i l y R e u n i o n B i n g o C l a s s i c a n d

s c r u m p t i o u s f o o d D u r i n g b i n g o ( o n e d o l l a r f o r e a c h c a r d )

e v e r y o n e p l a y e d f o r p r i z e s a s w e l l a s a u n i q u e c a s h j a c k p o t ,

a w a r d e d d u r i n g t h e “ b l a c k o u t ” p o r t i o n o f t h e g a m e .

A d d i t i o n a l l y, w e p l a y e d a r o u n d k n o w n a s “ A c a d e m i c

A c q u i s i t i o n , ” p l a y e d l i k e b l a c k o u t e x c e p t e a c h c a r d c o s t s f i v e

dollars But here’s what makes it unique: half of the jackpot goes

t o t h e w i n n e r, w h i l e t h e o t h e r h a l f g o e s t o t h e s c h o l a r s h i p f u n d

L a t e r t h a t e v e n i n g s e v e r a l f a m i l y m e m b e r s a s s e m b l e d

f l o w e r s f o r g r a v e s i t e v i s i t s S a t u r d a y m o r n i n g T h e t r i p s t o p p e d

a t c e m e t e r i e s i n P l e a s a n t G r o v e , H a y n e s v i l l e , M o u n t P l e a s a n t

a n d A t h e n s , i n C l a i b o r n e P a r i s h a s w e l l a s s e v e r a l c e m e t e r i e s

i n S h r e v e p o r t .

T h e e v e n i n g b a n q u e t b e g a n w i t h t h e e n t r a n c e o f t h e “ R o y a l

C o u r t ” o f e l d e r l y a u n t s a n d u n c l e s w h o w e r e c r o w n e d a s t h e y

w e r e f o r m a l l y i n t r o d u c e d A c a n d l e - l i g h t i n g c e r e m o n y i n

m e m o r y o f d e c e a s e d r e l a t i v e s f o l l o w e d A f t e r a f a b u l o u s f e a s t , f a m i l y m e m b e r s w e r e r e c o g n i z e d f o r m a j o r a c c o m p l i s h m e n t s

a n d e a c h r e l a t i v e w a s i n t r o d u c e d i n “ r o l l c a l l ” E v e n t h e l i t t l e

o n e s w e r e h i g h l i g h t e d a s “ C h i l d r e n i n t h e S p o t l i g h t , ” d u r i n g

w h i c h w e s a n g We A re F a m i l y . A s y m b o l i c t r i b u t e t o e a c h a u n t

a n d u n c l e w a s c e r e m o n i o u s l y c o n d u c t e d d u r i n g a u n i q u e

N S ❖ r e u n i o n s m a g . c o m

s e g m e n t c a l l e d “ We S p e a k Yo u r N a m e , ” w h e n s e v e r a l r e l a t i v e s

s p o k e i n a h e a r t - t o - h e a r t . O n e o f o u r c o l l e g e s t u d e n t s w a s p r e s e n t e d w i t h a s c h o l a r s h i p ; s h e e m o t i o n a l l y e x p r e s s e d h e r

g r a t i t u d e a n d s a i d s h e w o u l d a i d r e l a t i v e s i n t h e f u t u r e .

A b u s i n e s s m e e t i n g i n c l u d e d d i s c u s s i o n o f f i s c a l a f f a i r s a s

w e l l a s v o t e o n a f u t u r e r e u n i o n s i t e A n a u c t i o n r a i s e d m o n e y

f o r t h e s c h o l a r s h i p f u n d

O u r f i n a l d e v o t i o n w a s h e l d S u n d a y m o r n i n g b e f o r e w e w e n t

t o w o r s h i p s e r v i c e s a t o n e m e m b e r ’ s S h r e v e p o r t c h u r c h T h e

f a m i l y w a s r e c o g n i z e d b y t h e p a s t o r a n d c o n g r e g a t i o n d u r i n g

t h e s e r v i c e .

We t r u l y e n j o y e d e a c h h e a r t - f i l l e d m o m e n t d u r i n g o u r g e t -

t o g e t h e r, a n d i t ’ s n i c e t o k n o w t h a t o u r f a m i l y i s u n i q u e i n

m a n y w a y s O u r f a m i l y r e u n i o n e n a b l e s u s t o s t r e n g t h e n t h e

“ t i e s t h a t b i n d ” a n d , m o s t i m p o r t a n t , a c k n o w l e d g e a n d

u n d e r s t a n d t h e i m p o r t a n c e o f c o m i n g h o m e w h e r e t h e h e a r t

i s A f t e r a l l , w e a r e f a m i l y ! R e p o r t e d b y A n d r e w Wa l k e r, Wi n s t o n F a m i l y R e u n i o n b i n g o m a s t e r, l i v e s i n S h r e v e p o r t , L o u i s i a n a .

Yo u n g e r g e n e r a t i o n s t e p s u p

To b r e a k t h e i c e , t h e C l a r k F a m i l y R e u n i o n e n j o y s a h a p p y

h o u r t h e f i r s t n i g h t . L i n d s e y C l a r k s a y s t h e y ’ r e a l l t a l k e r s , s o

b r e a k i n g t h e i c e i s n o t a b i g p r o b l e m T h e g r o u p i s s m a l l e n o u g h

t h a t t h e y h a b i t u a l l y s t a y i n t o u c h s t i l l

L i n d s e y C l a r k , a g e 2 6 , s a y s t h a t i n t h e p a s t h e r g r a n d m o t h e r

a n d m o t h e r h a d t a k e n t h e l e a d p l a n n i n g t h e C l a r k F a m i l y

R e u n i o n , a n d n o w i t ’ s h e r t u r n “ We h a v e n ’ t r e a l l y d i s c u s s e d t h i s

‘ p a s s i n g o f t h e c r o w n ’ p e r s e , b u t i t f e e l s r i g h t P a s s a g e o f r e u n i o n

o r g a n i z i n g r e s p o n s i b i l i t y i s h a p p e n i n g n a t u r a l l y. ”

T h e y r o t a t e p l a n n i n g r e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s b e t w e e n t h r e e b r a n c h e s

o f t h e f a m i l y. I n 2 0 1 0 , i t i s L i n d s e y ’ s b r a n c h o f t h e f a m i l y ’ s t u r n .

S o t h e y p i c k t h e l o c a t i o n a n d n o m i n a t e s o m e o n e t o b e i n c h a r g e

L o c a t i o n s c h a n g e a n d a r e d e t e r m i n e d l a r g e l y b y t h e p l a n n i n g

c o m m i t t e e ’ s l o c a l e ; t h e s e h a v e i n c l u d e d M a i n e , O h i o ,

C o n n e c t i c u t a n d P e n n s y l v a n i a T h e l a s t w a s a t a s u m m e r c a m p i n

H a m b u r g C o v e , C o n n e c t i c u t E v e r y o n e w h o a t t e n d s p a y s a s e t

r a t e p e r p e r s o n L a s t t i m e d u e t o t h e t e r r i f i c s u m m e r c a m p

f i n d t h e c o s t w a s $ 1 5 0 p e r p e r s o n .

I t i s a f a m i l y t r a d i t i o n t o b e a r o u n d w a t e r b e c a u s e y o u c a n ’ t

n o t h a v e c a n o e o r s w i m m i n g r a c e s . T- s h i r t s a r e a m u s t . A n d

t y p i c a l l y t h e r e i s a S u n d a y m o r n i n g w o r s h i p s e r v i c e r u n b y t h e

o l d e r g e n e r a t i o n , w h e n t h e f a m i l y r e m e m b e r s f o l k s w h o h a v e

c o m e b e f o r e u s

L i n d s e y i s w o r k i n g o n t h e n e x t r e u n i o n a n d h a s a l r e a d y s e n t

o u t t h e f i r s t c o m m u n i c a t i o n S h e i n c l u d e d a s u r v e y t o b e t t e r

u n d e r s t a n d e v e r y o n e ’ s e x p e c t a t i o n s S h e ’ s c r e a t e d t h e i r f i r s t

w e b s i t e “ q u i c k l y p u l l e d t o g e t h e r, b u t e x c i t i n g , n o n e t h e l e s s . ”

E v e r y o n e h a s r e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s . I t c o u l d b e o r g a n i z i n g t h e

f r i s b e e g o l f c o u r s e , t h e s c a v e n g e r h u n t , s e t t i n g t a b l e s f o r m e a l s ,

e t c Ty p i c a l l y, w h e n t h e y d i s t r i b u t e t h e w e e k e n d ’ s a g e n d a , t h e y

a s s i g n a c r o s s - g e n e r a t i o n a l g r o u p f o r s e t - u p a n d c l e a n - u p f o r

e a c h e v e n t

E v e r y f a m i l y i n c h a r g e t y p i c a l l y s e t s t h e t h e m e o r t o n e f o r

t h e i r r e u n i o n O n e b r a n c h i n c l u d e s r e a l e n t e r t a i n e r s ; t h e i r

r e u n i o n s a l w a y s i n c l u d e a t a l e n t s h o w, c r a f t p r o j e c t , e t c A n o t h e r

b r a n c h u s e d t o r u n a b o a t y a r d , s o t h e i r a c t i v i t i e s a l w a y s i n c l u d e

b o a t i n g a n d c o m p e t i t i o n s . “ O u r b r a n c h i s t h e s m a l l e s t a n d

p e r h a p s t h e m o s t l a i d b a c k ; w e a r e h o p i n g t o h o s t a r e u n i o n t h a t

i s l e s s a c t i v i t y - f o c u s e d , a n d m o r e f o c u s e d o n c a t c h i n g u p a n d

r e l a x i n g t o g e t h e r, ” s a y s L i n d s e y

T h e y s e n d o u t m e m o r y s t i c k s c o n t a i n i n g a c o m p i l a t i o n o f

p h o t o s f r o m t h e w e e k e n d

L i n d s e y ’ s g o a l i s 1 0 0 % a t t e n d a n c e i n 2 0 1 0 ( t w o f a m i l i e s

d i d n ’ t a t t e n d l a s t t i m e ) A n d a b i g c h a l l e n g e i s t o f i n d n e w i d e a s

t o a t t r a c t t h e y o u n g a d u l t s t o c o n t i n u e t o p a r t i c i p a t e .

R e p o r t e d b y L i n d s e y C l a r k , Wa s h i n g t o n , D C .

M y g r a n d m o t h e r, R o s e b u d H a r r i s , p a s s e d a w a y i n

S e p t e m b e r 1 9 7 5 . J u s t s e v e n m o n t h s l a t e r m y g r a n d f a t h e r,

Wi l l i e H a r r i s , d i e d T h e b i r t h o f t h e “ Wi l l i e B r a n c h ” A n n u a l

H a r r i s F a m i l y R e u n i o n s r e s u l t e d f r o m t h i s l o s s T h e f a m i l y

v o w e d n e v e r t o c o m e t o g e t h e r j u s t f o r s a d o c c a s i o n s a g a i n We

w o u l d c o m e t o g e t h e r t o c e l e b r a t e l i f e a n d t h e m e m o r y o f t h o s e

w h o c r e a t e d t h e o p p o r t u n i t i e s w e e n j o y

T h e e i g h t l i v i n g c h i l d r e n o f Wi l l i e a n d R o s e b u d m y

m o t h e r a n d h e r s i b l i n g s h e l d t h e f i r s t H a r r i s F a m i l y R e u n i o n

( H F R ) i n A u g u s t 1 9 7 6 i n o u r h o m e i n M a n o k i n , M a r y l a n d , j u s t

d o w n t h e r o a d f r o m m y m a t e r n a l g r a n d p a r e n t s ’ h o m e . M y t h e n

f i v e - y e a r- o l d t w i n b r o t h e r s s a n g “ A F r o g o n a B u m p o n a L o g ”

I t w a s h i l a r i o u s !

M y a u n t s a n d u n c l e s t o o k t u r n s h o s t i n g

r e u n i o n s L i t t l e d i d w e k n o w t h a t o u r h u m b l e

b e g i n n i n g s w o u l d t a k e u s t o s o m e o f t h e m o s t

e x c i t i n g p l a c e s a c r o s s t h e U S .

O u r r e u n i o n s h a v e b e c o m e m o r e o r g a n i z e d

o v e r t h e y e a r s . We h a v e f a m i l y o f f i c e r s , a n

e d u c a t i o n a l s c h o l a r s h i p f u n d , a b e n e v o l e n c e

f u n d , a n i n v e s t m e n t f u n d a n d a f a m i l y

c e m e t e r y f o r d e s c e n d e n t s o f E l i s h a a n d M a r y

G r i f f i n H a r r i s , m y g r e a t - g r a n d p a r e n t s T h e

H F R N e w s l e t t e r h a s b e e n p u b l i s h e d a t l e a s t

t w i c e a y e a r s i n c e 1 9 7 8

We ’ v e p a r t i c i p a t e d i n f a m i l y - w i d e p r o j e c t s .

F o r a f a m i l y q u i l t , f a m i l y m e m b e r s w e r e s e n t

b l a n k m u s l i n f a b r i c a n d a s k e d t o d e s i g n , s i g n

a n d r e t u r n . T h e r e s u l t i s a w o n d e r f u l f a m i l y

h e i r l o o m O u r c o o k b o o k i n c l u d e s t h e m o s t

s o u g h t - a f t e r f a m i l y r e c i p e s We h a v e a f a m i l y

Vi s i t i n g B a l t i m o r e ’ s I n n e r H a r b o r a r e ( 1 s t r o w, l t o r ) D e l p h i n e S t e f i c e k , h e r d a u g h t e r,

D a n a a n d n i e c e , M o n i q u e Pa r k e r, ( 2 n d r o w, l t o r ) D a l e a n d D e a n Pa r k e r a n d

N i t a P i z a r r o w i t h B y r o n Ke a r s e i n t h e b a c k

H a r r i s f a m i l y q u i l t r e a d y t o b i n d

d i r e c t o r y c a t a l o g e d b o t h a l p h a b e t i c a l l y a n d g e o g r a p h i c a l l y A

f u l l - p a g e n e w s p a p e r a r t i c l e w a s d e d i c a t e d t o o u r “ P r o j e c t

P a l a t k a , ” w h i c h s e n t s h o e b o x e s f i l l e d w i t h s c h o o l s u p p l i e s f o r

K a t r i n a v i c t i m s i n P a l a t k a , F l o r i d a . G e n e a l o g y r e c o r d s a r e k e p t

b y t h e f a m i l y h i s t o r i a n , a n d S t e p p i n g S t o n e s o f O u r L e g a c y i s a

D V D p r o j e c t f e a t u r i n g t h e l i f e a n d t i m e s o f t h e “ Wi l l i e

B r a n c h ” H a r r i s F a m i l y.

M y g r a n d f a t h e r h a d 1 8 s i b l i n g s a n d , e v e r y 5 y e a r s t h e

E l i s h a a n d M a r y G r i f f i n H a r r i s Q u i n q u e n n i u m i s h o s t e d i n

G e o r g i a o r F l o r i d a T h e r o o t s o f t h e H a r r i s C l a n s p r i n g f r o m

D e c a t u r C o u n t y, G e o r g i a , a n d f a m i l y m e m b e r s f r o m t h e s e 1 8

b r a n c h e s c o m e t o g e t h e r A f e w o f t h e s e b r a n c h e s a l s o c e l e b r a t e

b i e n n i a l o r “ a s a n n o u n c e d ” r e u n i o n s . T h e f i r s t Q u i n q u e n n i u m ,

h e l d i n 1 9 9 6 , w a s a h u g e u n d e r t a k i n g , b u t t h e p a y o f f w a s o v e r

5 0 0 H a r r i s d e s c e n d e n t s i n a t t e n d a n c e .

T h e “ Wi l l i e B r a n c h ” R e u n i o n s a r e t h e w e e k e n d o f e v e r y

s e c o n d S u n d a y i n A u g u s t T h e h o s t a n d c o m m i t t e e d e v e l o p t h e

r e u n i o n t h e m e , r e s e r v e a c c o m m o d a t i o n s a n d p l a n o u r w e e k e n d a c t i v i t i e s

A b u f f e t a n d w e l c o m e f r o m t h e h o s t o n F r i d a y a f t e r n o o n

b e g i n s t h e f e s t i v e a f f a i r U n c l e J o h n ’ s v i d e o s o f p a s t r e u n i o n s

o r f a m i l y e v e n t s p l a y i n o n e c o r n e r a n d p o c k e t s o f f a m i l y

m e m b e r s m e e t a n d g r e e t i n o t h e r c o r n e r s o f t h e h o s p i t a l i t y

s u i t e . S a t u r d a y m o r n i n g a n d a f t e r n o o n w e e n j o y p l a n s b y t h e

h o s t s o m e t i m e s a t o u r o f t h e a r e a w i t h f r e e t i m e t o

e x p l o r e , w e a r i n g t - s h i r t s d e s i g n e d a n d p r i n t e d b y C o u s i n B y r o n

Our 2008 reunion in Linthicum, Maryland, was hosted by my cousin Edwin, who publishes a health and fitness magazine. His theme was “Healthy, Wealthy and Wise ” Healthy started with a one mile early morning walk, Wealthy was a financial planning seminar, and Wise was a visit to the Reginald F Lewis Museum in Baltimore We enjoyed the splendor of the Baltimore Harbor and met another Harris Family Reunion in red t-shirts. We exchanged family information, but could find no connection between our branches. Saturday evening includes food, food, food and a talent and fashion show Over the years our talent shows have welcomed pseudo-celebrities, like Ike and Tina, The Pointless Sisters, Patti LaDel, Mary, Mary and a Little More Mary, (little cousins, Unique, Bradneshia and Mikayla) The best corny jokes were told by Uncle James Aunt Dollie’s creations graced the runway, and Aunt Mae could still “cut a rug ” as she would say. Great-aunt Mandy was talented with tenacity and wisdom; she never drove, but always miraculously appeared at every reunion, saying “I just want to be in the crowd ” If anyone seemed upset, she was known for her famous quote, “Don’t lose your charm ”

Sunday includes a worship service at a local or home church and more food Our reunions close out with a Family Meeting, where family concerns, celebrations, achievements and comments are recognized. Awards are given for family with most members in attendance, traveled farthest to attend, oldest and youngest present. Our family chaplain leads us in a parting prayer and song

Aunt Mandy, Uncle James, Aunt Mae, Aunt Dollie and many cousins have passed away Alex Haley said, “ where today it is rightly said that when a griot dies, it is as if a library has burned to the ground ” There’s a richness of family heritage in each person ’ s life that will be lost if it isn’t passed on to the next generation. When we share our faith and family experiences, we bring our families together and give them a sense of identity.

H a r r i s F a m i l y R e u n i o n

l l i e B r a n c h ”

M a k i n g m o u n t a i n s o f m e m o r i e s

Wa r r e n - P u l l e y F a m i l y R e u n i o n s h a v e

b e e n i n N o r t h C a r o l i n a , a n d o n c e i n

S o u t h C a r o l i n a S o a r e u n i o n i n D e n v e r,

C o l o r a d o , h a d t h e m t r a v e l i n g

F o r t h i s r e u n i o n , c o u s i n s E l i z a b e t h a n d

S c o t t M c D o n a l d s e r v e d a s p e r f e c t h o s t s ,

m a k i n g s u r e e v e r y o n e f e l t w e l c o m e a n d h a d a

g r e a t t i m e . A n g e l i n e Wa r r e n , C a r r b o r o , N o r t h

C a r o l i n a , s e r v e d a s a n a d v i s o r a n d r e p o r t e r.

P l a n n i n g a c t i v i t i e s c o n t i n u e d o n

T h u r s d a y n i g h t a s w e g a t h e r e d t o o r g a n i z e

e v e r y t h i n g f o r t h e M e e t - N - G r e e t o n F r i d a y :

w e s t a p l e d a d d r e s s d i r e c t o r i e s , l a m i n a t e d

a r t i c l e s f r o m R e u n i o n s M a g a z i n e f o r d i s p l a y,

a n d p u l l e d t o g e t h e r p h o t o s G o o d i e s b a g s

c o n t a i n e d a r e u n i o n p e n , L e g a c y M a g a z i n e ,

a n a g e n d a o f a c t i v i t i e s , a n 8 x 1 0 o f t h e p r i o r

y e a r ’ s r e u n i o n p h o t o a n d a Wa r r e n - P u l l e y

A d d r e s s D i r e c t o r y.

S c o t t w a s a l r e a d y c o o k i n g c h i c k e n a n d

p o r k l o i n o n t h e s m o k e r, p r e p a r i n g f o r S a t u r d a y

A n g i e M o a n e y a w a i t s Wa r r e n - P u l l e y f a m i l y m e m b e r s w i t h b a g s a n d t - s h i r t s

C o u s i n R e g i n a l d s t a r t e d p r e p a r i n g f o o d f o r r e u n i o n d a y o n

T h u r s d a y n i g h t H e m a d e p o t a t o s a l a d a n d f r u i t s a l a d , a n d L i z

p r e p a r e d c o l l a r d g r e e n s , a m u s t n o m a t t e r w h e r e w e g a t h e r

I a l w a y s e n j o y t h e M e e t - N - G re e t w h e r e , t h i s y e a r, I m e t n e w

r e l a t i v e s w h o w e r e a t t e n d i n g t h e f a m i l y r e u n i o n f o r t h e f i r s t

t i m e , a d d i n g t o o u r c i r c l e ! We p r e s e n t e d d o o r p r i z e s w h e r e

w i n n e r s c o u l d s e l e c t f r o m a t a b l e o f g i f t s , o r t h e y w o n m o n e y.

T h i s a l w a y s a d d s t o t h e e x c i t e m e n t

R e u n i o n D a y w a s c e l e b r a t e d a t D e n v e r ’ s A u r o r a B a p t i s t

C h u r c h F e l l o w s h i p H a l l We g a t h e r e d i n t h e a f t e r n o o n a n d ,

a f t e r b l e s s i n g t h e f o o d a n d e a t i n g , w e s t a r t e d

o u r p r o g r a m . We a l w a y s s t a r t w i t h a w e l c o m e ,

w h i c h w a s g i v e n b y o n e o f o u r y o u n g e s t c o u s i n s , K e n n y B r i t w h o d i d a m a r v e l o u s j o b

S h e l i a G r a y c h o s e t o r e a d R o m a n s , 1 2 t h

c h a p t e r , w h i c h t a l k s a b o u t t h e g i f t s e a c h o n e

o f u s p o s s e s s a n d t h a t w e s h o u l d u s e t h e m

T h e n t h e r e w a s a c a n d l e l i g h t i n g c e r e m o n y i n

w h i c h t h r e e c a n d l e s w e r e l i t : o n e f o r o u r a n c e s t o r s , o n e f o r t h e p r e s e n t g e n e r a t i o n a n d

o n e f o r t h e n e w g e n e r a t i o n g r o w i n g u p .

T h e r e w a s a g a m e w i t h p r i z e s A s w e w e r e

c o m i n g i n , e v e r y o n e w a s g i v e n a n u m b e r f o r

p r i z e s : C o l o r a d o t - s h i r t s , s w e a t s h i r t s , r e u n i o n

m u g s , r e u n i o n o r n a m e n t s , p u r s e s a n d m o n e y

We h a v e s o m a n y t a l e n t e d r e l a t i v e s w h o

s h a r e t h e i r t a l e n t a t e a c h r e u n i o n I

c o n d u c t e d t h e r e c o g n i t i o n s , a n d b e g a n b y

r e c o g n i z i n g t h e r e u n i o n c o m m i t t e e w i t h a

c e r t i f i c a t e o f a p p r e c i a t i o n , d e s i g n e d

e s p e c i a l l y f o r t h e Wa r r e n - P u l l e y R e u n i o n We a l w a y s h o n o r

o u r M a r v e l o u s S e n i o r s w h o h a v e r e a c h e d a g e 7 0 + T h i s y e a r,

w e h o n o r e d C h a r l e s P u l l e y a n d O d e s s a P u l l e y, b o t h 8 2 y e a r s

o l d O t h e r r e c o g n i t i o n s w e r e e n g a g e m e n t s a n d e d u c a t i o n

a c h i e v e m e n t s , i n c l u d i n g C a m i l l e Wa r r e n p a s s i n g t h e

Wa s h i n g t o n S t a t e B a r A n d t h e r e w a s a r e a d i n g b y A n g e l a

To m a s e l i a b o u t f a m i l y r e u n i o n s .

O u r r e u n i o n e n d e d S u n d a y. We h a d a g r e a t t i m e t a l k i n g a n d

j u s t b e i n g t o g e t h e r. We a r e s o b l e s s e d t o h a v e a f a m i l y t h a t

e n j o y s s p e n d i n g t i m e t o g e t h e r a n d o n e a n o t h e r ’ s c o m p a n y

R e p o r t e d b y A n g e l i n e Wa r r e n , C a r r b o r o , N o r t h C a r o l i n a

Wa r r e n - P u l l e y Fa m i l y R e u n i o n

BBQ , Beale Stree t and the Branches

Every two years, generations of Branch descendents gather collectively to remember, celebrate and honor the legacy of John and Louisa Branch During the time together, we recall the values that richly define their character: love for family, maintaining a Christian foundation and instilling the value of education. The six-generation Branch reunions were held in cities where numerous family members lived in either the host city or the surrounding area The 2008 reunion committee faced a new challenge when Branches decided to host the reunion in a new city where only one family member lives T

o f D r M a r t i n L u t h e r K i n g , J r T h e s e c o n d

d a y i n c l u d e d a n E m p o w e r m e n t

E d u c a t i o n a l S e s s i o n b y s e v e r a l

a c c o m p l i s h e d , p r o f e s s i o n a l f a m i l y

m e m b e r s ; a M e m p h i s t o u r, i n c l u d i n g

a s t r o l l o n t h e f a m o u s B e a l e S t r e e t

a n d S t a x M u s e u m r e c o r d i n g s t u d i o ;

a n d b o w l i n g a n d s k a t i n g

T h e b a n q u e t i s a l w a y s t h e

h i g h l i g h t o f t h e r e u n i o n ; h o w e v e r, t h e

c o m m i t t e e a d d e d a t w i s t I n l i e u o f a

s p e a k e r, t r i b u t e s w e r e m a d e t o M a r y

B r a n c h B a n k s t o n a n d Wi l l i e B r a n c h ,

S r. , t h e t w o l i v i n g c h i l d r e n o f J o h n

a n d L o u i s a B r a n c h , a s w e l l a s

s u r v i v i n g i n - l a w s , G r a c e B r a n c h , w i f e o f E z e l l , S r , D o r o t h y B r a n c h , w i f e o f J o h n , a n d M a r v e l B r a n c h , w i f e o f Wi l l i e , S r B i o g r a p h i e s w e r e r e a d

w h i l e T h e Wi n d B e n e a t h M y Wi n g s

p l a y e d i n t h e b a c k g r o u n d . A s p e c i a l

v i d e o t i t l e d , “ O n t h e H i l l i n Wa t s o n , A r k a n s a s , ” w a s s h o w n . I n t e r v i e w s w i t h

C h u r c h i n Wa t s o n , A r k a n s a s T h e v i d e o

f e a t u r e d b i o g r a p h i e s o f J o h n a n d L o u i s a

B r a n c h a n d t h e i r t e n c h i l d r e n , w i t h a n

a c c o m p a n y i n g p h o t o m o n t a g e C o p i e s o f

t h e v i d e o w e r e a v a i l a b l e f o r p u r c h a s e . A

m e m o r i a l c a n d l e w a s l i t t o h o n o r f a m i l y

m e m b e r s w h o h a d d i e d s i n c e t h e l a s t

r e u n i o n . P l a q u e s w e r e p r e s e n t e d t o t h e

f i v e f a m i l y h e a d s a s a t o k e n o f l o v e A n d

e v e r y o n e d a n c e d t h e n i g h t a w a y

T h e w e e k e n d a c t i v i t i e s c o

P r a i s e Te a m i n s p i r e d w i t h p r a i s e s o n g s

t h a t e x p r e s s e d j o y f o r t h e i r b l e s s i n g s

During the last reunion-planning meeting, the committee members debriefed and compiled a list highlighting the key successful areas Below are a few pointers the Branch family would like to share with families coordinating a reunion of any size.

CO M M U N I C AT I O N I S K EY

• Va r i o u s f o r m s o f c o m m u n i c a t i o n w e r e

i m p l e m e n t e d “ S a v e t h e D a t e ” c a r d s w e r e m a i l e d a y e a r i n a d v a n c e ,

c r e a t i n g e x c i t e m e n t a n d a n t i c i p a t i o n .

• E m a i l s a n d p h o n e c a l l s a s t i m e d r e w n e a r s e r v e d a s a r e m i n d e r o f p a y m e n t d e a d l i n e s a n d s u g g e s t i o n s t o r e s e r v e h o t e l r o o m s

• A n e m a i l a d d r e s s w a s e s t a b l i s h e d a s

a c o n t a c t t o o l b e t w e e n f a m i l y a n d

c o m m i t t e e m e m b e r s

l s , a t t r a c

i v e i n f o r m a t i o n p a c k a g e s

a n d c o n t i n g e n c y p l a n s t o a c c o m m o d a t e

t h e g r o w i n g l i s t o f i n t e r e s t e d

a t t e n d e e s E a c h c o m m i t t e e

m e m b e r w a s a s s i g n e d t h e

r o l e o f P r o j e c t M a n a g e r f o r

o n e w e e k e n d e v e n t

S i x t e e n m o n t h s o f

d i l i g e n t w o r k r e s u l t e d i n a

j a m - p a c k e d I n d e p e n d e n c e

D a y w e e k e n d , w i t h

s o m e t h i n g f o r e v e r y o n e

A c t i v i t i e s i n c o r p o r a t e d t h e

m u s i c a l a n d h i s t o r i c s i g h t s a n d s o u n d s f o r w h i c h

M e m p h i s i s k n o w n T h e

r e u n i o n k i c k o f f w a s a t t h e

N a t i o n a l C i v i l R i g h t s

M u s e u m , a s s a s s i n a t i o n s i t e

t h e h o n o r e e s w e r e t a p e d a t S t J o h n A M E

• R e u n i o n p a c k e t s , s e n t v i a p o s t a l

s e r v i c e , i n c l u d e d a n e w s l e t t e r

h i g h l i g h t i n g e v e r y t h i n g f r o m t h e

w e e k e n d c a l e n d a r o f e v e n t s t o

s h o p p i n g c e n t e r s , r e s t a u r a n t s a n d

h o s p i t a l s s u r r o u n d i n g t h e r e u n i o n

h o t e l A b r i e f d e s c r i p t i o n o f e a c h a c t i v i t y p l u s c o s t p e r p e r s o n , a n d t -

s h i r t a n d r e u n i o n f e e i n f o r m a t i o n w e r e i n c l u d e d . A s e l f - a d d r e s s e d e n v e l o p e w a s i n c l u d e d f o r p a y m e n t a n d a c t i v i t y f e e s . • A f a m i l y r e u n i o n w e b s i t e s e r v e d a s a n i n f o r m a t i o n p o r t a l , i n c l u d i n g a l i s t o f a c t i v i t i e s , d i r e c t i o n s , r e u n i o n u p d a t e s , c o n t a c t i n f o r m a t i o n , e t c A f t e r t h e r e u n i o n , t h e w e b s i t e w a s u s e d t o s h o w c a s e r e u n i o n a c t i v i t i e s i n a p h o t o

C h a r l i e a n d L i n d a B r a n c h s u r r o u n d e d b y f a m i l y o n B e a l e S t r e e t d u r i n g a M e m p h i s t o u r

E A R LY P L A N N I N G I S ESS E N T I A L

• The search for a hotel started immediately after the previous Branch Family Reunion, allowing the committee time to select a hotel that would best accommodate the family’s needs

• A 1 6 - m o n t h t i m e l i n e w a s p r e p a r e d t o

k e e p P r o j e c t M a n a g e r s o n t r a c k o r t o implement alternate plans, if necessary.

A g o o d e x a m p l e w a s t h a t w e i n i t i a l l y

r e s e r v e d a b a n q u e t r o o m f o r 2 0 0

H o w e v e r, a t t e n d a n c e g r e w t o 2 5 0

B e c a u s e w e w e r e g e t t i n g r o o m

c o m m i t m e n t s s i x m o n t h s i n a d v a n c e ,

t h e r e w a s t i m e t o m o v e t o a l a r g e r

b a n q u e t r o o m .

• R e u n i o n p a c k e t s w e r e m a i l e d n i n e

m o n t h s b e f o r e t h e d e a d l i n e . T h e

m a j o r i t y o f t h e f a m i l y m e m b e r s l i v e

o u t o f s t a t e s o t h i s a l l o w e d t i m e t o

m a k e t r a v e l a c c o m m o d a t i o n s a n d t o

s u b m i t r e u n i o n a n d a c t i v i t y f e e s b y

t h e d e a d l i n e

O F F E R CO ST SAV I N G AC T I V I T I ES

• I n s t e a d o f h i r i n g a l o c a l t o u r g u i d e

s e r v i c e , w e c h a r t e r e d t w o b u s e s a n d

h i r e d f r i e n d s t o s e r v e a s M e m p h i s

t o u r g u i d e s T h e c h a r g e w a s $ 1 0 p e r

p e r s o n ( t o u r g u i d e r a t e w a s $ 2 5 )

U s i n g t h i s s t r a t e g y w e c o u l d o f f e r a n

e c o n o m i c a l a c t i v i t y a n d c u s t o m i z e t h e

r o u t e t o s u i t o u r f a m i l y.

• We offered bowling and skating The project manager negotiated a great package deal: $10 per person for two hours of unlimited bowling or skating with popcorn and soda

• F o r g i f t b a g f a v o r s , w e c o n t a c t e d a l

Vi s i t o r s B u r e a u t o d o n a t e i t e m s . T h e magazines and maps helped attendees

C R E AT I N G A L I F ET I M E O F L AST I N G

M E M O R I ES H A P P Y R E U N I O N

P L A N N I N G ! ! !

*This article is dedicated to Mary Branch

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a t t r a c t i o n s , s u c h a s t h e C h i c a g o W h i t e

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The Brunswick Zone bowling alley is a multi-purpose indoor recreational facility that specializes in parties and special events. It has family-friendly entertainment like bowling, billiards and bumper cars. They reserved seven lanes for Theadford-Thedford-Thetford family members, who bowled and feasted on a buffet of salad, soda, pizza, and bread sticks After one round, many of the kids were worn out We played video games at the arcade so they could win prizes. Some of them were almost left behind, they were having so much fun in the g a m e

W H E R E ?

L o o k i n g f o r a r e u n i o n p l a c e ?

Wh e r e w i l l y o u r r e u n i o n b e ? H o w m u c h s p a c e w i l l y o u

n e e d ? A n d w h a t a m e n i t i e s a r e i m p o r t a n t t o m a k i n g y o u r

r e u n i o n a s u c c e s s ? L o c a t i o n - l o c a t i o n - l o c a t i o n i s a s i m p o r t a n t

f o r r e u n i o n s a s f o r a n y t h i n g e l s e O f c o u r s e , t h e r e u n i o n c a n b e

a t y o u r h o u s e , b u t i s it big enough? And do you want that many people staying eating playing? Or is your reunion going to be held someplace where you don’t have to do all the work?

A n s w e r i n g t h e “ W h e r e ? ” q u e s t i o n f o r y o u r r e u n i o n i s a s

i m p o r t a n t a s a n s w e r i n g “ W h e n ? ” B u t y o u ’ v e a l r e a d y l i k e l y

l e a r n e d t h a t y o u c a n ’ t d o o n e w i t h o u t t h e o t h e r. I n t h e p a s t , w e

s u r v e y e d 8 0 0 r e a d e r s w h o s e r e u n i o n s w e k n e w w e r e c o m i n g u p .

A n o v e r w h e l m i n g c o n c l u s i o n w a s t h a t b y M a r c h , s u m m e r

r e u n i o n s h a d f i r m d a t e s a n d h a d r e s e r v e d ( t h o u g h n o t

n e c e s s a r i l y b o o k e d ) t h e i r r e u n i o n s p a c e

H a v e y o u s e l e c t e d y o u r r e u n i o n d e s t i n a t i o n ( c i t y ) o r l o c a t i o n

( f a c i l i t y / h o t e l , e t c ) ? I f n o t , w e u r g e y o u t o r e v i e w t h e o f f e r i n g s

i n b o t h R e u n i o n s m a g a z i n e a n d R e u n i o n R e s o u r c e s a t

r e u n i o n s m a g . c o m . T h e s e a d v e r t i s e r s a r e e a g e r t o h o s t r e u n i o n s .

C o n v e n t i o n a n d v i s i t o r s b u r e a u s ( C V B ) w h o s e c i t i e s w i s h t o

h o s t r e u n i o n s h a v e m a n y s e r v i c e s y o u m a y n o t h a v e e v e n

t h o u g h t o f F o r e x a m p l e , t h e y c a n s o l i c i t b i d s f r o m s e v e r a l

f a c i l i t i e s b a s e d u p o n y o u r c r i t e r i a : d a t e , n u m b e r o f

p a r t i c i p a n t s , s p e c i a l n e e d s , p r i c e r a n g e C V B s h a v e a c c e s s t o

m a n y l o c a l r e s o u r c e s t o h e l p w i t h o t h e r r e u n i o n d e t a i l s ( t o u r s ,

a t t r a c t i o n s , c a t e r e r s , p h o t o g r a p h e r s , s p e a k e r s , D J s ) A s k i f t h e y

o f f e r r e u n i o n w o r k s h o p s o r f a m i l i a r i z a t i o n t o u r s t o h e l p y o u

m a k e a d e c i s i o n . E v e n i f t h e r e u n i o n i s i n y o u r c i t y a n d y o u

k n o w t h e c i t y w e l l , c o n t a c t y o u r C V B a n d b e p l e a s a n t l y

s u r p r i s e d a t w h a t t h e y h a v e t o o f f e r.

Hotels, resorts, ranches, condos, villas/vacation homes, camps

and even cruise ships want you to choose them. They are trying to reach you through Reunions magazine and reunionsmag.com. We urge you to study what they have to offer. Many have a special small group salesperson who not only represents the hotel but can also help find other services you’ll need

O r d o y o u w a n t h o t e l s b i d d i n g f o r y o u r b u s i n e s s ?

R e u n i o n s m a g h o t e l p l a n n e r c o m c a n g e t c o m p a r a t i v e p r i c e

e s t i m a t e s f o r y o u J u s t p l u g i n i n f o r m a t i o n a b o u t d a t e s , n u m

n t d e c e n t p r o p o s a l s f r o m r e u n i o n f a c i l i t i e s a n d

v e n u e s , y o u m u s t s e n d o u t q u a l i t y r e q u e s t s f o r p r o p o s a l s

( R F P ) C V B s a r e g r e a t a t h e l p i n g d e v e l o p R F P s

Yo u r p r o p o s a l m u s t c o n t a i n t h o u g h t f u l , a c c u r a t e a n d

c o m p r e h e n s i v e i n f o r m a t i o n . Tr e a t v e n d o r s f a i r l y b y p r o v i d i n g

t h e s a m e i n f o r m a t i o n t o e v e r y o n e .

A s k q u e s t i o n s t h a t w i l l g i v e y o u i n f o r m a t i o n e n s u r i n g t h e

v e n d o r s c a n d o t h e j o b

A s p r e a d s h e e t i s t h e e a s i e s t a n d m o s t a c c u r a t e m e t h o d t o

c o m p a r e a p p l e s t o a p p l e s

B e y o n d p r i c e , a l s o c o n s i d e r :

• F o o d a n d b e v e r a g e W h a t i s t h e t a x a n d g r a t u i t y ? I s t h e

g r a t u i t y t a x e d ?

• M e e t i n g s p a c e . W h a t e q u i p m e n t / s e t u p i s i n c l u d e d i n t h e

c o s t ?

• Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n .

T h a n k t h e c o m p a n i e s t h a t s u b m i t p r o p o s a l s L e t t h e m k n o w

you appreciate the effort, time and money put into their proposal

F o u n d i n M e e t i n g s a n d C o n v e n t i o n s M a g a z i n e

S p e c i a l p l a c e f o r s p e c i a l m e m o r i e s

b y S t e v e O k u n o

Wh e r e c a n y o u s t a g e a w e e k - l o n g

f a m i l y r e u n i o n f o r 4 0 p e o p l e , a g e s

e i g h t m o n t h s t o 8 0 + y e a r s , f r o m f i v e

s t a t e s , w i t h a d e s i r e t o e x p e r i e n c e

s o m e t h i n g n e w a n d d i f f e r e n t ?

O r g a n i z e r s o f t h e t r i e n n i a l Aw a y a

F a m i l y R e u n i o n p u z z l e o v e r t h a t d i l e m m a

WEB PAGE: r e u n i o n s m a g . c o m

CALL: 4 1 4 . 2 6 3 . 4 5 67

FAX: 4 1 4 . 2 6 3 . 6 3 3 1

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WRITE: P O B o x 1 1 7 2 7

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h a v e u s u a l l y s i t e d t h e g a t h e r i n g s a t r e s o r t

l o c a t i o n s s u c h a s B r e c k e n r i d g e ,

C o l o r a d o , o r Ta h o e , C a l i f o r n i a

F o r t h e i r l a t e s t r e u n i o n , t h e y f a c t o r e d

i n l e s s o n s l e a r n e d f r o m p r e v i o u s

g a t h e r i n g s t o c r e a t e a d i f f e r e n t r e u n i o n

e x p e r i e n c e , c o n s i d e r i n g e n v i r o n m e n t a l

f a c t o r s s u c h a s e l e v a t i o n a n d

t e m p e r a t u r e T h e r e u n i o n h e l d h i g h i n

t h e C o l o r a d o R o c k i e s h a d a s p a t e o f

h e a d a c h e s a n d s l e e p l e s s n i g h t s d u r i n g

a c c l i m a t i o n t o t h e a l t i t u d e A n d h i g h

t e m p e r a t u r e s d u r i n g a n o t h e r r e u n i o n

h e l d d u r i n g t h e h e i g h t o f s u m m e r c r e a t e d

d i s c o m f o r t f o r p a r t i c i p a n t s a c c u s t o m e d t o

c o o l e r c l i m e s .

O u r r e u n i o n ’ s d u r a t i o n a n d c o s t m a k e

i t t h e y e a r ’ s m a j o r v a c a t i o n f o r m o s t o f

t h e f a m i l i e s We p r e f e r a g e o g r a p h i c a l l y

c e n t r a l l o c a t i o n t o a l l o w o u r s e l v e s t h e

o p t i o n o f e x t e n d i n g t h e w e e k a n d d r i v i n g

t o o t h e r a t t r a c t i o n s o n t h e j o u r n e y h o m e .

F o r l o d g i n g , w e h a v e f o u n d t h a t

m a i n t a i n i n g c l o s e q u a r t e r s p r o v i d e s t h e

b e s t o p p o r t u n i t i e s f o r t h e s e r e n d i p i t o u s

m e e t i n g s a n d c o n v e r s a t i o n s t h a t f o r g e

s t r o n g e r r e l a t i o n s h i p s . O n e t i m e , t h e

l a c k o f a s i n g l e l a r g e f a c i l i t y r e q u i r e d

f a m i l i e s t o b e i n t w o b u i l d i n g s t h a t w e r e

b e y o n d w a l k i n g d i s t a n c e f r o m e a c h

o t h e r We d i s l i k e d t h e r e d u c t i o n i n

m i n g l i n g , a n d f o u n d t h e e x p e r i e n c e

m u c h l e s s f u l f i l l i n g O n t h e o t h e r h a n d , w e a l s o h a v e d i s c o v e r e d t h a t h a v i n g

e v e r y o n e u n d e r o n e r o o f m e a n s t h a t t h e r e ’ s a l m o s t c o n s t a n t a c t i v i t y a n d l i t t l e

o p p o r t u n i t y f o r i n d i v i d u a l “ q u i e t r e c o v e r y t i m e ” o r p r i v a c y. P r i v a c y

n o t w i t h s t a n d i n g , t h e f a m i l y r e q u i r e s a

l a r g e , c e n t r a l g a t h e r i n g a r e a t o f a c i l i t a t e

d a y - t o - d a y i n t e r a c t i o n s , a s w e l l a s

s u f f i c i e n t s p a c e f o r g r o u p a c t i v i t i e s s u c h a s a r t s a n d c r a f t s p r o j e c t s a n d p a r t i e s R e p o r t e d b y S t e v e O k u n o , S a r a t o g a , C a l i f o r n i a

T h e e as i e st fami ly reun i on eve r

S t a t e P a r k i n D a w s o n v i l l e , G e o r g i a

(

w o r k e d o u t

e e x p e c t e d

The group sales department held a block of lodge rooms and a couple cottages long enough for everyone to make their own reservations. They also have campgrounds and a special inn that is accessible only by hiking Rates were reasonable and the accommodations were comfortable The lodge has an open veranda downstairs, with plenty of rocking chairs to sit in as you enjoy the view.

The Maple Restaurant staff arranged tables so we could eat evening meals together The dining room has full-length windows providing all tables a beautiful mountain view On Friday night, we enjoyed a delicious seafood buffet. The Saturday night buffet featured prime rib and pork tenderloin Prices were reasonable and made finances easy since everyone paid for their own meals We also enjoyed the daily breakfast buffet and lunch menu. It was so convenient to have everything we needed inside the park.

v e r y p l e a s a n t t o b e o u t d o o r s . P a r k

r a n g e r s w e r e a r o u n d t o g u i d e u s , a n d

s o m e p r o v i d e d e d u c a t i o n a l i n f o r m a t i o n

a b o u t w i l d l i f e

We a l s o u s e d t h e s h e l t e r a f t e r o u r

e v e n i n g m e a l t o s p e n d m o r e t i m e

t o g e t h e r. T h e r e w e r e a l s o c o v e r e d p i c n i c

s h e l t e r s , b u t w e l i k e d h a v i n g a l i t t l e

m o r e p r i v a c y w i t h t h e e n c l o s e d s h e l t e r I t

e r o n d e s i g n a t e d t r a i l s Wi t h t h e c o o l e r t e m p e r a t u r e s , i t w a s

a l s o w o u l d h a v e p r o t e c t e d

u s i n c a s e o f r a i n T h e r e a r e

a l s o b a n q u e t a n d m e e

Deborah Hicks, Oxford, Georgia, is a retired English teacher She is married and has two sons and three stepdaughters. She is currently pursuing freelance editing and writing jobs She maintains the Dickinson Family Reunion scrapbook

t r i b u t e t o t h e p e r f e c t l o c a t i o n

Mi n g p l u m b i n g i s s u e s . T h e r e i s

a l w a y s l a u g h t e r i n a t l e a s t o n e o f

t h e r o o m s a n d p e o p l e f l o a t f r o m

H a z e l C o n l e y, o u r m a t r i a c h

o n e t o a n o t h e r o f t h e m , t r y i n g t o s e e w h a t

t h e y a r e m i s s i n g a n d h o p i n g t o c a t c h t h e

b a t h r o o m b e t w e e n o c c u p a n t s T h e

a t t C o n l e y, m i

P h o t o c r e d i t C a t l i n C a r e y

h a v e d e v e l o p e d a l i f e o f t h e i r o w n T h

choosing a date and letting everyone

The food is always potluck, with some signature dishes, including those fabulous dumplings I’ve never had anywhere else

The kitchen table, the stove and countertops are covered with options, leaving no space for eating in that room. There is just enough room for a buffet line, starting by the door for those coming in late. Many people sit in the living room, plates on laps, on couches bowed in the middle to encourage a little extra familial closeness

The best chair is quickly given up if Granny needs a seat, and snatched just as quickly if someone less worthy is eyeing it

The small table in the front room supports the first half dozen or so through the food

line and hosts the obligatory comments about whose plate should have sideboards, a joke that has managed to transcend its tired status to become funny all over again

S h a d e t r e e s i n v i t e m e m b e r s o u t s i d e

A t t h e f a l l p a r t y, t h e r e i s a l s o a b o n f i r e

f o r r o a s t i n g m a r s h m a l l o w s a n d h o t d o g s ,

o n e a t a t i m e o n s t i c k s ( s i n c e t h a t

d i s c u s s i o n o f t h e r a k e ’ s p r e v i o u s u s e s ) .

T h e m a i n a c t i v i t y o f t h e f a l l p a r t y i s h a y

r i d e s . T h i s t a k e s s o m e a c t u a l p l a n n i n g ,

a n d s e v e r a l d i f f e r e n t t r a c t o r s a n d w a g o n s h a v e b e e n u s e d o v e r t h e y e a r s

T h i s y e a r w e w i l l c e l e b r a t e m y

g r a n d m o t h e r ’ s 8 0 t h b i r t h d a y I p r a y t h a t

s h e w i l l b e a b l e t o h o s t o u r r e u n i o n s f o r

m a n y y e a r s t o c o m e H e r h o m e h a s

s u s t a i n e d s o m a n y m e m o r i e s a n d n o p l a c e e l s e c o u l d e v e r e q u a l i t .

A b o u t t h e a u t h o r

A m a n d a H a m m i s a w r i t e r l i v i n g n e a r

R a l e i g h , N C S h e i s t h e a u t h o r o f D e a r

J a n e L e t t e r s a n d Z e ro S t a t i o n

Plant a “Family Tree” in Ohio State Parks

X anterra Parks & Resorts

t h r o u g h o u t O h i o a r e w i t h i n e a s y d r i v i n g d i s t a n c e o f a l l m a j o r m e t r o p o l i t a n a r e a s o f t h e M i d w e s t .

G r o u p s b o o k i n g 1 5 o r m o r e l o d g e r o o m s o r 1 5 c a b i n s f o r t w o o r m o r e c o n s e c u t i v e n i g h t s a r e e l i g i b l e f o r t h e p o p u l a r “ F a m i l y Tr e e ” p r o g r a m a t a l l s e v e n r e s o r t s A t r e e d o n a t e d b y X a n t e r r a c a n b e p l a n t e d b y t h e f a m i l y X a n t e r r a s t a f f w i l

Fo u n t a i n D o u g l a s - R a i n e y

f a m i l y o d y s s e y F

Si n c e o u r f i r s t r e u n i o n i n C h e r r y v i l l e ,

N o r t h C a r o l i n a , w e h a v e m o v e d

b a c k a n d f o r t h a c r o s s t h e c o u n t r y, w i t h

d i f f e r e n t f a m i l i e s o r i n d i v i d u a l s h o s t i n g

t h e b i e n n i a l e v e n t T h e c o r e o f t h e

F o u n t a i n D o u g l a s - R a i n e y F a m i l y

R e u n i o n h a i l s f r o m H a r t s v i l l e , S o u t h

C a r o l i n a . T h i s i s a l w a y s o n e o f o u r

l a r g e s t g a t h e r i n g s ; p e o p l e l o v e t o c o m e

h o m e , t o v i s i t o l d h o m e s i t e s a n d t o

r e p e a t t h e l e g e n d a r y s t o r i e s t h a t d w e l l

w i t h i n t h e f a m i l y I n S a n D i e g o ,

C a l i f o r n i a , s o m e e n j o y e d t h e b e a c h e s

w h i l e o t h e r s w e n t s h o p p i n g i n M e x i c o

I n C h i c a g o , I l l i n o i s , w e t o u r e d S e a r s

To w e r, v i e w e d C h i c a g o ’ s L a k e f r o n t a n d

s a m p l e d s o m e g r e a t f o o d a t t h e A f r i c a n

v e r p o p u l a t i n g t h e l o c

C h i c a g o , I l l i n o i s , F o u n t a i n , D o u g l a sR a i n e y R e u n i o n S e c r e t a r y

Em a i l ( e d i t o r @ r e u n i o n s m a g . c o m ) C o n t a c t n a m e , a d d r e s s , p h o n e , r e u n i o n n a m e , d a t e , a n d p l a c e C h e c k u s o u t a t w w w. r e u n i o n s m a g . c o m

N o s t a l g i c

r e u n i o n p l a c e

Th e B l u e B a l l D a i r y B a r n p r o p e r t y i n

Wi l m i n g t o n , D e l a w a r e , i s o n e t h a t holds nostalgic appeal for just about every m e m b e r o f t h e B r a n d y w i n e H i g h S c h o o l

C l a s s o f 1 9 6 7 . We d r o v e b y i t a l m o s t

e v e r y d a y o n t h e m a i n t h o r o u g h f a r e i n t o

d o w n t o w n . O v e r t h e y e a r s , t h i s h i s t o r i c

p r o p e r t y f e l l i n t o d i s u s e a n d d i s r e p a i r

a n d i t l o o k e d l i k e i t w o u l d e v e n t u a l l y b e

r a z e d a n d p a v e d o v e r b y d e v e l o p e r s

Luckily, Kevin Donohue, 40th Reunion Chair, writes that, instead, Delaware Parks

a n d R e c r e a t i o n p u r c h a s e d t h e p r o p e r t y and spent millions renovating the building

a n d d e v e l o p i n g t h e l a n d . B l u e B a l l D a i r y

B a r n o p e n e d t o t h e p u b l i c i n t i m e f o r t h e

B r a n d y w i n e 4 0 t h c l a s s r e u n i o n We h a d

s p o k e n t o t h e m a n a g e r s a n d t o l d t h e m w e

w a n t e d t o h a v e o u r 4 0 t h r e u n i o n a t B l u e

B a l l T h e y w e r e d e l i g h t e d T h e B l u e B a l l

p r o p e r t y b r o u g h t b a c k m a n y m e m o r i e s i n

a b e a u t i f u l l o c a t i o n t h a t h a s s p e c i a l

m e a n i n g f o r e v e r y o n e .

R e a s o n s t o

b o o k a n a l l -

i n c l u s i v e r e s o r t

R e s o r t C o m p e t e o f f e r s t h e s e r e a s o n s t o

c o n s i d e r a n a l l - i n c l u s i v e r e s o r t :

1 S t u n n i n g s e t t i n g s – a l l - i n c l u s i v e

r e s o r t s a r e f o u n d i n s o m e o f t h e

w o r l d ’ s m o s t b e a u t i f u l l o c a l e s .

2 . S u p e r i o r v a l u e – o n e p r i c e c o v e r s

a c c o m m o d a t i o n s , f o o d , d r i n k a n d

e n t e r t a i n m e n t

3 F e s t i v e a t m o s p h e r e – p l e n t y o f

a c t i v i t i e s s c h e d u l e d e a c h d a y J o i n a s

l i t t l e o r a s m u c h o f t h e f u n a s y o u

w a n t

4 . C h i l d r e n ’ s p r o g r a m s – s p e c i a l

a c t i v i t i e s a v a i l a b l e f o r c h i l d r e n a n d

t e e n a g e r s .

5 I d e a l g r o u p d e s t i n a t i o n s – a m a z i n g

l o c a l e s a n d f i r s t - c l a s s a m e n i t i e s a r e p o p u l a r f o r a l l r e u n i o n s

6 S o u l - s o o t h i n g p e a c e o f m i n d – g i v e

f a m i l i e s a n d f r i e n d s t i m e t o g e t h e r t o

l a u g h , r e l a x a n d m a k e m e m o r i e s

A r k a n s a s ,

a n a t u r a l r e u n i o n p l a c e

f y o u ’ r e l o o k i n g f o r a g o o d m i d w a y r e u n i o n p o i n t f r o m

a n y w h e r e e a s t o r a n y w h e r e w e s t , c e n t r a l A r k a n s a s i s y o u r

b y E d i t h Wa g n e r

p l a c e T h e l o c a t i o n , a m e n i t i e s a n d m a n y d e l i g h t f u l s u r p r i s e s

a r e j u s t m a d e f o r y o u r r e u n i o n

L i t t l e R o c k , t h e p e r f e c t p l a c e f o r y o u r h e a d q u a r t e r s , i s f i l l e d

w i t h i n t r i g u i n g p o s s i b i l i t i e s f o r r e u n i o n t i m e . F i r s t o n m y l i s t

w a s t h e C l i n t o n P r e s i d e n t i a l C e n t e r a n d P a r k

( c l i n t o n l i b r a r y g o v ) , a d m i n i s t e r e d b y t h e N a t i o n a l A r c h i v e s a n d

R e c o r d s A d m i n i s t r a t i o n . T h e L i b r a r y i s o n t h e A r k a n s a s R i v e r

i n t h e d o w n t o w n R i v e r M a r k e t D i s t r i c t a n d c o n t a i n s t h e l a r g e s t

c o l l e c t i o n o f p r e s i d e n t i a l p a p e r s a n d a r t i f a c t s i n U S h i s t o r y I t

a l s o i n c l u d e s a n a u t h e n t i c r e p l i c a o f t h e O v a l O f f i c e a n d t h e

C a b i n e t R o o m .

S e c o n d o n m y l i s t w a s L i t t l e

R o c k C e n t r a l H i g h S c h o o l N a t i o n a l

H i s t o r i c S i t e I r e m e m b e r b e i n g

r i v e t e d i n S e p t e m b e r 1 9 5 7 b y t h e

n i n e c o u r a g e o u s A f r i c a n A m e r i c a n

t e e n a g e r s , f a c e d w i t h a n g r y p r o t e s t s

a s t h e y t r i e d t o i n t e g r a t e L i t t l e

R o c k ’ s C e n t r a l H i g h . B r o a d c a s t

a r o u n d t h e w o r l d , L i t t l e R o c k w a s

t h e s i t e o f t h e f i r s t i m p o r t a n t t e s t o f

t h e U S S u p r e m e C o u r t ’ s h i s t o r i c

B r o w n v. B o a r d o f E d u c a t i o n o f

To p e k a d e c i s i o n , s t r i k i n g d o w n

s e g r e g a t i o n i n p u b l i c s c h o o l s

ACCO M M O DAT I O N S U GG EST I O N S

Th e P e a b o d y L i t t l e R o c k i s i n t h e h e a r t o f t h e R i v e r

M a r k e t D i s t r i c t a n d , y e s , t h e w o r l d f a m o u s P e a b o d y

D u c k s ( w w w p e a b o d y l i t t l e r o c k c o m ) a r e i n r e s i d e n c e

M o u n t a i n H a r b o r R e s o r t & S p a n e a r M o u n t I d a ,

A r k a n s a s , o f f e r s a c r e s o f h i k i n g , b i k i n g a n d p l a y s p a c e o n

L a k e Q u a c h i t a . A c c o m m o d a t i o n s c a n b e m o t e l - s t y l e r o o m s

o r a n e l e g a n t , f u l l y o u t f i t t e d t h r e e - b e d r o o m h o u s e

( m o u n t a i n h a r b o r r e s o r t . c o m ) . A n a d j a c e n t A r m y C o r p s o f

E n g i n e e r s c a m p s i t e c a n a c c o m m o d a t e r e u n i o n m e m b e r s

w h o ’ d r a t h e r r o u g h i t

( n p s . g o v / c h s c o r c e n t r a l h i g h 5 7 . o r g ) .

T h e Vi s i t o r s C e n t e r a c r o s s t h e

s t r e e t h a s p e r m a n e n t e x h i b i t s a b o u t

t h e 1 9 5 7 e v e n t s a n d C e n t r a l H i g h

S c h o o l ’ s r o l e i n t h e g r e a t e r c i v i l

r i g h t s m o v e m e n t

N e a r b y, t h e D a i s y B a t e s H o u s e

w a s w h e r e t h e L i t t l e R o c k N i n e

w e r e d r o p p e d o f f a n d p i c k e d u p

f r o m s c h o o l e a c h d a y, a n d w h e r e

t h e y m e t t h e p r e s s I t w a s a l s o t h e

s i t e o f Wi l l F a m i l y R e u n i o n s ,

a c c o r d i n g t o D a i s y ’ s n i e c e , M e l e n d a

H u n t e r, S o u t h f i e l d , M i c h i g a n

O t h e r s p e c i a l s t o p s i n L i t t l e R o c k , t h e

c a p i t a l o f A r k a n s a s , i n c l u d e a g a r d e n t o u r o f

t h e G o v e r n o r ’ s M a n s i o n ( a r k a n s a s g o v e r n o r s

m a n s i o n c o m / g a r d e n t o u r h t m l ) , o r v i s i t t h e

O l d S t a t e H o u s e M u s e u m , t h e o l d e s t

s u r v i v i n g s t a t e c a p i t a l w e s t o f t h e

M i s s i s s i p p i R i v e r I t i s a l s o w h e r e P r e s i d e n t

C l i n t o n h e l d h i s 1 9 9 2 a n d 1 9 9 6 e l e c t i o n -

n i g h t c e l e b r a t i o n s ( o l d s t a t e h o u s e c o m )

H i s t o r i c A r k a n s a s M u s e u m o f f e r s f u n f o r

k i d s i n i t s i n t e r a c t i v e c h i l d r e n ’ s g a l l e r y

( h i s t o r i c a r k a n s a s o r g )

F o r m i l i t a r y r e u n i o n s , t h e A r k a n s a s

I n l a n d M a r i t i m e M u s e u m ( a i m m . m u s e u m )

f e a t u r e s U S S R a z o r b a c k , t h e w o r l d ’ s l o n g e s ts e r v i n g s u b m a r i n e , a s w e l l a s t u g b o a t U S S

H o g a ( Y T- 1 4 6 ) , a P e a r l H a r b o r s u r v i v o r.

T h e M a c A r t h u r M u s e u m o f A r k a n s a s

M i l i t a r y H i s t o r y i s h o m e t o t h e s t a t e ’ s

m i l i t a r y h e r i t a g e e x h i b i t i o n s

( a r k m i l i t a r y h e r i t a g e . c o m ) .

B R A N C H I N G O U T

T h e r e a r e m a n y i n t r i g u i n g d a y t r i p s y o u

m i g h t w a n t t o c o n s i d e r f r o m L i t t l e R o c k H o t

S p r i n g s R e s e r v a t i o n ( h o t s p r i n g s o r g ) i s t h e

o l d e s t a n d s m a l l e s t N a t i o n a l P a r k ,

e s t a b l i s h e d i n 1 8 3 2 t o p r o t e c t 4 7 h o t s p r i n g s

f l o w i n g f r o m t h e s o u t h w e s t e r n s l o p e o f H o t

S p r i n g s M o u n t a i n . I t i s a n c h o r e d b y

B a t h h o u s e R o w, a N a t i o n a l H i s t o r i c

L a n d m a r k , b u i l t o v e r 1 0 0 y e a r s a g o H o t

S p r i n g s N a t i o n a l P a r k Vi s i t o r s C e n t e r i n t h e

F o r d y c e B a t h p r o v i d e s a n a c c u r a t e p o r t r a y a l

o f h o w t h e s e b a t h h o u s e s a p p e a r e d i n t h e i r

h e y d a y ( n p s g o v / h o s p )

P a m p e r i n g a n d r e l a x i n g a r e r e q u i r e m e n t s

a t s p a s I n H o t S p r i n g s v i s i t Q u a p a w B a t h s &

n H o t S p

d i s

i n t e r a c t i v e C h i l d r e n ’ s G a r d e n i s u n d e r

c o n s t r u c t i o n a n d p r o v i d e s f o r c l i m b i n g a n d

j u m p i n g a n d a c t i v e p l a y … f o r c h i l d r e n o n l y !

T h e a m a z i n g A n t h o n y C h a p e l w i t h i n t h e

g a r d e n i s b r e a t h t a k i n g a n d p e r f e c t f o r q u i e t

r e f l e c t i o n , w e d d i n g s o r r e d e d i c a t i o n

c e r e m o n i e s . I t o v e r l o o k s t h e l a k e , a n d t h e

t r e e c a n o p y i s v i s i b l e t h r o u g h t h e c h a p e l ’ s

g l a s s c e i l i n g .

D e l t a D i s c o v e r i e s h a s s t r o n g r o o t s i n

H e l e n a , o n e o f t h e o l d e s t s e t t l e m e n t s a l o n g

t h e M i s s i s s i p p i R i v e r H e l e n a i s b e s t k n o w n

f o r i t s A r k a n s a s B l u e s a n d H e r i t a g e F e s t i v a l , f o r m e r l y t h e K i n g B i s c u i t B l u e s F e s t i v a l

S u n s h i n e “ S o n n y ” P a y n e – l o n g t i m e h o s t o f

S p a , o r S p a B o t a n i c a d a y s p a a t E m b a s s y S u i t e s H o t S p r i n g s .

O r e n j o y s o m e d o w n t i m e w i t h t h e u l t i m a t e l a k e s p a o n L a k e

O u a c h i t a ( WA S H - i - t a w ) a t M o u n t a i n H a r b o r R e s o r t & S p a . D a

s p a s a n d r e s o r t s p a l i s t i n g s c a n b e f o u n d a t A r k a n s a s c o m

A s t o p a t G a r v a n Wo o d l a n d G a r d e n s ( g a r v a n g a r d e n s . o r g ) ,

A r k a n s a s ’ p r e m i e r b o t a n i c a l g a r d e n , w i l l b e a v e r y p l e a s a n t

s u r p r i s e . I t i s o n a 2 1 0 - a c r e p e n i n s u l a o n L a k e H a m i l t o n .

J a p a n e s e g a r d e n , w a t e r f e a t u r e s , b o t a n i c a l l a n d s c a p e s ,

w a t e r f a l l s a n d f o u r m i l e s o f e a s i l y - w a l k e d t r a i l s . A w o n d e r f u l l y

t h e P e a b o d y Aw a r d - w i n n i n g “ K i n g B i s c u i t p r o g r a m – i s s t i l l b r o a d c a s t

FA ( d e l t a c u l t u r a l c e n t e r. c o m a n d t i m e c o m )

h e H e l e n a D e p o t b u i l d i n g , p a r t

h e C u l t u r a l C e n t e r, y o u ’ l l

d i s c o v e r a w e l l documented Mississippi River port town history.

N e a r P e r r y v i l l e t h e H e i f e r

a n c h ( h e i f e r f o u n d a t i o n . o r g ) i s a

i v i n g c l a s s r o o m ” e x p e r i e n c e a t

t h e 1 , 1 0 0 - a c r e H e i f e r

o n R a n c h T h e f o u n d a t i o n

d i f f e r e n c e i n r e d u c i n g w o r l d

p r o v i d i n g a n i m a l s f o r f o o d a n d

o p l e a r o u n d t h e w o r l d . H u t s a n d

m a l l c o r n e r s o f t h e w o r l d

g l o b a l v i l l a g e w h e r e v i s i t o r s

l i v i n g c o n d i t i o n s a n d s o l u t i o n s

n g e r a n d p o v e r t y. B a c k i n L i t t l e

o u n d a t i o n ’ s i n t e r n a t i o n a l

r s , a d j a c e n t t o t h e C l i n t o n

C e n t e r, i s a n e w i n t e r a c t i v e

t e r a n d a m u s t - s e e

e o n a n a n i m a l t h e m e , i f y o u a r e

n e a r G r e e n b r i e r o n t h e f i r s t S a t u r d a y o f a n y

m o n t h , y o u ’ l l w a n t t o v i s i t R i d d l e ’ s

E l e p h a n t a n d Wi l d l i f e S a n c t u a r y F o u n d e r s

S c o t t a n d H e i d i R i d d l e b u i l t a h o m e f o r

n e e d y e l e p h a n t s o n 3 3 0 a c r e s i n t h e O z a r k

M o u n t a i n f o o t h i l l s . T h i s n o n - p r o f i t i s t h e

o n l y i n t e r n a t i o n a l l y r e c o g n i z e d s a n c t u a r y t h a t

a c c e p t s a l l e l e p h a n t s r e g a r d l e s s o f s p e c i e s ,

A r k a n s a s D e p a r t m e n t o f P a r k s a n d To u r i s m a r k a n s a s c o m

H o t S p r i n g s C V B h o t s p r i n g s . o r g

L o d g e a t M o u n t M a g a z i n e M o u n t M a g a z i n e S t a t e P a r k o r g

H o t S p r i n g s Vi l l a g e H o t S p r i n g s Vi l l a g e C h

g e n d e r, o r d i s p o s i t i o n

( e l e p h a n t s a n c t u a r y. o r g ) .

A b o u t t h e a u t h o r

E d i t h Wa g n e r i s e d i t o r o f R e u n i o n s

m a g a z i n e .

After younger Owen family members sailed down the line, Jack’s daughter, June Newman, 66, made it down in one piece Still, when Jack told a staff member he wanted to go down the zip-line, she thought he was joking But anyone who knew Jack knew he wasn’t joking

Jack placed foot after foot on the pole, and sometimes used his knees, until he reached the wobbly podium. He called out “zipping,” then dropped along the line.

“

r e c o r d , ” h e s a i d , p u

“ I

r e c o r d w a s b r o

G r a n d p a J a c k O w e n o n t h e z i p - l i n e

P O B OX 3 3 5 4 2 8

N O RT H L A S V E GA S N V 8 9 0 3 3

8 0 0 - 6 5 4 - 2 7 7 6 • re u n i o n s c o m n a r m @ re u n i o n s c o m

W H E N YO U ’ V E F I N I S H E D

U S I N G T H I S M AG A Z I N E , P L E A S E R E C YC L E I T.

B o b b y a n d B e t t y e O w e n , c e n t e r, w i t h t h e i r d e s c e n d e n t s

a n d M i s s o u r i . W h i l e e a c h b r a n c h p i c k s

t h e l o c a t i o n , o b v i o u s l y m o r e p e o p l e c a n

a t t e n d i f t h e v e n u e i s w i t h i n d r i v a b l e

i n

c k a n d f o r t h a t

g r e a t h e i g h t s

F o o d p r o v i d e d a t t h e O z a r k

C o n f e r e n c e C e n t e r i n c l u d e d a l l m e a l s ,

w i t h s a v o r y i t e m s t h a t i n c l u d e d

h o m e m a d e p e a c h c o b b l e r, F r e n c h t o a s t

a n d a h e a r t y h a m . F a m i l y m e m b e r s

b r o u g h t h o m e m a d e s w e e t s a n d e n j o y e d

f r e s h p e a c h e s

T H E C H O I C E O F A R K A N SAS

F o r 4 0 y e a r s O w e n F a m i l y R e u n i o n s

h a v e o c c u r r e d r o u g h l y e v e r y t w o y e a r s . I t

b e g a n w i t h G l e a v e s a n d D o n n i e O w e n ,

t h e i r n i n e c h i l d r e n a n d h a l f s i s t e r M a n y

f a m i l y m e m b e r s l i v e i n Te x a s , O k l a h o m a

d i s t a n c e A b o u t h a l f o f t h e r e u n i o n s h a v e

b e e n i n A r k a n s a s B e t w e e n t h e p o o l , z i p -

l i n e , c o m f o r t a b l e a c c o m m o d a t i o n s a n d

p r o x i m i t y t o a g o l f c o u r s e , t h e O z a r k

C o n f e r e n c e C e n t e r w a s a b i g h i t , a n d t h e

2 0 1 0 r e u n i o n w i l l r e t u r n

( o z a r k c o n f e r e n c e . o r g ) .

A b o u t t h e a u t h o r

E l i z a b e t h L e i s - N e w m a n , a w r i t e r a n d

e d i t o r, l i v e s i n B a l t i m o r e , M a r y l a n d , w i t h

h e r h u s b a n d a n d t h r e e c a t s S h e s a i d ,

“ O n e o f t h e b e s t p a r t s o f m a r r y i n g m y

h u s b a n d i s h i s f a m i l y ’ s r e u n i o n s ” S h e i s

l o o k i n g f o r w a r d t o t h e 2 0 1 0 O w e n F a m i l y

R e u n i o n i n A r k a n s a s .

Th e Pa r k e r s o n Pe t i t e J e a n

Th e P a r k e r F a m i l y R e u n i o n m e e t s e v e r y t w o y e a r s T h e P a r k e r s a r e m y

m o m a n d h e r 1 2 s i b l i n g s w h o w e r e b o r n

a n d r a i s e d i n A t k i n s , A r k a n s a s . O u r 2 0 0 7

r e u n i o n w a s a t t h e o l d R o c k e f e l l e r f a m i l y

c o m p o u n d , Wi n r o c k R e s o r t , o n P e t i t e

J e a n M o u n t a i n i n P e t i t e J e a n , A r k a n s a s

I t w a s g r e a t ! We w e r e s u r r o u n d e d b y

b e a u t i f u l t r e e s o n t h e m o u n t a i n , w i t h a p r i v a t e l a k e We h a d a g y m , b e a u t y s a l o n ,

b a s k e t b a l l c o u r t s a n d a b a n q u e t h a l l We

w e r e t h e o n l y o n e s t h e r e o v e r t h e 4 t h o f J u l y w e e k e n d . We h a d a m e e t a n d g r e e t , a

w o n d e r f u l c a t e r e d p i c n i c , f a m i l y

v o l l e y b a l l , a n d f i r e w o r k s b y o u r u n c l e s

We p l a y e d a l o t o f f a m i l y t r i v i a g a m e s

T h e e m p h a s i s o f o u r b a n q u e t w a s t h e

g r a n d c h i l d r e n , w h o r a n t h e b a n q u e t a n d

g a v e a l l t h e s p e e c h e s . I t w a s a f a n t a s t i c

t i m e We a l s o h i k e d t o t h e w a t e r f a l l , w e n t

h o r s e b a c k r i d i n g a n d v i s i t e d a m u s e u m

We a t t e n d e d o u r f a m i l y c h u r c h i n n e a r b y

A t k i n s , w i t h a s p e c i a l p r a y e r i n t h e

c h u r c h y a r d c e m e t e r y f o r f a m i l y d a t i n g

b a c k t o t h e 1 8 0 0 s

R e p o r t e d b y S y l v i a R o b i n s o n , Yp s i l a n t i , M i c h i g a n .

D i x o n Fa m i l y R e u n i o n ’ s f a m i l y a f f a i r

Th e D i x o n F a m i l y h a i l f r o m K i n s t o n ,

N o r t h C a r o l i n a , w h e r e J a m e s R i c h a r d

D i x o n w a s b o r n i n t h e e a r l y 1 8 0 0 s A f t e r

h i s w i f e p a s s e d a w a y, R i c h a r d m o v e d h i s

f a m i l y o f s i x t o G o u l d , A r k a n s a s , w h e r e

h i s b r o t h e r O s c a r l i v e d

We s e l e c t e d L i t t l e R o c k , A r k a n s a s ,

f o r o u r t h i r d D i x o n F a m i l y R e u n i o n ( t h e

s e c o n d w a s i n P i n e B l u f f , A r k a n s a s ) .

L i t t l e R o c k w a s c h o s e n b e c a u s e i t i s

c e n t r a l f o r m a n y f a m i l y m e m b e r s s p r e a d

t h r o u g h o u t t h e U S f r o m c o a s t t o c o a s t ;

m e e t i n g i n A r k a n s a s m e a n t t h a t m a n y

f a m i l y m e m b e r s i n t h e s o u t h e r n a n d

c e n t r a l s t a t e s c o u l d d r i v e t o t h e r e u n i o n

F o u r g e n e r a t i o n s f l e w i n t o L i t t l e R o c k

f r o m t h e w e s t c o a s t a d a y e a r l y w i t h

P a t r i a r c h L u k e D i x o n , 9 6 , J a m e s

R i c h a r d D i x o n ’ s o n l y r e m a i n i n g c h i l d .

M y D a d , L u k e , g r a d u a t e d f r o m A r k a n s a s

B a p t i s t C o l l e g e i n L i t t l e R o c k , i n t h e l a t e

1 9 3 0 s , a n d w a n t e d t o v i s i t a n d s h a r e t h e

c a m p u s w i t h h i s c h i l d r e n , g r a n d c h i l d r e n

a n d g r e a t - g r a n d c h i l d r e n

M r F i t z H i l l , p r e s i d e n t o f t h e c o l l e g e , g r a c i o u s l y l e f t a m e e t i n g t o s p e a k w i t h

m y D a d a n d w e l c o m e h i m b a c k a s t h e

o l d e s t a l u m n i “ e v e r ” t o r e t u r n t o v i s i t

t h e c a m p u s .

t o u r e d T h e C l i n t o n L i b r a r y, w h i c h

w e t h o u g h t w a s t e r r i f i c !

G e r a l d D i x o n , t h e o n l y m a l e o n t h e

r e u n i o n c o m m i t t e e , w a s t h e f o c a l p o i n t

f o r a l l t h i n g s g e n e a l o g y, t h e f a m i l y t r e e

a n d a g e n e a l o g y s o u v e n i r b o o k h e

g s

c o n t a i n e d t - s h i r t s , m a p s , t h e r e u n i o n a g e n d a , d i r e c t i o n s , p h o n e n u m b e r s ,

s t i c k e r s a n d p i n s f r o m t h e L i t t l e R o c k

C h a m b e r o f C o m m e r c e , n a m e t a g s a n d

l a n y a r d s f o r e a c h a t t e n d e e

O n S a t u r d a y, w e h e a d e d o u t t o A l s o p p

P a r k f o r a p i c n i c . T h e k i d s s e c t i o n h a d

s l i d e s a n d s w i n g s . T h e r e w a s a b a s e b a l l

f i e l d , a h u g e p a v i l i o n , r e s t r o o m s s t o c k e d

w i t h e s s e n t i a l s a n d t o n s o f f r e e p a r k i n g

O u r p i c n i c w a s c a t e r e d b y a l o c a l c a t e r e r

w h o g a v e u s a r e a s o n a b l e p r i c e a n d t h e r e

w a s e n o u g h f o o d f o r p e o p l e t o e a t s e v e r a l

t i m e s . A l l e x c e s s f o o d a n d b e v e r a g e s

w e r e d o n a t e d t o a l o c a l s h e l t e r. S u n d a y

e v e n i n g w a s o u r b a n q u e t .

R e p o r t e d b y D o r i s D i x o n M c C a l l , R e d o n d o B e a c h , C a l i f o r n i a

The Thomas Family has had reunions since 1967, starting in Arkansas Locations rotate from state to state, wherever family members live and depending on who wants to host the reunion. We are from Arkansas, which is an excellent state for reunions because of the weather, activities, hotel and food cost, various locations available, and resources from the state and local municipalities

T h o m a s r e u n i o n s l a s t t h r e e d a y s A t t e n d a n c e r a n g e s f r o m

1 2 5 t o 2 0 0 , d e p e n d i n g o n t h e l o c a t i o n F r i d a y M e e t a n d G r e e t

a n d f i s h f r y ; S a t u

Ruth Schmelzer, Appleton, Wisconsin, and Jeri Sprecher, Peoria, Arizona who welcomed staffer Andy Bordeaux, his Great-Uncle Bob Budjak, and me to their recent reunion The sisters are among an intrepid group of second generation “children” who sustain a yearly reunion to honor their parents’ sacrifice in World War II EW

Ve t e r a n s D a y f o r Ve t e r a n s

p a r t i c i p a t e i n r e c o g n i t i o n a c t i v i t i e s i f t h e y c h o o s e . T h e y s e e k t o a m e n d F e d .

L a w 5 U . S . C . S e e 6 1 0 3 a n d P u b . L a w 9 4 -

9 7 ( S t a t . 4 7 9 ) .

Wr i t e S u s a n Vi n s o n , V D F VA

C o m m i t t e e , P a l m e t t o C h a p t e r A X P O W, 6 0 6 O l d F r i a r s R d , C o l u m b i a S C 2 9 2 1 0

T h e y w a n t a l l v e t e r a n s t o b e a b l e t o

N e w C o a l i t i o n f o r G o l d S t a r Fa m i l i e s

a m i l y m e m b e r s o f U S s e r v i c e

m e m b e r s k i l l e d i n o r s t i l l m i s s i n g

f r o m A m e r i c a ’ s m i l i t a r y c o n f l i c t s , a n d

o f f i c i a l s f r o m o r g a n i z a t i o n s t h a t s e r v e

m i l i t a r y s u r v i v o r f a m i l i e s , m e t r e c e n t l y

t o d i s c u s s i s s u e s a n d c o n c e r n s

c h a l l e n g i n g c u r r e n t a n d f u t u r e

g e n e r a t i o n s o f G o l d S t a r f a m i l i e s .

A t t e n d e e s a g r e e d t o f o r m a c o a l i t i o n

“ G o l d S t a r C o u n c i l ” t o u n i f y t h e g r o u p s o n i s s u e s a f f e c t i n g G o l d S t a r a n d

P r i s o n e r- o f - Wa r / M i s s i n g - i n - A c t i o n

( P O W / M I A ) f a m i l y m e m b e r s a n d t h e

o r g a n i z a t i o n s

O t h e r G o l d S t a r o r g a n i z a t i o n s a n d

r e l a t e d v e t e r a n s o r m i l i t a r y f a m i l y g r o u p s i n t e r e s t e d i n j o i n i n g t h e G o l d S t a r

C o u n c i l , c

t w a s t h e u s u a l s h i p ’ s r e u n i o n i n

L a s Ve g a s , N e v a d a W h i l e m o s t o f

t h e f o r m e r s h i p m a t e s w e r e g r e e t i n g

o n e a n o t h e r, o t h e r s w e r e s e l e c t i n g

p l a c e s a t t h e t a b l e s S o m e w e r e s t i l l

i n t h e c a s i n o p l a y i n g t h e s l o t s a n d a t

l e a s t o n e h a d n o t y e t a r r i v e d .

L a t e r, s i p p i n g m y i c e w a t e r, I

c o n s i d e r e d t h e w h o l e s c e n e : A g i n g

v e t e r a n s , a l l r e t i r e d , w a t c h i n g

y o u n g p e o p l e d o t h i n g s v e t e r a n s n o

l o n g e r d o

E y e s f i x e d s t r a i g h t a h e a d , t h e

C o l o r g u a r d , i n d r e s s b l u e u n i f o r m s ,

m a r c h e d a t c l o s e i n t e r v a l s t o t h e

h e a d o f t h e b a n q u e t r o o m . E v e r y o n e

f a c e d t h e f l a g p a s s i n g b y. T h e C o l o r

g u a r d l e a d e r b a r k e d , “ U n i t h a l t ”

A n d t h e n , c r i s p l y, “ R i g h t f a c e ! ”

A n d , f i n a l l y, “ O r d e r a r m s ! ”

One’s friends are that part of the human race with which one can be human. – S A N TAYA N A

Tr a d i t i o n a l l y, t h e C o l o r g u a r d , e x c e p t

f o r t h e l e a d e r ’ s c o m m a n d s , d o e s n o t

t a l k , s o Ti m H a y n e s , t h e t e a c h e r

f r o m a l o c a l h i g h s c h o o l w h o b r o u g h t

f o u r c a d e t s t o d o C o l o r g u a r d , s p o k e .

“ P l e a s e r i s e f o r t h e P l e d g e o f

A l l e g i a n c e , ” t h e o a t h o f l o y a l t y c r e a t e d

i n 1 8 9 2 b y F r a n c i s B e l l e m y, a B a p t i s t

m i n i s t e r i n B o s t o n , w h o d e s i g n e d i t t o

l a s t o n l y 1 5 s e c o n d s a n d t o b e a s h o w o f

n a t i o n a l s o l i d a r i t y

Reverend Foley from Arkansas, with his two daughters, rose. He would give the invocation before dinner. Ms. Pulley from Indiana, our most recent widow, stood with her hand over her heart In the tradition of our reunion, Ms Pulley would later cut the USS Stark County LST 1134

cake Larry Novotny from South Dakota slid his wheelchair back His wife, Mary Kay, watched as Larry held the edge of his table and stood up Then, he placed his right hand over his heart, just as he had been taught in grade school

J e r r y B a n k s f r o m N e w Yo r k h a d

l y, o u r N a v y b r o t h e r s

f l o w n c r o s s c o u n t r y t o p a r t i c i p a t e a n d

e s p e c i a l l y t o s a l u t e t h e f l a g w i t h h i s

N a v y b r o t h e r s H e c o u l d n ’ t w a l k , b u t

h e c o u l d s t a n d w i t h h e l p H e s a i d

h e c o u l d n ’ t m a r c h b u t h e c o u l d , b y

G o d , p l e d g e h i s l o y a l t y t o h i s

c o u n t r y ! H i s w i f e r e a d i e d J e r r y ’ s

c r u t c h e s . J e r r y g o t b o t h f e e t o n t h e

f l o o r, b u t h i s b a c k f a i l e d h i m . H i s

w i f e a n d d a u g h t e r t r i e d t o h e l p , b u t

w e r e o v e r w h e l m e d A b o a r d t h e L S T,

f a m i l y h e l p e d f a m i l y a n d w i t h o u t a

w o r d , t w o o f h i s N a v y b r o t h e r s s t o o d

b y t h e i r m a n E a c h s h i p m a t e t o o k

o n e o f J e r r y ’ s a r m s a n d , w i t h J e r r y

s t r a i g h t e n i n g h i m s e l f o u t , h i s w i f e

s h o v i n g h i s c r u t c h e s i n p l a c e . H e

l e a n e d o n h i s c r u t c h e s a s h i s e y e s

m e t t h e s m i l i n g e y e s o f h i s s h i p m a t e s

B u c k f r o m O r e g o n , L a n g e r f r o m

M a i n e , B u r k h a r t f r o m We s t Vi r g i n i a a n d t o g e t h e r t h e y h o n o r e d t h e i r

c o u n t r y a s v e t e r a n s h o n o r t h e c o u n t r y

t h e y l o v e , w i t h s p e c i a l e m p h a s i s o n

“ i n d i v i s i b l e . ”

I p l e d g e a l l e g i a n c e t o t h e f l a g o f t h e

U n i t e d S t a t e s o f A m e r i c a , a n d t o t h e

R e p u b l i c f o r w h i c h i t s t a n d s , o n e n a t i o n , u n d e r G o d , I N D I V I S I B L E , w i t h l i b e r t y

a n d j u s t i c e f o r a l l

N o g r o u p h a d e v e r p l e d g e d w i t h s o

m u c h e m o t i o n T h e p l e d g e r e m i n d e d

e v e r y o n e h o w m u c h l o v e v e t e r a n s h a v e

f o r t h e i r c o u n t r y. S o m e b e g a n t o c r y.

M r. H a y n e s s t o o d u p a n d r e a s s u r e d

t h e a u d i e n c e t h a t e v e n t h o u g h h i s c a d e t s

w e r e h e r e d u r i n g s p r i n g b r e a k , e v e r y o n e

o f t h e m t o o k t h e i r d u t i e s s e r i o u s l y T h e y

w e r e a l l h i g h s c h o o l s e n i o r s w h o h a d

b e e n i n t h e N a v a l J u n i o r R e s e r v e O f f i c e r

Tr a i n i n g C o r p s s i n c e t h e y w e r e f r e s h m e n

H e t h e n c a l l e d t h e c a d e t s f o r w a r d , o n e a t

a t i m e , a n d i n f o r m e d t h e a u d i e n c e o f t h e q u a l i t y o f h i s s t u d e n t s .

T h e n o n e o f t h e m s a i d “ A t t e n t i o n !

F o r w a r d m a r c h ! ” T h e C o l o r g u a r d l e f t

t h e r o o m t o r e s p e c t f u l , c o u r t e o u s , a p p r e c i a t i v e a p p l a u s e

A b o u t t h e a u t h o r

J o h n J . L e s j a c k u s e d h i s G I B i l l t o

e a r n a B A f r o m S a n F r a n c i s c o S t a t e

U n i v e r s i t y. H e h a s b e e n p u b l i s h e d i n

a n t h o l o g i e s a n d m a g a z i n e s . Th e P l e d g e b y J o h n J . L e s j a c k

J o i n t h e A l l i a n c e o f M i l i t a r y R e u n i o n s !

c e n t l y 4 9 m i l i t a r y r e u n i o n o r g a n i z e r s m e t n e a r D u l l e s

A i r p o r t i n Vi r g i n i a t o f o r m T h e A l l i a n c e o f M i l i t a r y

R e u n i o n s T h e i d e a w a s g e n e r a t e d , c o n f e r e n c e p l a n n e d a n d

g r o u p a s s e m b l e d b y L o u i s “ S k i p ” S a n d e r, a Vi e t n a m - e r a

L i e u t e n a n t , j . g . a b o a r d U S S R a n k i n , a s s i s t e d b y D e a n M i l l e r o f

Vi s i t F a i r f a x . T h e A l l i a n c e o f M i l i t a r y R e u n i o n s s e e k s U S a n d

i n t e r n a t i o n a l m e m b e r s w h o r e p r e s e n t s e r v i c e f r o m W W I I t o

I r a q a n d A f g h a n i s t a n

I n t r o d u c i n g h i s i d e a , S a n d e r s a i d , “ T h o u s a n d s o f m i l i t a r y

r e u n i o n s f r o m a l l b r a n c h e s a r e h e l d r e g u l

c o u n t r y b u t , u n t i l n o w, t h e r e h a d b e e n n o o r g a n i z a t i o n t o g u i d e

m e m b e r s w i t h t h i n g s l i k e m o n e y, m e m b e r s h i p , l e a d e r s h i p a n d

e l e c

h e l p m i l i t a r y r e u n i o n o r g a n i z e r s s h a r e b e s t p r a c t i c e s a b o u t

l o c a t i n g a n d c o m m u n i c a t i n g w i t h m e m b e r s a n d b o o k i n g

r e u n i o n a c c o m m o d a t i o n s , a m o n g o t h e r t h i n g s

S a n d e r s a i d , “ W h a t w e ’ r e s e t t i n g u p w i l l c r e a t e a w a y f o r

f u t u r e v e t e r a n s t o r u n t h e i r r e u n i o n s m o r e s u c c e s s f u l l y a n d

b e t t e r e n j o y t h e t i m e t h e y s p e n d w i t h t h e i r c o m r a d e s ” Wi t h i n a w e e k o f t h e m e e t i n g , 2 5 r e u n i o n g r o u p s h a d

a s C h a r t e r M e m b e r s . O v e r 2 0 0 r e u n i o n g r o u p s h a v e e x p r e s s e d

a n i n t e r e s t i n t h e A l l i a n c e , i n c l u d i n g r e u n i o n g r o u p s f r o m

I r e l a n d , t h e U n i t e d K i n g d o m , a n d N e w Z e a l a n d . S a n d e r ’ s g o a l

i s t o h a v e 1 0 0 r e u n i o n g r o u p m e m b e r s b y L a b o r D a y

Contact Skip Sander at The Alliance of Military Reunions call 412-367-1376; email MilitaryReunions@aol com or visit www AllMilitaryReunions org Membership materials are on the website

R e u n i o

WSands Resorts in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, introduced a “Hall of Heroes” as a permanent tribute to the men and women of the armed services, law enforcement and firefighter organizations who have protected and defended America.

t e r p i e c e i s a r e p l i c a o f t h e

Vi e t n a m Ve t e r a n s M e m o r i a l Wa l l

C a l v i n G i l m o r e , t h e k e y n o t e s p e a k e r

a t t h e o p e n i n g , s a i d , “ P l e a s e u s e a n d

u r g e o t h e r s t o u s e t h i s H a l l o f H e r o e s t o e m p h a s i z e t o y o u r c h i l d r e n – t h e n e x t

g e n e r a t i o n a n d g e n e r a t i o n s t o c o m e – t h e

s a c r i f i c e t h a t h a s b e e n m a d e f o r t h e m t o

h a v e t h i s w o n d e r f u l l i f e s t y l e a n d

f r e e d o m . ” T h e H a l l o f H e r o e s i s o p e n t o

t h e p u b l i c , f r e e o f c h a r g e

Vi e t n a m Ve t e r a n s h o s t a n n u a l

r e u n i o n f o r 9 t h I n f a n t r y D i v i s i o n

c h r e u n i o n a d d s n e w m e m b e r s , a n d

t h e g r o u p o f m e n w h o s e r v e d t o g e t h e r

i n Vi e t n a m d i s c o v e r h o w i m p o r t a n t a n d

h e a l i n g t h e i r b o n d i n g i s t o t h e m a n d t h e i r

f a m i l i e s S g t D u s t y D e w b e r r y, E d g e m o n t ,

Arkansas, spearheaded gatherings with the

a s s i s t a n c e o f G r e g E l l i s , S t C l a i r S h o r e s ,

M i c h i g a n T h e i r m i s s i o n i s t o l o c a t e a n d

“ w e l c o m e h o m e , b ro t h e r ” a l l o f t h e

s o l d i e r s w h o s e r v e d i n t h e 9 t h I n f a n t r y

D i v i s i o n f r o m 1 9 6 8 t o 1 9 6 9 .

A t t h e i r r e c e n t r e u n i o n i n S e v i e r v i l l e ,

Te n n e s s e e , e a c h d a y w a s f i l l e d w i t h

h o m e - c o o k e d m e a l s , k a r a o k e , t o u r i n g t h e

a r e a , s h a r i n g p h o t o g r a p h s , m u s i c f r o m

t h e Vi e t n a m e r a ( 1 9 6 0 - 1 9 7 0 s ) , g o l f a n d

f a m i l y a c t i v i t i e s T h e f i r s t r e u n i o n w a s

o n l y a s m a l l g r o u p , b u t e a c h y e a r, a n e w

b r o t h e r i

T h e s o l d i e r s w h o s e r v e d w i t h H e a d q u a r t e r s & H

s h a r e d m

m u c h l a u g h t e r a t e v e r y g a t h e r i n g .

C o n t a c t B a r b i e P e r k i n s C o o p e r,

b a r b i e p c @ b e l l s o u t h n e t ; D u s t y

D e w b e r r y, d u s t y p o p s @ g m a i l c o m ; o r

G r e g E l l i s , g e l l i s 5 8 6 @ c o m c a s t n e t

9 t h I n f a n t r y D i v i s i o n r e u n i o n P h o t o c r e d i t : B a r b i e Pe r k i n s - C o o p e r

M i l i t a r y R e u n i o n P l a n n e r s To u r

N e w p o r t N e w s , Vi r g i n i a

S N a v y r e u n i o n p l a n n e r s s p e n t t h r e e d a y s o n a f a m i l i a r i z a t i o n

( FA M ) t o u r o f N e w p o r t N e w s , Vi r g i n i a .

T h e c i t y ’ s r i c h m i l i t a r y h e r i t a g e a n d

h i s t o r y w e r e s h o w c a s e d .

A t t e n d e e s w e r e t r e a t e d t o a n

e x c u r s i o n a t t h e U S A r m y Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n

M u s e u m a t F t E u s t i s , l u n c h a n d a t o u r a t

T h e M a r i n e r s ’ M u s e u m , a v i s i t t o t h e

Vi r g i n i a Wa r M u s e u m a n d a f i n a l s t o p

a n d v i e w i n g o f t h e Vi c t o r y A r c h a n d

N e w p o r t N e w s s h i p y a r d

C h e r y l M o r a l e s , g r o u p m a r k e t i n g

m a n a g e r f o r t h e N e w p o r t N e w s To u r i s m

D e v e l o p m e n t O f f i c e , s a i d , “ N e w p

Wa t c h i n g t h e p a r a d e

Branson ’ s Veterans Homecoming, America’s largest special event supporting and honoring our military veterans, will take place in Branson, Missouri, from November 5-11, 2009. Branson is referred to as America’s Hometown for Veterans. Many veteranthemed events are held throughout the year in Branson, where 500 military reunions take place annually The Branson Veterans Task Force (www bransonveterans com) and its volunteers help the community commemorate important dates in American history such as the signing of the Vietnam Peace Accord, the Korean War Armistice, Memorial Day, Armed Forces Day, the end of World War II, Branson Remembers 9-11 and many other tribute events

Branson is proud to carry on the mission and tradition of remembering those who have served our nation in uniform Contact Branson Veterans Homecoming Week, 800-758-1550; www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Welcome to Reunion Resources!

How to use REUNION RESOURCES

Reunion resources is divided into sections Reunion friendly places include destinations (convention, visitor and tourism bureaus) and locations (hotels, resorts, ranches, condominiums, bed & breakfasts, inns, dormitories, camps) They are listed alphabetically by state and city The sections which follow list books and publishing, cruises, fundraising and mementos, invitations, photography, preserving reunions, postcards, and other products and services

Many resources include e-mail and web page addresses Start on our web page www reunions mag com and in just one click, go directly to other resource pages – a wonderful way to visit, get more details and in some cases even place orders

We encourage you to tell the listings you contact that you learned about them from REUNIONS MAGAZINE And if at any time you find any info that is inaccurate or e-mail or web links do not work, notify us immediately at reunions@execpc com; PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727 And by all means, feel free to comment and/or suggest changes and additions you’d like to see in this section

REUNIONS MAGAZINE will not be held liable for information presented as facts in these ads We reserve the right to edit and/or refuse any material submitted for publication

DESTINATIONS & LOCATIONS

ALABAMA

MOBILE BAY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 1

South Water Street, Mobile AL 36602 Rely on us to make planning your reunion easy and affordable with these ser vices: Direct contact with hotels to obtain rates and banquet pricing, a single proposal packet detailing military sites, attractions, dining and transportation, follow-up to answer all your special needs, sightseeing ser vice to coordinate your leisure activities Call 800-566-2453 ext 4 for a free Planning Guide E-mail to ronmcconnell@mobile org Visit us at www mobilebay org

ARIZONA

R A D I S S O N

S Tucson Blvd , Tucson, AZ 85756 We are Reunion Specialists! Our spacious suites with full amenities, lush courtyards with fountains, pool and whirlpool spa will make your group feel right at home! We have great on-site dining and beautiful banquet facilities for groups large & small A full American breakfast buffet, evening

520-225-0800 for information or email: habbott@viharas com www radisson com/tucsonaz

ARKANSAS

HOT SPRINGS NATIONAL PARK, ARKANSAS America's First Resort Planning a reunion in Hot Springs offers you one d e s t i n a t i o n w i t

, museums and architecture, our relaxing spas, theme parks, rivers and lakes, music and magic shows, thoroughbred racing, a b o t a n i c a l g a r d e n a n d m o r e C o m e i n d u l g e y o u r s e l f i n o u r h o s p i t a l i t y

DISPLAY AD!

HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE PO Box 8575, Hot Springs Village AR 71910 Contact Judy Carroll: hsvmarketing@suddenlink mail com; 1-866-984-9963 SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

THE LODGE AT MOUNT MAGAZINE STATE PARK, ARKANSAS

Reconnect with family or friends at this mountain resort lodge rooms and cabins Conference and meeting rooms Indoor pool, p l e n t y o f o u t d o o r a c t i v i t i e s a n d n a t u r e p r o g r a m

M a k e t h i s reunion one to remember Call 1-877-665-6343 for group rates or log on to MountMagazineStatePark com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

CALIFORNIA

BALBOA INN "The Resort" and Banquet facility is located on the beach offering 45 rooms and ocean view suites with balconies and state of the art amenities Located at 105 Main Street, Newport Beach CA 92661 949-675-3412; Toll Free: 877BALBOA-9; fax 949-673-4587; www balboainn com; info@balboainn com

BUENA PARK CONVENTION & VISITORS OFFICE 6601 Beach Blvd Suite 200, Buena Park CA 90621-2904 Come see why we are the ideal spot for reunions and family vacations We are home to five major tourist attractions including Knott's Berr y Farm and only ten minutes away from Disneyland Accommodations, restaurants and shopping are all within a mile! Beaches and mountains close by Call 800-541-3953 for a free Travel Planner, or fax 714-562-3569 tourbp@buenapark com; www visitbuena park com

YOSEMITE PINES RV RESORT & FAMILY LODGING 20450 Old Highway 120, Groveland, CA 95321 (209) 962-7690 We offer some of the best lodging near Yosemite National Park with an assortment of cabins in a variety of sizes and price points Our Luxur y Cabins offer plenty of space with a large double loft and room for eight people, while our Premium Loft Cabins offer a large single loft and room for six people Spaces to accommodate all types of RVs and group tent sites The whole family will enjoy our pool area, our gold mine tour and our games area complete with sand volleyball court, tetherball and horseshoes www yosemitepinesrv com

HOLIDAY INN SAN DIEGO BAYSIDE 4875 N Harbor Drive, San Diego CA 92106; 619-224-3621; 800-650-6660; fax 619224-1787 Host your reunion at the beautiful Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside across from San Diego Bay Our experienced staff will assist you in creating a ver y special event Complimentar y hosp suite and special reunion rates Beautiful guest rooms, heated pool, spa, shuffleboard, ping-pong and billiards, exercise room, family restaurant and cocktail lounge, free pkg, in-room movies, coffee makers, refrigerators, hair dryers; dos@holinnbay side com; www holinnbayside com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

NORTHSTAR-AT-TAHOE™ RESORT offers a great place to sleep, eat, play and relax in a beautiful mountain setting with a wide variety of accommodations and activities such as golf, swimming and tennis in the summer and snow sports activities in the winter It's no wonder Northstar was voted as a top 10 reunion destination by Family Travel Forum A personal event planner is provided to help plan your unforgettable reunion Highway 267 & Northstar Dr , Truckee, CA 96160, 800-926-5096, northstar@boothcreek com, www NorthstarAtTahoe com

VACAVILLE CONFERENCE & VISITORS BUREAU 1671 E Monte Vista Avenue, Suite 112, Vacaville CA 95688 Discover the hidden the hidden gem of Vacaville, California We’re only a short drive from the Golden Gates of San Francisco, the Wine Countr y in Napa and Sonoma, our historic Capitol in Sacramento and the spectacular Sierra mountain range in Lake Tahoe For more information please contact us at info@vacavillenow com or 888822-2132; visitvacaville com

COLORADO

GOLD POINT RESORT Breckenridge CO 80424; 866-664-9793

Incredible views inspire incredible memories Gold Point Resort provides the perfect backdrop for bringing your family together Located above beautiful Breckenridge, Gold Point offers scener y that is second to none and residences that are as expansive as the vistas Rafting, fishing, horseback riding, alpine slide and numerous dining options are all close by Call today to learn how to save 40%, source code REUNN www goldpoint com

ESTES PARK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU PO Box 1200, Estes Park CO 80517 Estes Park may be the perfect setting for your reunion! Nestled in a valley surrounded by Rocky Mountain National Park, fabulous scener y and recreation await you Enjoy shopping, trout fishing, horseback riding, river rafting, golf, go karts, barbecues, hayrides, miniature golf, tram rides, scenic drives and hiking Let our group specialist help you find lodging, meals and fun things for the whole family to enjoy! 80044-ESTES; fax 970-577-1677; groupsales@estes org; www estes parkcvb com/groups cfm

DELAWARE

GREATER WILMINGTON CVB Nestled in the heart of the MidAtlantic, along the I-95 corridor, Delaware’s Greater Wilmington and Brandywine Valley offers meeting/event planners and their attendees’, unparalleled variety to experience tax-free! Easily accessible by I-95, Amtrak (80 trains daily) and Philadelphia International (20 minutes), Greater Wilmington offers more than 6,000 guest rooms and the ability to accommodate 1,600 attendees To unlock all that this tax-free destination has to offer, the Greater Wilmington, DE-CVB holds the key Please explore us

DISPLAY AD!

FLORIDA

EMERALD COAST CVB, INC. DESTIN-FT. WALTON BEACH

FL Emerald Coast CVB, Inc Destin-Fort Walton Beach – Okaloosa Island a reunion planner’s paradise with 24 miles of sugar white beaches and emerald green waters, 16,000 first-rate accom-

modations, 400 events & festivals, water sports, superb coastal cuisine, championship golfing, Air Force Armament Museum, Big Kahuna’s Water Park, art galleries, nature trails and the largest fishing fleet in Florida Emerald Coast Conference Center offers 35,000 sq ft of flexible meeting space and gourmet catering Let us make your reunion planning easy! Contact Sherry Rushing, CTIS, srushing@co okaloosa fl us, 1-800-322-3319; www destin-fwb com

FRIENDS DON'T LET FRIENDS Stay In Hotels! There's only one choice to host your family reunion and that's to stay in a Florida Leisure Vacation Home Hotels can be expensive particularly when you need multiple rooms to house everyone Florida Leisure has an expansive range of 3 to 7 bedroom vacation homes available and many of them are located close together so housing large parties is no problem Our homes all have a full kitchen, living area, laundr y, multiple TV's, private swimming pool and best of all our homes are really close to Walt Disney World and the other area attractions Call 1-866-678-6088 or email Reser vations@FloridaLeisure com or visit www FloridaLeisure com

FLORIDAYS RESORT ORLANDO 12562 International Drive, Orlando FL 32821 Located just two miles from SeaWorld and Disney on International Drive, offers spacious two-and-three bedroom Grand Suites, with room for ever yone The free shuttle to the attractions and the I-Drive trolley makes it easy to get around town With two heated swimming pools, game room, fitness center, and poolside bar and grille, you'll want to spend quality family time right here at the resort 321-329-4024; fax 321-329-4001; mwinter@floridaysorlando com; www Floridays ResortOrlando com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

THE ORLANDO MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN is located in the center of Orlando's business and entertainment district and across from the Bob Carr Performing Arts Center, Amway Arena and minutes from major attractions, shopping, entertainment and restaurants Choose from 290 gracious guestrooms including eight parlor suites, 2 concierge and 2 executive levels providing high-speed Internet access The Orlando Marriott Downtown has 12,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and a high-tech business center We invite you to call us at 1-800-574-3160, fax 407-839-6109, www orlandomarriott com, SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! Check out our “Reunion to remember” package

THE POINT ORLANDO RESORT 7389 Universal Blvd, Orlando FL 32819 Orlando’s newest, all-suite boutique hotel is one block from International Dr , and one mile from Universal Studios Walk to Wet ‘n Wild or take the I-Ride Trolley to shops, restaurants and amusements We offer an outdoor heated pool, banquet rooms and fitness center Junior Suites sleep 4 and two-bedroom suites sleep up to 8 407-956-2056; www thepoint-orlando com

WET 'N WILD – ORLANDO 6200 International Dr Orlando, FL 32819 407-351-1800 Toll Free: 800-992-9453; www wetnwild orlando com; info@wetnwildorf com Make your reunion a splashing success! Come join us at Wet 'n Wild to celebrate your unforgettable Family Reunion We offer a variety of group discounts for groups of 15 or more Various food and beverage options can be added for the complete package With more multipassenger tube rides than any other waterpark in Orlando! Open year-round with pools heated seasonally, Wet 'n Wild is the perfect place for the entire family to relax, have fun, and soak up the warm Florida sun!

QUORUM HOTEL TAMPA 700 N Westshore Blvd Tampa, FL 33609 Summer 09' Weekend Group rates starting from $69 with breakfast! Perfect location for Busch Gardens and pristine beaches Restaurants and shopping within walking distance You'll love our free massage, and complimentar y drink Ask about our reunion planning gift Call Becca Zarcone 813-2883611 or bzarcone@quorumtampa com Visit our website at www QuorumTampa com

PALM BEACH COUNTY offers a diverse collection of reunion friendly hotels, boutique properties, legendary resorts and unique offsite venues for meetings Qualifying groups reser ving space now through September 30 may be eligible for a special master account rebate To find out more information, call the Palm Beach County Convention and Visitors Bureau at 800 554 7256 or visit palmbeachfl com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

GEORGIA

ATLANTA'S COBB COUNTY CONVENTION & VISITORS

BUREAU Home to Six Flags Over Georgia, Six Flag's White Water and just 10 minutes northwest of downtown Atlanta, and the NEW Georgia Aquarium and World of Coke Cobb County boasts easy interstate access, free parking, a multitude of

assistance with planning your reunion, contact the Cobb County CVB at 1-800-451-3480 or visit us at www cobbcvb com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

DOUBLETREE HOTEL ATLANTA NORTHWEST-MARIETTA

2055 South Park Place, Atlanta GA 30339 Located off I-75 north of downtown Atlanta in Marietta, close to all area attractions, shopping & restaurants Our oversized rooms feature signature Sweet Dream bedding and Chaise lounge, Coffee Makers, Full Sized Ironing Boards and Irons, Flat Screen TV, Data Ports & Wireless Access in Rooms Indoor and Outdoor Pools Hotel has free parking, fitness center, restaurant & coffee bar on site 7702 7 2 -

;

m ; www atlantamarietta doubletree com

JEKYLL OCEANFRONT RESORT 975 North Beachview Drive; Jekyll Island GA 31527; 912-635-2531; fax 912-635-9072: linda amazon@jekyllinn com; www jekyllinn com

DOLCE ATLANTA – PEACHTREE offers 40 beautifully landscaped acres located only 25 miles South of Atlanta With 233 guestrooms, tantalizing food and on site activities that include swimming, volleyball, tennis, horseshoes, basketball, biking and access to 90 miles of walking paths throughout the city, there are endless options for enjoyment Nearby shopping, golf, summer

peachtree-hotel com

IDAHO

Boise offers the culture and entertainment of a large urban area in a place that feels a little like ever yone's hometown Festivals, whitewater rafting, golf, riverfront bike trails, snow skiing, unique and historic attractions like the Warhawk Air Museum, a vibrant downtown, shopping, fine dining and performing arts will ensure a

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU PO Box 2106, Boise ID 83701; Lisa Edens; 800-635-5240; 208-344-7777; fax 208-3446236; ledens@boisecvb org; www boise org

ILLINOIS

R E C O N N E C T I N L A K E C O U N T Y h a l f w a y b e t w e e n C h i c a g o and Milwaukee Lake County's natural spaces and fun places are the perfect place for your next reunion Our world-class attractions and more than 60 lodging properties, including three resorts, will make your next reunion a resounding success For free Reunion Planning Assistance call or email us with your reunion planning questions to tourism@lakecounty org; www lakecounty org SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

REUNITE IN REAL, ORIGINAL ROCKFORD, ILLINOIS Located just 60 miles west of Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, the Rockford Region offers the perfect mix of big-city variety and small-town value You’ll be sure to find something ever yone will enjoy! Contact Jaki Berggren, Meeting Sales Manager, at the R o c k f o r d A r e a C o n v e n t i o n & V i s i t o r s B u r e a u , f o r a s s i s t a n c e planning your next reunion Call 800 521 0849 or email Jaki at jberggren@gorockford com RACVB, 102 N Main St , Rockford, IL 61101; www gorockford com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

MARYLAND

CHESAPEAKE BAY ESTATE 250 acre Maryland waterfront Sleeps 52, plus up to 100 in neighboring locations www chesapeake retreats com (888) 988-5747

MICHIGAN

GREEKTOWN CASINO – HOTEL is the best venue for your group The hotel offers theme buffets, 25,000 sq ft of meeting space, rates based on double occupancy, and is located in the heart of Detroit's Greektown entertainment district More than 26 r e s t a u r a n t s w i t h i n w a l k i n g d i s t a n c e , o v e r 1 0 0 , 0 0 0 s q f t o f gaming space and great entertainment There is also a people mover stop located in Greektown Casino 1200 Saint Antoine, Detroit MI 48226; 877-GCH-5554; www greektowncasino com

GREATER LANSING CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Greater Lansing, Michigan is a great place for a family reunion, meeting or special event of any kind Centrally located, offering updated meeting facilities, affordable lodging and lots of fun entertainment and nightlife options – All right in the palm of your hand! For help planning your reunion call 1-866-377-1402 or visit www lansing org SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

MINNESOTA

WORRY-FREE REUNIONS AT CRAGUN’S RESORT 11000 Craguns Dr, Brainerd MN 56401: 800-CRAGUNS (272-4867)

Since 1940 Cragun’s has taken pride in creating memorable reunions here’s why: 1) trained coordinator will help plan it all, 2) arrival “Welcome” and registration areas with planned activity agendas, 3) activities including golf outings, lake cruises, picnics, fishing contests, horse drawn trolley rides and more, 4) i n d o o r f a c i l i t i e s

MISSOURI

THE

BRANSON/LAKES AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS

BUREAU Located in America's heartland, Branson, Missouri is the perfect destination for your next reunion because we offer so many choices of entertainment, lodging, attractions, dining and more Remember, in Branson, our value is unrivaled, our scenery breathtaking and our time-honored Ozarks hospitality inviting C

explorebranson com and request a Reunion Planner Sales kit SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! I

, Independence, MO 64050; 866-657-MEET Let Independence welcome your reunion group, all at a great value and in a convenient location Enjoy nationally recognized heritage and cultural attractions, one-of-a-kind restaurants, great shopping, outdoor activities, a variety of accommodations and more Add in a trip to nearby Kansas City or an afternoon of professional football or baseball We provide itinerary planning, discounts and other assistance SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! www IndependenceMeetings com

NEVADA

MARDI GRAS HOTEL & CASINO 3500 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV Conveniently located just off the Strip and a 3 minute walk to the Monorail Spacious oversized guestrooms each 400 sqft w/ mini-frig Fun, affordable restaurant/bar open 24 hours Have your banquet in our 4000 sqft of flexible event space Enjoy all the fun and excitement of Las Vegas without the high price tag Create a lasting memor y for all with the personal attention you will receive from our friendly staff Call today for great group rates! 702-731-2020 x 743; www mardigrasinn com

DESERT ROSE RESORT 5051 Duke Ellington Way, Las Vegas NV, 89119; Phone 888-732-8099, Fax 702-597-3345 Spacious renovated condo-style suites with full kitchen, separate living room, dining room and relaxing balcony Each room is modern and beautifully decorated; Property features continental breakfast each morning; location is just minutes from the famous Las Vegas Strip, McCarran Airport Resort consists of 284 suites in addition to newly refurbished pool and Jacuzzi with BBQ facilities and shaded seating; Banquet space available for special events This property makes for a perfect reunion of any kind E-mail: SarahMarie Vergara, Sales Manager svergara@shellvacationsllc com; www desertroseresort com

PLATINUM HOTEL 211 East Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89169 (877) 211-9211 At The Platinum Hotel, see what life is like on the quieter side of Las Vegas Escape to a welcoming hideaway where each of the 255 one and two bedroom Las Vegas hotel suites ensure unmatched personal attention, gourmet kitchens, exquisite whirlpool tubs and balconies with beautiful views This non-gaming, smoke free hotel offers the best of both worlds Select from an assortment of great Las Vegas hotel deals, combining special rates and unique services for getaways The Strip is there when you need it, just a block away www theplatinumhotel com

ATLANTIS CASINO RESORT SPA RENO 3800 S Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89502 Voted Reno's "Best Hotel" our recent $100 million dollar expansion takes northern Nevada to a whole new level From our all-new Spa Atlantis to our eight awardwinning restaurants – Atlantis has it all! Winner of the Hospy Award for "Best Ballroom & Convention Space Design," Atlantis boasts 50,000 SF of flexible new high-tech meeting space catering to reunions from 1,500 to 15 Let our experienced team plan your next event! 800-994-5900; fax 775-825-1170, www AtlantisCasino com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

CIRCUS CIRCUS HOTEL & CASINO RENO 500 N Sierra St Reno NV 89503 Whether business or pleasure brings you to us, Circus Circus Reno offers over 1,500 rooms, six sensational restaurants, a unique Midway of Fun, an expansive casino floor with all the latest gaming action, and state-of-the-art convention facilities Free airport shuttle and parking available Call 800894-3588 or visit circusreno com for more information SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

NEW HAMPSHIRE

NASHUA RADISSON 11 Tara Blvd, Nashua, NH 03062; 6038 8 8 - 9 9 7

Boston’s north neighbor-Nashua! Attractions include Canobie Lake Park, indoor skydiving, skiing, Anheuser Busch Brewery, & tax free shopping! Newly renovated, 326 guestrooms, indoor/ o

radisson com/nashuanh SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

friends Choose from sumptuous accommodations in an historic hotel, cabin on the lake or other unique accommodations We are surrounded by major highways, have three major airports within an hour, and are only thirty minutes from Asheville N C P l e a s e visit us at reunionsyour way com

OCEAN RESORTS – NORTH MYRTLE BEACH and MYRTLE BEACH, SC BEST DEALS FOR REUNIONS! For 25 years, Ocean Resorts has been providing a variety of vacation properties perfect for your reunion needs! Located in the Ocean Drive section of North Myrtle Beach and Shore Drive area of Myrtle Beach Oceanfront and oceanview condos are available from 2 to 4 bedrooms with a variety of amenities Call for the best group rates: 800 334 5015 StayOceanResorts com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

OHIO ATTRACTIONS

NATIONAL UNDERGROUND RAILROAD FREEDOM CENTER

50 E Freedom Way, Cincinnati OH 45202, is the nation's newest monument to freedom, spotlighting courageous acts from the Underground Railroad and beyond Interactive and engaging, it h

education areas complete with a family search center to trace your heritage Group tours and facility rental available 877-6484838 or www freedomcenter org

OREGON

LOON LAKE LODGE & RV RESORT 9011 Loon Lake Road, Reedsport, OR 97467 (541)-599-2244 Reser ve Cabins or the Lakefront Home with fully furnished kitchens, satellite TV and free Wi-Fi, for your next Family Reunion Spaces to accommodate all types of RVs and group tent sites There is plenty of open water for fishing, kayaking, WaveRunner riding, water skiing, or just relaxing on a leisurely pontoon boat ride Restaurant and general store on property and catering available Some of the smoothest w

PENNSYLVANIA

WOODLOCH RESORT & MEETING FACILITY Nestled in the p

Northeastern Pennsylvania, Woodloch Resort is the ideal destination for family vacations, reunions, weddings and corporate retreats! Featuring a private lake and miles of beautiful scener y, this 250 acre resort is located only two and a half hours from New York City and is the perfect combination of old world charm, gracious hospitality, and modern resort conveniences We invite you to visit our website at: www woodloch com or call 1800-5726658 for further information and reservations

VALLEY FORGE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 1000 First Avenue, Suite 101, King of Prussia PA 19406 DO WHAT WASHINGTON DID SET UP CAMP IN HISTORIC VALLEY FORGE FOR YOUR NEXT REUNION! Quality hotels, unique offproperty meeting sites, world class shopping and fine dining Thirty minutes from Philadelphia Surrounded by great regional attractions Get a free Valley Forge Meeting Planners Guide Contact Courtney Pozo: 610-834-7971,or pozo@valleyforge org or visit www valleyforge org

SOUTH CAROLINA

SEA MIST OCEANFRONT RESORT – MYRTLE BEACH SC 1

Specializing in reunions from militar y to family at the most affordable rates in Myrtle Beach Sea Mist's premier oceanfront location is near shopping, theaters and golf courses Over 600 of our 800 units have been completely remodeled, restaurants, miniature golf, 10 pools, Jacuzzis, fitness room, 17,000-sq ft of v

groupsales@seamist com; www seamist com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

SOUTH DAKOTA

RAPID CITY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Nestled at the base of the legendar y Black Hills, Rapid City lies at the heart of the American experience, just minutes from the highest concentration of public parks, monuments and memorials in the world Explore the South Dakota Air and Space Museum and Ellsworth Air Force Base, then cap it all off with exciting tours and fine dining before winding down in luxurious and affordable accommodations Visit www visitrapidcity com or call 800 487 3223

TEXAS

NORTH CAROLINA

)

l c e l e b r a t i o n m e a l s , 7 ) professional group photos, 8) and best of all, enjoy a safe, secure friendly environment Come to Cragun’s for your reunion Named “One of MN’s ideal locations to hold a Reunion ” by AAA Call for FREE Reunion Planning Packet or visit: www craguns com/157

LAKE LURE & THE BLUE RIDGE FOOTHILLS Family, girlfriends, militar y buddies, golfing, relaxing whatever your reason for getting together, you'll find the perfect setting here Cruise on beautiful Lake Lure, shop, go to a spa, dine, hike, bike do it all – or do nothing at all, and enjoy your gathering with family and

CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 3601 South W S Young Drive, Killeen TX 76542; Visit Killeen and Central Texas' newest state-of-the-art Civic & Conference Center, and Regional Airport Over 2000 hotel rooms, unique attractions and tours, of

Freedom

LEWISVILLE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 606 W Main Street, Lewisville TX 75057; 800-657-9571; fax 972-2193719; pcox@cityoflewisville com; www visitlewisville com Bring your reunion to Lewisville TX, a small town within an urban metropolis Groups choose Lewisville because of our location, hotel variety, mall shopping, restaurants, golf & Lewisville Lake Enjoy bass fishing, bird watching, catamaran sailing, water parks & historic Old Town, all conveniently located 10 minutes from DFW International Airport

BLUEBONNET EVENT CENTER Adjacent to Lake Conroe KOA 35 fully furnished 1& 2 bedroom cottages Great Family Reunion

Package – free hospitality room with kitchen if family

, indoor pool/ hot tub, 6 acre fishing lake, playground, tennis court, shuffleboard, horse shoes, paddle boats for rent – 1 1/2 miles f

o m L a k e Conroe 19785 Hwy 105 West, Montgomery TX 77356; 936-5825100; fax 936-582-1218; bluebonnetevents@consolidated net; www bluebonneteventcenter com

UTAH

PARK CITY LODGING (formerly R&R Properties) is located in

throughout Park City, Deer Valley and The Canyons resort areas

We can provide many ideal accommodations for reunions, retreats and weddings Call 800-348-6759; www ParkCityLodging com

Let our knowledgeable staff assist you in creating a memorable mountain experience

VERMONT

SMUGGLERS' NOTCH RESORT At America's Reunion Resort, y o u ' l l e x p e r i e n c e M o u n t a i n R e s o r t L i v i n g , a w a r d - w i n n i n g children's programs (6wks - 17yrs ), family activities and entertainment, swimming, skiing, hiking, dining, shopping & more Smugglers' Notch Resort – the only resort in North America to guarantee Family Fun – Summer, Winter & Fall For more information, call 1-800-521-0536 or visit www smuggs com/reunions SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

L O U D O N C O U N T Y

Center Lane, Leesburg VA 20176 We have 100 beautiful wooded a c r e s f o r y

Delicious catered meals; stocked 2 acre lake; sports and hiking areas Visit www freedomcenter us or call 703-777-3505 for a tour E-mail info@freedomcenter us or fax 703-777-5077

NEWPORT NEWS Close encounters with the ocean, ships, history and the great outdoors in one central destination All this, plus Williamsburg and Virginia Beach Whether getting together with old classmates, shipmates or "familymates," Newport News provides the perfect location and services to make your reunion a success! Outstanding ser vices and support, the best value and plenty to see and do, Newport News will make your next reunion a memorable one Call Cheryl Morales at 888-493-7386 or email her at cmorales@nngov com to book your reunion www newportnews org

THE WOODS RESORT & CONFERENCE CENTER is located in the Northern Shenandoah Valley & offers lodge rooms, cabins, villas & private rentals 36 holes of golf, 3 pools, basketball, racquetball, tennis, softball, playground, exercise room, & the S l e e p y C r e e k S p a C o n f e r e n c e & d i n i n g f a c i l i t i e s 1 6 9 4 T h e Woods Rd , Hedgesville WV 25427; 800-248-2222; fax 304754-8146 Kathy@TheWoods com; www TheWoods com WISCONSIN

GRAND GENEVA RESORT & SPA 7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva WI 53147; (800) 558-3417 At Grand Geneva, find yourself surrounded by beauty Two golf courses, newly renovated guest rooms, spa, 62,000 square feet of meeting space and indoor/outdoor waterpark located an hour from Milwaukee and 90 minutes from Chicago Meeting planners: "Pick your free" when you book a room for $99 between October 1 and March 15, 2010 and choose from a FREE reception, FREE ski lift tickets or FREE continental breakfast www grandgeneva com

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

All of the following can be purchased at www reunionsmag com/ shopping or call 1-800-373-7933, ext 4

BOOKS

Andrea Shine Thoughtful and fun, this book gives glimpses of family togetherness and tradition through various poetic f o r m s , i n c l u d

more $16 + s/h

The Miles of Smiles: 101 Great Car Games & Activities, by travel writer Carole Terwilliger Meyers "May be the ultimate solution for back seat squabbling" on the way to your reunion Keep kids entertained all the way there $8 95 + s/h

THE FAMILY REUNION SURVIVAL GUIDE: How to Avoid Problems With Your Family Without Avoiding Your Family by Laurence A Basirico (2003, Identity Publishing, $11 95) A book about relationships at family reunions and how to enjoy them Based on original research Secrets of Successful Family Reunions, by Robert W Wolfe a k a Uncle Bob A how-to-book for successful family reunions Whether simple or elaborate it helps those who wish to pass their values to the next generation 2008 $16 99 + s/h Treasure and Scavenger Hunts (3rd ed.) How to Plan, Create, and Give Them, by Gordon Burgett Communications Unlimited, 2007, 134 pp $15 95 + s/h or $12 95 digital Your Living Family Tree: Keeping your family together

Gordon Burgett Communications Unlimited, 2008, 174 pp $17 95 + s/h or $15 95 digital

The Pick A Party book set, by Patty Sachs, party-planning expert

Book #1: Pick a Party, The Big Book of Party Themes and O

occasions and special events

Book #2 Pick-A-Party Cookbook, Includes menus, recipes and table decoration ideas for the 100 theme parties in Book #

Reunions magazine readers

MAGAZINE & WORKBOOK

Subscribe to Reunions magazine Ensure a full year of reunion planning advice plus workbook $9 99/yr or $

y r s includes workbook

MUSIC

THE MALONE FAMILY CHOIR: A FAMILY REUNION is an original gospel CD opening with a song you'll want to play to say Welcome to Our Family Reunion! at your family reunion CD $15 or tape $10 + s/h POSTCARD ANNOUNCEMENTS

Notify your reunion members to SAVE THE DATE (bright red, t h e y '

postcards that say TIME IS RUNNING OUT

Fill-in cards - $15 p/100 postcards or 20¢ each – you fill in the date and reunion name; or Custom printed cards - $45 p/100 postcards or 50¢ each Send info to be printed: for SAVE THE DATE! (name, date, & place of reunion, contact info) For TIME IS RUNNING OUT (name & date of reunion & RSVP d

before we print

RECIPES

COOKING FOR LARGE GROUPS (CD) Over 1400 recipes System requirements: Windows 98/NT 4 0/XP, Intel Pentium Processor or better, 32 MB RAM, 20 MB free hard disk space, CD-ROM drive, SVGA monitor, keyboard, web browser, Adobe Reader, Window-compatible pointing device $49 95 plus $1 29 s/h

AIRPORT PARKING

airport parking on the Web All pre-paid parking reser vations include complimentar y shuttle ser vice, luggage assistance, and $100,000 of Automatic Flight Insurance provided at no additional cost Visit www reunionsmag com and click on Park Ride Fly for discount airport parking at more than 50 U S airports and start saving today!

BADGES & BUTTONS

NAMETAG (PHOTO BUTTON) Using the alumni' photo we c

reunion year Attachment options and accessories are available We offer personalized ser vice and quick turnaround Visit us at www TheButtonFactory com/Reunions htm

BOOKS & SOFTWARE THE REUNION PLANNER 11661 San Vicente

; lindah@reunionplanner com; www

CRUISES

CRUISES INC Let me help you plan your next reunion! Reunion cruises provide an affordable way to see the world while spending quality time with family and friends If you are interested in visiting the Caribbean, Europe or even Alaska, I can help!! No group size is too big or small for me to handle! Call Shannon at 866-629-9558 or send an email to snhcruises@ verizon net I am here to serve you and your group www shannonsellscruises com

GAMES

Play FAMILY FEUD “LIVE” at your next family reunion! Bring the TV sensation right to your reunion with sur vey questions a

lighted podiums, sets, lights, prizes and a fantastic host Our s

information, contact Kevin at Game Shows To Go, (774) 213-9281 o r e m a i l itsthemusicdj@comcast net Also, visit www gameshows togo biz

PLANNERS

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

I N C H

CLASSMATES COM you'll have access to time-saving toolsand the world's largest alumni database-to make your job easier

Contact your entire graduating class with one message Create sur veys to find out what your attendees want to eat, see, and do

And when details (inevitably) change, post event updates on the fly Plan at www classmates com/reunion and reunite relaxed SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

REUNION RIBBONS MEMENTOS

words) add a “touch of class” to your event & name badges Ideal b

expressly for class, family and militar y reunions Class Ribbons available in school colors For sample ribbon and idea brochure: REUNION MATE 800-208-6804 or www ribbons4reunions com

REUNION WEBSITE BUILDER M

skills It's fast and easy to use Your reunion website has great features and planning tools It will make planning much easier and ever yone will love it! Features: Online registration, rsvp, ticket payment, message boards, family tree, guest book, quiz, poll, stories, photo albums, no ads, travel information, more 7 day free trial Only $9 95 / month www myevent com Any Questions – 877-769-3836 or info@myevent com

T-SHIRTS

AMERICA’S #1 SOURCE FOR REUNION APPAREL AND GIFTS T-shirts, Totes, Keepsakes & Gifts Easy-To-Order Fun-To-Wear Fast-Turn-Around Beautiful and colorful reunion designs as featured on Good Morning America, personalized for your event! Browse our huge selection of quality apparel and e x c i t

package pricing and low minimums! REUNION GEAR 1-800451-1611 www reuniongear com

CUSTOM SCREEN PRINTING AND EMBROIDERY Customize T-shirts and many other items for your event Use one of our fully customizable screen print templates or a stock embroider y design and there is NO set-up charge! Quick, friendly ser vice A p

CREATE YOUR OWN FAMILY REUNION T-SHIRT STORE

family's products Sell regular screen-printed t-shirts, special photo tees, embroidered polos, coffee mugs, and buttons Call 800-575-2595 for FREE planner or email info@store4reunions com for reunion planning spreadsheet templates

TRAVEL DIRECTORY

COLORADO VACATION DIRECTORY Make your search for the perfect family reunion destination easier! FREE FAMILY REUNION DESTINATION LOCATION SERVICE: www TheCVD com/groups and click on “EMAIL US your Request for Group Accommodations ” We will then send your requirements to Cabins, Vacation Homes, Lodges, Motels, Condo's, B&B's, and Camp-grounds that can accommodate your desires; each one will email you directly with additional information OR download our free Colorado Vacation Directory to compare reunion locations, which includes Places to Stay & Fun Things to Do www TheCVD com/ OrderForm html