Reunions Magazine Volume 21, Number 3. February/March/April 2011 (SOLD OUT)

Music Saving money Reunion banquets Military lunch reunions VOL 21 NO 3 FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2011 Display until April 30, 2011.

$3/USA1

F E B R UA R Y / M A R C H / A P R I L 2011 O R E U N I O N S

in this issue DEPARTMENTS

February/March/April 2011 Volume 21 • Number 3

FRONT WORDS – 4

PUBLISHER / EDITOR IN CHIEF

ALUM & I – 6

Edith Wagner

“Sweet, Sweet Red and Gray” by Francia Malone Eutaw class starts with Reacquaintance Banquet by Miriam Leftwich Reunion Trivia, consider photography, better planning ideas, mega school reunion

TRAVEL EDITOR

SCRAPBOOK – 10

Jennifer Rueth

Reunion School Arranging the reunion banquet by Dean Miller Reunions: Birmingham, Peace Corps, Gearjammers, Union Carbide and C&O Canal employees Celebrations: Civil War Trails, Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War

BRANCH OFFICE – 18 “The Gathering” draws descendants by Grace Elting Castle Reunions: Rockford, Harder, Elder, Apgar, Bitman, Downing, Chandler and Tyler

MASTERPLAN – 24 Spring holidays Triumph over adversity from Staybridge Suites Tema Family Reunion at Cragun’s “At the Gate I Know” by J. P. Miller West Texas reunion by Sylvia Medrano Important steps and other new additions by Kathleen Casper A tree is known by the fruit it bears by Allison Bell Yaeger Family Reunion enjoys Kentucky State Parks by Theresa Craig Wilhelmy Reunions on stage Stewart-Bostic Family Reunion by Meredith B. Furel

REUNION VENUES & FEATURES – 36 The fleet’s in in Norfolk by Edith Wagner Who’s frugal? Reunions surviving hard times The hills are alive with the sound of reunion music Reunions: Greene County (North Carolina) Training School-South Greene High School (GCTS-SGH) National Alumni Association, Nurnberg (Germany) American High School, 9th Infantry Division Association, Garfield High School (Seattle, Washington) Families: ALAFFFA, Arce, Branch Outlaw, Malone, Utley

MILITARY REUNION NEWS – 45 Lunch reunions by Al and Terry Hahn Alliance of Military Reunions World War I memorial, death camp survivors and their liberators, last mission for bomber squadron, war brides reunion, USS Nevada in Nevada

REUNION RESOURCES – 48 A directory of reunion-friendly places, services, vendors and products.

ON THE COVER Four generations of Hinojos: Patriarch Cesareo Hinojos, age 105 (seated), his son Isaac Hinojos, granddaughter Sylvia Medrano, and great granddaughter Claudia Sedillo. See page 30.

Jacky Runice ART DIRECTOR SALES

Marion Liston Senior Account Manager OPERATIONS MANAGER

Karla Lavin ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Andrew Russell Bordeaux Lauren Bordeaux Nicole Dettmering Ksioszk CONTRIBUTORS

Loida Arce Acosta • Lisa Alzo Tisha Amerson • Allison Bell Rick Branch • Genevieve Brechtel Kathleen Casper • Grace Elting Castle Bob Covey • Meredith B. Furel Al and Terry Hahn • Anita Linne’a Fortney-Harms Leon Jessie • T.D. Jorgensen Delta Hinson • Thelma Harper Jones Francia Malone • Mary Garavaglia Miriam Leftwich • Penney and Dan Marks Sylvia Medrano • Dean Miller • J. P. Miller Lovine Moss • Kaye Olson • Sharon Rogers Jackie Utley • Terry Verde Joan Curtis Waters • Theresa Craig Wilhelmy REUNIONS MAGAZINE, INC. (ISSN #1046-5s235), is published 4 times per year. Send correspondence, queries, submissions, subscriptions, advertising to REUNIONS MAGAZINE, PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727. Written permission from the publisher is required for reproduction of any part of this book except pages which encourage sharing.

Please explain your intended use when requesting permission to reprint. Email: editor@reunionsmag.com or fax 414263-6331. Tear sheets of reviews and reprints required.

REUNIONS MAGAZINE, INC., will not be liable for information presented as facts contained in any of our advertising, byline stories or materials. We reserve the right to edit and/or refuse any material submitted for publication. We solicit participation and take responsibility for submitted materials.

Unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE), submissions and photos will not be returned. All materials sent for purposes of publication become property of REUNIONS MAGAZINE, INC. Subscriptions: US and Canada $9.99/yr, $17.99/2 yrs. Foreign orders add $36 for subscriptions. All foreign payment in US funds or drawn on a US bank. Back issues available for $3 each plus postage.

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FRONT WORDS

Be in touch!

WELCOME TO SPRING, REUNION STYLE

he spring before a summer reunion is the time to attend to communication and registration tasks that will ensure attendance and funding. The program, publication projects, and touring plans should be coming together. Time to check in with your CVB and hotel sales contacts – even just to say hello if you have no particular questions.

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Mail to R EUNIONS MAGAZINE PO Box 11727 Milwaukee WI 53211-0727 For charge orders call 800-373-7933 or visit www.reunionsmag.com or fax it to 414-263-6331.

Or best of all, e-mail editor@reunionsmag.com.

BONUS!

If you receive the first mailing of this issue, you are also receiving the 11th edition Reunions Workbook, which provides the must-have directions for reunion planning. We hope this is just in time to aid your planning for your next reunion. If you don’t receive the workbook, we invite you to order a copy online, available in print or on CD ($9.95 for either).

WE LOVE LETTERS

You should know that we live to learn how our readers feel about these issues.

Always a good and generous supporter of Reunions magazine, Carole Neal, Castro Valley, California, who plans Neal Family Reunions, wrote after receiving the last issue: “It is always good for reunion planners to see what others are doing to get new and fresh ideas. This type of informationsharing and support is key, I believe, in order to make each reunion gathering special, unique and attractive to as many family members as are able to attend. This issue, just like others, is chock full of good and helpful information.”

Mahalia Simmons, Huger, South Carolina, Gant Family Reunion planner, says, “In every dilemma I have faced with my reunion you have helped. I’ve received your magazine for 10 years and I look forward to each issue. I haven’t had a chance to go to any workshops. … Reunions magazine is a reunion workshop in itself.”

Of course, we hope each issue will engage and inspire you, and make you think. On the other hand, if you’re not finding information you need in the magazine, you can probably find it on our website, where – in addition to tons of content – you’ll find resources with direct links, podcasts to listen to or download, the latest reunion contests and sweepstakes, media alerts, lists of upcoming reunions and much, much more. Or you can ask on our forums or facebook pages.

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SUPPORT OUR SUPPORTERS

These and all the words that follow come to you as a gift from the advertisers in this magazine and on our website. We urge you to contact them, do business with them and thank them for supporting Reunions magazine.

ABOUT REUNION PLANNING WORKSHOPS

Kathleen Barlow, Medford, Oregon, wondered if we have workshops in the Pacific Northwest. We do not actually provide or stage workshops. Instead, as a service to our readers, we promote and provide materials and sometimes sponsor workshops done by others.

Workshops typically are offered by local convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs) – who understand the value of reunions to their economy – to help reunion planners be well prepared.

Our reader Pamela Williams attended the workshop by VisitFax in Fairfax County, Virginia, and took their ideas to the Durham (North Carolina) CVB, who staged a successful event in late January. Pamela even recruited the Doubletree Hotel, where her Wilson Family Reunion was held, to host the workshop. Durham CVB demonstrates that CVBs can react to their constituents if there’s enough interest in a workshop.

CVBs know reunions mean business. Workshops benefit CVB members (hotels, caterers, attractions, shopping malls, entertainment). Reunions bring big bucks to an area, which is what motivates the CVBs to offer workshops; the goal of every CVB is to get people to come and spend.

Looks like a win-win to us!

If you do take the workshop idea to your CVB, suggest they contact me. I’d be happy to discuss structure, promotion and materials for workshops. Also suggest that they contact their colleagues at CVBs listed on our website and in this magazine in Reunion School (page 10). They are all committed to reunions and are successful at attracting reunions to their areas.

NOW! ON TO THE ISSUE

You’ll find ideas as diverse as planning your banquet; how one hotel’s resourcefulness overcame the greatest odds; and integrating stepfamilies at reunions. You’ll learn how to save reunion money and how lunch reunions are a solution for some military groups. Curious? Read on. And remember to let us know what you think! EW

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ALUM & I

Recently, Bob Covey, Salem, New Jersey, wrote: A lady in my church told me her 75th class reunion would be this year but she is not going. When I asked why she hung her head and said she was the only one left.

OUCH. Any ideas how to cheer her up? This is really getting to me.

I’d strongly recommend that, if she’s up to talking about it, ask her about school when she was a girl. In fact, have an audience, a history lesson, a first-hand look at the past. If she’s the kind of person who wants to talk about it, I’ll bet she’d be really happy to have someone listen.

And you might be really surprised at her stories.

Q? A!

“Sweet, Sweet Red and Gray”

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lint Northern Class of 1990’s 20-year reunion celebration followed a long year of planning. The event kicked off with a Meet & Greet at Brickstreet Bar and Grille in Grand Blanc, Michigan, where classmates enjoyed hors d’œuvres and drinks, and reminisced about the good ol’ days as “Vikings” some 20 years ago and all the fun we had during senior skip day.

On Saturday, the committee really impressed at the Reunion Banquet Dinner with beautiful red and white décor, a DVD Memorial presentation, a video teleconference from our Assistant Principal, Bessie Straham, and a phone call from Anita Holley, our Class of 1990 advisor.

A dandy reunion

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xpectations were met and exceeded for the inaugural Franklin High School Mega Reunion, when more than 400 alumni and spouses from 1970s classes gathered for two action-packed days of fun and reflection.

Many never left the area, choosing to raise their families and build their professional careers right there. Others live across the country and overseas and likewise have prospered personally and professionally. They give the community a lot of credit for making them who they are.

The reunion also was a financial shot in the arm. Reunion-goers stayed in hotels, ate in restaurants, and filled merchant coffers that have been pinched by a recent paper mill closure. It was good to see people smiling again.

From a note in Tidewater News, Franklin, Virginia.

WHEN YOU’VE FINISHED USING THIS MAGAZINE, PLEASE RECYCLE IT.

PO BOX 335428 NORTH LAS VEGAS NV 89033 800-654-2776 • reunions.com narm@reunions.com 6

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Flint Northern Highschool Class of 1990

Flint Northern Class of 1990 has many success stories: musicians, writers, lawyers, doctors, nurses and ministers. As the night progressed we hugged, hustled and wobbled, until we realized we weren’t still 18 and would probably be a tad sore for the picnic on Sunday. Nevertheless, we partied on until 1:00 AM. Our class family picnic was at Groveland Oaks (Paradise Island), a beautiful park in Holly, Michigan. The park had four-wheelers, rollerskating, skateboarding, swimming and a waterslide. What a perfect location! As the event came to a close we captured one last moment with a group picture. An afterparty was great because, although we were tired, we weren’t really ready for the weekend to end.

As I said my final goodbyes, I thought about the committee and their tireless efforts to make this 20-year reunion memorable. Kudos to Leonard who took the reigns as the leader Dionne, Ta’Wanna, Larunda, Tina, Lawrence, Chris, Charles, Alghandi and Ladonya for making our reunion one to truly remember!

Reported by Francia Malone, Flint, Michigan.

New game for class reunions

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eunion Trivia is an interactive team trivia quiz game designed for high school and college reunions. Each game is composed of 20 questions related to events that occurred during your graduation year. Reunion attendees work with fellow alums to test their trivia knowledge in a fun, fastpaced format, while being reminded about nostalgic moments.

You answer a 10-minute questionnaire about your school and members of your class. Reunion Trivia uses the information to create a customized interactive game.

The Reunion Trivia quiz includes an electronic slideshow designed to be projected at a reunion event along with easy to follow step-by-step instructions for hosting.

All supporting materials needed to conduct the game (participant score sheets, team scoring worksheet, text versions of all questions, and tips and guidelines) are included.

Products are available for five- and ten-year reunions in 2011 for classes that graduated in 1960 and after. Contact www.reuniontrivia.com; 978-201-0147.

ALUM & I

Better planning helps class reunions

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ose Morely writing in the Visalia TimesDelta, Visalia, California, lamented low turnout at class reunions. These are her suggestions to generate better attendance.

The month and place you plan are very important. Class reunions are usually in summer, which limits choices of location.

Family vacations, graduations and weddings are competing for time. The venue you pick needs to make people feel comfortable and the cost needs to be affordable. For classmates who must travel, cost of flights and hotels are higher in summer. Spring and fall have much better weather and more choices.

The most important issue is getting the word out. You cannot just say, “Everyone knows it’s their 30th reunion.” The internet, facebook and classmates.com get the word out easily and can help find classmates. Set up a web page where classmates can make suggestions and comments, and let them vote for the month and venue. Give them choices of summer or fall and different venues.

The committee can make or break a class reunion. The committee must be a mix of people and must remember they represent their whole class, not just the group they hung with in high school.

Everyone on the committee must help out, not just be a name on a list. The committee must work to make the reunion successful.

Relax and be who you are now. A reunion is supposed to be fun and give people a chance to reminisce.

Consider photography

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cott Romer is a professional photographer in Indiana who specializes in photographing high school reunions and other events, as well as elementary and junior high school classes. He offers his services to reunions at no charge.

He takes many candid photographs throughout the evening and photographs the class memorial, décor, speakers, couples, and whatever else is requested.

The images he takes are constantly uploaded on a projector next to the photo table and a rotating slide show is played throughout the reunion event. Romer can print quality photographs instantly and inexpensively (5 x 7 photos, $10; 8 x 10 photos $20).

Photos are delivered on the spot and ready to take home in a protective plastic sleeve.

About a week after the reunion, he creates a customized web gallery on www.ScottRomerPhoto.com where alumni can view available photos at their leisure and order what they like.

Dozens of reunions Romer has photographed can be seen at www.scottromerphoto.com/events_misc.html. Contact him at 800-515-1199.

Eutaw High School Class of 1985

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bout 35 former classmates gathered for the Eutaw (Alabama) High School Class of 1985 25-year reunion. They met at LAW County Club for the weekend-long event, which started with a Reacquaintance Banquet with former teachers and representatives from families of deceased classmates as special guests. A memorial tribute was held for the deceased, and Class President Rodney Wesley presented each family with a plaque from the class.

On Saturday, the group gathered for a pool party and picnic

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during the day and an elegant Reunion Ball in the evening.

On Sunday, all roads led to the Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church, where classmate Rev. Kelvin Cockrell, Sr., and the congregation welcomed the group. Rev. Cockrell delivered a spiritual message, and classmate Loretta Webb Wilson and her daughter, Lauren, sang a special tribute to deceased classmates. After worship service, there were well wishes for traveling grace and looking forward to meeting again in 2015!

Reported by Miriam Leftwich, Eaton, Alabama.

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Most of these events are sponsored and presented by convention and visitors bureaus. They take place on Saturdays unless noted and, for the most part, are for people planning reunions in their area. All prefer or require advance reservations and are free or at nominal cost. For information about new events – added online, as soon as we learn about them – visit reunionsmag.com and click on workshops, conferences and seminars.

ALLIANCE OF MILITARY REUNIONS

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VIRGINIA

Contact Skip Sander, 412-367-1376; MilitaryReunions@aol.com; AllMilitaryReunions.org.

February 19, 2011 The Mason Inn on the campus of George Mason University 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Speakers: Dr. Ione Vargus, founder of The Family Reunion Institute at Temple University and Edith Wagner, Editor of Reunions magazine. Program, breakfast, lunch, and optional tour of the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Advance registration is free and required. Contact Dean Miller at Visit Fairfax: 703-7529509; dmiller@fxva.com

ALPHARETTA, GEORGIA

Contact Carol Gryson, toll-free 877-202-5961 ATHENS, GEORGIA

February 12, 2011 Contact Amy Clark, 706-357-4433; aclark@visitathensga.com ATLANTA, GEORGIA

September 2011 Contact Angelique Alvarez; 404-521-6572; atlantareunions.com/events.asp BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA

Contact 800-458-8085 BRANSON, MISSOURI

FLINT, MICHIGAN

Contact Renee Cobb, Flint CVB, 888-230-2586 GREENWOOD, SOUTH CAROLINA

Contact Lindsay Burns, 864-953-2464 GWINNETT COUNTY, GEORGIA

Military Reunion Planners Conference hosted by the Branson/Lakes Friday, April 8, 2011 – Simpsonwood Conference and Retreat Center, Norcross Area Chamber of Commerce and CVB. Contact Branson/Lakes Friday, July 15, 2011 – Area CVB, PO Box 1897, Branson MO 65615; 800-214-3661; Malibu Grand Prix Family Entertainment Center, Norcross reunions@bransoncvb.com; ExploreBranson.com/MilitaryReunion Friday, October 14, 2011 – George Pierce Park Recreation Center, Suwanee NORTHERN CALIFORNIA ABCs of Planning a Family Reunion. Complimentary lunch, Contact Treasure, National Reunion Services, 925-240-1482; Family Reunion Planning Guide. Drawing for a digital camera. www.reunionsondemand.com/Workshop/ Reservations only, no walk-ins. Contact Linda Murphy, GCTS, CHICAGO SOUTHLAND, ILLINOIS Gwinnett CVB Education Specialist, 888-494-6638; Contact Elizabeth Baun; 888-895-8233; lmurphy@gcvb.org Elizabeth@visitchicagosouthland.com; visitchicagosouthland.com COBB COUNTY, GEORGIA

February 26, 2011 Family reunion planning guide, trade show (hotels, attractions, etc.), complimentary lunch. Free to anyone planning a family reunion in Cobb County; seating limited to two guests per reunion. Contact Kathy Buske, Cobb County CVB, 678-3032624; kbuske@cobbcvb.com DEKALB COUNTY, GEORGIA

KISSIMMEE, FLORIDA

Contact Sara Melendez-Davis at 800-831-1844, ext 42446; smelendez@floridakiss.com LAKE COUNTY, ILLINOIS

Spring 2011 Host hotel Keylime Cove Indoor Waterpark Resort, Gurnee, Ill. Contact Kimberly Ghys, Lake County CVB, 800-Lake-Now; lakecountyreunions.com

March 12, 26, April 16, 30, May 14, June 25, July 23, August 13, 27, September 10, 24, October 8, 22, November 12.

Contact Carol Murray, DeKalb County CVB, 800-999-6055

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY

DETROIT, MICHIGAN

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA

Planning a Successful Reunion in the “D”! Free planning kit and chance to win prizes. Registration required. Contact Nikki Donald, Detroit Metro CVB, 313-202-1972; ndonald@visitdetroit.com; visitdetroit.com

Contact Meet Minneapolis, 800-445-7412, x 8104.

DOUGLASVILLE, GEORGIA

SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER CITY, LOUISIANA

February 26 (military), May 21, August 13, November 12.

Contact Saundra Robertson, 502-379-6110

NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA

Contact Cheryl Morales, 888-493-7386; cmorales@nngov.com

March 5, 2011 Contact Douglasville CVB, 678-715-6069

Contact Kevin Flowers, 800-551-8682; kflowers@sbctb.org

DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA

October 21-23, 2011 Family Reunion University, YMCA of the Rockies, Snow Mountain Ranch. Contact Conference Office, 800-777-9622

Contact Durham CVB, 800-446-8604 ESTES PARK, COLORADO

November 4-6, 2011 Family Reunion University YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park Center. Contact Conference Office, 800-777-9622 10

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WINTER PARK, COLORADO

YPSILANTI, MICHIGAN

Contact Mary Zucchero, Ypsilanti CVB, 734-483-4444.

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SCRAPBOOK

Arranging the reunion banquet I’m in charge of planning the formal dinner banquet for my family’s reunion next summer.

Everyone keeps telling me they want a “nice” event, but I’ve received the banquet menus from the hotel where we’ll be staying, and I’m having “sticker shock” looking at the prices!

What can we do to put on a nice event and still keep the cost reasonable for everyone?

Q?

The best time to negotiate banquet pricing is before you sign the hotel contract for your reunion. By including the banquet in your negotiations with the hotel, you increase your leverage and you can “lock in” the maximum price you’ll be paying for your meal. A reunion that includes a banquet is more valuable to the hotel than one that doesn’t.

In this case, the family has already confirmed they’ll be using the hotel so the challenge is to work with the hotel to plan an event everyone will enjoy without breaking the bank.

Start by contacting the hotel’s catering manager regarding the date and time for your event. If possible, consider having your event on a Sunday afternoon or evening; catering prices at many hotels will be lower on Sunday.

Friday and Saturday events tend to be the most expensive, as these are days when the hotel’s banquet rooms are in greatest demand. An afternoon event

A!

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will almost always be less expensive than an evening event, so you may wish to consider having a formal luncheon rather than dinner.

Next, ask the catering manager to work with the hotel’s chef to develop an “in-season” menu. Items which the chef can procure locally and in-season tend to be less expensive than those ordered from across the country. For example, in many parts of the country, strawberry shortcake is a great dessert choice in June (when strawberries are plentiful and inexpensive), but not in February, when strawberries must be imported from California, Arizona or Mexico.

Also ask what other groups the hotel will be hosting on your reunion dates, and what they’re serving for their meals. If you can agree to some of the same menu items as other groups, it will result in savings in both the cost of food (the hotel is able to order in greater quantities), and the cost of the preparation (there will be less labor involved in the kitchen).

Beef and seafood tend to be the most expensive menu choices, while chicken, pork, pasta, and vegetarian dishes are usually less expensive. Also remember that a plated meal is almost always less expensive than a comparable meal served on a buffet.

(Buffets require additional food that will ultimately be left over.)

Next, calculate both the number of

adults and the number of children who will attend your banquet. Ask to have a separate (lower) per person price for children. If there is a sufficient number of children, the hotel may be able to offer a special “children’s buffet,” with a kid-friendly menu of pizza, chicken fingers and peanut butter sandwiches!

If you plan to serve alcohol, consider a cash bar; this way, those who don’t drink will not have to pay for those who do. Or consider offering only beer and wine.

And finally, don’t be afraid to give the catering manager your per-person budget and ask for “the very best menu” the hotel is able to offer for that price. This allows the hotel to plan the menu to fit your budget, rather than trying to “guess” what you might be willing to pay.

By following these simple steps, you should be able to come up with an enjoyable and affordable meal.

About the answerer Dean Miller, national sales director for VisitFairfax (fxva.com), the convention and visitors bureau in Fairfax County, Virginia, is a great friend of reunions.

If you are planning a reunion in the Washington, DC, area, consider Fairfax County and contact Dean at 703-7900643; dmiller@fxva.com.

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Civil War Trails throughout Tennessee

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he new Tennessee Civil War Trails program has begun to install interpretive signs throughout the state.

Civil War Trails is a multi-state program that identifies, interprets and creates driving tours of great campaigns and lesser-known Civil War sites. More than 1,000 sites in Virginia, Maryland, Tennessee, West Virginia and North Carolina have directional “trailblazer” signs and four-color interpretive markers with maps, illustrations and text. Visit chattanoogafun.com/civilwar.

Peace Corps veterans recall clarion call

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n his 1961 inaugural address, President John F. Kennedy declared, “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.”

In 1967 Peace Corps volunteers trained for four months at Ghost Ranch in northern New Mexico, then flew to South Korea to help improve public health.

One veteran after another mentioned the electrifying memory of Kennedy’s words as the fuel that drove the decision to sign up. Person after person at a reunion recalled the Kennedy speech as vividly as Americans recall the terrorist attacks of 9/11. They had also been increasingly exposed to what was happening in the Vietnam War and the

movement for Civil Rights and empowerment in the black community.

Veterans were asked if they think it’s possible for another generation to be permanently shaped by such an appeal.

Overall, their answer was: maybe. These Peace Corps veterans were in high school when Kennedy lit up their lives. Their adult careers as community-minded professionals came more than a decade after they first heard Kennedy’s words.

What’s most remarkable is that Kennedy’s appeal continues to shape their lives half a century later.

From a story by David Crumm and Benjiman Crumm in the Detroit Free Press, Detroit, Michigan

Celebrating the Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War

Union Carbide employee reunion

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n 2011, Newport News, Virginia, will commemorate the Sesquicentennial (150 years) of America’s Civil War, with special events and re-enactments that can be added to group tour itineraries.

Explore the famous “Battle of the Ironclads” and Newport News’ other array of Civil War history, with excursions to the Congress and Cumberland Overlook, the MonitorMerrimack Overlook, the James A. Fields House and the Virginia War Museum.

To learn more about Newport News as a group tour destination, contact Trista Attoh at 888-493-7386; tattoh@nngov.com.

Watching one of Newport News’ many re-enactments at the Endview Plantation.

Free reunion planning newsletter

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ould you be interested in receiving a monthly email newsletter with reunion ideas and reminders of what you should be thinking about on the way to your reunion date?

You’ll regularly receive new ideas, how-to suggestions and resources to help you plan your reunion. It’s only a handful of months before it’s almost time for your reunion.

Listen up! Send your request to editor@reunionsmag.com.

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ore than 560 former employees of Union Carbide gathered in Charleston, West Virginia, to reminisce and tour changes to the Kanawha Valley’s chemical and research facilities. The company was a big part of the Kanawha Valley community and economy, employing 10,000 to 15,000 people during its heyday. For nearly a century, Union Carbide was a major employer and influence in West Virginia, until 2001 when it merged with Dow Chemical Co. The company brought people to West Virginia from across the US and around the world. Carbide employee reunions are common across the US, but this was the first in Charleston. Many who retired from Union Carbide moved to Florida.

The reunion featured a health fair and benefits seminar from representatives with Dow and Bayer. Organizers set up “Memory Lane,” with photos of employees at picnics, award ceremonies and other events, and aerial shots dating back to the 1920s, depicting various Union Carbide sites across the nation.

The next big Union Carbide reunion is scheduled for the weekend of April 8, 2011, in Phoenix, Arizona. For information about the Arizona reunion or local “retiree gettogethers,” contact Ed Ballard, reunion coordinator, 304-722-4568.

From a story by Veronica Nett in the West Virginia Gazette, Charleston, West Virginia

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ASTA travel agents make travel accessible

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oo often the travel plans of people with disabilities are sidelined or delayed by inadequate facilities, higher prices and general hassles. The travel community is generating solutions, creating a network of travel options for disabled people worldwide and broadening accessible travel.

Each traveler’s needs are different so it’s critical that a traveler with special needs work with a travel agent who understands them and their unique situation.

• Do your homework. Before boarding the plane or ship, thoroughly study your destination. Word-of-mouth from other disabled travelers is great, but no source is more valuable than a travel agent who specializes in disabled travel.

• Speak up. Ask your travel agent detailed questions about customs and services provided at each destination.

Your travel agent should provide information about transfers and types of terrain you may encounter.

• Make healthy choices. Talk to your physician about the trip and immunizations you’ll need. Your doctor can provide tips and medicines for coping with long flights, advice about medical facilities at your destination and how to obtain prescription drugs in an emergency.

• A prescription for travel. Be sure to take enough prescribed medication and copies of prescriptions. Pack medications in your carry-on bag. It’s wise to travel with a signed letter from your doctor detailing your condition, medications, potential complications and, if you’re diabetic, your requirement to carry needles.

• Leash laws? Some countries have restrictions on service dogs. Check with your travel agent. If service dogs are permitted, check whether any quarantine or vaccination requirements apply.

Have your dog’s rabies shots and vaccinations up-to-date, and carry paperwork to prove it.

• Fly ’n’ drive. Some large planes have space to put a manual wheelchair in the cabin, though most wheelchairs and scooters are placed in cargo. Book a non-stop flight to alleviate the hassle of getting your chair out of cargo. Use gel-cell batteries if traveling in a power-driven wheelchair, as many airlines refuse to carry wet-cell batteries for security reasons.

• Time for a tune-up. Have your wheelchair or scooter serviced before a trip. Bring spare parts and tools. You or someone you’re traveling with should know how to dismantle your scooter or wheelchair in the event something goes wrong.

To find a travel professional that specializes in accessible travel, visit TravelSense.org.

Gearjammers gather

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ore than 160 former red bus drivers from the 1940s to the present gathered in Montana at Glacier Park Lodge for a reunion. Drivers came from across the country and abroad to share stories of their time behind the wheel in Glacier Park.

For some it was their first time back in Glacier since they were red bus drivers, giving them a chance to show their families why it was the best time of their lives.

Drivers and their guests took an all-day tour in red buses over Going-to-the-Sun Road.

They joined a group in a cavalcade of historic vehicles from The Jammer Trust, including a 1927 Cadillac, and two earlier model red buses.

Drivers and guests also enjoyed a Tall Tales session where the gearjammers shared some of their favorite memories and stories about their time in Glacier.

From a report in Daily Inter Lake, Kalispell, Montana

Podcasts explained

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odcasting is the creation of audio files that can be accessed on the Internet. You can listen on your Windows or Macintosh computer, or download (for later listening) to an MP3 player (such as the Apple iPod), an iPhone, or most any other device capable of listening to audio files. Listening to a podcast is like listening to a radio program.

Podcasts are stored online, so you can listen whenever you want. Unlike radio, you do not need to check a schedule and be prepared at a certain date or time. Podcasts are available whenever YOU want them.

From a post by Dick Eastman whose own genealogy podcasts can be heard at http://blog.eogn.com/eastmans_online_genealogy/podcasts.

Note: Many reunion-planning podcasts available free for downloading at reunionsmag.com.

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‘Canal Family Reunion’ a chance to learn about life on C&O

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he C&O Canal National Historical Park, Hagerstown, Maryland, hosts a reunion each year to encourage those with family ties to the canal to share their stories of its operation. The canal from Cumberland, Maryland, to Georgetown in Washington, DC, operated from 1850 to 1924. The Cushwa Basin, where the reunion was held, was one of the sites where canal boats unloaded the coal they carried from mines near Cumberland.

Canal boats carried 110 to 120 tons of coal on a journey that took about a week.

An old coal and brick warehouse now serves as a visitor center. Boat registers, payroll records and lock records can be researched to learn more about life on the canal for family histories.

From a story by Heather Keels in The Herald-Mail, Hagerstown, Maryland.

F E B R UA R Y / M A R C H / A P R I L 2011 O R E U N I O N S

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“The Gathering” draws descendants

by Grace Elting Castle

“We all share a common story … a new world story … let’s gather to enjoy it.” ittle did we know that this comment during a phone conference one year would result in reunion-the-next, dubbed “The Gathering.” Attendees spouted superlatives like awesome, unbelievable and amazing!

In fact, attendance was awesome. The majority of the 200 plus who “came home” to Historic Huguenot Street (HHS) in New Paltz, New York, are “cousins” who trace our ancestral lineage to the early families of the town, and specifically of this little street. We have, or can trace ourselves to, surnames of Hasbrouck, DuBois, Crispell, Deyo, Schoonmaker, Elting, LeFevre, Gerow, Freer, Bevier, Terwilliger and others.

We have active family organizations; most are associated with Historic Huguenot Street’s parent non-profit, the Huguenot Historical Society of New Paltz, NY. But in the

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Cousins visiting near a massive, ancient tree behind the LeFevre House.

Curator Leslie LeFevre-Stratton (left of the portrait) explains the new portrait gallery of treasured family portraits in the LeFevre House on Historic Huguenot Street.

decades since our cousin Kenneth Hasbrouck urged formation of these groups, we have never had a reunion. Thousands of us are scattered throughout the world. We know we’re “cousins” due to the continual intermarriage of the original twelve French Huguenot families who settled the “New Paltz Patent” and a few Dutch families. But most of us had never met.

We began preparing for the reunion with the HHS Family Collaboration Committee as sponsor. It became evident that our Family Association, with few living in New Paltz, could not handle logistics of the event. HHS staff and volunteers stepped up and, though stretched to their limits during the final weeks of planning and organizing, presented a quality event.

Rockford preservation reunion

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he Rockford (North Carolina) Preservation Society sponsored Remember Rockford Families Reunion in September. The purpose of the reunion is to celebrate the history of the village of Rockford and the heritage of the village’s families.

The reunion began Friday at an outdoor dinner and program at the Rockford Inn Bed and Breakfast.

A day of heritage events on Saturday in historic Rockford and at Rockford Park included a quilting display, book signing, oldfashioned lawn games, children’s coloring contest with prizes, bluegrass music, heritage craft exhibits, knife swap and whittling contest. The Catawba Valley Woodcarvers Club demonstrated whittling and woodcarving.

Local genealogists and speakers at Rockford Methodist Church helped trace family ties to Rockford. Following a picnic lunch,

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shuttle buses took participants to local attractions such as Rag Apple Lassie Vineyards and Stony Knoll Vineyards.

Two military encampments, one from the Revolutionary War period and one from the Civil War-period, were on the lawn of the York Tavern, part of the North Carolina Civil War Trail.

The reunion concluded on Sunday with a church service at the restored Rockford Methodist Church (built circa 1914 and now used only for special events), followed by a service of remembrance at the community cemetery.

A fee was charged to attend special meals, all other reunion events were free and open to the public. Visit www.rememberrockford.com.

From an article by Meghann Evans in the Mount Airy News, Mount Airy, North Carolina.

HISTORIC HUGUENOT STREET 18 Broadhead Ave. New Paltz NY 12561 Ph: 845-255-1660 info@huguenotstreet.org New Paltz is halfway between Albany and New York City. Historic stone houses are open for tours May through October. Some buildings are available to rent for reunions.

President Mary Etta Schneider (herself a The Friday evening “President’s cousin) said, “We have tried to balance Reception” honored all family and social time – an opportunity to catch up community association presidents. It was with cousins and meet new friends – with held on the lawn of LeFevre House, with a workshops and activities that we hope will string quartet and a classy reception that create a real appreciation of our ancestors provided an early peek at the new gallery of and others who were an integral part of the ancestor portraits curated by HHS’s Leslie founding of New Paltz.” That was certainly LeFevre Stratton, another cousin. all accomplished.

On Saturday, family associations Walking alone down a deserted Historic gathered for annual meetings while others Visit www.huguenotstreet.org.

Huguenot Street on a dark night, I shared breakfast goodies on the lawn near wondered at the magical feeling as I the DuBois Fort. There were house tours, passed the old stone houses occupied over the portrait exhibit, and several workshops: three centuries ago by my ancestors, knowing they walked the “The Missing Chapter: Africans in Early New Paltz”; same paths, visited on the same lawns and in the same houses “Researching Your Dutch Roots”; “Before New Paltz: Early where we had been. The story that our families started in 1678 History of our Founders”; and “Gathering Family Stories.” continues today through the preservation of these stone houses, Presentations such as the “Behind the Scenes in Collection the collections and archives. It’s an American story of escaping Storage,” a colonial fashion show, and exploration of period persecution, seeking new businesses and adventure, serving the clothing, were just a portion of many popular choices, as were new nation in political, military, industrial, professional and a archaeology and a house restoration in progress. We honored multitude of other ways. It’s a story now better understood by three centenarians who have been members of HHS for those who “came home” to Historic Huguenot Street. decades. Lunch, an ice cream social and dinner were provided.

What better place to hold a reunion?

Evening opportunities included a lecture on cultural pluralism, a special presentation of “Haunted Huguenot Street,” more house tours, and visiting and making new About the author acquaintances until late in the evening.

Grace Elting Castle Sunday morning, some attended services in the French Church, (gecastle@cluesonline.com) is a Eugene, Oregon, where Rev. Richard Matson brought the centuries together by using writer. She is a past president and current trustee computer-provided music. True to modern life, the computer failed of the Bevier-Elting Family Association of New to cooperate, so singing was probably much as it would have been in Paltz, NY, and served as the HHS Family earlier centuries.

Collaboration Committee’s chair of “The Even this lengthy description does not adequately portray the Gathering.” A retired professional investigator, wonderful weekend activities. In her welcoming message, HHS she is editor of PI Magazine.

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Tercentennial (300 Year) Elder Reunion Harder family tree

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he William Elder of Maryland Descendants Association will host its Tercentennial (300 Year) Family Reunion in 2011. Goals of the association are to reestablish familial ties among Elder descendants, preserve family records, establish an archival repository, and study Elder Family history and the work of Elder family historians.

Mount St. Mary’s University and Seminary in Emmitsburg, Maryland, founded in 1808, is the second oldest Catholic college and seminary in the US. It was established on what was originally William Elder’s property.

Reunion events include meetings to share Elder history and genealogy, a colonial encampment to illustrate the world in which the Elders lived, a Mass of remembrance and thanksgiving near the Elder Cemetery, and a Maryland roadside marker dedication.

The family also will attempt to set a new Guinness World record for the number of people attending a family reunion.

Visit www.williamelderofmaryland.com.

Reported by Timothy P. Gallagher, New Market, Maryland.

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he Harder Family Reunion displays their family tree drawn over 50 years ago on the back of a tablecloth. Anne Petrous says, “I also display our lineage, which has been traced back to the late 1500s.” She has put the info online and others are starting to add more. Last year, she started a Yahoo Group for family to stay in touch.

Reported by Anne Petrous, New Baltimore, Michigan.

F E B R UA R Y / M A R C H / A P R I L 2011 O R E U N I O N S

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Ellis Island Immigration Museum celebrates

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he historic restoration of Ellis Island and its Immigration Museum, funded by the American people, recently celebrated its 20th anniversary.

The museum’s exhibits highlight the growth of America from 1880 to 1924.

Galleries illustrate the immigrant reception process, and immigrants’ arrival and settlement throughout the US. The American Immigrant Wall of Honor® – bearing the names of over 700,000 individuals and families – honors the immigrant experience.

The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation’s Oral History Archive contains the reminiscences of over 1,700 individuals who either immigrated through or worked at Ellis Island. Excerpts are incorporated throughout the museum’s audio tour.

The American Family Immigration History Center® offers access to arrival records of more than 25 million immigrants, travelers and crewmembers who entered through Ellis Island between 1892 and 1924. It is available online at www.ellisisland.org.

The Museum’s new Peopling of America® Center, to open in 2012, will enlarge the story currently told of the Ellis Island Era (1892-1954).

Seniors capture history for their family

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here’s a lifetime of memories in a senior’s head. Many retirees find it rewarding to document and rediscover the vast web of experiences that make up their personal and family histories.

Seniors make history come alive by organizing and labeling a box of old photographs, having someone document stories from their past, or tracing family’s roots.

Dr. H. Asuman Kiyak, director of the University of Washington’s Department of Aging, said research shows that recalling specific incidents or people in their past helps exercise seniors’ episodic memory. She cautioned there isn’t evidence to suggest the activity affects a brain’s cognitive ability.

Toni Taft took action when her grandmother was diagnosed with terminal cancer.

She videotaped her grandmother’s recollections and learned things she hadn’t known. One story triggered another memory, then another.

She had tapes edited, then combined with family photos and videos to produce a two-DVD multimedia package. Her grandmother saw most of it before she died. In an eight-minute

excerpt shown at her memorial service, her grandmother said she had lived a great life, had no regrets and loved her family.

Then she waved goodbye.

WHERE/HOW TO START

• Start with yourself and work backwards. Ask for first-person recollections of parents, grandparents, great-grandparents.

Get a rough sketch of your family tree, fill details in later.

• Public libraries have electronic databases of census records and state newspapers on microfilm.

• Genealogical societies have many resources, including death records from local cemeteries, church histories, military records, obituaries and yearbook photos.

• Family History Centers are open to the public at Mormon churches to help people research their ancestors.

• For federal information, census, pension and bankruptcy records, visit your local National Archives office. Visit www.archives.gov.

From an article by Caleb Heeringa in The Bellingham Herald, Bellingham, Washington

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Send with your report to reunionsmag@gmail.com; subject line: name of the reunion.

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Bitmans, et al., reunite in Baltimore

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or 17 years, Laya Bitman constructed her family tree, tying together 16,000 relatives from all over the US, Lithuania, Russia, Israel, England, Australia, Hong Kong and Canada.

She pieced together 200 Bitmans, Sussmans, Zismans, Zussmans and Levins back to the early 1800s. In 2008, shortly after her father died, Bitman’s mother gave her old photos and a few mimeographed pages.

Bitman, 37, had hit the genealogy jackpot. “Suddenly, I had 1,000 people in my family tree. Then 7,000. It kept growing.”

She says, “I can’t remember a time I didn’t bug my parents

about where we were from, when we came here, if anyone was still in Europe.”

Her husband, Baruch, a videographer, helped produce a documentary about the family to show at the reunion. Bitman planned to add footage at the reunion, including interviews with two Holocaust survivors, to expand the documentary.

Bitman expected 75 at a family reunion in Baltimore; the other 15,925 couldn’t make it.

From a story by Rachel Vigoda in the Jewish Exponent, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Reunion celebrates 300 years in Hunterdon

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he Apgar Family Reunion celebrates the family’s history and the immigration of thousands of Germans 300 years ago. For many, the event is about exploring family history. Reunion organizer George Apgar said it’s a chance to be proud of their German heritage. This year’s reunion theme was “We are a patient and persistent people.”

Mike Apgar, the family’s association president, has always been interested in genealogy. It became a passion when his grandma took him to tombstones. “She would sit down on them, out of breath, but she’d convey what she knew about the family.”

Last year, the family celebrated their most famous relative, Virginia Apgar, the

physician who – in the 1950s – invented the Apgar score, an assessment used to determine the wellness of newborn babies.

A rule in the family’s bylaws says reunions are held in Hunterdon County (New Jersey). the site of the Apgar homestead.

From a story by Veronica Slaght in the Hunterdon County Democrat, Flemington, New Jersey.

Tyler reunion marks a milestone

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ifty-four descendants of Malachi and Mary Tyler celebrated the 200th anniversary of their family settling in Morganville, New York. The annual Tyler reunion is held on the first Sunday in July.

Nora Tyler Sands of Byron, New York – Malachi’s great-great-greatgranddaughter – prepared a family tree dating back to 1769. Family members enjoyed using the genealogy chart to trace their lineage and learn just how everyone is related.

As part of the observance, the family planted peonies moved from a family farm. Women in the Tyler family always loved gardens, especially peonies, Sands said.

“The pull of family, the desire to connect to my past and curiosity about where branches of the family went, got me interested in genealogy again,” Sands said. “I want my children to know and appreciate their family history.”

From a story by Virginia Kropf in The Daily News Online, Batavia, New York.

F E B R UA R Y / M A R C H / A P R I L 2011 O R E U N I O N S

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Early American family regroups in Hampton

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he Chandler Family Reunion honored the 400th anniversary of John Chandler’s arrival in America and Hampton, Virginia’s, 400th birthday. The family took a field trip to Historic Jamestowne, where their ancestor is thought to have stepped off the boat in 1610.

The Chandler Family Association has about 500 members; more than 100 gathered in Hampton. The main trunk of this family tree stretches back to John Chandler, one of Hampton’s original city fathers. In 1624, John Chandler was listed as a servant of Thomas Willoughby in the “Muster list of Virginia at Elizabeth Cittie,” an early name for Hampton. Family research shows that by 1640, Chandler was a major land owner, and by 1646 was a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses. If true, John Chandler’s tale is one of the nation’s original rags-to-riches stories. He succeeded in what was wilderness.

The City of Hampton has been eager to salute the return of one of its first families. Hampton History Museum staff led family members on a tour of sites from old Hampton.

Visit www.thecfa.org.

From a story by Sam McDonald in the Daily Press, Newport News, Virginia.

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The family time capsule

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n an article in the Mormon Times, Russell Bangerter describes one family assembling a time capsule to bury in the ground.

Use a plastic container with sealed edges, so water cannot seep in.

Give each family a plastic container larger than a ream of paper, and invite them to place memorabilia in the container. Items can include photos, chapters from family histories, newspaper articles, family mottos and newspaper headlines. Copies of the family genealogy from the family Bible would be of great worth.

During a reunion, nine boxes were gathered, sealed in the plastic container and lowered into a hole in the lawn (2 feet by 3 feet by 4 feet deep) and covered with dirt, marked with a stone to help those who wish to visit the site and remember the occasion.

The family agreed to open the capsule in 10 years.

Time capsules can also include genealogy sheets or information burned onto CDs or DVDs, showing pedigree charts and family group records. Or include copies of pages from journals, birth certificates, marriages certificates and obituaries. This shows those who follow where we have been, where we are headed and from whom we descend.

Downings hold historic reunion in French Camp

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he first known reunion of descendants of James Alexander Downing and his wife, Rachel Elizabeth Boyd, was held at French Camp, Mississippi, in 1930. A boy of about ten attended that reunion and lived to attend the second Downing reunion in 2010, 80 years later.

The reunion location was the home of Remer Downing, the last of the Downings to be a full-time resident of French Camp.

The front steps of the house include a foundation stone from the original home of James Alexander Downing. The wrap-around porch was covered with photographs, maps, printed data, enlarged copies of deeds, obituaries, census reports, and a wallsize family tree.

Reunion Day began with descendants gathering at the French Camp Presbyterian Church, where generations of Downings worshipped. Descendants then crossed the street for the

dedication of an historical marker that recognized “Oaklawn,” the 1928 home of William L. Downing (“Uncle Will”), the oldest Downing home in French Camp.

The Brazilian Downings presented gifts to everyone attending: a handmade, hand-painted bag, as well as a card with a photograph of a tree in Brazil – a reminder of the branch of the Downing family tree in Brazil.

Lunch was catered and served under a huge white tent in the front yard of the Remer Downing home. The final planned event was a bus tour, with accompanying map and family history handout of Downing home, and visits to the Downing School and the French Camp Cemetery.

From a story by CJ Johnson in the Choctaw Plaindealer, Ackerman, Mississippi

Digital Diaspora Family Reunion

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he Digital Diaspora Family Reunion (DDFR) (http://ddfr.tv/) is a social media website where African Americans can view other people’s stories while sharing and acquiring information about their own history. It encourages

users to tell about their ancestry through pictures. After creating an account, users upload family photos and add descriptions of relevance to the family. This project provides a gathering place where lost, neglected and discarded shards of history can be seen, shared and appreciated.

F E B R UA R Y / M A R C H / A P R I L 2011 O R E U N I O N S

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S P R I N G H O L I DAY S

Easter safety tips

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f you look forward to an Easter reunion, consider these cautions for your Easter egg hunt. The Thinking C.A.P.P. Foundation (Children’s Accident Prevention Program) offers Mr. No-No’s Easter egg hiding tips. They say creative hiding places cause many kids to end up in the hospital each year.

Color-code eggs for each age group. Let kids know what color is theirs, and hide them accordingly. Keep eggs at or below eye level of younger children. Count the eggs before hiding them. Keep track of the eggs you hide. Do NOT hide eggs inside light sockets, near electrical outlets or plugs, in cupboards or drawers holding dangerous products, on or under glass. Do NOT hide eggs outside in preexisting holes in the ground or trees, in any plants that have thorns, or that look potentially dangerous or poisonous, in any animal’s home, food

bowl or play area, or where pesticides or poisons have recently been sprayed.

After the hunt, throw away eggs that are cracked or damaged. For additional tips, information and safety products, visit TheThinkingCAPPFoundation.org.

Easter traditions

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aster traditions differ from family to family.

One family visits relatives for a day of activities, including lunch, an egg hunt, time for reflection with family members and hours of fun for the children.

Whether your tradition includes a visit to the mall for photos with the Easter Bunny, coloring and hunting eggs, visiting family, or attending a church service in a new outfit, the day is always remembered.

According to Wikipedia, the

Easter Bunny symbol seems to have its origins in Germany, where he was first recorded in a German publication in the early 1600s. The first edible bunnies made of pastry and sugar were made in Germany during the early 1800s. The Easter Bunny was introduced to America by German settlers who arrived in the Pennsylvania Dutch Country during the 1700s.

The arrival of the German Osterhase or hare was considered one of “childhood’s greatest pleasures.” Children built brightly colored nests, often out of caps and bonnets, in secluded areas of their homes. If the children had been good, the Osterhase would lay brightly colored eggs in the nest. As the tradition spread, the nest evolved into the modern manufactured Easter basket.

From a story by Jessica Thompson in the Polk County Democrat, Barton, Florida.

A Passover Seder reunion

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bout 115 Manis family members came from all over the country for a Seder and family reunion in Warminster, Pennsylvania. Edith Zibelman, 87, shared her handwritten account of the generations.

Organizer Melissa Rosenthal said getting all the families together was easier than she’d thought because they’d been talking about doing it for a while.

They used evite and held the Seder on Saturday for better attendance.

Traditionally, a Seder takes place on the first and second evenings of Passover (Pesach). The holiday marks the birth of the Jewish people as a unified nation and celebrates their freedom from slavery in Egypt 3,000 years ago.

At a Seder, Jews recount the Exodus with rituals and blessings over wine and food. They read from the Haggadah

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and eat particular foods. Maror – bitter herbs – represent the bitterness of slavery, and haroset – a sweet mixture of apples, nuts and cinnamon – symbolizes the building mortar the Jewish people used during their time in bondage. Matzoh, or unleavened bread, is especially important because it recalls the hurry to escape from Pharaoh, leaving no time to let their bread rise.

Everyone received a copy of The Manis Family Directory, a compendium of all the children, with details about their lives and where they live, and a letter by Molly Margolis, 91, recalling other Seders she’d experienced. Everyone got a family Haggadah, the book that traditionally recalls the Jews’ Exodus from Egypt.

From a story by Manasee Wagh on phillyBurbs.com, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

MASTERPLAN

Triumph over adversity Despite the challenges, Staybridge Suites Chantilly, Payne’s Catering, Sammy’s Rental and the Reunion Committee received rave reviews from every member of the family. At the end, “Cousin” Carl Brown was adopted into the family with honors.

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hen the Epps Family Reunion signed the contract with Staybridge Suites in Chantilly, Virginia, the understanding was that the new 2,000-square-feet meeting space capable of holding the reunion would be completed. Unfortunately, permit issues prevented completion in time for the reunion. Instead, Carl Brown, Director of Sales, utilized his referral network and

Epps Family Reunion tent at Staybridge Suites.

Staybridge Suites Sales Director, Carl Brown hosted this game of Bingo for the Epps family.

deep relationships to find caterers and vendors willing to work with him. They provided a tent, tables, chairs and meal at no additional cost to the hotel or the family. Everything came together perfectly and for $35 per person, the 140-member reunion enjoyed a spacious tent with dance floor. They feasted on fried chicken, baked tilapia with roasted red pepper cream sauce, sliced sirloin with wild mushroom demi-glaze, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, green beans, glazed carrots, corn, green salad, and dinner rolls.

The Epps family.

Family celebrates centennial of immigration

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lfred Paley and his cousin, Seymour Paley, both octogenarians, told how the matriarch of the family died in childbirth in Russia. Her husband and eight children – parents, grandparents and great-grandparents of those listening – set out, one by one, on ships to the US in the early 1900s. They held their audience riveted as they shared more recent stories about how they and others of their generation transcended their parents’ grinding poverty.

The stories have been swapped every year since 1946 at Paley Family Reunions. This year they celebrated the 100th anniversary of patriarch Morris Paley’s arrival at Ellis Island. Paleys revel annually in a shared history, a classic American tale of early 20th century immigration. For 65 years, they have passed the family lore from one generation to the next.

The Paley family oral history is a

living history. The reunion’s stars are the eldest cousins: Alfred, Seymour and the other children, all now in their 70s and 80s, born to the five men and three women who fled czarist Russia’s peasant poverty and Jewish persecution. Now the great-grandchildren of Morris Paley, in their 40s, 50s and 60s – have taken over reunion organizing.

The reunions began after World War II, when Sylvia Paley Gilbert, 88, of Louisville, Kentucky, sent a postcard in 1946 to her cousins, saying. “Why don’t we get together?” Eight boys who served in the war all came home from the service.

The family has a facebook page for sharing news and this year, they broadcast the reunion via streaming video on the Web for relatives who couldn’t attend.

From a story by Katherine Shaver in the Washington Post, Washington DC.

MASTERPLAN

Tema Family reunion at Cragun’s

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Family members found he level of esteem Cragun’s to be a large resort for the heads of a with a homey, friendly family family is evident atmosphere – all in a when, 105 years “Minnesota Nice” after their births, environment. Cragun’s family members still gather meeting coordinator, Tanya to celebrate.

Sawyer, provided thoughtful So it is with the Tema planning that assured family, who have come from everyone would be in around the country every lodgings close to one another, five years to commemorate either overlooking or located the births of Peter and on the shore of Gull Lake.

Caroline Tema. The Some members stayed in tradition was an annual Hawaiian theme welcome party with Grandpa Tema’s special Mai Tais. adjacent cabins. Others were reunion birthday celebration family members – 20 from Minnesota and lodged in nearby lakeview rooms until Peter passed several years ago at 25 from other states. connected to the Main Lodge. age 96; Caroline passed earlier, in her 80s.

Carol said, “One of the most remarkable The reunion began with a Welcome This year the Tema family chose things was the range of ages. We had Tema Party Barbecue and Potluck Dinner Cragun’s Conference & Golf Resort on family members from four months to 80 Friday evening, outdoors along the lake Gull Lake in Brainerd, Minnesota, to years old. Most impressive was that near two of the Tema cabins. The dinner, host their special quinquennial family Cragun’s professional meeting planners planned by Carol and Tanya, featured a reunion. According to the family, this helped plan an event that was enjoyable for Hawaiian theme to reflect the years Peter year’s version was the greatest success. all ages.” Carol said they especially liked and Caroline lived there. The highlight Carol Tema Opheim and her nephew, the easy access to everything, the beach, was Mai Tais prepared by the grandsons Bob Tema, Jr., were primary planners of pools and the marina. (assisted by Cragun’s bar staff), using the three-day event attended by 45 Tema

The Tema Family at Cragun’s Conference & Golf Resort in Brainerd, Minnesota.

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The “105th Tema Tours Open Championship” awards ceremony.

Grandpa Tema’s traditional recipe.

“We really felt special when owners Dutch and Irma Cragun visited the party to welcome us to their resort and make sure things were going well,” Carol commented. “It made us feel the personal attention they put into our reunion.”

“The most fun was having a variety of events and activities that appealed to young and old alike,” said Carol.

“Everyone loved having group activities

in the warm, inviting atmosphere. Yet Cragun’s planned activities so people could still have fun on their own. They came up with just the right blend of time together and time alone,” Carol stated.

The group went golfing, pontoon boating, swimming, fishing and had campfires on the beach. Cragun’s golf staff helped plan a complimentary family golf event on the Legacy Reversible 9Hole, Par 3 Course. The 105th Tema

CRAGUN’S CONFERENCE & GOLF RESORT

in Brainerd, Minnesota, has been serving the meeting needs since 1940.

Contact 800-CRAGUNS (272-4867); www.craguns.com.

Tours Open Championship, the familyfun tournament, awarded trophies at the evening buffet.

Saturday’s Reunion Buffet was the crowning event, hosted in Cragun’s Main Dining Room next to the deck overlooking Gull Lake. This was the event to celebrate Peter and Caroline, the Tema family and the golf awards banquet.

“From the first phone calls to the final planning points, we were treated cordially and respectfully,” Carol offered. “They handled all the details to make sure our needs were met. From the personal attention of Dutch and Irma Cragun, to the caring staff, everyone at Cragun’s made this a most memorable time for family bonding… We’ll be back for the next one, and hopefully sooner than another five years.”

Fun on the water for all ages!

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MASTERPLAN

“At the Gate I Know” My mind’s eye began to paint a picture of all our ancestors rom the time of the Meet ’n’ Greet on Friday, to the who have crossed over, running to heaven’s gate to receive the delicious dinner prepared and served by members of New balloons and our promises of commitment to this great Vernon Bedford Baptist Church following Sunday morning worship, the Family legacy. They were overjoyed and excited to receive the Vernon Family Reunion was one extraordinary demonstration gifts from their earthly family and stretched their arms in an of love, togetherness, and reflection. I must admit the most memorable part of our reunion weekend for me was the Balloon Release Reaffirmation Ceremony.

Thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Smiley Jones of Little Africa, South Carolina, we were able to stand on a portion of the original 18.5 acres owned and deeded to Tom and Harriet Vernon in the late 1800s. After Tom’s death, the land was divided equally and passed to their children as they came of age. The Jones residence is built on property inherited

by Sallie Vernon Miller and sold to Fred Jones in the mid 1940s.

With feet firmly planted on soil once owned by Tom and Harriet, I stood in awe of what they accomplished only 40 years after slavery. I stood proudly united with other members on their strength reaffirming our commitment to family. Each person received a balloon, formed a circle and blessed the ceremony through prayer. Following the prayer one person from each generation read a portion of a litany written especially for the Vernon Family as the rest of us chanted “Hear our prayer, O Lord.” We were asked to share one word that represented our commitment to family. Balloons were launched for the Vernon Family Reunion Reaffirmation Ceremony on Sunday morning We spoke such words as love, unity, perseverance, before Morning Worship at the family home church in Spartanburg, South Carolina. dedication, forgiveness, faithfulness, and service. into the attempt to secure a balloon. At that moment an old song came universe. On the count of three, balloons were released. to my spirit and I began to hum “At the gate I know! At the We stood with our faces stretched to the sky watching as gate I know! Somebody’s waiting at the gate I know!” balloons bunched together led by two elevating higher and We continued fellowship on the land that was once our higher into the hemisphere. We began to joke that the two forefathers before caravanning to New Bedford. I carried the balloons were Tom and Harriet leading the way for the other warm presence of our ancestors with me. balloons, “the family.” We noticed throughout their journey Excerpted with permission from the from earth to heaven the balloons never floated astray from one Vernon Family Reunion newsletter, Remnants of C.L.A.Y. another. Remarkably, two balloons launched from a few feet Thanks to Janice “JP” Miller, Gainesville, Georgia. away wasted no time catching up with the others.

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West Texas reunion

T Four generations of Hinojos, Patriarch Cesareo Hinojos, age 105, his son Isaac Hinojos, granddaughter Sylvia Medrano, and great granddaughter Claudia Sedillo.

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he Hinojos family gathers each year in Lorenzo, just east of Lubbock, Texas. My grandparents, Cesareo and Dolores Hinojos, raised their 15 children to adulthood. At my grandmother’s death in the late 1980s, it was suggested we meet in happier times.

Family members come to Lorenzo from all over the country for food, fun and a whole lot of catching up. My grandfather, who celebrated his 105th birthday in August, was the oldest attendee. The youngest was just six weeks old! At last count, there are over 200 immediate descendants ... and still counting!

Shared by Sylvia Medrano, Round Rock, Texas

Photo by Reginald Watson

MASTERPLAN

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he Powell-Moody Family Reunion in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, included a Meet & Greet, banquet, program and picnic at Edwards Beach on Lake Gaston in Henrico, North Carolina.

Shared by Allison Bell, Littleton, North Carolina.

List Your Reunion

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he 10th Bi-annual Stewart-Bostic Family Reunion was held in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Family came from New York, Delaware, Virginia, Georgia, Texas, Arizona and Pennsylvania. During four days we had a bowling contest, sightseeing outings, a business meeting, picnic, worship service and just being together with lots of good food and catching up. It’s fun to meet new additions (spouses, babies) since the last reunion and talk about achievements since we were last together.

During the business meeting the next location is voted on. Family at the chosen location will be the hosts. We have been all over this beautiful country. One year we even went on a Caribbean cruise. The next reunion will be in 2012 in Delaware or Pennsylvania.

Our family is scattered all over the world now and, while some elect not to participate, I just know this is something we must keep going.

Reported by Meredith B. Furel, Douglasville, Georgia.

free!

Email (editor@reunionsmag.com) Contact name, address, phone, reunion name, date, and place. Check us out at www.reunionsmag.com

A tree is known by the fruit it bears

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he Ross family, a small but tightly knit family, gathered for its 11th bi-annual family reunion, spearheaded by Freager and Sherry Sanders. They wanted to make a difference in the community they were visiting, so before the fun, the Ross Family spent Saturday morning participating in a community service project.

They volunteered to spread mulch at Dorey Park in Henrico, Virginia. Family members ages two years to 60-plus carried mulch in a wheelbarrow, dumped and spread it around trees and in flower beds. The park attendant was impressed with their work and surprised they did it so quickly. What a wonderful way to kick off a reunion, reported Dr. Patti Sanders-Smith, Greenville, North Carolina.

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Yaeger Family Reunion enjoys Kentucky State Parks

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he Yeager Family Reunion was started by first cousins and their families to gather yearly, but has grown to include all the allied families of Joseph and Sarah Cheek Yager of Knox County, Kentucky.

My aunts came up with the idea and organized the first reunion. A committee of three aunts and two nieces planned the next three reunions. When one of the sisters passed two months before a reunion, the baton was passed to the two nieces. They have done it ever since, with input from the aunts and other branches of the family.

We chose to use the state park system to keep our gathering as inexpensive as possible when costs started getting out of hand. We rent a handicapped-accessible party room, and the deposit is put on our bill. It is a nominal price. Our last reunion was at Blue Licks Battleground and State Resort Park in Mt. Olivet, Kentucky. The next will be at Pine Mountain State Park and Resort in Pineville, Kentucky, the area where our ancestors settled. Because we are indoors, those with ailments who would not attend if it were outdoors, can come and have a great time.

We have a basic agenda for each weekend, but the activities and the theme changes from year to year. A core of us arrive on

Friday night and have a great time visiting and telling stories.

The main event is Saturday, with a catered hot meal, games, a silent auction and, of course, visiting and celebrating.

Most of us meet Sunday morning to have breakfast together.

We have some type of mixer – for example, a question and answer session where everyone has to ask questions of others.

We have a tablecloth that first-time attendees sign, then it is embroidered. It will never be finished.

Individuals pay for their own meals and rooms.

We always start out with prayer, acknowledging our nation and honoring our veterans and first responders. We recognize those who have attended each reunion and everyone announces who their ancestors are.

We have awards, wacky ones and serious ones. We also have a silent auction to cover costs and a live auction. We sing, and those who wish to entertain do so.

We communicate by facebook, emails and phone calls, and via our blog, email, snail mail and word of mouth. We also send announcements to area magazines, such as Kentucky Explorer, and put announcements on our facebook page.

Shared by Theresa Craig Wilhelmy, Florence, Kentucky.

Reunions on stage

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he subject of reunions is a popular theme for theatre. These are several recent plays about reunions.

Family Reunion at Moonshire Creek was created by playwright Shay Moran, who has lived in Milton, Florida, since 1970, but whose parents and grandparents were from Santa Rosa County, Florida. Stories and family histories are the basis of this play, which features an informative portrayal of historical times in Santa Rosa.

Characters were drawn from happy memories of visiting salt-of-the-earth friends and relatives.

The play is set at Carpenter’s Creek pavilion in current times and revolves around a modern day family reunion.

Visiting family members are called on to share interesting stories handed down by their own parents and grandparents.

Each of six stories involves a storyteller, actors, singers, musicians and dancers who bring history to life.

Reviewed by Clairen Reese / Pelican correspondent for the Pensacola News Journal, Pensacola, Florida.

From a note by Danie Asbury in The Concordian at Concord University, Athens, West Virginia, we learn about A Crabapple Family Reunion, a murder mystery. Audience members – who are

family members at the reunion – must figure out “who did it.” Aunt Thelma Crabapple, event coordinator, famous Cousin Myrtle Crabapple, author, and Elizabeth Crockpot, TV personality, keep dinner guests entertained.

A Crabapple Family Reunion was written and directed by Karen Vuranch, who played Fortney family readers at their reunionKansas.

Aunt Thelma Crabapple. The rest of the Crabapple Dreams” quality. You can read this entire cast showed a little “murder served script at reunionsmag.com; click on family style.”

“Activities” in Family Reunions.

If you would consider including a play And finally, we encountered a casting as an activity at your reunion, check out call in the Bryan County News, an original reunion play Crickets in the Richmond Hill, Georgia, for a Comedy Field performed at the 100th Mystery Dinner Theater Show, “Murder Anniversary of the Hans Fortney Family 101,” to be performed at Club Stewart, at Farm Reunion. The play, by Anita Fort Stewart, Georgia. “Murder 101” is Linne’a Fortney-Harms, is a readers’ an interactive comedy murder mystery theater play. It portrays the late Hans set at a class reunion of a closing high Fortney family of ten children, who lived school. As the various alumni gather to in Wheeler, Wisconsin. It alludes to the say good-bye to their beloved alma original ancestors who came from mater, old rivalries and new alliances Norway and settled in Viroqua, add up to murder and mayhem.

Wisconsin. The play is set in the farm Just some different ways to celebrate field on a “ghostly” night with a “Field of reunions!

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MASTERPLAN

Important steps and other new additions

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alking into any party where you don’t know anyone is stressful enough. Your palms may sweat, and even if you enjoy new situations and meeting new people, you may still feel a little unsure and nervous. Now imagine the party is not just a casual gathering but

TELL YOUR STORIES

First, meeting multiple people at once is a difficult task for anyone. Family members may need to remember a couple new additions, but new people must memorize dozens of names and will feel pressure to learn quickly. It will be easier for stepchildren if they’ve heard stories about the people they are meeting.

That way, they can connect faces with stories. It will help even more if family members tell their stories, or if introductions are made with mini-stories attached. “This is Cousin Sue, who is deathly afraid of spiders…” “This is Frank, my brother, who is an amazing soccer player.

He’s actually on his way to train with a team in The author with her older daughter Miranda, new baby Maddy, husband Brad, England for the summer…” and Brad’s grandparents at the Casper Family Reunion in Kansas. and so forth.

by Kathleen Casper

don’t know other children. This can be remedied easily by asking a few nurturing children to take the new member under their wings to make sure he isn’t left out. But if there isn’t another child to help out, ask adults to talk to the new child. Ask about school, their interests, pets, foods they like or don’t, etc. It gives them something to focus on rather than being nervous and feeling new in the crowd.

INCLUDE THEM IN PHOTOS

Give the family photographer specific instructions to include new family members in family photographs. This helps make them feel that they are valued and that others care.

EATING TOGETHER

You may look forward to Aunt Megan’s cherry-coke salad all year long, but someone new to the family may not understand the appeal. Maybe their family always has turkey and mashed potatoes at reunions and they are surprised by the taco spread at instead a large family your party. Even worse, what if reunion. And these are they get sick from something not random strangers you include as a regular you will walk away from ingredient in the salad? after the party and It’s a good idea to talk with never see again; these new family members before are your new relatives, the reunion to let them know who you will probably what’s on the menu and ask see often and probably them to bring something to want to impress. share, if they’d like. They will A new husband or probably feel less nervous and wife will, of course, may even feel more welcome have to deal with this being able to share one of scenario at least once their favorite recipes. when meeting their inTake a little extra time to The author’s children with their new “step-cousins-in-law” family reunion in Kansas. law family. But with 3.5 think about ways to include million Americans remarried with Telling stories helps family members new family members to make sure your children, a new spouse may have learn one another’s names more quickly. reunion is a success. You’ll impress children to bring to the reunion.

It also helps them connect with stories everyone who always comes, and Stepchildren are entering new families about the family in general. Besides, it’s especially your newest guests, who will now more than ever. These kids may more fun when you have more to talk surely look forward to coming back. experience even more stress getting to about than just saying each other’s names. know other children and adults.

About the author KEEP TALKING As you plan a family gathering with Kathleen Casper teaches writing to relatives you’ve known for years, it’s After initial introductions, people gifted 4th graders at a Florida elementary important to keep in mind the unique often fall into the habit of talking to school and practices part time family law. experiences new members will be people they already know and enjoy Remarried to a wonderful husband, she dealing with. being with. When guests retreat to their has experienced blended family reunions Making a few adaptations to your own corners and into close-knit talking including introducing her new husband to plans may make a huge difference in the circles, new family members are often her extended family and her children to new family members’ experience and left out. This is even more distressing to their new step-in-laws. make them feel more welcome. children who feel left out because they 34

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NORFOLK

The fleet’s in in Norfolk

by Edith Wagner

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mmersed in history and tradition, Norfolk, Virginia, is inextricably linked to the US Navy, and is thus a natural location for Navy reunions.

For many who spent time here in the Navy (including my own nephew), Norfolk is a homecoming. It’s equally attractive for family reunions, as well, because it is rich in family-friendly attractions. And it offers a perfect opportunity to share the Navy connection with children and grandchildren. I’d love to hear my nephew explain those enormous ships to his boys, who will be very intrigued.

USS Henry B. Willson reunion members departing USS Cole (DDG-67).

Aboard the USS Cole in Norfolk Naval Station.

A cruise aboard the Victory Rover is a must for Navy guys, or anyone with Navy in their hearts. The two-hour cruise through the bustling Hampton Roads Harbor boasts a continuous show of aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines, and guided cruisers.

The guide on my trip aboard the Victory Rover, without a doubt made this one of the most relevant tours I’ve ever enjoyed. I learned a lot. Be ready to be dazzled.

The 6th USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 Association Reunion lasted five days in Norfolk during Fleet Week. “It was a tribute to our Plank Captain, Lawrence D. Caney, who passed away 36

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last year,” according to Penney and Dan Marks, Rio Rico, Arizona. The host hotel was the Norfolk 232 E Main St # A Marriott, located Norfolk, VA 23510-1711 conveniently in 800-368-3097 downtown Norfolk, a visitnorfolktoday.com block from the Contact Reunion Specialist, waterfront, with many Melissa Hopper, attractions and 757-622-4528, restaurants nearby. mhopper@norfolkcvb.com.

Members took advantage of being in an historic area to schedule day tours at the beginning of the week. They enjoyed a one-day tour to Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center and another day tour to Berkeley Plantation and Colonial Williamsburg. Their Norfolk Historic Tour was through the historic district to Nauticus, the National Maritime Center, and the Hampton Roads Naval Museum operated by the US Navy. The Battleship Wisconsin, one of the famous Iowa-class ships, is adjacent to Nauticus.

Eating is an art in Norfolk.

of Norfolk, toured Nauticus and USS Wisconsin and had a banquet on Saturday night. hese are several places to consider … all are They especially liked downtown Norfolk because everything downtown, within an easy walk from most hotels. was close by. The only time they needed ground transportation 219: an American Bistro serves lunch and dinner – was for the Naval Base Tour; everything else was within American cuisine with an Asian twist, featuring fresh walking distance to the hotel, which Hinson said was local ingredients. outstanding, with great rates and very professional staff.

The fourth USS L.Y. Spear Association reunion of Half Moone Cruise & Celebration Center is a approximately 60 attendees celebrated the 40th anniversary of gateway for cruise ships sailing to beautiful ports-ofthe ship’s commissioning in Norfolk. The ship was call. The facility is a magnificent venue to host a decommissioned in 1996 and had been at the Inactive Ships special event or function. Or you can book your cruise Facility in Portsmouth, Virginia, ever since. A highlight of the reunion from Norfolk. reunion was to be a visit to the ship for a group photo; plans were made with the shipyard months ahead. Then, two months D’Art Center is a unique atrium space flanked by before the reunion, they learned a contract to scrap the ship galleries and art shops. Catered events can be arranged. had been awarded and she was about to be towed to Byrd & Baldwin Brothers Steakhouse serves only Brownsville, Texas, for scrapping. The tour fell apart and the all natural, grain-fed Midwestern beef aged on-site; photo never materialized. With help from VisitNorfolk (Norfolk they can accommodate private parties and events.

CVB), they survived. The CVB recommended things to do and furnished name tag holders, welcome packages, discount Harbor cruises, where meals can be arranged, are also coupons and goodies. One of their shipmates who runs popular on the Spirit of Norfolk and the American Rover.

Tidewater Touring furnished a motor coach and narrated a tour of the Naval Base and the MacArthur Memorial at no charge.

Others went to Waterside, Nauticus and A Friday evening dinner cruise on the USS Wisconsin.

Spirit of Norfolk featured a hearty buffet Leon Jessie, chairman of the reunion, NORFOLK of beef, poultry, seafood and all the cautioned that a disadvantage of having a WATERSIDE MARRIOTT trimmings. Saturday they toured Norfolk military reunion near any Navy port is the 235 East Main Street Naval Base, the largest naval installation number of friends shipmates still have in the Norfolk, VA 23510 in the world and home port to 78 ships, area. That may take them away from the 800-874-0264 26 aircraft squadrons comprised of 133 reunion and they tend to not book a hotel aircraft, and more than 100,000 military The Marriott is so convenient room and stay with their friends. personnel. They toured an active ship and to important attractions. You Advantages, Jessie says, are the good times had lunch in one of the clubs on base, can walk just a couple blocks and memories of being stationed in the area. then visited MacArthur Memorial for to everything.

There is plenty to see and do and they highly another glimpse into our country’s history. recommend the Norfolk area for a reunion.

The General and Mrs. MacArthur are entombed in the rotunda of the memorial.

About the author Saturday their banquet speaker was Admiral Clark Orzalli.

Edith Wagner is editor of Reunions magazine.

The USS Sellers Association has met every two years since they began 12 years ago. Reunion planner Delta Hinson, Virginia Beach, Virginia, said they try to go to places with activities of interest to former sailors and crew members. As orfolk is easily accessible by car or plane, and from most major president of the Association and a Hampton Road East Coast cities can be reached by car within just a few hours. resident, Hinson knows Norfolk and the In addition to its free transportation system, the NET, and the surrounding area and knows it has a lot to offer upcoming lightrail system set to debut in 2011, Norfolk also offers reunion groups seeking fun and entertainment.

FRED (free ride every day). FRED operates electric-powered, The Norfolk Sheraton Waterside served as extended golf carts that pick up passengers free of charge! The city reunion headquarters. Norfolk’s Navy port gave pairs this service with its complimentary municipal shuttle system. So crew members a chance to see today’s Navy. They hop aboard and FRED will take you anywhere. took a bus tour of the Norfolk Naval Base, a tour of the MacArthur Memorial, a lunch cruise on Spirit

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Getting around Norfolk

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FRUGAL REUNIONS

Who’s frugal?

REUNIONS SURVIVING HARD TIMES

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n hard times, families often need one another more for solace and grow closer. This is really the time that, no matter what, you get together to reassure one another and perhaps find ways to foster the interdependence that typified families until not too many decades ago.

Our surveys are leaning very strongly in the direction of finding ways around things you’ve come to expect at every reunion by finding alternatives or postponing some activities.

For example, if you forgo a banquet this year, you can look forward to doing it again later.

We asked readers for ideas for reunions to survive and thrive in hard economic times and how they save money and still have fun. We identified reunions which, responding to a survey, indicated they spend less than $1000 on their reunions, and specifically asked them to share the ways they save; in some cases they also share how they raise money for their reunions.

Overall you are seeking value for your reunion buck. No need to sacrifice the “bang” to spare the budget. Creativity helps you wow the crowd whether you spend a lot or a lot less.

$ $ $ $ $ COST CUTTING TIPS

Last summer I was asked by another magazine to share my money-saving ideas for reunions. This was my response. EW • Promote ownership of the reunion by marshalling the skills and talents of family members instead of paying for services.

This could include grandma making phone calls or teenagers maintaining a website, others organizing fundraising activities to help pay reunion expenses or raise money for scholarships for family members.

The travel industry is in a buyers market, and hotels, resorts and other venues are dealing for long-range business. Start early, lock up the place you really want at a better than usual price. Contact the convention and visitors bureaus to learn about their free services, including collecting quotes for your venues according to your specifications.

• Look at less pricey alternate venues such as vacation homes or condos that often have four or five bedrooms to accommodate more people than hotel rooms. They include cooking facilities, are usually close to attractions and activities, and often have pools and hot tubs.

• No matter where you hold your reunion, look for activities, attractions, festivals and fairs that charge no admission.

• Use email, social media and web pages for communication. Design web pages so they can be printed and mailed to the few members who are not online.

You can virtually eliminate the high cost of paper, envelopes, printing and postage.

• Reduce food costs by engaging a caterer instead of having a banquet; better yet, potluck instead of catering. Potluck is an opportunity for family cooks to show off their own and some of 38

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Banks/Hill/Outlaw Family Reunion enjoyed a potluck with barbecue made onsite. Reunion planner, Thelma Harper Jones, front left.

grandma’s specialties. Ask everyone to bring the recipes on cards to share or email recipes for a souvenir booklet to hand out as a reunion memento.

• Reunions magazine has a long list of freebies for reunions online at reunionsmag.com/resources/resources_FreeStuff.html.

$ $ $ $ $ CONNECTING GENERATIONS ON THE CHEAP

• Use food for more than the obvious nourishment.

Assign multi-generational teams from each family branch to prepare and serve meals. Assign everyone to food duty either one day or one meal during the reunion. Teams can also be organized according to generation: all cousins, all aunts and uncles, or all grandparents.

• Ask adolescents and teenagers to interview elders (using audio and/or video tape) to build a family history archive.

Include questions that are of particular interest to the young interviewers: tell me about your school days, extracurricular activities, how you met grandma/grandpa, what did you do on dates? Ask young people to tape themselves so their recordings can be listened to at family reunions 25 or 50 years from now! Some interviewers may be able to use tapes for school projects, too.

• Assemble mixed teams for games and sports: Goofy Olympics for silly prizes or serious sports tournaments for family bragging rights. Reunions are perfect times for grandpa to teach his grandkids to fish or play golf.

• Ask elders to lead a tour of the family cemetery and recall stories about ancestors buried there. Some story tellers like to dress in period costumes and include stories about history current when the ancestors lived.

HOW OTHERS ARE DOING IT!

Joan Curtis Waters, Charlotte Hall, Maryland, is a master at finding freebies and bargains. She is planning the 2011 CurtisButler reunion.

They will meet at a member’s home on what they call “The White House Lawn.” (The family’s name is White.) They will borrow a large tent (from Waters’s workplace) for free!

They solicit family donations (sponsorships), which netted $500 last year. Waters solicits door prizes from local restaurants and other businesses (limo company, spas, photographers) and asks for goodies from family business owners.

They plan a potluck meal (sides and desserts) and this year may also have a dessert contest or theme.

They are using electronic communication more, which saves money formerly used for postage.

Eileen (Quinn) Champney and family.

And finally, Waters calls on a family DJ for free music!

To ensure out-of-town members can come to the reunion, consider their travel costs as their contribution. If they fly or drive, their transportation will still cost more than local members’ potluck items. Out-of-towners likely want to contribute, which you can take advantage of.

The potluck may be one of the big reunion boons that comes out of hard economic times.

Tisha Amerson of Gray, Georgia, says the Sullivan Family orders barbecue and asks everyone to bring desserts. There are no decorations because the reunion is outside. Amerson has a pool and kids create their own games.

Hatton/Quinn Family Reunion picnic at Pioneer Lake in Conover, Wisconsin.

The Sullivans, who buy plates/plasticware/napkins/cups in bulk for two years, have prepared spaghetti and ordered Olive Garden salad with dressing. It was inexpensive, wonderful and generated lots of compliments.

Lovine Moss of Rock Hill, South Carolina, says members of the Moss Family Reunion bring well-filled baskets of food, which are set out on two or three eight-foot tables, plus another two tables loaded with desserts. One cousin makes biscuits for the whole crowd. Her husband makes at least 10 gallons of tea.

Members also bring goodie baskets for door prizes.

Mary Garavaglia of Sterling Heights, Michigan, reports that the Kilpatrick Family Reunion meets every two years in North Carolina. All printed matter was prepared by family members and the reunion paid the cost of ink and paper. They have used an air-conditioned Boys and Girls Club dining hall where the cost is very reasonable. The food is all homemade. Some members bring a dish, others buy food, like roast chicken or deli food. It’s also a good time to pass around family recipes.

There’s always one dish everyone ooohs and aaahs over.

Sharon Rogers of Eagle River, Wisconsin, says that holding the Hatton/Quinn Family Reunion every three years, gives them plenty of time to pick up bargains. They all chip in and bring something for the picnic; however, their kitty (an account from the previous reunion) pays for meat they grill at the park.

They are always looking for deals on decorations, prizes, printing paper for the invites, etc.

$ $ $ $ $ How does your reunion save $? Send your ideas to editor@reunnionsmag.com or Reunions magazine, PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211.

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Between magazine issues, sign up for our monthly eblast.

Send request and email to editor@reunionsmag.com.

F E B R UA R Y / M A R C H / A P R I L 2011 O R E U N I O N S 39

MUSIC

The hills are alive with the sound of reunion music M

usic plays an important role at many reunions, and is incorporated

Gathering of Eagles

in many ways. These are just some of them.

What role does music play in your reunions?

Alumni celebration

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he 8th-triennial Gathering of Eagles reunion includes all classes, faculty and staff from Nurnberg American High School in Germany.

They were entertained at the San Antonio, Texas, reunion by The Four Preps, and one of their own “Honorary Eagles,” Jim Yester, founder and lead singer/songwriter for The Association, recently enshrined Charlie Eagle into the Rock Hall of Fame.

Yester and Bruce Belland, lead singer of The Four Preps, led an array of their greatest hits in a 90-minute Las Vegasstyle show during the banquet, followed by a DJ and musical entertainment.

Visit www.NurnbergEagles.org.

Big Blue Band reunion

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ormer members of the Enid (Oklahoma) High School Big Blue Band had an all-band reunion during a football weekend. They participated in pre-game activities and played fight songs in the stands during games.

“We are looking for past band members, color guard and feature twirlers,” said Martin Good, one of the reunion organizers. Separate committees will organize the pre-game dinner, music distribution, instruments and uniform t-shirts. Visit www.bigblueband.net.

From the Enid News & Eagle, Enid, Oklahoma

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his celebration is the Dinner/Dance held annually during the Greene County Training School-South Greene High School (GCTS-SGH) National Alumni Association Reunion Weekend in Snow Hill, North Carolina. Contributor Thelma Harper Jones of Washington, DC,

commented that no matter how old the Electric Slide gets, the reunion crowd is always motivated to step to the floor (or the ground, in the case of the picnic).

“And to think,” she continued, “there is still someone every year trying to learn it for the first time. Can you believe that?”

Farewell reunion for Bellerophon band

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elland, Canada, said goodbye to a piece of its history when Canada’s oldest sea cadet corps, 141 Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps Bellerophon, founded in 1917, was decommissioned.

For a “proper send off,” 141 alumni hosted a farewell reunion. At least 250 came from across North America to share fond memories and “boatloads” of photographs. Despite only three months to plan the send off, the response was astounding. According to Alan O’Neill, the decision to close the 141 came from both the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Navy League – the two organizations that fund Sea Cadets – in an effort to tighten budgets. It came as a

shock to alumni. Alumni and current members could do little to prevent the corps from closing, but they could get together and share memories and honor the historic group with a decommissioning ceremony, a navy tradition for ships of great honor. “We felt that after 92 years and after what the corps has meant, there should be a decommissioning ceremony,” said O’Neill. The Bellerophon Drum and Bugle Band, led by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 4 color party, and 150 alumni marched in a parade to the ceremony, which featured the lowering of a naval pennant.

From a report by Steve Henschel on NiagaraThisWeek.com

ALAFFFAs entertain

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WII Ninth Infantry Division Association’s 62nd reunion included the 39th, 47th and 60th Infantry Regiments. The Sons & Daughters Auxiliary and the Ladies Auxiliary provided support and manpower.

Saturday morning, the traditional memorial service began as the bagpiper’s mournful Amazing Grace flooded the room. The Color Guard from the American Legion Matt Urban Post 40, Monroe, Michigan, marched up the aisle.

A moment of silence commanded remembrance of those missing or killed in action during WWII, those who’ve died since the war, and the many veterans too ill to attend. Veterans from state chapters placed a carnation in the Octofoil floral piece on display. In addition, all widows received a flower during the service.

The first generation sings a tribute to ALAFFFA. Seated: the late Joe Figlar; back, left to right: Mike Figlar, Geraldine Figlar Abbott, Helen Figlar Lizanov and Margaret Figlar Augenstein.

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LAFFFA Idol,” produced by Keith Abbott and his son Derik, showed clips of various singing performances from ALAFFFA members over the years, interspersed with comments from the “judges.” Then surviving founding members paid tribute to ALAFFFA with a song Helen Lizanov wrote in honor of the special day to the tune of “Sixteen Candles.”

Forty candles on the birthday cake ALAFFFA is 40 Make no mistake Blow out the candles And make a wish or two ALAFFFA is 40 And here’s a song for you The traditional ALAFFFA “Surf’s Up!” toast followed, with everyone gathered in a circle with a shot of Malibu Rum or other beverage to do the wave and toast ALAFFFA. The ALAFFFA’s meet in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Shared by Lisa Alzo, Ithaca, New York

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he nationally-acclaimed Garfield High School Jazz Band provided live music during the gala of the Class of 1957’s 50th reunion in Seattle, Washington.

Shared by Terry Verde, Seattle, Washington.

Bagpiper Roger William Billings plays Amazing Grace while leading the Color Guard up the aisle to begin the 9th Infantry Division Association memorial service.

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MUSIC

Los Hibaros del Campo perform

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rce Family Reunion members were told that a special group, Los Hibaros del Campo, was coming to sing. The theme of the reunion was Celebrando Nuestra Musica (Celebrating our Music).

After a traditional Puerto Rican feast, organizer Loida Arce Acosta, Orlando, Florida, and others went to a back room, changed and exited the rear of the building. They came back in the front door singing Spanish Christmas songs with traditional instruments and dress.

Unofficial reunion anthem

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o you sing along with the O’Jays’ “Family Reunion” at your reunion? Or have you heard it played at one of many reunion planning workshops to set the atmosphere? There is no small connection between the O’Jays, the song and family reunions.

For at least six years, they headlined the O’Jays Family Reunion as part of a weekend celebration in their hometown, Canton, Ohio, at Nimisila Park on O’Jays Parkway. The weekend included the O’Jays Scholarship Benefit Concert and

the O’Jays Scholarship Fund Banquet at the Pro Football Hall of Fame. They awarded over $50,000 in scholarships.

The O’Jays formed a quintet in 1958, when the members were students at Canton’s McKinley High School. Performing for over 50 years, they’ve been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and received the BET Lifetime Achievement Award. Visit theojayshomepage.com.

From a story by Malcolm X Abram, Beacon Journal, Akron, Ohio.

Spiritual legacy of the Malone Family

T The gospel CD, The Malone Family Choir: A Family Reunion ($15) features Welcome to Our Family Reunion and is the perfect way to set a joyful tone for your family reunion.

he spiritual legacy of the Malone children started when they were exposed to singing and the power of prayer, praise and worship by their parents, the late Aaron and Jossie Malone, in the cotton fields and in Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Crawford, Mississippi. The fourteen children attended church every Sunday and sang in the choir.

The first official family reunion in 1973 was for Aaron and Jossie’s 50th wedding anniversary celebration. The choir was formed ten years later. The Malones are committed to the tradition of gathering each year for a weekend to honor their parents and deceased loved ones in a Sunday evening concert.

Order at www.reunionsmag.com.

Making the The Malone Family Choir: A Family Reunion CD at Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church in Kankakee, Illinois.

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MUSIC

The beat goes on

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he annual Utley Family Reunion always includes a theme, which organizer Jackie Utley, Jackson, Tennessee, announces often a year in advance to get everyone in the mood. “And the Beat Goes On!” was one such theme and, according to Jackie, was great fun for everyone.

Bobby and Sue Bates and their granddaughter, Erika Droomer, decorated the room with tiny

Table decorations carry out the rock ‘n’ roll theme.

The Utley Family Reunion group. Note the wall of 45 RPM records and poodle skirts in the second row.

Organizer Jackie Utley is first person left in the first row.

45 rpm records, and rock ‘n’ roll themed banners and decorations. Teresa Denson brought Elvis trading cards for each table. The theme was carried out by music of 1950s and early 1960s hit songs compiled by Sue Bates, who planned entertainment, including “Name that Tune,” and a Twist Contest.

Music is a reunion tradition

The Temptations promote Birmingham reunions

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enevieve Brechtel, Huachuca City, Arizona, wrote about longtime Bechtel Family Reunion traditions.

“Best of all, there is still singing.

Our reunions would not be complete without music, especially Irish songs or ones our grandparents cherished: My Wild Irish Rose, Grandpapa, Silver Threads Among the Gold or I’ll Take You Home Again, Kathleen. We include a request in our invitation for instruments to accompany the singing.

Reunions are as close as we come to the Good Old Days, when we dropped in for a neighborly visit without prior notice or invitation.”

REUNIONS WORKBOOK 11TH EDITION

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the heart of downtown Birmingham. he Greater Birmingham (Alabama) Kendricks traveled the world but never Convention & Visitors Bureau forgot his Birmingham roots. Sculpted by teamed with the Motown sounds of The Birmingham artist Ronald McDowell, the Temptations to promote reunions. The statue captures the singers’ smooth steps legendary musical group’s recently and flawless moves. Some of the released CD titled Still Here includes a Temptations’ hits include “My Girl,” song called “Going Back Home.”

“Since I Lost My Baby,” and “The Way Former lead singer, the late Eddie You Do the Things You Do.” You can Kendricks, and current lead singer, Terry hear a sample of the radio spot at Weeks, are both Birmingham natives. birmingham.travel.

CVB President James H. Smither said, “The lyrics of the song fit our needs very well, and we like having a famous Birmingham son as our spokesman.”

The 60-second radio spots feature voiceover by The Temptations’ Terry Weeks, who sings the praises of Birmingham attractions, dining and entertainment for reunion groups.

Another Birmingham connection to The Temptations and an The Eddie Kendrick Memorial Park in downtown Birmingham attraction for reunions to visit is the is a tribute to Birmingham-born Kendricks and the legendary Eddie Kendrick Memorial Park in group The Temptations.

MILITARY REUNION NEWS

USS Nevada gathers in Nevada

War Brides reunion

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n March, 1942, then-Nevada Governor E.P. Carville promised the crew of the newly refurbished battleship USS Nevada, on its way to the North Atlantic, a silver dollar, a cigar and a handshake. The crewmen received their silver dollars aboard their ship in 1944.

After 68 years, the State of Nevada made good on the rest of the promise at the State Capitol in Carson City. More than 2,500 crew served during World War II but just 20 who served were given a cigar, a handshake, and a commemorative coin struck on their reunion day at the old Carson City Mint, along with the continued gratitude of the state for which their ship was named. They were honored at Harrah’s Reno at a dinner hosted by the Reno Council of the Navy League.

Shipmates and family members toured the Nevada State Museum to see artifacts from the battleship, including its silver service, battle flag, bell, and the magnesium chest in which the silver dollars were delivered to the shipmates in 1944.

Family members attended an event for shipmates who had passed away or who could not attend for health reasons. Laura Hefner and her 13-year-old son, John, of Fallston, Maryland, attended on behalf of her father, Charles Benson, who served on the ship from 1942 to 1945. He recently suffered a broken hip and was unable to attend.

From a story by Guy Chifton in the Reno Gazette-Journal, Reno, Nevada.

ar Brides are foreign-born women who married GIs during or right after World War II. It is estimated that more than 500,000 WWII War Brides eventually came to the US, settled in every state and raised their families. The group at last year’s reunion represented 24 nations, cultures and languages.

Their annual reunion is held in a different part of the country each year.

They tell stories about how they met their husbands, and the emotional impact of leaving their family, country, and culture behind to start a new life in America. Many were not welcomed, but many more had great experiences and found in-laws and extended families with open arms and hearts for these young brides who left everything behind.

From a story by Ashley Yarchin on KSDK, St. Louis, Missouri.

Alliance for Military Reunions

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recently joined one of the members-only seminars of the Alliance in the Boston area at the Holiday Inn-Rockland-Boston South (holidayinn.com/bostonsouth; Moriah Saccardo, 508-648-7889) in Rockland, Massachusetts. A shout out to all the military reunion planners who welcomed me and shared generously. Enjoyed meeting all of you!

WWI survivor calls for remembrance

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Exchanging ideas in the Town Hall Meeting at the Alliance of Military Reunions.

Alliance events emphasize information and training about the management of reunions and reunion associations. Workshop sessions included experts in specific planning areas who also moderated lively exchanges with attendee planners who were, for the most part, experienced and full of ideas and suggestions. A Town Hall Meeting format further encouraged sharing and comparing while roundtable discussions with area vendors and suppliers and the Plymouth County CVB (visitplymouth.com; Paula Fisher, 800-231-1620, Paula.Fisher@SeePlymouth.com) gave attendees plenty of incentive to plan their reunions in the area.

The seminar offered a tour of history and highlights in the Boston area, with stops in Boston at Quincy Market, USS Constitution in Charlestown Navy Yard, and the Kennedy Presidential Library. The tour bus with a step-on guide by Tour Trends (tourtrends.com; Edward Sturrup, 800-918-8687) was a great example of how you can enjoy a reunion in a relatively less expensive area and still take advantage of historic Boston to the north. Oh, yes, and Cape Cod is to the south!

Visit allmilitaryreunions.org/.

n Veterans Day, Frank W. Buckles, America’s last surviving World War I veteran and honorary chairman of the national World War I Memorial Foundation, issued a Veterans Day statement.

Our nation cannot yet declare closure because we still do not have a national memorial in Washington, DC, to honor the Americans who sacrificed their lives. Buckles said, “I call upon the American people to ask our elected officials to pass the law for a memorial to World War I in our nation’s capital. …

On this 92nd anniversary of the Armistice, it is time to move forward with honor, gratitude and resolve.”

The nonprofit World War I Memorial Foundation (www.WWImemorial.org) is dedicated to the restoration and rededication of the District of Columbia War Memorial – that commemorates the 499 District of Columbia residents who gave their lives in World War I – as a National and District of Columbia World War I Memorial that commemorates the ultimate sacrifice made by more than 116,000 Americans during the Great War.

About the reporter Edith Wagner is editor of Reunions magazine.

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MILITARY REUNION NEWS

Lunch reunions

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l and Terry Hahn organize the USS IREX SS-482 reunion, and they feel it’s the Reunion Planner’s responsibility to give the membership an opportunity to gather together to share their military experiences. However, they’ve discovered that a reunion does not have to last three to seven days: it can be a lunch reunion instead. Al and Terry shared their plan for holding lunch reunions.

KNOW YOUR GROUP

If you know your members – their locations, desires and limitations – you will know whether a lunch reunion is suitable for your group. A lunch reunion can be offered to all members or to a subset of members located in a specific region.

DETERMINE LOCATION

A lunch reunion location is determined by the number of members residing in a particular state or cluster of states. For example, a lunch held in Connecticut includes members from Massachusetts, Vermont, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Maine and New York.

A lunch reunion can be held at a restaurant, country club, American Legion hall – wherever there is a meeting room large enough to hold the group. Doors or adequate space must isolate the group from other patrons to keep the immediate reunion environment relatively noise-free so that reunion attendees can hear one another. The site must be large enough so that everyone can be comfortably seated and can circulate easily.

Another important element is the willingness of the lunch facility to provide separate checks so that each member can pay for his/her own meal and tip. (The benefit for this is that it eliminates or minimizes the planner’s responsibilities for handling payments and tips for the wait staff.)

If separate checks cannot be provided, make other arrangements or find another place to hold the lunch.

CONTRACT

The facility will decide whether a contract is needed.

Duration Time frame for a room and lunch is usually 11:30 AM to 4 PM. Suggested possible agenda 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM Reception 12:00 (Noon)-12:15 PM Lunch orders taken by wait staff 12:15-12:30 PM Welcome 12:30-1:00 PM Introductions Everyone tells when they served and shares stories, one at a time, for the benefit of the whole group.

1:00 PM Short business meeting A Blessing said by one of the members 1:15 PM-2:15 PM Lunch is served. Enjoy the food.

2:15-3:15 PM Camaraderie 3:15 PM Door prizes

The group at an early IREX lunch.

OBTAINING SITE INFORMATION

EXPERIENCE

The Reunion Planner or a representative must visit restaurants or potential venues to review menus and determine whether the meeting room fits the group’s needs. Talk with the manager to arrange the date and other details. Will members order from the menu or have a pre-arranged meal? Separate checks or alternative payment? Will members order drinks from the waitress or the bar?

Or look for a place which allows you to bring in food (sandwiches, grinders, pizza). It is less formal, but can still be a meaningful lunch reunion spot. For this arrangement, the planner collects for the cost of food and the site rental.

Check sites early enough to book your desired date, notify members in advance, and send and receive registration forms.

The USS IREX SS-482 database of 300+ members indicates that more than 60 live throughout Connecticut and New England, and 35 to 40 members live in Florida.

The IREX group meets for reunion lunches usually twice a year and at a three to four day reunion every three years.

Lunch reunions are held at a restaurant or country club in the Orlando area every March and at the Submarine Veterans, Inc. Club (also known as the Joe Negri Club, 40 School Street, Groton, Connecticut) each October. Shipmates live throughout Florida so Orlando is a central location.

The group holds two types of lunch reunions. At restaurants, individuals order off the menu and pay for their own meal including tip. Or they meet at the SubVets Club where lunch is brought in and attendees pay a fee. The Florida group has met at the Olive Garden in Kissimmee, where a large meeting room that holds up to 40 can be closed off. People order off the menu and pay separate checks.

If we attend the Submarine Veterans, Inc., conventions every one or two years, we host a lunch for the IREX at that time as well.

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About the reunion planners Al and Terry Hahn of Granby, Connecticut, organize the USS IREX SS-482.

Reunion of WWII death camp survivors and their liberators

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unskirchen concentration camp in northern Austria was a death camp. When Allied troops were advancing, Nazi soldiers fled Gunskirchen, closing off the camp behind them.

The US Army’s 71st Infantry Division arrived just in time.

For 25 years, 71st Infantry Division soldiers and their families held annual reunions. Eight years ago, Gunskirchen survivor Wolf Finkelman contacted the division, asking if he and other concentration camp survivors could join them; they’ve joined their liberators’ reunions ever since.

Army training hadn’t prepared the soldiers for what they saw. Now, 65 years later, the soldiers aren’t ashamed to cry about what they witnessed.

“The thing I remember more than anything else is that we This pamphlet was produced were just struck silent. We couldn’t speak to each other. by the U.S. Army after the 71st liberated Gunskirchen Lager, a Nobody knew what to say,” said one of the soldiers. Our concentration camp in Austria, resolve to win the war increased tenfold.” just days before VE day.

Dr. Robert Fisch, Minneapolis, Minnesota, a Gunskirchen survivor from Hungary, spends time speaking to young people about the Holocaust. The prisoners who died would have wanted us to spread a message of compassion, friendship and love.

The soldiers and survivors are all in their 80s and 90s now, and last year’s reunion could be their last.

From a story by Sean Dobbin on RocNow, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle, Rochester, New York.

Connect direct to reunion places!

Reunion Resources at www.reunionsmag.com

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CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES

Welcome to Reunion Resources!

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 editor@reunionsmag.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 GREAT WOLF LODGE Indoor Waterpark Resorts, featuring an 84-degree indoor waterpark, spacious, cabin-themed family suites, fullservice spa, restaurants, meeting space, gift shop, fitness center and children’s activities. Amenities vary by property. For more information, visit greatwolf.com or call 1-800-905-WOLF(9653). For group bookings, contact groupsales@greatwolf.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

ALABAMA GREATER BIRMINGHAM CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 2200 Ninth Avenue North, Birmingham AL 35203.

Birmingham is becoming one of the most celebrated reunion cities in the southeast. There are lots of details to see to – good planning is hard work. The Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau is here to help.

For more information regarding reunion services, please contact the Convention Bureau at 205-458-8000 or 800458-8085; fax 205-458-8086; twalton@birminghamal.org; www.birminghamal.org. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

ARIZONA LEGACY GOLF RESORT 6808 South 32nd Street, Phoenix, AZ 85042 Phone 602305-6312, Fax 602-305-6301. We are a perfect fit for any Reunion! Family reunions, class get-togethers, girls weekend, guys golf and military retreats. Don’t worry, we’ve got plenty of activities for everyone; golf, spa services, sand volleyball, shuffleboard, or just relaxing poolside. Our Studio suites and one bedroom condos have plenty of space for family lodging and socializing; With either a kitchenette or full kitchen, our suites will make you and your guests feel at home and make any reunion a success. Email: Michelle Mombleau, mmombleau@shellvacationsllc.com; www.legacygolfresort.com.

ARKANSAS THE LODGE AT MOUNT MAGAZINE STATE PARK Reconnect with family or friends at this mountain resort lodge while you enjoy the view from Arkansas’s highpoint.

Guest rooms and cabins. Conference and meeting rooms.

Indoor pool, plenty of outdoor activities and nature programs. Make this reunion one to remember. Call 1-877665-6343 for group rates or log on to MountMagazineStatePark.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

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CALIFORNIA ANAHEIM PORTOFINO INN & SUITES 1831 South Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92802; 866-5472913 Looking for a seamless reunion packed full of laughter and memories at an affordable rate? Let the knowledgeable experts at Anaheim Portofino Inn & Suites, located across from Disneyland, create a magical reunion package for you including discount Disneyland tickets and spacious, comfortable accommodations. www.portofinoinnanaheim.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! PALM COURT INN 1983 North Palm Court Drive, Palm Springs CA 92262: 800-667-7918. Convenient location with 108 newly renovated rooms, free continental breakfast, free parking, free WiFi and expansive banquet and hospitality rooms spread throughout four acres of lush gardens, make Palm Court Inn a great spot for your reunion! Call now for great packages. www.palmcourt-inn.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! PALM SPRINGS VISITOR CENTER Palm Springs, California guarantees blue skies and sunshine for your reunion. A collection of new hotels, boutique inns, and vacation home and condo rentals are available to host large and small groups. Visitors the world over are lured to Palm Springs for its storied Hollywood legacy, Native American heritage and stellar collection of mid-century modern architecture. Palm Springs is less than 2 hours from Los Angeles or San Diego. The Palm Springs International Airport offers direct flights from major cities all across the U.S. and Canada. Palm Springs. Like no place else. 2901 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs CA 92262. 800-347-7446 www.VisitPalmSprings.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! HOLIDAY INN SAN DIEGO BAYSIDE 4875 N Harbor Drive, San Diego CA 92106; 619-2243621; 800-650-6660; fax 619-224-1787. 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 very special event. Complimentary 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@holinnbayside.com; www.holinnbayside.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! RAMADA PLAZA HOTEL SAN DIEGO 2151 Hotel Circle South, San Diego CA 92108; 866-4362833. You can go wild in San Diego and still save money!

Featuring 182 guestrooms with tons of FREE amenities including daily hot breakfast buffet, parking and WiFi, Ramada Plaza also offers discount Zoo and SeaWorld tickets, tour planning assistance and more, and is located just five minutes from San Diego’s best attractions! www.ramadaplazasandiego.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! NORTHSTAR-AT-TAHOE RESORT Nestled in the mountains and minutes to North Lake Tahoe, families can enjoy a multitude of on-site activities which makes staying and playing at Northstar affordable, easy and fun for the whole family. On-site activities include golf, biking, hiking, and skating as well as events, dining, and shopping in the Village at Northstar. The resort offers a variety of lodging accommodations, starting at $105 per night. All-inclusive family reunion packages make planning effortless; starting at $249 per person including two nights lodging, meals, and activities. 800-926-5096, reunions@northstarattahoe.com, www.NorthstarAtTahoe.com

THE LAZY Z RESORT Located on 40 acres in California’s Gold Country. First class Cabins with Clubhouse meeting space, natural designed pool and outdoor hot tub. Our 12 Cabins sleep from two to six people. Perfect for Family Reunions, Business Retreats, Weddings and vacations too! We look forward to having you join us and share with you this very special place! 22732 Middle Camp Rd., Twain Harte, CA 95383, (800) 585-1238, www.LazyZ.com, info@LazyZ.com.

COLORADO THE NATURE PLACE CONFERENCE & EDUCATION CENTER 6,000 acres of private land in the mountains of Colorado, 1 hour from Colorado Springs. We specialize in hosting extraordinary family reunions. Designed to bring families of all ages and interests together in fun and unique ways. 48 studio apartments/occupancy for 130. Contact us 719-7483475 / office@thenatureplace.net or Visit www.thenatureplace.net ZAPATA RANCH – A NATURE CONSERVANCY PRESERVE Zapata Ranch, often called the Rocky Mountain Serengeti, is a 103,000 acre working ranch bordering Sand Dunes National Park and Sangre de Cristo mountains. Only 15 bedrooms, makes your experience intimate and easily customized around real ranch life, riding/photo safaris in the sand dunes, nature hikes up into 14,000-foot mountain peaks, fly fishing and rafting. Come see 2,500 wild bison in a 50,000 acre preserve! 888-5-ZAPATA; San Luis Valley, Colorado; www.zranch.org SNOWMASS TOURISM Looking to plan the perfect reunion? Snowmass Tourism makes it easy. From a personalized package on our website to customized evites to your event, to one-stop booking for lodging, meals, and activities, our experts have the answers to all your questions. Best of all, our services are absolutely free. Give us a call today, and we’ll help you plan the perfect affordable getaway. Contact Karla Baker P.O. Box 5566, Snowmass Village, Colorado 81615: 970923-2000; 800-598-2009; fax 970-923-5466; www.snowmassgroups.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

FLORIDA AWARD VACATION HOMES “Why stay in a hotel?” over 150 new luxury vacation homes just minutes to Disney. Offering 3 to 6 bedroom private pool homes, many with spas, game rooms, lake views, multiple master suites, and many character themed rooms for the kids. All of our homes are centrally located many next to each other and back to back for families to stay together in comfort for less than the cost of area hotels.

Every home is fully equipped with all major and most small appliances. Our homes are available to view online at www.awardpoolhomes.com or call 1-800-338-0835; 1536 Sunrise Plaza Drive, Suite 100, Clermont, FL 34714.

SHERATON FORT LAUDERDALE BEACH HOTEL After a multimillion-dollar renovation, this beachfront hotel is reclaiming its place as one of Florida’s most cherished destinations. The newly transformed Sheraton offers stylish surroundings, upscale amenities, state-of-theart technology, 485 inviting guestrooms and convenient access to an array of dining, shopping and entertainment options. 1140 Seabreeze Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316; 888-627-7109; sheraton.com/fortlauderdalebeach. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES KISSIMMEE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 1925 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, Kissimmee FL 34744.

In Kissimmee, the Heart of Florida, next to Orlando and close to everything, reunions are our specialty. We offer planning assistance to reunions of all sizes and budgets.

Let us help you make planning your next reunion easy. Call or email for details about Kissimmee’s reunion venues and services. 407-742-8254; meet@floridakiss.com; www.MeetInKissimmee.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! STAR ISLAND RESORT & CLUB 5000 Avenue of the Stars, Kissimmee FL 34746. Located just 4 miles to Disney, our Mediterranean styled Resort & Spa offers spacious mini suites, 1,2 & 3 bedroom Villas with kitchenette, full kitchens with all the comforts of home. Enjoy tennis, basketball, pools & putting green, Jet Ski & paddleboat rentals, children’s activities, BBQ grills, group meals & more. Group rates for 5 or more units.

When making reservations use the code RM1. Call 800513-2820, or reservations@star-island.com, www.star-island.com BUENA VISTA SUITES 8203 World Center Drive Orlando, Florida 32821 800537-7737. An all-suite hotel offering free full American breakfast buffet, free parking, and free scheduled shuttle to the Walt Disney World® Resort and nightly shuttle to Downtown Disney®, just 1.5 miles away. Visit www.thecaribeorlando.com/buena-vista-suites/ SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! CIRCLE F DUDE RANCH CAMP Located on 500 acres south of Orlando, Florida, Circle F offers reunions clean, rustic accommodations plus many activities, including swimming, sailing, canoeing, horseback riding, paintball, a softball field, soccer field, volleyball court, tennis courts, basketball court, rockwall climbing and ziplines, some of which have to be arranged in advance. It’s the perfect place for all your groups; 1-863-676-4113; www.circlefduderanchcamp.com COCO KEY HOTEL & WATER RESORT – ORLANDO 7400 International Drive, Orlando FL 32819 Family-friendly resort features a 54,000 sq. ft. canopycovered and outdoor water park. With 14 water slides, 4 pools, and a 6,500 sq. ft. Arcade there is something for everyone. Located on International Drive , this AAA 3 diamond property is near all of Orlando’s major attractions.

Newly renovated rooms feature modern décor furniture, and a variety of amenities. Connecting rooms are also available for larger families. On-site dining includes TradeWinds restaurant, Callaloo Grill, and Pizza Hut Express. For groups of 10 or more, special reunion menus are available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For more information, please call 407-351-2626 or email info@cocokeyorlando.com. Visit cocokeywaterresort.com.

SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! 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 everyone. 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. 321-3294024; fax 321-329-4001; groupsales@floridaysorlando.com; www.FloridaysResortOrlando.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! TRADEWINDS ISLAND RESORTS 5500 Gulf Blvd. St. Pete Beach FL 33706. Located on the white sand beach of Florida’s west coast, TradeWinds offers a wide variety of delectable dining options and flexible function space. Just 30 minutes from the airport, your group will enjoy an array of activities and entertainment far surpassing their expectations. Our award-winning staff ensures a successful and fun reunion for all. 727-363-2215 or 800-345-6461; fax 727-363-2221; DProbst@twresort.com; www.tradewindsresort.com/tampa-reunion-hotel.aspx VISIT TALLAHASSEE Situated in the Florida Panhandle, Tallahassee draws families and friends to come together with natural fun – cycling, paddling and fishing – spacious parks, and a wide variety of cultural and historical sites. From securing accommodations and transportation to providing catering options and itinerary building, Visit Tallahassee proudly provides assistance to reunion planners. Contact Lorrie Allen at (800) 628-2866. www.VisitTallahassee.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

GEORGIA CROWNE PLAZA ATLANTA PERIMETER at RAVINIA 4355 Ashford Dunwoody Rd, Atlanta, GA 30346 Located in Central Perimeter area nestled on a 45 acre park, with waterfalls, terraced gardens, facilities for gatherings of 10 to 1,000. 495 guestrooms, 33 spacious suites. Featuring a three story greenhouse atrium lobby, fitness center, indoor pool with sundeck. Across from the Perimeter Mall. Free shuttle to area restaurants, parks and MARTA station for downtown attractions. Visit www.cpravinia.com or call 770-395-7700. Mention this listing for 10 % off reunion banquet pricing. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! EMBASSY SUITES ATLANTA PERIMETER CENTER 1030 Crown Pointe Pkwy, Atlanta GA 30338. 770-394-5454.

All suite, upscale, renovated hotel located in beautiful Dunwoody, just steps away from Perimeter Mall, Perimeter Shoppes and more than 30 area restaurants/dining facilities.

Hotel features complimentary amenities such as: cookedto-order breakfast, Manager’s Reception, area shuttle, parking deck, indoor pool/sun deck, Precor fitness center and business center. Hotel offers an onsite restaurant with Starbucks café, meeting space and wireless internet throughout. Flat screen TV’s in all suites. Easy access to downtown via MARTA. Hilton Family Hotels. Book us at www.atlantaperimetercenter.embassysuites.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! ATLANTA MARRIOTT PERIMETER CENTER 246 Perimeter Center Parkway NE, Atlanta, GA 30346.

The Hotel is located adjacent to Perimeter Mall and the Dunwoody MARTA station offering easy access to all city attractions. Amenities include onsite restaurant and lounge, room service, indoor/outdoor swimming pool, meeting and banquet space for up to 350 people and complimentary hotel shuttle within a 2 mile radius. Ask about our special reunions packages. Call 770 394-6500 or visit www.atlantamarriottperimeter.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! STAYBRIDGE SUITES PERIMETER CENTER EAST 4601 Ridgeview Road, Atlanta-Dunwoody GA 30338.

Staybridge Suites is an All-Suite Hotel and offers a premier location in the Dunwoody – Perimeter Area within walking distance to some of the best Restaurants and Shops Atlanta has to offer. Minutes away from attractions like Stone Mountain, Six Flags, Zoo Atlanta, Hartsfield Airport and the Georgia Dome. Fantastic amenities like Free Full Breakfast, Free Shuttle within a 3-Mile Radius, Free Internet, Free On-Site Fitness Center and Guest Laundry! 678-320-0111; Fax: 678-320-0250; Reservations: dos.atlpr@wm.staybridge.com; Website: www.staybridge.com/atlanta-pr. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! W ATLANTA PERIMETER 111 Perimeter Center West, Atlanta GA 30346. Find sanctuary in 121 deluxe guest rooms and 154 fantastic suites complete with the W Signature Bed, Bliss™ Sinkside Six amenities and balconies in all rooms. Suites feature a full kitchen. Free shuttle service within a 3-mile radius, which includes Perimeter Mall and MARTA stations. Banquet spaces with full catering available. For reservations, call 770-396-6800; fax 770-394-4805; GMWAtlantaPerimeter@whotels.com; www.whotels.com/atlantaperimeter. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! DOUGLASVILLE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU With a great location near Atlanta and over 1,800 hotel rooms why not choose Douglasville, Georgia! For details on complimentary services, including welcome bags and name badges, contact the Douglasville CVB today and let us help plan your next reunion. For more information call us at 1-800-661-0013 or email us at milesr@ci.douglasville.ga.us. www.visitdouglasville.com CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU OF DUNWOODY, GA Just 10 minutes outside Atlanta in DeKalb County, Dunwoody is the best location for your next reunion.

Minutes away from Stone Mountain Park, Georgia Aquarium, the MLK Center and more! Home to five excellent hotels with tons of meeting space and all within walking distance to Perimeter Mall and shuttle services to MARTA! Call today to plan your reunion – 678-244-9800 or visit www.discoverdunwoody.com! SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! COMFORT SUITE HISTORIC DISTRICT 630 West Bay Street, Savannah GA 31401; 912-629-2001; fax 912-629-2002; sales@savannahcomfortsuites.com; meetsavannah.com/promo9. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

ILLINOIS RECONNECT IN LAKE COUNTY Located halfway between Chicago 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!

IOWA WATERLOO CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 500 Jefferson Street, Waterloo, IA 50701. New Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum, Historic Veterans Memorial, Isle Casino & Hotel Waterloo. Meeting facilities to 2,000 people. Family attractions – Lost Island Water Park, Phelps Youth Pavilion, and Bluedorn Science Imaginarium. 800-728-8431; fax 319-233-2733; Lonnie@TravelWaterloo.com; www.TravelWaterloo.com.

MARYLAND SHERATON BALTIMORE NORTH 903 Dulaney Valley Road, Towson, MD 21204; 410-3217400;fax 410-823-9042. Close to Towson University and Goucher College, minutes from Downtown Baltimore. Rain 903 Restaurant and Lounge, Indoor Pool and 24 hour fitness area. 22,000 sq ft off flexible meeting space.

Contact sales at info@sheratonbaltimorenorth.com or visit www.sheraton.com/baltimore.

MICHIGAN THE BENZIE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU Located along Michigan’s northwest coast of the Lower Peninsula, the gateway to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Park and serenely positioned on Lake Michigan’s astounding shoreline, Benzie County is an optimal location for your reunion, wedding, meeting or gathering. Facilities to fit nearly every need from world class resorts to private homes and cottages on our pristine lakes and rivers. www.visitbenzie.com or call 800-882-5801 DETROIT METRO CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Thinking of meeting in Detroit? We offer great services such as tracing your family history, securing permits for area parks, searching for hotel accommodations and much more. Detroit is home to great family fun attractions including The Henry Ford, America’s greatest history attraction, the Detroit Zoo, fine museums and numerous festivals and events. For More information contact the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau at reunions@visitdetroit.com or call 1-313-202-1985, www.visitdetroit.com.

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) indoor facilities to ensure you a “weather-proof” reunion, 5) private gathering areas, 6) special celebration meals, 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.

MISSISSIPPI ATTRACTIONS & ENTERTAINMENT The B.B. King Museum & Delta Interpretive Center 400 2nd St., Indianola, MS 38751. The Museum’s restored 1920’s cotton gin is perfect for reunions & includes a projection screen ideal for meetings. The all-Viking kitchen makes catering easy! Exhibits include rare artifacts, award-winning films, interactives, & a story that is unforgettable. Group rates available. 662-887-9539. www.bbkingmuseum.org.

MISSOURI PULASKI COUNTY TOURISM BUREAU 137 St. Robert Blvd. St. Robert MO 65584. Centrally located between Branson and St. Louis, Missouri on I-44.

Enjoy the Museums at Fort Leonard Wood or family activities on the Gasconade and Big Piney Rivers. Trail of Tears, Historic Route 66, Fairs, Festivals, Antiques, and more. Over 1,500 sleeping rooms and 70 restaurants including the Cave Restaurant, dining in a real cave. Call toll-free 1-877-858-8687 or visit www.ReunionsAtFtWood.org for additional information.

SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! F E B R UA R Y / M A R C H / A P R I L 2011 O R E U N I O N S 49

CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES NEVADA GOLD COAST HOTEL & CASINO Located just minutes west of the Las Vegas Strip, directly across from The Rio and The Palms. This friendly resort personifies all that is best about Las Vegas and features 712 rooms and suites, 30,000 square feet of conference space, full-service casino, five restaurants, showroom/lounge, 70-lane bowling center, race/sports book, a poolside fitness center, and shuttle service to the heart of The Strip. 4000 W Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89103; 702-251-3560; 800-331-5334 x 400; www.goldcoastcasino.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! SAM’S TOWN HOTEL & GAMBLING HALL 5111 Boulder Highway, Las Vegas NV 89122. Sam’s Town boasts 646 elegantly appointed rooms and suites which surround the Mystic Fall Indoor Park. This popular hotel and casino has over 2,700 slot and video poker machines as well as 40 table games. In addition, Sam’s Town has 30,000 square feet of meeting space, multiple restaurants, food court, 18 movie theatres, RV Park, Bowling Center and much more!!! Sam’s Town offers a courtesy shuttle to the Strip and Downtown. 702-454-8120; www.samstownlv.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! SUNCOAST HOTEL & CASINO 9090 Alta Drive, Las Vegas NV 89145. Suncoast is an elegant gaming resort located on the picturesque western edge of the Las Vegas Valley. The stylish 400-room hotel is near three championship golf courses and has free shuttle bus service to and from McCarran International Airport.

Among the Suncoast attractions are 25,000 square feet of convention space, nine restaurants, a 64-lane bowling center, a 16-screen movie complex, a pool and a 500-seat showroom. 702-636-7050; www.suncoastcasino.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! THE ORLEANS HOTEL AND CASINO blends the glamour and excitement of Las Vegas with the festive flavor of New Orleans. The 88-acre full-service resort has 1,886 rooms and suites, 40,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit space, 12 exceptional restaurants and an oasis-like swimming pool. Attractions also include a spa and fitness center, a 70-lane bowling center, an 18-screen movie complex, a 900-seat showroom and 9,000-seat arena. 4500 W Tropicana Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89103; 702-365-7050; 888-365-7111 X 7050; www.orleanscasino.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! 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 allnew Spa Atlantis to our eight award-winning 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 775-8251170, www.AtlantisCasino.com.

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 800-894-3588 or visit circusreno.com for more information. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! GRAND SIERRA RESORT AND CASINO is just five short minutes from the Reno/Tahoe International Airport and just 45 minutes from majestic Lake Tahoe. With 2,000 rooms and suites, a full service casino, 10 distinct restaurants, an 1,800-seat theater with headlining entertainment, branded retail shops, a cinema, a 50-lane championship bowling center, outdoor thrill rides, aqua golf driving range, and Fun Quest Family Fun Center, you’ll never run out of fun and exciting things to do. 2500 E. Second St., Reno, NV, 89595 – 866.473.6672 – www.grandsierraresort.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

NEW JERSEY MURRAY GROVE RETREAT AND CONFERENCE CENTER The perfect place to get back to the simple things in life for your Family Reunion!

Murray Grove is a private non-profit organization in Ocean County, NJ. A purposely simple, relaxing oasis on 20 acres located 90 minutes from both Philadelphia and NYC, 60 minutes from Atlantic City, 25 miles from beautiful beaches. Ideal for Family Reunions, open year round, with comfortable and affordable accommodations for as many as 50 R E U N I O N S O reunionsmag.com

50, meeting space, large kitchen, dining room, living room with fireplace, labyrinth, fire pit, playground, athletic fields, outdoor pool. Visit murraygrove.org or call 609-693-5558.

NORTH CAROLINA RUMBLING BALD RESORT “Remember When” starts at Rumbling Bald Resort on Lake Lure. Host your reunion at a picturesque Blue Ridge Mountain resort in Lake Lure, NC. At Rumbling Bald Resort you will find a variety of affordable lodging options along with activities for your entire family. Play golf, visit the spa, enjoy swimming pools, lighted tennis courts, recreational activities, boat rentals and narrated lake cruises. Make your reservations now and the memories are yours to keep. 112 Mountains Blvd. Lake Lure, NC 28746; 877-628-6730; fax: 828-625-9229; Reservations@RumblingBald.com; www.RumblingBald.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! HAMPTON INN NEW BERN 200 Hotel Drive, New Bern NC 28562. Your family is our family! The Hampton Inn New Bern offers complimentary “On the House” hot breakfast, free high-speed wireless internet, 32" flat screen TVs, microwaves and refrigerators in every room and a fitness room. We also have a great outdoor pool with a hot tub! Call/email for information: (252) 637-2111 / hinbsales@1stcarolina.net or visit our website at www.newbern.hamptoninn.com WILMINGTON/CAPE FEAR COAST CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Looking for an interesting destination? Then head to Wilmington & NC’s Cape Fear Coast. You can let us know what kind of adventure you have in mind, or we can suggest some themes that’ll please the most persnickety travelers. We’ll even create a customized itinerary matched to your exact specifications so that your guests will gladly follow you anywhere. Call 866-207-1969 or visit www.VisitNCVacations.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

NORTH DAKOTA BISMARCK-MANDAN, NORTH DAKOTA. BETTER THAN EVER. Tucked in the scenic Missouri River Valley, BismarckMandan will set the stage for a most memorable reunion.

As one of the most affordable, cleanest and safest destinations in the country, your family will thank you when you bring them along on this memorable trip. discoverbismarckmandan.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

SOUTH CAROLINA SEA MIST OCEANFRONT RESORT – MYRTLE BEACH SC 1200 South Ocean Blvd., 29577. REUNIONS MADE EASY! Specializing in reunions from military 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 versatile meeting space and much more! 800-200-8687; groupsales@seamist.com; www.seamist.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

TENNESSEE CHATTANOOGA AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU We are ready to host your next family or military reunion.

Our Staff works closely with the hotels, attractions, tour companies and you to provide exactly what you need to have a great reunion. Contact Christina Petro at 800-9648600 ext. 3017 or by e-mail at chrisp@chattanoogacvb.com for free help planning your next reunion! www.chattanoogafun.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! CABINS IN THE SMOKIES Timber Tops offers luxury cabins and resort facilities to accommodate large groups. These incredible cabins can include big screen TV’s, game rooms with pool tables, hot tubs, gorgeous mountain views, and close proximity to all the fun attractions in Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge, TN and the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

1-800-266-1066; hcaldwell@timbertops.net; www.yoursmokymountainreunion.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! PIGEON FORGE, TENNESSEE We’re a gold mine for reunions. Need attractions? Try Dollywood, Titanic Pigeon Forge, Zorb and the actionpacked Parkway. Want nature? Great Smoky Mountains National Park is next-door. Want entertainment? More than a dozen theaters await you. Hungry? We’ll feed you well.

Details: 1-800-285-7557 or visit pigeonforgereunion.com.

SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

TEXAS PLANO CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano TX 75074 Plano’s location, 20 miles from Dallas, gives us access to North Texas’ Biggest Playground. Accessible via D/FW Airport or Dallas Love Field, or major highways, Plano’s the Place! Love History, and things Typically Texas? And things not typically Texas? How ’bout sports, shopping, dining? You’ll run out of time before you run out of things to do here. 800-81PLANO: fax 972-424-0002; kays@plano.gov: www.planocvb. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! INN ON THE RIVERWALK We’ve hosted dozens of happy reunions. Whether family, high school or ladies get-togethers, our 13 river view rooms will create an intimate and memorable experience. The Inn on the Riverwalk is an award winning bed and breakfast situated on the banks of the famous Riverwalk downtown San Antonio, Texas. 10% discount when you reserve 5 rooms or more. 129 Woodward, San Antonio TX 78204, 210-225-6333, fax: 210-271-3992, Johanna@innontheriverwalk.com, Innontheriverwalksa.com

UTAH PARK CITY LODGING (formerly R&R Properties) is located in the beautiful mountains of Park City, Utah. Enjoy properties 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, you’ll experience Mountain Resort Living, award-winning 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!

VIRGINIA CHESAPEAKE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 860 Greenbrier Circle, Suite 101 Chesapeake, VA 23320.

Can you hear it? That voice inside, beckoning you to get together. Reconnect with friends, families and memories.

The refuge, the waterways, the beach – so close you can enjoy them all. For more information on planning a family or military reunion in Chesapeake, VA, call 888.889.5551 or go to www.visitchesapeake.com.

VISIT FAIRFAX / FAIRFAX COUNTY, VIRGINIA. Enjoy everything that Northern Virginia has to offer. From the monuments and memorials of nearby Washington, DC to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center to George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens, Fairfax County is an ideal location for your military or family reunion. Call us at 703-790-0643 or visit our website today at www.fxva.com.

SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! VisitNorfolk 232 East Main Street, Norfolk VA 23510. Norfolk’s beautifully revitalized waterfront, rich military heritage, walkable downtown and central Mid Atlantic location make it the ideal destination for your next reunion. Home to such attractions as the Battleship Wisconsin, MacArthur Memorial, Hampton Roads Naval Museum and the world’s largest naval base. See why American Heritage named Norfolk “A Great American Place.” Offering over 5,000 committable hotel rooms in various price ranges. Call 800368-3097; dallen@norfolkcvb.com; www.visitnorfolktoday.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD! CROWNE PLAZA RICHMOND WEST Our premiere location includes 282 guest rooms and over 10,000 square feet of banquet space for large or small reunions. Perfectly set between downtown Richmond and the city’s west end, we are less than 10 minutes to Richmond’s science and historic museums, fashionable shopping centers, renowned outdoor gardens and downtown nightlife. Our features include a full service restaurant, indoor pool and complimentary parking. Visit us at crowneplaza.com/richmondva or call 804-285-9951.

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F E B R UA R Y / M A R C H / A P R I L 2011 O R E U N I O N S

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CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES REUNION PLANNERS

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REUNION MANAGERS (NARM) PO Box 335428; North Las Vegas NV 89033 narm@reunions.com; www.reunions.com.

All of the following can be purchased at www.reunionsmag.com/shopping or by calling 1-800-373-7933, ext.4

BOOKS Family Reunion by Mary Quattlebaum, Illustrated by Andrea Shine. Thoughtful and fun, this book gives glimpses of family togetherness and tradition through various poetic forms, including free verse, a sonnet, haiku, a ballad and more. $16 + 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. 2106 Coy St., Burlington, NC. (336) 584-1442.

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 forever through print, photos, sound and video by Gordon Burgett Communications Unlimited, 2008, 174 pp. $17.95 + s/h or $15.95 digital.

The Pick A Party book set by Patty Sachs, partyplanning expert Book #1: Pick a Party, The Big Book of Party Themes and Occasion 100 theme party plans for holidays, milestone occasions and special events.

Book #2 Pick-A-Party Cookbook Includes menus, recipes and table decoration ideas for the 100 theme parties in Book #1. Regularly $20 for the set, only $16.00 + $2 s/h) for Reunions magazine readers.

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.

FOOD PREPARATION 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. Purchase at www.reunionsmag.com/shopping or call 1-800-373-7933, ext. 4.

MAGAZINE Subscribe to Reunions magazine Ensure a full year of reunion planning advice plus workbook. Subscribe now. Send $9.99/yr or $17.99/2 yrs to Reunions Magazine, Inc., PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727. To charge to credit card call 800-373-7933 or visit our website www.reunionsmag.com.

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, they’ll not miss it!) and when you need reminders, send 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 date) + fax number or email address to get your approval before we print.

Send to Reunions magazine, PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727; credit card charges call 1-800-373-7933 ext. 4, or order online; www.reunionsmag.com/shopping.

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REUNION PHOTO COOKIES

STAFFORD, VIRGINIA Reunions are about reconnecting people and places. Are you connected to Aquia Landing? 10,000 slaves escaped thru Stafford, Va., many by Aquia – a railroad terminus and steamship port. Known connections include Solomon Northup, William & Ellen Craft, Henry “Box” Brown & John Washington. Find your connection. Reunite at this “Gateway to Freedom”: Stafford, Va. www.TrailToFreedom.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

WEST VIRGINIA THE WOODS RESORT AND CONFERENCE CENTER PO Box 5 Mountain Lake Road, Hedgesville WV 25427; 304-754-7977 or 800-248-2222; fax 304-754-8146: Kathy@thewoods.com; www.TheWoods.com

PRODUCTS & SERVICES AIRPORT PARKING Park Ride Fly USA is the fastest growing seller of offsite airport parking on the Web. All pre-paid parking reservations include complimentary shuttle service, 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!

The Photo Cookies Greetings® are gourmet shortbreads made in-house from scratch using only the finest ingredients and individually cello wrapped for freshness.

Photo Cookies Greetings® are custom decorated utilizing your design or photo image and imprinted directly onto the cookie itself. Totally edible! Photo Cookies are available in 2 shapes, Very affordably priced, free design, artwork & set-up charges included, depending on the quantity and desired shape, Photo Cookies prices range from $2.10 to $2.69 each. For FREE product information, please contact AD-fordable Imprints www.reunionthings.com , 888-6029450 Toll FREE or email at sales@reunionthings.com

REUNION WEBISTE BUILDER MYEVENT.COM Create your own reunion website with no skills. It’s fast and easy to use. Your reunion website has great features and planning tools. It will make planning much easier and everyone 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. No credit card required for the free trial! Only $9.95 / month. http://reunions.createswebsites.com. Any Questions – 877769-3836 or info@myevent.com.

CRUISES CELEBRATION RIVER CRUISES The Celebration Belle, an 800 passenger riverboat, located in the Quad Cities, is the largest non-gaming riverboat on the Upper Mississippi River. We offer a wide variety of cruises ranging from 1-hour narrated sightseeing cruise to a daylong cruise. The Celebration Belle is known for our live entertainment, our hospitality, and our food, which prepared fresh onboard, not catered! The Quad Cities is a great destination for your reunions. Go to celebrationbelle.com or call (800) 297-0034 for more information.

COOKBOOKS CUSTOM COOKBOOKS FOR FAMILIES Family cookbooks keep memories alive! Your entire cookbook order can be completed online: simply enter your recipes, invite others to enter their recipes, design your book and submit the order! Or, we’ll type your recipes for you. A great keepsake and fundraiser! G&R Publishing • Waverly, Iowa • www.gandrpublishing.com • 1-800-383-1679.

FAMILY TREE CHARTS YOUR FAMILY TREE CHARTED. Names of all Family Members are charted. Large Poster size for display. Smaller, framed size for gift. Plus. . A Family Tree Book of individual Family Trees. Really Nice!

Make charting your Family Tree part of the legacy you leave behind. www.FamilyTreesCharted.com; FamilyTrees@bellsouth.net. 404-768-5 698, JoAnn Ross.

T-SHIRTS AD-fordable Imprints…your ONLY source for PERSONALIZIED Imprinted reunion T-shirts/apparel.

Custom 1 color imprint priced as low as $3.39 ea.

FREE Screen, FREE set-up, FREE artwork charges.

SAVE THE DATE MAGNETS personalized, full color imprint, Priced as LOW as.79¢ each, KOOZIE drink holders Priced as LOW as 49¢ ea. Also tote bags, mugs and many memento favors. QUALITY work, great friendly customer service. FREE SAMPLES CALL or email us today for your FREE sample kit.

AD-fordable Imprints Toll Free 1-888-602-9450, sales@reunionthings.com, www.reunionthings.com

MAKE THE BEST REUNION T-SHIRTS! Design reunion shirts online – it’s fun and easy! Create your own design or have us create a design for you. From infant sizes to adult 6XL, you’ll find the perfect shirts for your reunion. FREE shipping, AFFORDABLE shirts, FREE expert-design help, and GUARANTEED delivery dates! Visit www.customink.com/reunionwbk or call 1-877803-5885 today! Use voucher code RW210 to save $10 on your order of 6 or more shirts. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!

VACATION HOMES Interested in Vacation Ownership?

Vacation ownership is a terrific way to ensure that you set aside time each year to enjoy with family and friends. It’s also a convenient way to prepay for a lifetime of great vacation accommodations at today’s rates. And with brand names like Marriott revolutionizing the industry, the quality, flexibility and value afforded by timeshare ownership has never been better. If you are considering investing in a timeshare or would like to rent a villa to get a feel for ownership, be sure to check out the online resale market where you can often find terrific deals directly from current vacation owners. Visit SellMytimeshareNow.com

F E B R UA R Y / M A R C H / A P R I L 2011 O R E U N I O N S

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P.O. Box 11727 O Milwaukee WI 53211-0727

www.reunionsmag.com TM