Fundraising Class reunions cost cutting Spaulding oral history

Fundraising
Class reunions cost cutting
Spaulding oral history
Display until April 30, 2010.
VOL 20 NO 3
FEBRUARY/MARCH/APRIL 2010
$3/USA

F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 1

in thisissue
DEPARTMENTS
FRONT WORDS – 4
ALUM & I – 6
Six simple ways to keep your reunion budget in check by Kay Bauer
Gone, but not forgotten by Joyce Lindsey O’Keefe
SCRAPBOOK – 10
Hotel cancellation dilemma with Dean Miller
Reunion School: conferences, workshops and seminars for reunion planners
Partner highlights: Myevent.com websites, reunions in Pulaski County
and Independence, Missouri, and coin/memorative ribbons
BRANCH OFFICE – 16
Oral history fuels Spaulding reunion success by Kate Tsubata
Ramsey traditions by Beverly Page
Get kids involved, Gerstenbergers’ World Family Reunion
MASTERPLAN – 19
Goulds take the Eastern shore by Bernice Peterson
The winners! KFC Ultimate Family Reunion, Branson’s 10,000th reunion
Time to collect proclamations and commemorations
Family reunites after 150 years by Melvin J. Collie
Q? & A! Who attends reunions?
Reunions and family members with special needs by Crystal Kupper
Arces bring music to Florida by Loida Arce Acosta
How to reunite, family-style by Elizabeth Eaton Donofrio
Other reunions: Juneau, Zilke
REUNION VENUE & FEATURES – 32
Go on a costal reunion bay-cation by Edith Wagner
FUNDRAISING
Podcasts help fundraising
Theatre party raises reunion bucks by Bessida Cauthorne White
Branch Family Legacy DVD by Diane Gentry Martin
Fundraising roundup: How lots of reunions raise money
Fundraising letters, collecting Reunion fees, Q? & A!s
Bur(t)schell financial report by Arliss Treybig
Frosting on the cake by Phyllis Naumann
Bolins collect for birthday presents by Ricky Thornton
MILITARY REUNION NEWS – 41
USS Eugene A. Greene (DD/DDR/711) by Robert J. Clarke
Vietnam icon receives face-lift, Newport News, Virginia
Pacific War Museum enters new era
Korean War 60th anniversary, Vietnam Veterans in Kokomo, USS Columbia in Columbia,
REUNION RESOURCES – 44
A directory of reunion-friendly places, services, vendors and products.
ON THE COVER
McNair Brazil Scott Family Reunion members tour Milwaukee Brewers' Miller Park.
First row (l to r) Nafia Muhammad (7), Arie Morton (8), Kiara Geiger (9),
aleemah Muhammad (11); second row Nnenia Muhammad (13),
Sean and Andre Campbell, and Wesley Landry.
February/March/April 2010
Volume 20 • Number 3
PUBLISHER / EDITOR IN CHIEF
Edith Wagner
TRAVEL EDITOR
Jacky Runice
ART DIRECTOR
Jennifer Rueth
SALES
Marion Liston Senior Account Manager
OPERATIONS MANAGER
Karla Lavin
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Andrew Russell Bordeaux
Nicole Dettmering Ksioszk
STUDENT INTERN
Ashley Marie Andrews
CONTRIBUTORS
Loida Arce Acosta • Kay Bauer
Robert J. Clarke • Melvin J. Collie
Cheri Conetsco • Elizabeth Eaton Donofrio
Ryan Donohue • Ann Eide
Carol Idalski • Shamele Jordan
Wayne E. Krause • Crystal Kupper
Diane Gentry Martin • Dean Miller
Lovine Moss • Phyllis Naumann
Fred Nelson • Joyce Lindsey O’Keefe
Sarah Okuno • Beverly Page
Bernice Peterson • Kathleen Satcher
Nakeisha Smith • Jeri Sprecher
Cheryl Moore Strodder • Ricky Thornton
Arliss Treybig • Kate Tsubata • Joan Curtis Waters
Bessida Cauthorne White • Pamela B. Williams
REUNIONS MAGAZINE, INC. (ISSN #1046-5s235), is published
4 times per year. Send correspondence, queries,
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AZINE, PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI 53211-0727. Written
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© 2010 REUNIONS MAGAZINE, INC.
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 3

FRONT WORDS
SAD LOSS
In November we were
shocked to learn that Bill
Williams, a long-time and
faithful Reunions magazine
fan and prolific contributor, died
suddenly. He was described by
Charles R. Cole, a classmate, as
the “heart and soul of our
graduating class … the ‘keeper
of the keys.’” Bill Williams, Cole
wrote, was the "real deal." We
miss his daily missives and share
our condolences with his family
in Hampton, Virginia.
Last year I took way too many personal hits and lost
some very special friends, two of whom, though unrelated,
shared the family name Williams. Both
died suddenly, totally unexpectedly and
both were in good health until that
moment. Makes you stop, think, and feel
the blessings these friends shared.
BILL WILLIAMS
Class of 1948
Warren G. Harding High School
Warren, Ohio
FAMILY REUNIONS SHOW PROMISE
We recently learned from a
Ypartnership/Yankelovich, Inc., 2009
Travel MONITOR (SM) that “Family reunions
have seen huge growth in the past year
alone.” In fact, 23 percent of leisure
travelers named a family reunion as the
primary reason for taking one or more trips
during the past year, up 13 percent since
2008. Ypartnership/Yankelovich expects the trend will
continue and family reunions to increase in popularity.
We heartily agree, as do our readers who at the beginning
of the 2009 season declared, that, with adjustments for the
economy, reunions are too important to cancel.
IN THIS ISSUE
As always, many reunion stories are here to inspire and
motivate your reunion planning. The fundraising feature is
intended to inspire projects you can use, and the moneysaving
ideas for class reunions can be used for all reunions.
The last issue included discussion about whether to take
someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia to a reunion. The
conclusion was to consider the reunion a respite for
caregivers and to make care arrangements for the patient.
In this issue, Crystal Kupper talks about planning for
children with special needs, and the conclusion is quite
different. Kupper suggests you be sensitive to special needs
so all children can be included.
Be in touch!
Mail to
REUNIONS 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.
FREE REUNION-PLANNING TELECONFERENCE
Register now for the first-ever, nationwide reunion planning
teleconference. Uncle Bob Wolfe, author of Secrets of Successful
Family Reunions, and I will be answering your questions and
providing insights we hope will positively impact your efforts.
The event will be at 8 PM (Eastern), Thursday, April 8th
and last about an hour. To “attend” the teleconference, you’ll
need a phone number and pass code, which you’ll receive
when you register. To register and ask questions, go to
www.SuccessfulFamilyReunions.org/reunionsmag. It’s free.
WORKSHOPS HELP WITH PLANNING
Check out Reunion School on pages 14 and 15 to learn
about workshops being offered all over the country. Most are
free, some have limited space, and most require advance
reservations – so register now. I will be speaking at Fairfax,
Virginia, on February 20th and at Lake County, Illinois,
September 23rd-25th. If either of these locations are on your
list of potential reunion sites, I hope to see
you there. If you know of workshops not
listed, email the info to
editor@reunionsmag.com.
NEWS FOR YOUR REUNION
Are you receiving our monthly e-
newsletter? If not, you’ll want to sign up
for it by emailing a request to
editor@reunionsmag.com. Each month we
highlight online helps appropriate to the
moment if you’re working on an upcoming
reunion. It’s a monthly nudge to keep up
your planning efforts. Look for news for
your reunion!
ON THE WEB
Visit reunionsmag.com often to see new material we add
constantly. You’ll want to check Contests and Sweepstakes
for news, and our ever-evolving Free Stuff page, which we
add to as soon as we find freebies we know you’ll like. And
while on the subject of free, you can add your upcoming
reunion listing free, add your reunion picture free and
access thousands of pages of ideas for your reunion. Visit
early and often!!
APOLOGIA
We apologize again for this issue being late to subscribers.
We hope the addition of the 10th edition of Reunions
Workbook makes the wait worthwhile. For more copies of the
workbook, go to “shop and subscribe” at reunionsmag.com.
Happy reunion planning,
EW, editor@reunionsmag.com
4 R EUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com

F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 5

ALUM & I
Six simple ways to keep your reunion budget in check
by Kay Bauer
How much would you be willing to
spend on the reunion?
Our reunion committee posed this
question on our website. Forty percent
responded “between $25-$50,” so our goal
was to keep costs below $50 per person.
We thought it wouldn’t be too hard,
but after adding all the incidentals plus
the big expenses, like the hall and
catering, $50 seemed an elusive goal. After
intense brainstorming, our committee
came up with creative ways to save
money and still have an enjoyable event.
These are our six simple ways to keep
costs down.
1. Forego the frilly invites. Email
is the way to go. If your class reunion
website does not have an option to email
the class, or you don’t have a reunion
site, use a service like evite.com.
Keeping it electronic eliminates the cost
of printing, postage and time. With a few
clicks you can send hundreds of invites
without envelope-licking or postagesticking.
And it’s eco-friendly too.
We sent paper invitations to the few
who did not have Internet access or did not
log onto our website. We saved a bunch
sending a few invitations instead of 275.
2. Make use of classmates’
services and talents. Does someone in
your class manage a facility that could
hold your event? Is someone who owns a
restaurant or catering service willing to
give you a deal? Or maybe someone loves
to edit video in their spare time.
One of our alumni owns a golf course.
He organized a golf outing at a discounted
rate. It was a nice way for classmates to
reconnect the afternoon before the reunion.
Another classmate created, free of
charge, a video of old high school
pictures submitted by classmates. We
ran the DVD at dinner. It was a hit.
3. Arrange a school tour. This is
an easy, inexpensive way to get classmates
in the mood for the reunion. Recalling
memories at the place where it all
happened is a great way to kick off a
reunion weekend and it’s free.
One classmate is a teacher at our high
school, so it was easy to find a tour guide.
If you don’t have such an individual,
contact the school for students willing to
conduct a tour.
4. Make decorating easy. What
makes better decor than something that
6 R EUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
Germantown (Wisconsin) High School Class 1988 20-year reunion.
sparks memories of the good old days?
It’s easy to put school colors on invites,
banners and name tags. But memorabilia
cultivates conversation.
Our committee sent an email asking
for jerseys, helmets, letter jackets or any
high school memorabilia. The response
was overwhelming. Even some who could
not attend dropped off items. We created
a display of memorabilia and added photos
scanned from the yearbook to complete it.
5. Use equipment and services
available at the banquet facility.
Does your venue have a sound system?
Do they have tables available free of
charge? What about additional items like
decor? Some facilities have candles or
other small items that make a big impact.
When you book a venue, ask what
additional services they offer.
Our facility had a sound system that
allowed us to plug in an iPod or MP3
player which saved us providing music
for the evening. They also had tables and
chairs as well as lighted trees, lattice
panels and topiaries that added a parklike
look to our room. These props added
atmosphere and, as a bonus, made a
great backdrop for photos.
6. Make full use of your website.
You don’t have a website? A website cuts
costs and streamlines planning. It serves
as a bulletin board, allows classmates to
share their personal stories and can even
keep track of reunion attendees and
payments.
Our website allows classmates to post
a profile and pictures, eliminating the
need to print a keepsake book. Classmates
are able to contact each other through
the site. This encouraged traffic to the
site by classmates curious to know who
created or updated their profile prior to
the reunion. It served as a way for people
to catch up before the reunion. In
addition, it maintained a central location
for classmate information, making the
next reunion planning easier.
We used classcreator.com, an excellent
reunion website creator. It offers dozens
of features, including message forums
and linking to PayPal for classmates to
charge reunion tickets. The easy-to-use
editor makes you look like a genius with
a polished and fun website. And the fees
are reasonable. (Editor’s note: Also look
at classquest.com, myevent.com, and
reunionmanager.com.)
Offer local businesses the opportunity
to post their logos on the website in
exchange for donating door prizes for the
reunion. Several businesses took us up
on the offer and we had some excellent
door prizes, including picture frames,
cookware and gift cards.
After all the planning and creative
cost cutting, everyone had a great time.
Total cost per person: $40. Eighty-one
percent of respondents to our post-reunion
survey indicated that the cost was “just
right” or “would have paid more” for the
event. We achieved our goal and made
the reunion accessible, proving that an
affordable and enjoyable evening is still
possible in these tough economic times.
About the author
Chemist-turned-writer Kay Bauer was
on the committee for her 1988 Germantown
(Wisconsin) High School Reunion. She
lives in Richfield, Wisconsin, with her
husband and two dogs. She is working on
a memoir, but still finds time to maintain
the class website.

F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 7

ALUM & I
Gone, but not forgotten
by Joyce Lindsey O’Keefe
When it opened in 1909, Seattle, Washington’s, Queen
Anne High School, a majestic neo-classical structure,
was declared the city’s “most modern and costly building.”
Then, 28 years ago it closed its doors to students – forever. The
property was sold to a developer who partitioned classrooms
into apartments, later converted to condominiums.
Energetic former students have funded scholarships for over
a quarter of a century and host at least five reunion events
annually. How could these ex-students pull together a dynamic
group, seemingly out of nothing? Queen Anne High School
Alumni Association (QAHSAA) Historian, John Hennes, explains
that it began at the ceremony held to close the building to students.
Fifteen thousand people attended the 1981 closing
ceremony: former students, teachers, staff, local residents and
shopkeepers. As one alum said,
“Everybody was walking through
the classrooms. We realized we
had [all] walked those same
halls, trod those same stairways,
climbed those worn treads.
Students from the class of 1935
had had the same teachers as
those in the class of 1950. We
had something good here, and we
didn’t want to lose it.”
This sense of shared history
and experience evolved into a
consensus that something had to
be done to preserve “The Grizzly
Spirit” – a reference to the high
school’s mascot.
“It was the older classes, from
the 1930s, that got things started,” Hennes says. “Then the
’40s, ’50s and now ’60s are showing up [to help].” The idea of
an alumni association caught on quickly. A group of about 25
people met and formed an organizing committee; plans
evolved. The founders established an IRS Section 501(c)(3)
tax-exempt non-profit to raise funds for college scholarships
not only for alums but also for descendants of Queen Anne
Alumni, faculty and staff.
“Scholarships are the raison d’ étre for the organization,”
Hennes explains. “We sell [Grizzly] stuff and we get
donations.” In 2009 – the school’s centennial year – QAHSAA
raised $15,000, then distributed it as 30 scholarships of $500
each. Recipients ranged from freshmen to graduate students
who attend schools scattered across the country. All have a
direct family connection to Queen Anne High School.
“There have been up and down years, but enthusiasm and
very strong community ties have kept us going,” Hennes says.
“There are no dues or membership fees. Whoever went to
school at Queen Anne is a member.”
The association’s all-volunteer board has used creative
thinking to fund college scholarships starting in 1983.
Frequent reunions maintain cohesion, boost “The Grizzly
Spirit,” and spur donations. Most alumni groups hold one
gathering every year – or only every few years. In contrast,
Grizzlies annually attend FIVE “all-classes” events: Spring
8 R EUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
HOW TO START A NON-PROFIT ALUMNI GROUP:
1. Write an organization plan with purpose, by-laws and
philosophy.
2. Visit www.irs.gov. Click on “Charities and Non-
Profits” for information about how to set up a
501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, as well as what
forms must be filed.
3. Plan events, such as reunions (see articles and
booklets at www. reunionsmag.com).
4. Plan fundraising; order logo items locally or online.
5. If you plan to grant scholarships, establish a
committee to set rules, review applications and issue
scholarships.
6. Establish good lines of communication with members.
7.Work hard and have fun!
2009 “All-classes Summer Picnic.” Taking a quick break from work, left to right: Pat
Cunningham Tewkesburg, Betty Charouhas Bebee, John Hennes, Barb Wilson Nelson, Ann
Messenger Jordens, Jeri Sameulsen, Sandy Johnson McCalib, Jackie Moore Zobrist.
Banquet, Grand Summer Picnic, Fall Luncheon, Men of Queen
Anne Annual Golf Tournament, and Men of Queen Anne
Christmas Luncheon. Additionally, the association supports
classes plan reunions – some of
which are annual events. For
example, in 2009, ten classes held
reunions, some simultaneous
with the summer picnic. This
type of regular engagement with
class members, across age groups,
generates a sense of common
purpose and ignites new ideas.
Much of the scholarship money
comes from direct donations, but
some is profit from “logo”
merchandise. The Grizzlies offer
t-shirts in various colors, denim,
golf and sweat shirts, baseball
caps, vests, jackets, mugs, balls,
medallions, prints, playing cards,
golf towels, golf balls, metal license frames, and tote bags. They
market at events, via their newsletter, website and through a
local retail store owned by a member.
Sustaining the enthusiastic spirit necessary to create funds
for scholarships means keeping alumni in touch with each other,
and involved. Communication is key. The 16-page QAHSAA
newsletter, THE KUAY, is mailed to 11,000 members and
friends twice a year.
How do they fill 16 pages? The August 2009 newsletter, for
example, contained info about the upcoming summer and fall
luncheon events, instructions to sign up for the Fall Golf
tournament (and how to participate if you don’t golf),
achievements of class members (grouped by decades), brief
biographies of the thirty winners of this year’s scholarship
contest (most with photos), a donors list and an order form for
QAHS merchandise. News, histories, old photos and modern
profiles are posted at www.qagrizzlies.org, as are order forms
for merchandise and instructions for donations.
Some QAHSAA shirts carry the phrase “Gone, But Not
Forgotten” – a suitable reminder that those who studied at
Seattle’s Queen Anne High will never forget it; their
scholarships will pass on its memory for generations to come.
About the author
Joyce Lindsey O’Keefe’s husband, Ken O’Keefe, is a graduate of
Queen Anne High, Class of 1953. They live in Bellevue, Washington.

SCRAPBOOK
Join reunion chat @
http://forums.reunionsmag.com
PO BOX 335428
NORTH LAS VEGAS NV 89033
800-654-2776 • reunions.com
narm@reunions.com
Hotel cancellation dilemma
Areader wrote about a worst-case scenario that happened last
summer to their cancelled reunion: the hotel held them responsible
for their commitment, which was very costly. To learn from this
cautionary tale, we turned to Dean Miller, National Sales Manager at
Visit Fairfax in McLean, Virginia, for his take on this question.
Here’s the question.
We had a family reunion plan but due to the economy, a large part of the family
in the South cancelled. Because we were under contract with the hotel for rooms
and catering we couldn’t fulfill our obligation and had to cancel. By cancelling
we owed the hotel 60% of the bill. We negotiated it down to half of the bill, but
that was still a lot of money to lose.
This is Dean Miller’s answer:
In the current economic downturn, some reunions have had to scale back – or
cancel – their reunions. For groups who have signed contracts with hotels or other
venues, this can be particularly challenging.
In this situation, the planner’s first call should be to the hotel, to the sales representative
who negotiated the contract. Explain that the group would like to postpone – not cancel –
their reunion, even if the new reunion date is a year or more in the future. Hotels would
much rather work with you to reach an accommodation on new dates than to lose your
business completely.
As an incentive to the hotel to grant the postponement, you may wish to offer to spend
more money with the hotel over the new reunion dates. Offer to schedule an additonal meal
function (such as a group breakfast), or to pay a slightly higher guest room rate, or to give
back a previously negotiated “perk” (such as a complimentary suite or meeting room).
Or ask what new reunion dates the hotel would like the reunions to help fill. If the
reunion can help fill dates when the hotel would otherwise experience low occupancy, the
hotel may be willing to accommodate the new dates without any additional charge at all!
If the hotel is unwilling to accommodate the postponement, the planner should
notify family members of the pro-rated charge they would each incur for cancelling the
reunion. When they get this news, they may decide to come to the reunion after all!
For example, if 50 families planned to attend and the cancellation charge was
$10,000.00, having to pay $ 200.00 per family may encourage everyone to get together
anyway. Better to spend the money to attend the reunion than to spend the money and
get nothing at all for it!
If the hotel is still unyielding, try (as was the case here) to negotiate the hotel down
on the amount of money owed as a cancellation penalty. The good news is that you can
still ask the hotel to apply this amount as a deposit toward a future reunion, scheduled
within a defined period of time.
In such negotiations, it is very helpful to request a face-to-face meeting with both
the sales representative AND the hotel’s General Manager, as the General Manager
will have greater authority to negotiate an agreeable settlement.
This situation clearly underlines the importance of reunion planners taking these
three steps IN ADVANCE.
1) Ask family members for an advance deposit prior to signing any contracts. People
are FAR less likely to cancel out of an event if it means the loss of a pre-paid deposit.
2) Conservatively estimate the number of guest rooms and other hotel services
(banquets, etc.) you are likely to use. If your numbers increase, the hotel will be
delighted to accommodate a greater number; if the event shrinks, there will likely
be financial penalties, as this planner discovered the hard way.
3) Negotiate the least onerous cancellation and attrition penalties possible with the
hotel PRIOR to signing the contract. Reducing or eliminating the standard
cancellation and attrition penalties in a contract is something that many hotels will
do, but only if asked.
Dean Miller wants this disclaimer noted. He is NOT an attorney, and the following
should NOT be construed as legal advice. Legal advice should be obtained only
from a licensed, practicing attorney. But it should be noted that his experience
both in hotel and convention and visitor bureau management qualify him to share
his observations.
10 REUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com

WEB PAGE: reunionsmag.com
CALL: 414.263.4567
FAX: 414.263.6331
E-MAIL: editor@reunionsmag.com
WRITE: PO Box 11727
Milwaukee, WI 53211-0727
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 13

SCRAPBOOK
Most of these events are sponsored and presented by
convention and visitors bureaus and take place on Saturdays
unless noted. All prefer or require advance reservations and
are free or at nominal cost. For more information and new
events added, visit reunionsmag.com, and click on
workshops, conferences and seminars.
ALPHARETTA, GEORGIA
Call Alpharetta CVB, toll-free 877-202-5961, Carol Gryson,
carol@awesomealpharetta.com
ATLANTA, GEORGIA
March and September 2010
Contact Angelique Alvarez, sales assistant, Atlanta CVB,
404-521-6572; www.atlantareunions.com/events.asp.
BIRMINGHAM ALABAMA
CVB Reunion Planner Workshop
Call 205-458-8000, ext. 206, or 1-800-458-8085
BRANSON, MISSOURI
August 16-19, 2010
Military Reunion Planners Conference
Hosted by the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and CVB.
Contact Branson/Lakes Area CVB, PO Box 1897, Branson MO
65615; 800-214-3661; reunions@bransoncvb.com;
www.ExploreBranson.com/MilitaryReunion
CHICAGO SOUTHLAND, ILLINOIS
Contact Elizabeth Baun, 888-895-8233;
Elizabeth@visitchicagosouthland.com www.visitchicagosouthland.com
COBB COUNTY, GEORGIA
February 27, 2010
Complimentary luncheon, family reunion planning guide, tradeshow
(hotels, attractions, etc.). Free to anyone planning a family
reunion in Cobb County; seating limited to two guests per reunion.
Contact Kathy Buske, Cobb County CVB, 678-303-2624 or
kbuske@cobbcvb.com
DEKALB COUNTY, GEORGIA
February 20, March 13, March 27, April 10, April 24,
May 15, June 12, June 26, July 10, July 24, August 14,
August 28, September 11, September 25, October 9,
October 23, November 13, 2010
Contact Carol Murray, DeKalb County CVB, 800-999-6055
DETROIT, MICHIGAN
March 13, 2010
Planning a Successful Reunion in the “D”!
Free planning kit and chance to win prizes. You must register to attend.
Contact Nikki Donald, Detroit Metro CVB, 313-202-1972;
ndonald@visitdetroit.com. Visit visitdetroit.com
ESTES PARK, COLORADO
November 12-14, 2010
Family Reunion University
YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park Center
Contact Conference Office at 800-777-9622
14 REUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
Myevent.com provides
reunion websites
Top 10 reasons every reunion needs
a website:
• Reunion details and maps accessible
24/7 from all over the world.
• Allow members to RSVP online.
• Members can register, purchase
tickets, and make online donations.
• Get discounts and book hotel rooms
online.
• Provide info for out-of-town
members.
• Share the big event with those who couldn’t make it.
• Entertain members with polls and
quizzes.
• Reduce your stress level;
everything’s available online.
• Enjoy the Guestbook entries
members leave.
• You can upload more than
200 photos!
Sign-up for a 7-day free trial at
www.reunions.createswebsites.com.
Reunions positively
impact Pulaski County
Pulaski County (Missouri) Tourism Bureau welcomes
reunions, many with ties to nearby Fort Leonard Wood,
where they came for basic training.
Reunion dollars are “new” dollars circulating around
the area, benefiting area businesses, employees and
municipal budgets. A recent group of 80 had an
approximate $20,300 positive revenue impact.
Pulaski County’s central location, ability to fly into
Waynesville-St. Robert Regional Airport, and cost-friendly
environment all help attract reunions.
These are the kinds of benefits your reunion brings to
its destination, whether it’s in your hometown or a place
none of you have ever visited. So approach your reunion
planning as resulting not only in a memorable event but
also in financial benefit to its location.
From a story by Dawn Dee Bostwick
in the Waynesville Daily Guide, Waynesville, Missouri.
Independence, Missouri,
revs up website
Independence, Missouri, Tourism, introduced a userfriendly
website with audio, video and interactive
highlights geared for reunion planners. You’ll find lots of
practical helps, images and links organized into four main
categories: Things to do, Shopping, Dining and Places to
Stay. Visit www.visitindependence.com.

New coin/memorative
ribbons
What is a coin/memorative ribbon? According to a
phrase dictionary, coining of words and phrases often
was associated with coining of money by stamping metal
with a die.
Coin/memorative die-struck embossed custom ribbons,
is similar: coined phrase words on a ribbon with a diestruck
US Mint commemorative coin attached.
Reunion Mate of Wapakoneta, Ohio, specializes in custom
name badge/bookmark ribbons for class/military/family
reunion celebrations. Reunion Mate has been a premier
producer of embossed custom ribbons for all types of
occasions for over 20 years.
Now they have added a ribbon affixed with a
coin/memorative penny that carries the year being
commemorated (e.g., a 1960 penny for a 2010 50-year class
reunion or 50th wedding anniversary). Coins are subject to
availability, and billed at the current market price (e.g.,
1960 penny @ $0.025 each or $2.50 per roll). Pre-1960
dates are usually priced higher. Planners have the option
of supplying coins to afix to the finished ribbon; minimum
order 50 ribbons.
Class Reunion planners will be particularly interested
in expressive 2"x7" ribbons in school colors that feature
school name, mascot, reunion year, reunion date and
location. Ribbons are designed for attaching a 2" class
yearbook picture. Name badges with cards are also available.
A bonus feature is a four-page newsletter and reunion
planner checklist with tips for promoting a successful
reunion program. Request the newsletter and color brochure
detailing various reunion items at 800-208-6804;
donklock@midohio.twcbc.com or visit ribbons4reunions.com
to see what other reunions have created.
FAIRFAX, VIRGINIA
February 20, 2010
Meet Reunions Magazine editor, Edith Wagner. Includes
breakfast, reunion planning program, lunch and optional tour to
George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Advance registration required.
Dean Miller at Visit Fairfax, 703-752-9509 or dmiller@fxva.com.
FLINT, MICHIGAN
March 27, 2010
Contact Renee Cobb, Flint CVB, 888-230-2586; rcobb@flint.travel
GREENWOOD, SOUTH CAROLINA
February 27, 2010
Lindsay Burns, 864-953-2464; Lindsay.burns@cityofgreenwoodsc.com
GWINNETT COUNTY, GEORGIA
April 9, July 9, October 8, 2010, all Fridays
ABCs of Planning a Family Reunion.
Complimentary lunch, Family Reunion Planning Guide. Drawing
for a digital camera. Reservations only, no walk-ins. Linda Murphy,
GCTS Education Specialist, 888-494-6638; lmurphy@gcvb.org
KISSIMMEE, FLORIDA
Contact Sara Melendez-Davis at 800-831-1844, ext 42446;
smelendez@floridakiss.com
LAKE COUNTY, ILLINOIS
September 23-25, 2010
Host hotel Keylime Cove Indoor Waterpark Resort, Gurnee, Illinois.
Workshop experience includes educational sessions, exhibition
from local hotels and venues, tours and idea sharing. Meet
Reunions magazine editor, Edith Wagner.
Contact Kimberly Ghys, Lake County CVB, 800-Lake-Now;
www.lakecountyreunions.com
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY
Contact Keri Willard, Louisville CVB, 502-560-1487;
kwillard@gotolouisville.com
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA
Contact Sheila Nickelson, Meet Minneapolis, 800-445-7412;
www.minneapolis.org/reunions
NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA
March 12-14, 2010
The 4th Annual Military Reunion Planner Familiarization
(FAM) Tour provides an overview of the city’s history, amenities,
services and attractions to enhance your military reunion.
Complimentary accommodations.
Contact Cheryl Morales, 888-493-7386; cmorales@nngov.com
SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER CITY, LOUISIANA
Contact Kevin Flowers, Shreveport-Bossier Convention & Tourist
Bureau, 800-551-8682; kflowers@sbctb.org
WINTER PARK, COLORADO
October 22-24, 2010
Family Reunion University
YMCA of the Rockies, Snow Mountain Ranch
Contact Conference Office, 800-777-9622
YPSILANTI, MICHIGAN
Contact Mary Zurcchero, Ypsilanti CVB, 734-483-4444;
mzucchero@ypsilanti.org
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 15

BRANCH OFFICE
Oral history fuels Spaulding
reunion success by
Kate Tsubata
When families get together, it’s a
chance for wisdom to be shared
and stories told. Most families
recognize the importance of oral history,
but the Spauldings take it to the next
level, creating a professional oral history
video series.
At the next reunion of the Benjamin
and Edith Spaulding Descendants
Association (BESDA) in Raleigh, North
Carolina, 600 expected attendees will
view a series of videos commissioned by
the family association.
“We have more than 5,000
descendants,” remarked Dr. Milton
Campbell, a Duke University researcher
who helped spearhead the genealogical
work. He followed in the footsteps of two
now-deceased family members, John
Spaulding and Dr. Louis Mitchell, who,
in 1989, compiled a volume detailing branches of the family
tree from 1810.
“With the help of Duke University, we compiled a more
exact outline of descendants, although we’re constantly adding
to it as we discover new information,” Campbell explained.
In two centuries and nine generations, descendants spread
from North Carolina, often settling near other family members.
The family association chose a professional video production
team, LightSmith Productions, owned by the husband/wife
team of SunJae and Mie Smith, “to capture our stories,” said
BESDA president and COO, Vincent Spaulding. “Besides a
highly professional team, LightSmith focuses on productions
with a positive message. That fit our vision, and our family’s
approach. The LightSmith team traveled to five main locations
to interview 50 elders and significant groundbreakers.
Beginning in Washington, DC, the team traveled to Durham,
North Carolina, and Columbus and Bladen Counties in the
southeastern corner of North Carolina. They traveled to
Whitesboro, New Jersey, where Congressman George Henry
White founded the town as a haven for people of color to attain
self-sufficiency. Finally, they interviewed family members in
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
LightSmith pre-interviewed each subject by phone, to be
familiar with the details of each story. Interviewees were asked
to complete a form with names, dates and key events, to ensure
correct attribution later. In this way, each person already
prepared details to include in their reminiscences. Clear
communication and good organization helped utilize every
minute of shooting time to best advantage.
“In each day of shooting, we were able to film eight to 12
family members for the history segments,” remarked Vincent.
“Relatives worked together to arrange transportation, food and
locations, so it all went smoothly.”
16 REUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
Walter Benjamin Spaulding reminisces about his youth
and adult years, as well as stories passed by his parents
and grandparents.
To take best advantage of being in
each location, LightSmith and BESDA
members fielded a second camera team
to get high-quality footage of significant
landmarks. They filmed family businesses
and farms, homes and schools, historical
markers and cemeteries. With a
knowledgeable local family member
driving, SunJae Smith shot several dozen
locations while interviews were being
conducted. “Often, people forget the
importance of getting good-quality
footage of places referred to in stories,”
he said. “Or they intend to go back and
do it later, and it just never happens.
LightSmith also used specialized
equipment to photograph family artifacts,
and other equipment to scan historical
photos and documents. “Archival-quality
Former Washington, DC, Councilman William Spaulding is wired by soundman Kensei Tsubata
while Camera operator Mie Smith frames the shot. Interviewer Kate Tsubata is on the right.
images helped support the video stories, and are now usable for
family records,” Mie Smith explained. “We tried to anticipate
the family’s needs, and get everything at one go.”
The interviews were set up indoors; the camera crew created
a studio environment in homes, churches or community
centers. Lighting and backdrops were set up, with several
microphones to capture the desired sound and filter out
unwanted sound.
The hardest part of the job, as professionals will tell you, is
the post-production editing. Taking out the superfluous
material – such as the interviewer’s questions or the flubbed
statements – editors divided each interview into segments
according to topic. They devised multi-dimensional animated
images for the chapter breaks, added music, and inserted
titling to identify speakers or locations.

LightSmith then compiled the highlights into a short
inspirational video about family history. Combining firstperson
narratives, illustrated with shots of family locations and
artifacts, the Spaulding Family Legacy video is a moving
tribute to the 200 years of family members’ accomplishments.
Among those whose stories were captured: the first African
American to pilot Air Force One, Col. John Mitchell;
internationally-known author and speaker Stedman Graham;
1993-1998 Deputy Undersecretary of the Department of
Agriculture Dallas Smith; Black Professional Firefighters
Association founder Romeo Spaulding; and dozens of others
with equally impressive credentials.
Vincent Spaulding, BESDA President, and Luke Campbell, Co-Chair, 2012 Reunion helping
scan historical images.
“We tried to anticipate questions future generations might
ask, and make sure we gave them answers,” said Vincent, who
oversaw the entire project. “Knowing how people raised food,
bartered for everything, worked hard to get an education, and
then turned around and helped the next ones down the line …
this is important for succeeding generations to recognize.”
“If you think about it, each family has a specific window on
the events of our world,” said LightSmith’s Mie Smith. “When
we can capture unique stories from each person, we understand
not only how events affected the family, but how the family
affected history. As new generations come along, knowing what
their ancestors experienced helps define their own identity.”
Oral history projects go hand-in-hand with family reunions.
“It’s like taking all those wonderful nuggets of information that
are exchanged and collecting them together in a concise form
so everyone can keep them – they’re never lost,” Ms. Smith
explained. “The family Bible used to be where the
recordkeeping stopped, then maybe a photo album or diary.
Today, the DVD can retain not only someone’s face, but
gestures, voice, words and personality. Shouldn’t we use this
technology so families can preserve these memories for the
centuries to come?”
For more information about how an oral history project can
be carried out, check the website: www.lightsmithpro.com, or
the BESDA website: www.spauldingfamily.com.
About the author
Kate Tsubata is a freelance journalist specializing in
education and family issues.
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 17

BRANCH OFFICE
Gerstenbergers’
World Family
Reunion
It’s the fourth time that the Gerstenbergers’
“World Family Reunion” has united
members from Europe and North America.
About 90 Gerstenbergers attended the
first one, in Gerstenberg, Germany, the
tiny hamlet that started it all.
“Most of the American Gerstenbergers
were shocked that we had a homeland,”
said Mark Butler, Anchorage, Alaska,
who attended with his mother, Lois
Gerstenberger Butler. Most of the
American Gerstenbergers also were
shocked to learn that there were so many
Gerstenbergers.
Jerome Gerstenberger, 76, of Ventura,
California, said he makes a habit of
checking local phone books when he
travels, a search that is inevitably
unsuccessful. “I was flabbergasted when
I learned there were other Gerstenbergers.
It was awesome,” he said.
A 1993 book by Duane Gerstenberger
called Gerstenberger Immigrants and
Their Descendants in America: A
Compendium of Vital Statistics lists the
lineage of about 3,500 Gerstenbergers in
the US. His research took him to old
German churches, where musty records
traced the roots of several Gerstenberger
families. Unfortunately, records were
destroyed during World War II.
Recently, Duane has turned to DNA to
track Gerstenberger lineage back to the
“Adam and Eve” of Gerstenbergers in
the 1200s, when inhabitants of the
village of Gerstenberg, population 600,
simply used the town name when they
were required to begin using last names.
So far, it appears that there are four
Gerstenberger lines in Germany, Iowa,
Kansas and Minnesota.
From a story by Bob Pool
in the Los Angeles Times.
Get kids involved
Former Reunions magazine genealogy
columnist Maureen Taylor has a
website worth exploring to encourage
kids to be involved in family history.
Ideas, suggestions and projects will
give you plenty to work with. Visit
www.familyhistorykids.com/
18 REUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
Ramsey traditions
Always the second weekend in July in
odd years, the most recent Ramsey
Family Reunion was in East St, Louis,
Illinois. The economy had some effect on
the number who came but the amount of
love, fun and fellowship was not
diminished and there was as much joy as
any place could hold. More than 100
family members came from seven states.
Ramsey reunions gather the
families of seven of the nine children
of Albert Ramsey, Electric Mills,
Mississippi. The reunion started in
Hamilton, Ohio, more than 50 years
ago when Albert’s son, Jim, his family
and other family members gathered
for an annual picnic. As Jim’s
children left home, others joined and
it branched out to Chicago, East St.
Louis, Illinois and Cleveland, Ohio.
For the 2005 reunion, 150 went to
Mississippi, staying in Meridian and
visiting sites in Electric Mills, Fox
Prayer and Scooba, where their
parents or grandparents grew up, went
to school, married or left home.
Cincinnati, Chicago and East St. Louis
remain the primary sites because they
have strong, active younger generations.
They ate well, from the fantastic Friday
night fish fry to sumptuous Saturday
picnic and bountiful banquet Saturday
night. All the food was prepared by the
East St. Louis host family. This was one
way to offset the cost of family fees. One
of the highlights of this year’s reunion
was historian Debora Ramsey Gibbs,
Jackson, Mississippi, reporting extensive
Ramsey family research dating back to
1834. She used a combination of oral
history, census, Bibles and obituaries to
gather information. Everyone was in awe
of her visual tree with documentation.
She asked family members to fill in the
tree with grand parents, parents and
their names on down to the present
generation. What started as a hobby has
become a passion. She was excited and
Henry Ramsey Jr, Cincinnati, Ohio, adds his family’s information
to the tree.
surprised how many people were
interested in learning about their
lineage and adding names to her tree.
This is what this family reunion is about:
to learn our history, teach our children
their heritage and their relationship with
each other and those who came before.
In the meantime, we are enjoying
ourselves sharing food, music, dancing
and fellowship, wrote Beverly Page, of
Edgemont, Illinois.
Debora Ramsey Gibbs, Pearl, Mississippi, explains the family tree to relatives from East St. Louis, Illinois, and Cincinnati, Ohio.

MASTERPLAN
Goulds take the Eastern shore
Having a reunion in hard economic times
The Goulds have had periodic family
reunions since about 1984. This year
we celebrated our 25th reunion year. To
keep the reunion manageable in these
tough economic times, we have several tips.
KEEP IT LOCAL
Most of our family is on the Eastern
shore of Maryland, so we keep the
reunion close to preclude hotel and
travel expenses for many. We charge only
a nominal fee (around $25 for each entire
family plus their guests) to cover the
pavilion rental. Access to the beach is
included. This a real bargain today. An
average family of four pays only $25, as
does a large family of eight.
WHAT WILL WE EAT?
We go to a state park with a beach and
covered picnic areas. As our family has
diversified over the years, we have
family members who don’t eat pork, are
vegetarians or are on restricted diets.
Our economic solution is for everyone to
bring their own delicious food which has
worked beautifully.
To foster the spirit of community and
family, we invite each family to
contribute one item to the communal
dessert table. These range from fruit to
an assortment of cookies, pies and cakes.
This is totally optional, but the table is
always bulging.
Families take leftovers home.
RECOGNITIONS AND GIFTS
Any money we collect that exceeds the
pavilion fee is given to graduates, retirees
and sometimes others. Several family
benefactors give well in excess of the
pavilion fee, which funds recognition awards.
Rreunions are planned by a multigenerational
committee. Change occurs
slowly as the next generation takes over.
Reunions are informal, with activities
such as a meet & greet, family prayer,
introductions, kids’ games,
graduate/retiree recognition, memorial
service, benediction and farewell. One
tradition is that each person meet at least
one new family member. A special
tradition is a circle holding of hands
during the memorial prayer.
We stay in touch via email, word of
mouth, email reminders/updates, website
and a newsletter.
So even in these tough times, it’s
entirely possible to have a wonderful
reunion at a beautiful state park that has
a beach and covered pavilions,
basketball courts and fishing. You can
All Nine Children
of Ruth Gould
hold down costs and still have so much
fun, as we do when we gather to
celebrate our roots and greet family.
Reported by Bernice Peterson,
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 19

MASTERPLAN
R EU N IONS I N TH E N EWS
Satchers win KFC Ultimate
Family Reunion
L
ast summer
Kathleen Satcher
Wright, Huntville,
Alabama, wrote the
winning essay that won
her Satcher family
KFC’s Ultimate Family
Reunion in Atlanta,
Georgia. One hundred
fifty family members
received an
extravagant, three-day
reunion including
lavish decorations, red
carpet treatment, entertainment, celebrations, music and dancing, door prizes
and gifts, KFC food, and the KFC Pride 360 Award.
We hope KFC has a family reunion contest again this year and that yet another
Reunions magazine reader wins. The announcement will be in the contests and
sweepstakes section at reunionsmag.com as soon as we learn about it. We’ll also
post it on our Facebook page; if you’re not a fan, become one now!
20 REUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com

F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 21

MASTERPLAN
Family reunites after 150 years by Melvin J. Collie
The Beckley Family of Pontotoc County, Mississippi, and the
Reed Family of Tate County, Mississippi, were oblivious to
one another. They were not aware their ancestors were siblings
involuntarily separated in 1859. Over decades at respective
family reunions, we listened to histories which indicated a South
Carolina origin and a link to the Barr name. After ten years of
researching, genealogical records revealed a familial link between
the two families, transplanted to different areas of northern
Mississippi during slavery. The two families learned of their
common ancestral tie to a slave couple, Lewis and Fanny Barr,
and the story of how their children were separated 150 years
earlier in Abbeville, South Carolina. Sadly, they took different
surnames after Emancipation and never learned about each other.
In Atlanta, Georgia, over 250 descendants recently celebrated
the 150th Year Commemorative Reunion of the Descendants of
Lewis and Fanny Barr. Dr. Rick Kittles, renowned geneticist
and co-founder of African Ancestry (the African DNA company),
was the banquet speaker. He revealed that the direct
descendants of Fanny Barr shared maternal genetic ancestry
with the Fulani and Yoruba peoples of Nigeria.
The following day, the family boarded five buses to
Abbeville, South Carolina, to visit where our ancestors were
last together on Rev. William H. Barr’s plantation. We toured
historic Abbeville and were welcomed by the mayor and
current pastor of the church where Rev. Barr was a minister
from 1809 to 1843. Our ancestors were documented slave
members of the church prior to 1859. We also toured the old
Lemuel Reid Plantation where several family members were
sold right before the rest of the family was taken to northern
Mississippi. In an emotional ceremony, we dedicated a
monument in an old slave cemetery on the land Barr Plantation
where patriarch Lewis died in 1846.
Visit www.BarrDescendants.org.
Reported by Melvin J. Collier, Anstell, Georgia.
The Descendants of Lewis & Fanny Barr reunite for the first time after 150 years of separation.
Branson hosts 10,000th family reunion
Branson, Missouri, hosted its
10,000th family reunion
recently. This beautiful Ozark
Mountain lakes area has welcomed
visitors for more than a century, but
has tracked family reunions only
since 1994.
The Branson/Lakes Area
Convention & Visitors Bureau
(CVB) receives many calls from
families seeking help in planning
their reunions. Julie Koerkenmeier,
Koerkenmeier Family Reunion
planner, was identified as number
10,000! Originally from Tipton,
Missouri, members now live in
Ohio, California and Georgia. Three generations gathered in
Branson for their first whole-family get-together in many years.
Branson’s central location is important. It is an easy road
trip for millions and now there are low-cost flights to the new
Branson Airport.
22 REUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
There are many lodging
choices and unique attractions
abound, from live shows to
museums to playing on the lake
or in water parks.
And Branson won’t break the
bank. “Branson is definitely a
good value,” Julie pointed out,
“especially compared to other
cities.” And Branson’s lodging,
shows, attractions and restaurants
often offer group rates.
Julie said, “Table Rock Lake
is so much cleaner than the
lakes we grew up around. All the
family loves boating, swimming
and fishing at Table Rock and Lake Taneycomo.”
Military groups and class reunions also meet in Branson.
Branson CVB can provide reunion planning assistance, area
information and welcome bags. Call 800-214-3661;
ExploreBranson.com.

MASTERPLAN
Subscribe! Call 1-800-373-7933
COMMEMORATIONS
Many organizations provide commemorations to families and to reunions. To
see if there is something for your reunion, visit reunionsmag.com and click
on Keeping Reunions Alive.
Juneaus celebrate Alaska’s capital city’s 50th anniversary
Descendants of Joe Juneau chose Alaska’s namesake capital
city for its seventh international reunion. In addition to
celebrating Joe Juneau, a Canadian prospector who made
Alaska’s first major gold discovery in 1880, the Juneaus
celebrated Alaska’s 50th anniversary of statehood.
The Juneau International Family Reunion started in 1991 to
honor descendants of Clement Jouineau, a 16th century
Frenchman known as the forefather of all North American
Juneaus. The reunion has been held in the US, France and Canada.
This reunion included Coronells, descendants of Chief
24 R EUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
Kowee, the Tlingit man who guided Juneau from the Cassiar
Region of British Columbia to Alaska.
They enjoyed wildlife tours and special family activities,
attended a flag-raising ceremony at the Juneau-Douglas City
Museum and participated in the Fourth of July parade.
Robert Sam, of Sitka, a direct descendant of Chief Kowee,
wore one of Kowee’s ceremonial robes at the flag-raising
ceremony and in the parade.
From an article by Kim Andree
in the Juneau Empire,Juneau, Alaska.

Time to collect proclamations
If you plan to have your mayor, county
executive, governor or other elected
officials welcome your reunion, now’s the
time to solicit proclamations because it
takes a long time to get these things done.
We recommend a couple of months lead
Proctor/Wright Family reunion
July 25, 2009
Liberty State Park
Our reunion theme for 2009 is … “Embrace, Enjoy, and Live Life”
march 9, 2009
From:
to:
Subject:
Nakeisha Smith
Jersey City, New Jersey
Mayor Jeremiah Healy and
Governor Jon S. Corzine
Jersey City, New Jersey
Proclamation/resolution
honoring the Proctor/Wright
Family reunion
Jersey City is hosting the annual Proctor/Wright Family reunion at the
Liberty State Park, July 25, 2009. We want to showcase the best that
Jersey City has to offer, and would like to have our family honored via a
proclamation. Our roots are in the state of South Carolina and our family
has settled all over the USa, with a sizable group in bronx, New york
and New Jersey.
We are expecting 150-200 people (visitors) for our reunion and want to
have the proclamation presented at our family dinner on Saturday night,
July 25, 2009. the proclamation should honor the legacy of the africanamerican
Family as exhibited in the many generations of the
Proctor/Wright Family reunion Families.
thanks for your time and effort. Please contact me aSaP when you
have approved and scheduled the issuance of the proclamation.
Nakeisha Smith, reunion Committee Co-Chairperson
time, with follow-ups to ensure they’ve not
forgotten! Do their work for them. Draft
your letter the way you want your
proclamation to read; they’re likely to copy
what you wrote, put it on official stationary
and sign it. In other words, help them along!
FREE
F I R S T E V E R !
NATIONWIDE
TELE-CONFERENCE FOR
REUNION PLANNERS
Start or Improve
your Family
Reunion
April 8, 2010
8-9 PM Eastern
Join Edith Wagner, editor
of Reunions magazine, and
Uncle Bob Wolfe, author of
Secrets of Successful Family
Reunions for discussion,
advice, your questions
answered! Do not do it
alone — invite your
reunion committee
members to listen in.
REGISTER NOW!
SuccessfulFamilyReunions.org/
reunionsmag
Advance registration required to
obtain conference call number,
pass code and how to submit
your questions.
Thanks to Cheri Conetsco of the Moore Family Reunion for reminding us to share this info with you!
www.reunionsmag.com
TM
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 25

MASTERPLAN
Reunions and family members with special needs
by Crystal Kupper
Nina Boyle stared at the family
reunion invitation, questions
already flying through her mind. As
program manager for the family
resource center at Support for Families
of Children with Disabilities in San
Francisco, California, she intimately
understood the unique struggles faced
by people with special needs. Cerebral
palsy forces her own ten-year-old son,
Drew, to use a wheelchair.
Would the reunion site have
wheelchair access, she wondered?
Would an appropriate family bathroom
be available?
“The reunion required a lot of
advance planning,” Boyle says. “We
had to remove the barriers beforehand
so Drew can be the kid that he is
instead of just someone in a wheelchair.
Kids are kids before they are ‘kids with
special needs.’”
Boyle, whose organization serves approximately 800 Bay
Area families annually, is not alone. According to Safe Kids
USA, an accident-prevention organization, over nine million
American children under age 18 have a special healthcare need.
Because of this high prevalence of special needs and
disabilities in today’s society, reunions are bound to include
family members dealing with difficulties such as autism,
Down’s Syndrome, Asperger’s and other disorders. Large gettogethers
can prove challenging for the child, parents and
siblings and even prevent them from attending what otherwise
would be a happy, memorable event.
SPECIAL PLANS
Family reunion planners face a daunting task, no matter the
gathering size. The idea of extra preparation may seem too
hard, but with advance notice, reunions including families
involving special needs can flow like any other.
Lucy Cusick, executive director of FOCUS, in Atlanta,
Georgia, an organization that provides support to parents of
children with disabilities, sees such planning pay dividends
every year at her family reunion. Cusick’s 23-old-son Josh has
cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair. Despite the reunion
being held at a rural country church, both immensely enjoy
spending time with relatives – all because of strategic,
prepared planning.
The first step as a reunion planner, Cusick says, is to know
what you’re facing.
“In the beginning, ask for specific need of family members
with special needs,” she suggests. “Will they need a
wheelchair-accessible hotel? What about bath seats in the
showers? Will they want plug-ins at the reunion site for their
food blenders? Will they have a van with a ramp?”
Cusick knows many individuals with disabilities have
incredibly specific, difficult needs. Not every reunion planner
will be able to meet everyone’s need, she says, but
consideration goes a long way.
First, consider available accommodations. Opt for nonsmoking,
wheelchair-accessible hotel rooms on the ground floor
26 R EUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
Josh and Lucy Cusick
and with bath seats, if needed. Aim for
wheelchair-friendly meeting sites with
paved paths and even surfaces.
Reserve spots at the ends of picnic
tables for those who can’t climb into
seats. Ensure that open, spacious
restrooms and/or portable toilets are
nearby.
“As a reunion planner, be clear with
your parameters from the beginning.
Know what you can and cannot do,”
Cusick advises. “The parents hold the
ultimate responsibility for their child,
but reunion planners can help a lot!”
FOOD, FUN & GAMES
Most family reunions include
several meals and abundant activity
time. Because of dietary and physical
restrictions, however, some families
may feel excluded.
Food and fun for all is still possible. Janet DeSantis, a
special-needs para-educator from Mountain Home, Idaho,
advises thinking creatively. “If possible, try to find a specialneeds-friendly
playground,” she says. “Adjust your playtime to
work for everyone. Even those in wheelchairs can usually play
basketball, toss a Frisbee or throw water balloons. Try playing
‘red light, green light’ or tag with someone else pushing the
wheelchair, or let them judge other races and contests.”
DeSantis also suggests that you shy away from games where
physicality is emphasized, such as “Simon Says” or potato
sack races.
Label all food with specific ingredients, or ease the confusion
entirely by setting aside a table with dishes that are edible for
your specific relative.
MAXIMUM EXPOSURE
Many people with special needs require lower levels of
stimulation. When crafting a schedule, keep it open-ended
instead of rigidly structured. Plan flexible outings with options
for families, and include some “downtime.”
Boyle and DeSantis suggest avoiding public meltdowns by
providing a “quiet room” for unwinding, with plenty of snacks
and hydration, slipping in late or leaving early to avoid long
lines, and breaking up gathering areas into sections and
rotating through as needed.
“Many people are curious about your child’s condition, but
that can get old after the first 20 times,” Boyle says. “Let your
child update the relatives about his or her progress, then
escape to the quiet room for recuperation, if needed.”
Despite the extra work, Boyle knows family reunions are
worth the struggle.
“It’s Drew’s family, too. He loves to be one of the gang,” she
says. “We’re not all the same – whether your disability is
evident or not, getting together as a family benefits everyone.”
About the author
Crystal Kupper is a freelance writer, classical pianist and
Air Force wife living in Salem, Oregon. She has worked with
children with special needs for several years.

Q&A! Who attends reunions?
E. Krause, Delta, British
Columbia, Canada, wrote: “Several
Q?Wayne
of my cousins and I formed a
committee to plan the Zilke Family
Reunion on my mother’s side. My mother
is one of six living siblings (from an
original 12) who are in their 70s and 80s.
Ten had children. The planning took about
one year. The reunion consists of a catered
dinner one evening and a picnic the next
day. We’ve done a lot of things to make
the event special and worth attending.
“I was wondering if you have statistics
about the percentage of family who
decide to attend an event like this after
being contacted? There are 250 family
members and virtually all were contacted
with two letters. Approximately half of
the families live in the Vancouver,
British Columbia, area. The other half
are in Alberta, Washington State,
California and Oregon. We’ve ended up
with 108 family members attending,
which is about 43% of those contacted.
Is this percentage generally considered a
good response or would our extended
family be categorized as fairly
disconnected? I don’t think that money
or health played a significant reason for
not attending. Thanks for your opinion.
like you’ve planned a
memorable reunion!I have no
A!Sounds
statistics about the percentage of
attendance but suggest you ask the
question on our forum (http://forums.
reunion mag.com) and on our facebook
fan page to see if others want to respond.
My anecdotal thoughts on the question
are that money and health may play a
greater role than you imagine. It was my
first thought when I read your question.
I would suggest more than just two
communications. Consider a “phone
tree.” Ask members who love talking on
the phone to call people you’ve not heard
from to remind or cajole them. If you feel
like doing some research, call to find out
why they’re not coming.
Add email, and web and facebook
pages to your communication tools to
capture some of the younger members, as
I’m guessing that may be a significant
number of those not coming. Ask
younger members to be in charge of
electronic communications.
In spite of your efforts, do not be
surprised if some turn up without
reservations.
Next time announce a prize for the
branch with the most members present.
Then grandma can urge her progeny to
be there so she can win!
Also, we have an evaluation online at
“wrap up your reunion.” It’s pretty
formal, though many reunions use it and
it could guide your debriefing.
Thanks for raising an issue I’d not
considered. I will consider it now. EW
Photo credit Pink Plum Photography, Vancouver, British Columbia
Zilke Family Reunion
DEADLINE MARCH 31, 2010
WIN A 2010 REUNION AT YMCA OF THE ROCKIES IN COLORADO! Win a reunion package
for 30 people, which includes 10 lodge rooms for two nights at either Estes Park Center or Snow
Mountain Ranch and daily breakfasts. Prize should be used by December 15, 2010.
To enter write 30 words or less about why you would like to have your reunion at YMCA of the Rockies. For details, visit
www.ymcarockies.org/home/what-we-offer/reunions-Colorado/winfreereunion. Enter now.
And for more opportunities to feather your reunion nest, visit contests and sweepstakes on www.reunionsmag.com.
Return often to see new contests as we discover.
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 27

MASTERPLAN
Arces bring music to Florida
It was Loida Arce Acosta’s first time planning the Arce
Family Reunion. The first generation is gone and the second
generation has only two members left; the oldest is 96. Now the
third generation takes turns.
Loida’s father, Luis Arce, started the family
reunions in the 1950s. He had three girls and
two boys. When he passed away, reunions fell
to the wayside until a cousin started them
again. They have rich family roots: the first
generation had 12 children.
They celebrate every two years. To make it
possible for family members to come from
Puerto Rico, they alternate reunion locations
every two years.
The family branch that plans the reunion
decides on the location, and gets a chance to
stage its own reunion, selecting the date, theme
Tranquiolin (Tinin) Arce-Rosa (87) and her sister Francis (Paca) Arce-Cruz (95), the survivors of the first 12
siblings, lead the team parade.
and style. It’s always fresh and
new. In addition, each reunion
unveils its own new logo.
Loida, who lives in
Orlando, chose Florida in
December to take advantage
of cooler weather. The theme
was Celebrando Nuestra
Musica (celebrating our
music). The logo was handpainted
and included a group
of instruments and traditional
images from Puerto Rico.
Los Hibaros del Campo came to perform.
The family sends a
newsletter close to the reunion date and has a website where
they can download pictures, add news, celebrate birthdays,
weddings, milestones, trade recipes, take polls and find
addresses and phone numbers.
The family has many reunion traditions: a new logo and theme
each reunion, team games, chapel, Heritage Night, sharing time,
campfire, talent show, Arce gallery and birthday tables. They’ve
28 REUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
just added an auction to give the next reunion a head start.
There is a 5K walk/run, Arce Boot Camp exercise, and team
games (volleyball, basketball, table games, softball). Points are
awarded for Best Team Chants and Team
Banners. Teens are captains, with an adult cocaptain.
Certificates for winning teams and
special certificates are given at the farewell
service. There is also an Arce of the Year
award.
Loida’s daughter, Natalie Arce Acosta, who
was in charge of connecting with cousins online
on Facebook and MySpace, also sorted t-shirts,
made welcome packages and much more.
Family members contribute something of
their family for the Arce Family Gallery. It can
Brother and sister, Rebecca and Matthew
be a photo, computer slide show or digital
Calderon enjoy the Arce gallery. picture frames. Loida made a 95-page slide
show for one night’s program. It included
pictures of past reunions and family group pages
of each family and each branch.
They started a silent auction and collected
about $2,500. But the silent auction was turned
into a real auction because family members were
“out for blood. It was so much fun. One family
picture sold for $600, another for $1,025.” All the
money is deposited to the reunion account, and
some offsets this reunion and some helps the next
family with start-up money for the next reunion.
One special night is dedicated to the family’s
Puerto Rican heritage, with food, songs and
traditions from the first generation and a sharing
time at the end.
Loida’s sister was the cook. She made
traditional foods like yellow rice and pigeon peas,
pork and chicken the Puerto Rican way, salad with
special dressing, Spanish bread, green bananas
and yucca with rice pudding for dessert. Everyone
at the feast was told that a special group, Los
Hibaros del Campo, was coming to sing.
After serving the food, Loida and
others went to a back room, changed
and exited the back. Then they came
in singing Spanish Christmas songs
with traditional instruments and dress.
Another tradition is called Bombas;
participants spontaneously rhyme off
the top of their heads by singing a
couple of sentences that make sense.
Loida added lots of information
about Puerto Rico to the program
because the kids are forgetting where
the family came from, so they try hard
to keep that tradition. She is thinking
about a workshop for the younger generation to learn about and
be proud of where the family came from for future reunions.
Reunions are a time nobody wants to miss. They are
considered a “must.”
The whole assembled Arce Family Reunion photo can be
seen in Reunions Picture Gallery at www.reunionsmag.com.

Wilson family celebrates 77th reunion
Descendants of the late Henry and
Lucy Marrow Wilson of Granville
County, North Carolina, celebrated the
77th anniversary of the Wilson Family
Reunion. It was the largest reunion in
many years, close to 600 family and
friends. Family members attended from
13 states, from as far west as California,
as far north as Connecticut, and as far
south as Texas. The family has celebrated
a reunion every year since 1932. Throughout
the years, the reunion has been held
in homes, the Greenwood Schoolhouse,
Northern Granville Middle School and,
in recent years, J. F. Webb High School.
This year’s three-day reunion started
with the first Meet & Greet the family
has ever held. It was great way for family
to reconnect. There was a display of
enlarged photographs of Wilson
ancestors, the family homestead, and old
reunion pictures to spark reminiscences.
This occasion was special because it
gave everyone a chance to be close and
listen to stories of how their ancestors
lived during the early 20th century. Light
refreshments and a Wilson Family
Reunion cake were served.
On Saturday, 200 family members met
at the Granville Athletic Park in Oxford,
North Carolina, for a cookout and a
spectacular celebration of their heritage.
The family enjoyed prayer, food and
games. The theme was “A Return to Our
Roots: Celebrating 77 Years of Wilson
Family History and Heritage,” which was
appropriate because Reverend Willie F.
Wilson of Washington, DC, presented the
results of his DNA test. The test was done
by African Ancestry, Inc. The paternal
genetic marker linked the Wilsons to the
Fula and Balanta people of Guinea-Bissau,
a small country off the west coast of Africa.
The same day he received the DNA test
results, a gentleman in his congregation
from Guinea-Bissau presented him with
a staff carved by a priest from the west
coast of Africa. Family members held the
staff and posed for photographs.
Reverend Wilson performed a libation,
pouring liquid in honor of the family’s
ancestors. He also provided the family
with free copies of documentation to show
and volunteers for a job well done.
The family brings their home-cooked
baskets for a traditional Sunday dinner.
The family has also always remembered
their ancestors by lighting a candle and
having a moment of silence.
Children are included in the program at
the reunion. This year we had one of our
young family members sing a solo. Our
children are also provided with games and
Wilsons enjoyed their reunion with Reverend Willie F. Wilson holding the staff, the author is in the Michael Jackson t-shirt.
proof of the DNA research, and information
about Wilson family history. He has been
ordained as a Wolof Priest in the
Gambia, West Africa, and was installed
as a sub-chief by the Asankare-Breuto in
Asankrangwa, West Ghana. He was a 2002
mayoral candidate for Washington, DC.
The grand finale was held Sunday at
J. F. Webb High School, where the family
put on a grand performance of gospel
singing, praise worship dancing, ministering,
and a detailed history of the Wilson Family
Reunion. Approximately 350 attended.
Pamela Williams, president of the Wilson
Family Reunion, welcomed the Wilson
family and thanked committee members
other activities to keep them busy. In years
past, children have not been involved in
planning; however, it is something that
should and will be implemented.
At 94, Elizabeth Wilson Nutall was
the oldest Wilson family member and the
oldest in attendance. Special recognition
was given to graduates, and the oldest
Wilson family members received
plaques, while the youngest family
member in attendance, 19-month-old
Taliyah Yancey, received an engraved
picture frame.
Reported by Pamela Williams,
Fredricksburg, Virginia,
Wilson Reunion president.
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 29

MASTERPLAN
How to reunite, family-style
by Elizabeth Eaton Donofrio
When my husband’s job
brought us from
Massachusetts to
Florida, I realized I
was not as brave as my
namesake on the Mayflower. Without
telephones, email and digital cameras,
I’d never have made it across the ocean;
I’d be the one waving goodbye from the
dock as the rest of the Pilgrims set sail.
Even with all these gizmos and gadgets
to keep me connected to our family in
New England, I still need to see, hear,
smell and touch my roots to cure my homesickness.
So each summer, we pack up our four children for the long
journey home. I was always excited until we actually arrived
because we spent much of the week, not picking blueberries as
I’d envisioned but, driving from one relative’s house to another.
Our conversations typically went something like this:
ME: “Why can’t we stay longer at my mother’s?”
HUSBAND ROB: “Am I ever going to see any other part of the
country in my lifetime?”
ME: “Do you think we can swing by (fill in the blank) for just a
few hours?”
ROB: “I’m spending a fortune, and all we’re doing is driving all
over the place. This is not a vacation!”
Then last fall, Rob had a breakthrough … a movable
reunion vacation. For one week, I could see my mother,
brother, sister, and sister-in-law and all their families. We
could invite our aunts, uncles, and cousins to visit for a day or
overnight. We’d stay put in one big house, all together.
Everything I could want. For Rob, no driving hither and yon,
and every year, we could visit a different part of the country.
Plus, the big payoff: we’re still married.
The Protocol: I emailed my brother in Pennsylvania, my
sister in Massachusetts, and my mother in Maine, and asked if
they would like to start a tradition of meeting in a different spot
every year. For our inaugural reunion we remained in New
England. This created buy-in for Grammy and Grandpa, who
like me, are somewhat logistically challenged. Searching the
internet, we found an affordable 13-bedroom house on Island
Pond in Harrison, Maine.
Conducting Research: Everyone helped with planning. One
family would be in charge of dinner each day, with one night
reserved for the grown-ups to go out while Grammy babysat;
with pizza thrown in, that covered all evenings. Jenn, my
brother’s wife, planned a clambake on the beach, which was
the highlight of the week.
30 REUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
Mitch Donofrio (8) enjoys kayaking with his Uncle Chuck Eaton.
Jenn also created shirts at www.cafepress.com. She found a
tree graphic, wrote our surnames around the branches and
under the roots Of all the names we go by, we like Family best.
Maine 2008. We could view her designs and order the color,
size and style we each preferred. Shirts were sent directly to
each of us. It was perfect.
I emailed our plans and included a link to see the house on
the web, proving we had plenty of room to accommodate
everyone.
Executing the plan: Our rental house, Snowbird Lodge, was
a former camp lodge with its own beach. Aside from swimming,
kayaking, and hiking, day excursions included letterboxing at
the Songo Locks (see freebies at reunionsmag.com for more
information about this fabulous, free family pastime), a trip to
L.L. Bean in Freeport, and to North Conway and Diana’s Baths
in New Hampshire. Harrison was celebrating their Heritage
Days, so we attended and my brother and I signed up for the
5K Run Around the Lake. Our mom was especially happy to
watch us run together, which we’d not done since we ran on our
high school cross-country team 23 years earlier. Our children
voted to forego seeing us cross the finish line in favor of more
rides on The Zipper.
We organized a Christmas in July, complete with small tree,
lights and decorations, and a Talent Show. Chuck, our
experienced Boy Scout camper, was MC, introducing kids’ acts
with typical Maine humor, “It was so cold this morning my corn
flakes turned into frosted flakes!” and “By night time, my
hamburg was an iceberg!”
PLANNING TIPS
• Start planning early! You need time to secure the location
you want when you want it. Give yourself up to one year lead
time.
• Make group decisions about location, time and price.
• Get as large a house as you can afford so you have elbow
room. Or get adjacent cottages.

• If planning a long drive, make sure your car is checked out
by your mechanic before you leave. Bring snacks and travelfriendly
games.
• Build in time with your immediate family apart from the
extended family.
• Plan some group activities like a talent show, clambake,
baseball game or campfire.
• Organize day excursions to break up the week.
• Bring crafts and games appropriate for all ages for indoor
time. In our family, when we say, “Want to play The Game?”
everyone knows we mean Scrabble. Shut the Box, a game
we’d never heard of, was a HUGE hit. Also, we kept a basket
near the kitchen table with a deck of cards, Blink, string for
friendship bracelets, beads and safety pins for friendship
pins, crayons, markers and paper, bubbles, and playdough. If
you rent a house, ask if there are games or toys waiting. The
house we rented had Legos galore and some Matchbox cars.
• I bought a tablecloth from www.gooseberrypatch.com with a
map of the US printed on it. It was great to show where each
family was from, and to plan our trip next year.
• Collect finds from hikes in a Jar of Wonder. Dispense
contents at end of the reunion.
• Keep a family journal for use year after year.
• Take lots of photos! Make a photo book on www.kodakgallery.com.
Water is always an attraction for everyone.
A SAMPLE OF PERSONAL TESTIMONIALS:
As with all scientific experiments, we kept a journal.
• Uncle Chuck took us on a hike in the woods. I found a big
feather for our Jar of Wonder. There were a lot of
mosquitoes. We didn’t put them in the jar. ~Ellie, age 4
• Tomorrow we will be leaving “The Big House.”
Everything has been wonderful - but for me the most
wonderful was being with my children, their spouses and
all the grandchildren! It’s amazing how fast the
grandchildren are growing and developing their own
personalities. I’m looking forward to more reunions like
this. ~Grammy
• What a great week! I’m so glad we had a chance to really
catch up, so much more than an afternoon celebrating a
holiday. I had a chance to get to know all my nieces and
nephews. I’ll try and sharpen my Scrabble skills for next
time! Love to all. Sad it has to end. ~Uncle Chuck
• I really enjoyed the kayaking, the fresh air, the cool
nights, friends, family, but most of all, no cell phone
coverage or internet access! ~Rob
KEEPING IN TOUCH AFTER THE REUNION
• Email!! My daughter, Abbey, and her cousin, Hannah, have
become fast email friends and lately, weekly phone calls.
• Use facebook.com for sharing photos and for
those who couldn’t come. After they learn
about the fun you had, they’ll be anxious to
join next year!
About the author
Beth Donofrio is a mother of four children
and a middle school language arts teacher for
54 children in Venice, Florida. She has written
articles about family life and education for
various national and regional magazines
including PTO Today, Cape Cod Magazine and
the Boston Parents Paper among others.
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 31

FEATURES
Go on a coastal reunion bay-cation By
Edith Wagner
If a fistful choices is important to you, Alabama’s
Mobile Bay area provides plenty to love. Located in
the southwestern corner of the state, Mobile is on the
Mobile River, and the Bay is on the Gulf of Mexico.
It’s Alabama’s only seaport, tenth in the US, and
many reunions have sailed aboard a Carnival Cruise from
Mobile. The Carnival Fantasy is sailing until May 2010, when
it will be replaced by the Carnival Elation.
In the beginning, the area was home to the Native American
Mobilian tribe, responsible for the naming of the city, whose
citizens are referred to as Mobilians. Mobile’s rich history and
varied influences date back to its founding in 1702 as a colony
of France, then Britain and Spain, before becoming a part of
the US in 1813, through its Civil War secession in 1861 and
reentry in 1865.
For a thorough overview, you’ll want to learn the area’s
entire history at the Museum of Mobile (museumofmobile.com),
which tells 300 years of Mobile history, from the very first
inhabitants to the present. At nearby Fort Conde, an 18th
century replica, six flags have flown over the city.
A DESTINATION FOR MILITARY REUNIONS
For military reunions or
families who are honoring
World War II veterans, Mobile
tells a story of strong support
for the World War II effort.
The Museum of Mobile has an
exhibit about work in the
shipyards and at the Brookley
Army Air Field during WWII.
Mobile was one of 18 US
cities producing Liberty ships
between 1940 and 1943. After
the war, most of the military
bases were converted to
civilian uses.
Mobile is home to USS
USS Alabama
Alabama Battleship Memorial
Park (ussalabama.com), a memorial to everyone who has served
or is serving in the Armed Forces. Dramatic exhibits include
USS Alabama and the submarine USS Drum, which earned 12
Battle Stars for valor in WWII. You will also see WWII tanks,
artillery and 24 combat aircraft, including those flown by the
Tuskegee airmen, and much more.
SAMPLE
MOBILE BAY CVB SERVICES FOR MILITARY REUNIONS
The Mobile Bay CVB can make planning your military reunion easy and affordable.
Ron McConnell is the CVB point man who can provide these services.
• Direct contact with hotels for rates and banquet pricing
• Proposal packet detailing military sites, attractions, dining and transportation
• Follow-up to answer questions and meet special needs
• Professional sightseeing service to coordinate leisure activities
Contact Ron McConnell at 800-566-2453, ext 4; ron-mcconnell@mobile.org to plan
your reunion in Mobile Bay! Also visit www.mobilebay.org.
32 R EUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
MARDI GRAS IN MOBILE
Mobile is known for having the oldest organized Carnival
celebrations in the US, dating to the early colonial period.
It is also the home to the first formally organized Carnival
mystic society or “krewe” in the US in 1711. In 2009, Mardi
Gras reached the one-million attendee milestone during the 5-
day citywide Mobile celebration.
Your reunion may not be in Mobile for Mardi Gras, but
whenever you visit, you can not escape this all encompassing
tradition. Planning and preparation are year-round
preoccupations for Mobilians. Carnival celebrations end
promptly at
midnight at the
beginning of Ash
Wednesday (the first
day of Lent).
To get a good
dose of the flavors of
Carnival, you’ll want
to visit the Mobile
Carnival Museum
(mobilecarnival
museum.com). You’ll
see jeweled crowns
A Mardi Gras tradition was started at the Perry-Prince
Family Reunion in the Mobile Bay area. Shown here,
reunion King Rev. Nathaniel Perry, Gulfport, Mississippi,
and Queen Rosemary Perry, Pensacola, Florida. Everyone
16 and over has a chance in a drawing to be chosen to
reign as reunion royalty. It adds to the excitement,
according to Claude Perry, Mobile, Alabama.
and lavish gowns
and robes of Mobile’s
Mardi Gras Kings
and Queens, and
learn the mysteries
of Mardi Gras.
FAMILY TIME
Children’s and science museums are becoming ubiquitous.
Mobile’s Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center
(exploreum.com) combines both with exciting interactive
exhibits. From the youngest toddlers to the great-grandparents,
you’ll find plenty to intrigue everyone. The Exploreum is home
to an IMAX Theater and permanent – as well as traveling –
exhibits. Larger-than-life dinosaurs are featured right now. The
Exploreum’s new, innovative My Bodyworks gallery features
more than 50 health-related interactive exhibits. It would be a
perfect field trip if you include a health workshop in your
family reunion program. Interactive exhibits include virtual
heart bypass and knee replacement surgeries. It’s a great place
for curious minds to explore. Call 251-208-6879 for group rates.
FAMILY TIME OUTDOORS
Nature is a prime interest and
attraction in the Mobile Bay area, so
your reunion program would be remiss
without time outdoors. The 5 Rivers
Delta Center is a good place to start. It is
a fascinating nature center with camping
(four campsites are floating platforms)
and meeting space that can accommodate
reunions. It offers a new way to explore
the Mobile, Spanish, Tensaw, Appalachee

These Mobilian Exploreum fans are playing a tug of war game using a fulcrum and levers that
illustrates various outcomes.
and Blakeley River delta, the second largest in the continental
US. There are boat and adventure tours, walking trails and a
canoe and kayak landings (dcnr.state.al.us/outdooradventures/5rivers/).
Nearby Dauphin Island (townofdauphinisland.org) and its
Audubon Bird Sanctuary offer a sandy beach and educational
sightseeing in beautiful woodlands. There are miles of walking
trails where egrets and herons hang out in the marshes and
trees, and an occasional alligator can be spotted. Dauphin
Island is classified as a “Globally Important Bird Area” by the
American Bird Conservancy. (dauphinisland.org/bird.htm)
Fort Gaines (dauphinisland.org/fort.htm) on Dauphin Island is
famous for the Civil War Battle of Mobile Bay and Admiral
Farragut’s command, “Damn the torpedoes. Full speed ahead.”
You’ll see how soldiers lived in the 1800s, a working
blacksmith shop, bakery, Officer’s Quarters, and actual
cannons used in the Battle of Mobile Bay.
Golf is an important activity to many reunion-goers, and
Alabama offers the statewide Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.
The Trail includes 11 golf courses, two of which are among
Mobile’s seven courses. The Wall Street Journal said the Trail
“may be the biggest bargain in the country” and The New York
Times called the Trail “some of the best public golf on Earth.”
Ask the CVB for the Mobile Bay Golf Guide.
TASTE OF MOBILE
Of course, you’ll need to eat during your Mobile Bay area
visit. These are some fine and fun places to consider.
Arrive for dinner at Bimini Bob’s (biminibobs.com) in
Daphne in time to watch beautiful sunsets overlooking
Mobile Bay. An alligator-cam keeps an eye on who’s under
the deck. Bimini Bob’s features fresh local gulf seafood.
Lunch at Café Royal, where owner Tony Dughaish is
very cordial, features delectable cuisine at affordable
prices. I liked the big poster board menu outside.
Spot of Tea (spotoftea.net) in Historic Downtown
Mobile is in a landmark building erected in 1836. Ruby
Moore and her family have expanded the restaurant to
include party rooms.
Wintzell’s Oyster House (wintzellsoysterhouse.com) on
Dauphin Street, a Mobile landmark since 1938, serves
signature oysters “fried, stewed or nude.” And if you’re
really lucky, Miss Pinky will be your server. She is
knowledgeable and so eager to serve.
Costumed guides at Oakleigh Historic Complex.
MOBILE AT HOME IN HISTORY
The Oakleigh Historic Complex’s (historicmobile.org) three
house museums interpret people’s lives in the mid-19th
century. Follow a costumed guide through Oakleigh, an 1833
Greek revival mansion and down the path to the 1850 threeroom
Cook’s House where the servants lived.
Just a short drive from downtown Mobile is world-renowned
Bellingrath Gardens and Home (bellingrath.org), a must-visit
attraction. The 65-acre garden estate on Fowl River was
created personally by Walter and Bessie Bellingrath. The
English Renaissance-styled home, built in 1935, houses the
Bellingrath family’s impressive original furnishings and Mrs.
Bellingrath’s extensive collection of decorative arts. Group
rates for 20 or more.
continued on page 34
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 33

FEATURES
Go on a coastal reunion bay-cation continued
PERRY-PRINCE FAMILY ENJOYS MOBILE
According to Claude Perry, the Perry-Prince Family Reunion
chose the Mobile area for their very first family gathering
on his father’s side because Mobile provided many opportunities.
In fact, he observed that Mobile must be a popular reunion city
because they saw many reunion t-shirts on other families the
same weekend.
MOBILE BAY CONVENTION
AND VISITORS BUREAU
Includes Mobile, Daphne
and Fairhope
800-5-Mobile (800-566-2453)
mobilebay.org
mobilebaymeetings.org
The host hotel was
convenient to the Tilman’s
Corner Community Center,
with a spacious outdoor
room adjacent to an
elementary school, which
provided added space. It
was a very hot day so they
were delighted to have
acquired a facility to
accommodate elderly as
well as young members.
Some members visited
sick and shut-in members
who were not able to attend the reunion.
Perry worked with the CVB for supplies and information
about the city for many who did not live in the area. The CVB
provided bags, maps and coupon booklets, and offered many
services the reunion committee had already acquired.
Many gifts were donated by the committee and presented
throughout the event.
Activities were planned for children at the Perry-Prince Family Reunion, including discussions
about issues important to kids today.
They chose the 4th of July because there are many fireworks.
Their theme was “Giving Thanks to a New Beginning” and
colors, not surprisingly, were red, white and blue.
This first reunion was described as a “meet, greet and eat
event” to get the family together. Many were grateful to have had
the opportunity to meet family members for the very first time.
In true Mobile fashion, the family chose a King and Queen
to reign over the reunion. Royalty are selected by drawing
names of one male and one female family member over 16
years of age. The drawing is at the reunion so everyone can
look forward to the surprise. The King and Queen received
gifts of lawn chairs, a picnic set with barbecue sauce and gift
basket. The Perry-Prince family royalty will be a tradition at
each reunion.
About the author
Edith Wagner is editor of Reunions magazine. She loves to
visit reunion places.
TPLACES TO STAY IN MOBILE, ALABAMA
hese are historic full-service accommodations whose
pasts follow Mobile area’s history. All have recently
undergone extensive renovations and added spas.
Newly renovated Battle House Hotel and Renaissance
Riverview Plaza occupy prime central locations in
downtown Mobile. Both are conveniently surrounded by
museums, historical sites, galleries, restaurants and shops.
The renovated Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club &
Spa (marriottgrand.com) in nearby Point Clear, Alabama, is
an historic hotel where high tea is served each day at 4 PM.
The resort’s Lakewood Golf Club is on the Robert Trent
Jones Golf Trail.
Explore all of these accommodations at www.pchresorts.com.
34 R EUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com

Family theatre party raises reunion bucks
Most of our family theatre
parties have taken place at
Arena Stage in Washington, DC. We
select Arena because they produce
a wide variety of plays that interest
our members and their group rate is
extremely liberal. Plus Washington,
DC, is centrally located for family
members from Virginia, Maryland
and New Jersey.
At Arena groups of 15 or more
pay about two-thirds of the box
office ticket price, so it’s easy to
make money. The discount is about
$20 per ticket, whereas other
theatres discount their tickets only
$4 to $7 for groups.
Because folks come from all
over, the price we charge is for the
theatre ticket only; it does not
include transportation. Groups get
together and car pool. (By contrast,
I do similar theatre parties for some
of my Richmond arts groups and
the $85 price includes bus
transportation and snacks.)
Some groups charge more than
the box office price for their
fundraisers, but we don’t. We
charge the same price they would
pay at the box office. That way the person attending is paying
what they would pay on their own and the reunion treasury is
FUNDRAISING
still making a profit. On the rare
occasion that we don’t get 15
persons, we still have a great day
at the theatre in the company of
family and friends. We usually see
a matinee and go to dinner as a
group after. If we see an evening
performance, we meet for dinner
before the show. Sometimes we
make a day of it and visit one of
the Smithsonian museums before
the show.
The cost of our most recent trip
was $62 per person (tickets cost
about $43 each). We had 16
participants, so made about $300.
We have made as much as $650 on
a theatre party, depending on how
many people go. We sometimes get
contributions from folks who are
unable to attend.
Once you sign up for the theatre
party, we send background
information: a synopsis and/or
reviews of the play, information
about the playwright, historical
material on the era/issues
represented by the play, etc. We
also send information about dinner
and the museum visit.
Shared by Bessida Cauthorne White, White and
Cauthorne-Brooks Family Reunions, Richmond, Virginia.
The Branch Family Legacy DVD titled
“On the Hill in Watson, AR,” was taped
inside the family’s St. John AME Church. It
includes interviews with the two then-living
children of ancestors John and Louisa Branch,
the late Mary Branch Bankston and Willie
Branch, Sr., as well as surviving spouses
Grace Branch, wife of Ezell Branch, Sr.,
Dorothy Branch, wife of John Wes Branch
and Marvel Branch, wife of Willie Branch,
Sr. The children revisited the life and times
spent with their late parents and siblings. A
condensed version was shown during the
reunion banquet. The history of the family
church and Gentry Elementary School (named
for Annie Branch Gentry, John and Louisa’s
eldest daughter) were included, along with
words of wisdom, and biographies of John
and Louisa Branch and their ten children
with an accompanying photomontage.
Videos were available for purchase.
Reported by Diane Gentry Martin,
Memphis, Tennessee.
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 35

FUNDRAISING
How do
podcasts help
with fundraising?
We have several fundraisingrelated
podcasts online and
more in our heads! One discusses how
to ask for money, which is everyone’s
first dilemma. How to create a reunion
ad book is particularly good for class
reunions. And how Convention and
Visitors Bureaus can help may also
affect your bottom line. Add podcasts
to your reunion information resource!
www.reunionsmag.com.
Lovine Moss, Rock Hill, South Carolina,
used personalized candies as a
giveaway at a Moss Family Reunion.
Everyone loved them. So it occurs to us
that candies also might be sold as a
fundraiser. Moss got hers from Hospitality
Mints, 800-334-5181; hospitalitymints.com.
FUNDRAISING ROUNDUP
How lots of reunions raise money
Shanele Jordan Toomer writes about a
Silent Auction. We have had this
prize winner for more than a few
reunions. There is a table with auction
items. In front of each item is a box.
Purchase tickets at $1 each. Place
ticket(s) in the box in front of the item
you want to bid on. Winning tickets are
drawn from the box and announced
during the Saturday program. The
Toomers also solicit reunion sponsors.
Family members make the case that their
reunion offers an opportunity for the
sponsor to enhance its brand and to
reach a target audience. They offer
sponsors invitations to receptions and
can plaster their logo on anything from
banners to key chains.
Ann Eide, Beloit, Wisconsin, reports
that the Christiansen Family Reunion
asks everyone for $2 in dues to pay for
postage and shelter rental fee.
Cheryl Moore Strodder, Richmond,
Virginia, says the Henry & Sam Johnson
Family Reunion assesses family dues of
$100 per family. Each family pays for
individual activities and t-shirts.
Jeri Sprecher, Peoria, Arizona, plans
the reunion of WWII American Beagle
Alumni. Their funds come primarily from
dues and the sale of special items (hats,
t-shirts, pins, stamps, etc.). Funds are
kept in an interest-bearing checking
account (with two signers). Reunion costs
are covered by registration fees.
Sarah Okuno, Saratoga, California, says
her family fronted the necessary deposits
and payments for the Awaya Family
Reunion, then divided expenses by the
number of adults, and billed each family.
They usually ask for installments from
each family to make payments to the
accommodation. Quite often they carry
some balance as folks delay payments.
They are always reimbursed 100% by the
end of the reunion.
Carol Idalski, Charlotte, Michigan,
says the Darga Family Reunion
treasurer covers catering by collecting
$15 for a single adult, $30 for an adult
couple, and $40 for a family. Desserts
and snacks are donated.
Kristophe Smith reported that
community contacts helped him score a
very nice donation. “I secured a donation
from the Community Relations
Department at Royal Caribbean Cruise
Line. No one in my family works for
them. I’ve worked in the Miami
community on several events with RCCL
over the years. They were a great partner
for our family reunion.”
Bolins collect for birthday presents
Each year we find a creative way to collect money to
cover our reunion expenses because an offering
doesn’t bring in enough. This year when we sent out the
invitation we asked everyone to get an envelope and write
on the front “Bolin Reunion Birthday Present” for the
reunion birthday theme. We asked them to begin adding
money daily and bring it to the reunion.
On the day of the birthday reunion, everyone who
brought an envelope got a numbered ticket. There was a
pot for those age 19 and younger and one for 20 and
older. We drew a numbered ticket for one person in each
age category to select an envelope of money to keep. We
had so much fun watching these two people squeezing
envelopes to see which might have the most money. We
collected more money this year than we have collected
in many years!
Submitted by Ricky Thornton,
Activities Coordinator, Bolin Family Reunion
held in Slocomb, Alabama, each April.
36 REUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
Eric Thornton (8) gets candles ready to celebrate everyone’s birthday.

An example of a successful
fundraising letter
Joan Curtis Waters shared this letter requesting contributions to help underwrite the
Curtis/Butler Family Reunion (CBF) door prizes and awards. She sent it to businesses
and family members. Here is Joan’s letter, followed by a report of the results.
april 2009
Dear :
this July, my family – the Curtis/butler Family (CbF) – will gather for our
much anticipated bi-annual family reunion. We are deeply rooted in Charles
and St. Mary’s Counties although family members reside in surrounding areas
and across the country.
We look forward to this special event as we celebrate our heritage, reconnect
with each other and highlight family achievements. everyone looks forward
to the Family Pride awards we present to our high school and college
graduates and our youth who participate in community events. it is a time
when we show them just how proud we are of their accomplishments.
Family Pride awards are also extended to retirees, military and others who
have reached significant milestones since our last reunion. We realize that we
have excellent role models for our youth right in our own family!
We invite you to share in our celebration by providing complimentary items
for our reunion goody bags for each family represented (50) and/or door
prizes that are awarded by random draw. typically, we receive discount
coupons, dinner certificates and other goods from area establishments. all
contributors will be listed in our reunion program as reunion sponsors.
thank you in advance for your support of Family Values! if you have any
questions, please contact me at your earliest convenience by phone or email.
kindest regards,
Joan curtis Waters
CbFamily reunion Coordinator
Charlotte Hall MD
Fundraising letters
Here are some tips for writing
successful fundraising letters.
• Do not write “To whom it may concern”
or “Dear friends.” Find the names of
who you’re writing to and use them.
• Use the word “you” to get your readers
more interested in your letter.
• State your case very clearly, because it
will make or break your solicitation.
• Emphasize the benefits they get from
supporting you and how you’ve used
donations in the past.
• Say that any amount of cash or in kind
contribution will be appreciated. Do
not pressure.
• Do not turn off readers with words that
are too big. Use simple words in
fundraising letters.
• Highlight important words in your
letter. Use bold fonts, underlining or
uppercase letters. Most readers simply
skim your letter.
• Make your letter format readable.
Leave white space. Have only three to
four sentences per paragraph. Indent
each paragraph.
• Use bullet points instead of long
sentences.
• Keep fundraising letters short. State
your intentions in the fewest possible
words. Get to the point immediately.
• Be honest.
• Be sincere.
Subscribe! Call 1-800-373-7933
THE RESULTS
• Family Sponsors – “You have not because you ask not.” I was overwhelmed by the
response of family members when asked to help “sponsor” the reunion by
donating funds toward a specific activity or the general reunion fund. Over $500
was contributed to the general fund, over and above registration fees (donations).
Wow! This money went toward rental fees for a porta-potty, tables, chairs, etc.
• Business Sponsors – Don’t be shy! Door prizes and other goody bag items were
provided by local and not-so-local business friends. Also, business owners in the
family were invited to donate door prizes that were given out by random draw.
Discounted/free items included photography sessions, spa treatment, limo
service, Reunions magazine subscriptions, personal care items and restaurant
coupons. Official reunion sponsor request letters were presented as needed …
with a huge family-friendly smile. Who would say No to supporting families?
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 37

FUNDRAISING
Lommori Family Reunion celebrates six generations
Descendants of Guiseppe and Elena Lommori and Bernardo
and Palmira Lommori gathered to celebrate strong family
ties that have been woven for six generations.
After dinner, everyone gathered at the “Auction Center” to
participate in one of our family’s favorite activities! Everyone
was encouraged to bring something from home for the auction.
This year’s assortment included baskets of homemade goodies,
collectible baseball cards, an Italian cookbook, a mystery bag
for the cook, vintage wine and framed photography. There were
also the last two paintings of Helena Lommori, who passed
away earlier in the year. Her donated paintings have always
been in great demand. Other favorites, and in great demand,
were two large glass jars filled with homemade Biscottis,
lovingly made by Delia Lommori! Our auctioneers kept the
atmosphere filled with true family spirit and lots of laughter!
This year, we introduced our newest auctioneer, Doak Walker,
who is six years old!
The popular bestseller cookbook, Memories and Recipes of
the Lommori Family, was also for sale. Filled with so much
more than recipes, this cookbook is a beautiful legacy of the
Lommori family, with stories, quotes and many photos.
From the Reno Gazette Journal, Reno, Nevada
Chatter from the forum
This discussion is from Reunions magazine’s Forum. You, too,
may join the discussion at http://forums.reunionsmag.com.
Camie
Where does the cash come from to start out? Like for printing forms and letters, stamps, ordering t-shirts, memory books,
food, etc. Example: 50 families x $20.00 per family = $1,000. Ok, with that grand, there’s t-shirts for each person ($10-
20 each), memory book printing (current addresses of each family and bio), cost of food (plus potluck on the last day) and
miscellaneous costs. Lodging, they can pick up on their own. Did I forget anything? I’m SURE I did! But that’s the idea.
Basically, that $20.00 doesn’t go far!!
Amber
Gosh! What I could do with $1,000! We don’t get that much ... I’ve spent a lot of my own money this year making the
reunion extra special.
It sounds like you guys are planning on going out of town for several days for a reunion? Have you already heard from the
50 families that they will pay $20 up front? If you have, can you clue me in on how you got them to willingly hand over
the money?
Prinz II
The total costs for a family reunion was $15,000.
We did a bit of fundraising for the reunion. We had bowling events that raised $500-$600. Members paid monthly dues
which actually helped defray the cost of fees (We all paid $20/month until the reunion). Also, we had one fund-raiser that
netted us well over $4,000.
Amber
What are you guys doing at your family reunions to spend so much money?
Prinz II
They paid the following.
Spirit of Chicago (river boat) - $4,000 + taxes and gratuities
Bus to shuttle people to Navy Pier - $600
Wyndham Chicago - $10,000 + for food, banquet hall rental, and taxes (Chicago had just raised their sales tax to 9.75%
and we had a lot of gratuities to pay)
Office Max - $600 (souvenir book printing; I did the layout free in Quark Xpress)
T-Shirts - $1200
Logo Design for t-shirts - $50
Tote bags - $500
Umbrellas - $500
One thing you really need to budget for is taxes. For example, when we got our total bill from the Wyndham, the entire
committee was amazed because a staggering 40% of the bill came from taxes and gratuities.
Roughly 300 attended the reunion.
Amber
“That sounds AWESOME! I wanna go to a family reunion like that!!”
38 R EUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com

Collecting reunion fees
We get many queries from reunion organizers about how to
collect reunion fees. You might want to weigh in with
Q?
A reader wrote, “We are asking $50 per family to pay
for hall rental and meals at our first family reunion. All
but 22 of 280 people have said they are coming, but
they are not so eager to send money. How do you give the
caterer a number and down payment when this happens? And
what do you do when people show up to eat and have not paid?
The reunion is one year from this month, and the planning has
already been in process for one year.”
A!
Yours is a common dilemma. I salute you for working so
far in advance to arrange these details. Many of your
reunion organizing compadres would be impressed that
you already know 258 people will be attending and that you’re
wondering only about 22 one year in advance.
Part of the payment problem may be how far in advance
members are advancing the money. Does your family know why
you need the money in advance? Sometimes people balk
because they’ve never planned an event and don’t realize down
payments and some purchases must be made well in advance.
Have you explained what the $50 includes so they
understand you’re not using an arbitrary figure? Did you
outline the benefits they’ll receive for $50? If not, telling them
will build understanding and empathy for your position.
Are you charging $50 per family, no matter how many kids?
So a single or widowed person would pay $50? And a family of
four will also pay $50? If so, knowing that is a big incentive for
families. Point it out.
As you need money for down payments, use what you have
and keep urging late payers to pay so you’ll have what you
need for your next payment. Just keep collecting so that, as you
need money, it will be there. Or charge $50, but ask for $25
Q?
I am one of the coordinators for a company reunion of
about 350 people scheduled for next spring. One
question we need to answer right away is how to handle
ticket money. We were told that if we opened an account
associated with a personal account the monies received would
be considered income and taxable. It has been suggested that
we set up a nonprofit group to keep the finances separate and
tax free, but this is costly and time-consuming. Guests will be
paying by check. Please let me know what your
recommendations would be in this situation.
We contacted two banking institutions and a friend who has
been in banking many years. They suggested a non-interest
bearing account because taxes are paid on the interest. We
❖
your 2¢ worth because we are always looking for new tricks
and methods for collecting money.
now and $25 a couple of months closer to the reunion. In fact,
if a generous family member can afford to advance money to
the reunion, you can promise to repay your benefactor from late
and reunion day collections.
Are you putting money in an interest-bearing account? If so,
tell members their money will be earning money for the reunion.
Have you promised a full financial report at the reunion?
Especially with family, you’ll want to lay everything out in
detail. Do it for this reunion and you will gain members’ trust.
Such openness will pay off for future reunions. Once everyone
understands why you need money, how you’re using it and the
promise of a report, they can’t ask for much more.
To collect fees, you must remind some repeatedly. Offer an
incentive to generate money early: a small gift certificate, a free
t-shirt and recognition at the reunion. Salute and reward your
members now, long before the reunion. Announce who submitted
their registration fees first—in flyers, on your website and in
your newsletter. Invest in your reunion future. Make a big deal
this time and you may score some early entries next time.
You’re going to have to use what you have as you meet
deadlines. It’s a long time before you need to give a caterer,
numbers so by then your numbers will be fairly accurate. You’ll
want to order a little over anyway for those scoundrels who
have still not RSVP’d. But you’ll need to know that exact
number. If there are too many who show up and have not paid,
you’ll have to cut them off and direct them to the nearest
McDonald’s. Tell them when the program starts and urge them
to return in time … from McDonald’s! EW
Dear Readers: What are your suggestions for generating
payments? Send to editor@reunionsmag.com.
were already aware it is best to keep reunion money separate
from personal accounts. The person handling our finances has
set up an account with her credit union and the incoming
checks will be made out to her. She will then make payments
for any expenses we incur. A non-profit organization was
recommended for groups who plan more than one event and
there is money carried over. This way they could receive
interest and not be taxed.
A!
If you’ve banked (even personally) at a bank for many
years, ask what they can do for you for a short-term
project. Promise to write few checks and maybe use
counter checks rather than having checks printed. Can you buy
a CD dated to coincide when you need cash?
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 39

FUNDRAISING
Burt(T)Schell family
accounting
Arliss Treybig. El Campo, Texas, plans the Burt(T)Schell
Family Reunion. She said, “We could not have enjoyed the
kind of reunion we had without donations and a raffle/silent
auction. Registration fees would only have provided a bare
bones reunion — no band, no children’s activities, no history
booklet or registration lists, no special name tag. Or we would
have had to choose.”
The following shows their reunion income.
Burt(T)Schell
Donations* $ 869
Registration $ 2060
Raffle & Silent Auctions $ 1100
Total Income $ 4029
Total Expenses - 3218
Balance** $ 811
**Donations (from committee chairmen and other family
members) included money and stamps, as well as
materials and supplies for the reunion.
**The “Balance” includes interest income and beer tips. It
is “seed money” for future reunions, family projects, etc.
Editors note: This story demonstrates one of my fondest hopeful
ideas for funds to sustain reunions. Aren’t the Millers lucky? EW
Miller family to hold
50th annual reunion
When descendents of the Kosmas and Caroline Miller
celebrated their 50th annual family reunion in Brillion,
Wisconsin, about 350 attended. The generosity of the couple’s
late son, Phillip, has made the reunion completely free for all
who attend. According to family member Arnie Miller, one of
Phillip’s wishes was to rejuvenate the Miller annual reunion.
He provided funds to literally cover it for many years in the
future. It includes food, refreshments, entertainment, games
and door prizes.
From a story in the Herald Times Reporter,
Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
Frosting on the cake
Online registration
can be lucrative
Smartybird on our forum (http://forums.reunionsmag.com)
wrote about online reunion registration.
I used paypal for my high school reunion and it worked
incredibly well. We were able to process last minute
registrations, which was a BIG plus. We had an optional
field for a donation to the class fund – much to my amazement
we took in an additional $2,500. Initially, I thought I had
a software error so I had to audit the number and I was
almost knocked over when I found it was indeed correct!
Google Pay charges 30% less so I’m going to evaluate it
for the next reunion.
When asked for more details, Smartybird offered the following.
One of the committee members suggested we add a line item
called “Donation of Support” that included three levels named
for our school colors and mascot: Maroon ($25-$49), Gray
($50-$99), and Lion ($100+). The vast majority of donations
were for $100, the rest were $50. We even received donations
from class members who were not able to attend.
Class members entered donation amounts as part of their
registration and charged the balance to their credit card. We
used the funds to have an even better reunion with lots of
extras. Also, we banked some for our 35th reunion.
Reported by Fred Nelson, Fayetteville, New York (aka
Smartybird at http://forums.reunionsmag.com).
40 REUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
The Seideman Family Reunion has an annual Kuchen
(German for “cake”) contest. Phyllis Naumann, West Bend,
Wisconsin, reported, “We had 14 kuchen/dessert entries. The
first place kuchen brought in $225, a record high for us.” The
auction total was another record, at $840. Of course, people
would make a donation to the reunion, but this kuchen thing
really gets some people going on donating to a great cause. The
silent auction raised $198.
Editor’s Note: In the interest of full disclosure, I was a judge and
the decision was not easy! EW

MILITARY REUNION NEWS
USS Eugene A. Greene (DD/DDR-711)
Seventy-six crew members and guests
assembled in San Antonio, Texas, for
the ninth reunion of USS Eugene A. Greene
(DD/DDR-711). Capt. Ed Schwier was
the Reunion Coordinator, and Glenn and
Laverne Herman handled the daily
functional and administrative details.
Registration started on Wednesday. USS
Greene memorabilia was on display, and
snacks and drinks were available in the
Hospitality Room. On Thursday a “City
Tour” of San Antonio included the San
Jose Mission, San Antonio River Walk and
Rivercenter Mall. Friday’s tour was to
Fredericksburg, Texas, to visit National
Museum of the Pacific War. A “side trip”
to Luckenback was added at the last minute!
Saturday started early with the ship’s
Business Meeting. The afternoon was
The National Museum of the US
Air Force in Dayton, Ohio,
with other organizations in the
Dayton area, will commemorate
the 60th anniversary of the Korean
War with special events and the
opening of the museum’s renovated
Korean War exhibit area.
USS Eugene A. Greene (DD/DDR-711).
Korean War 60th anniversary
filled with a tour of El Mercado, the
largest Mexican marketplace outside of
Mexico, and Buckhorn Saloon and
Museum’s Hall of Horns.
The Association Banquet provided the
grand finale. Captain Earle W. Sapp,
Commanding Officer of USS Greene from
1965–1967, and his family were honored
guests. Many raffle prizes were provided
by crew members.
The WWII 75th Infantry Division was
our next-door neighbor. We shared food
and drink, and swapped Battle of the
Bulge and sea stories.
Unanimous vote decided the next
Greene Association Reunion will be in
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 2011.
Reported by Robert J. Clark,
Louisville, Kentucky
Note: The Greene Association enjoys sing-alongs but is finding few pianos these days.
There will also be many events for which
Korean War veteran groups and individual
veterans can register. The Korean War Memorial
Ceremony will be on June 26, 2010, to
recognize, honor and remember the service and
sacrifice of those who fought in the “Forgotten
War.” Visit nationalmuseum.af.mil/korea.asp or
call 937-255-5940.
Honors for crew
of WWII ship
named for
Columbia
During World War II, light cruiser
USS Columbia participated in most
of the sea battles in the Pacific theater,
sustained three kamikaze attacks and
lost 60 of its sailors.
Recently, the few surviving crew
members were honored during their
reunion in Columbia, South Carolina, the
city for which the ship was named. The
event featured the unveiling of a new
exhibit, including an 8-foot model of the
ship, at the South Carolina Confederate
Relic Room and Military Museum.
The mayor, state officials and other
dignitaries honored the veterans in the
Relic Room with special exhibits and
living history presentations about World
War II and USS Columbia. The South
Carolina Senate proclaimed the day as
“USS Columbia Day” in recognition of
the veterans.
The ship’s flag from the Battle of
Leyte Gulf – the largest naval
engagement of World War II – was
donated to the museum by the son of
Admiral Maurice Curts, the skipper of
the Columbia during Leyte Gulf.
A model of the ship built by a crew
member recently underwent a $2,000
renovation. In addition, the Relic Room
spent $5,000 to build the permanent
display case.
Before it was decommissioned in
1946, the Columbia was awarded 10
battle stars and the Navy Unit
Commendation.
The Navy revived the Columbia name
in 1995 when it commissioned a Los
Angeles-class nuclear submarine, based
in Hawaii. But now Columbia, South
Carolina, shares naming honors with
Columbia, Missouri, and Columbia,
Maryland.
From an article by Jeff Williamson
in The State, Columbia, South Carolina
See upcoming
military reunions @
reunionsmag.com
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 41

MILITARY REUNION NEWS
Report from The Alliance
of Military Reunions
42 REUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
Ivan Smith, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Dennis Smith, Dingmans Ferry, Pennsylvania, and
Efrain Vargas, Daytona Beach, Florida, (l to r) enjoy the display about reunion ideas at The
Alliance of Military Reunions meeting in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
The Alliance had 253 full members (169 military reunion groups
and 84 CVBs, hotels, and vendors) by Christmas. They had an
organizational meetings in Fairfax, Virginia, and and Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania and a reunion planning seminar in Branson, Missouri.
Their next planning seminar will be in Maine in April when
Maine Tourism will show off their state as a reunion destination,
Skip Sander is the creative energy behind this idea and reality.
He reports that The Alliance has established the following mission:
“...to be a valuable resource for those who organize, manage, host,
and serve Military Reunion Groups from all services and eras. We
do so by providing our members with information, training, and
personal networking opportunities.” If you organize a military
reunion, plan to join. For information click on Future Reunions at
www.reunionsmag.com and take advantage of a special joining offer.
Rosie the Riveters recognized
While most eligible men served in the Armed Forces during
World War II, the war effort at home produced equipment,
planes, bullets and everything the troops needed. Many women
served on the home front in factory jobs formerly held by soldiers.
These women are now in their 80s and 90s, and they’re telling
their stories.
Anne Montague is Executive Director and Founder of Thanks!
Plain and Simple, a non-profit in Charleston, West Virginia,
whose first project is to collect stories of West Virginia women
known as Rosie the Riveters. Their stories are of dedication and
pulling together in that dark time in the world, but told with great
commitment to freedom from tyranny. Their role is a very
important part of the fuller picture of the War.
In November, Belgium became the first allied nation to thank
American Rosies. The Belgian Embassy in Washington, DC,
recognized and thanked American Rosies for their contribution to
the War. The Belgian representative, Lt. Col. Martine Dierckx,
said there are 14,000 American soldiers buried in Belgium, and
Belgian school children care for the graves.
The US Park Service’s Rosie the Riveter National Historic Park
is also collecting stories at www.nps.gov/rori/index.htm.

Newport News, Virginia,
Vietnam icon receives face-lift
Members of the CH-54 Skycrane
Association, many of whom are
Vietnam veterans, held their annual
reunion in Newport News, Virginia, to
visit the US Army Transportation
Museum at Fort Eustis and aid with
cleanup of the craft. Veterans watched
active duty soldiers install new tires and
replace cushions in the cockpit, while
they gave the crane a long deserved bath.
The CH-54 Skycrane helicopter has an
88'6'' frame and was used primarily for
hauling supplies and equipment.
The Skycrane earned the appreciation
and reverence of soldiers who fought in
Vietnam. Picking up wrecked aircraft
and other important military machinery,
the Skycrane’s powerful winch hoisted
and moved objects, thus enabling
damaged items to be brought back safely
for repair or salvage. The slow-moving
craft also was used to help drop
ammunition and supplies to those
fighting on the ground.
It is no longer used by the military,
but can still be seen around the country
at museums. Sometimes when wildfires
rage, a Skycrane hovers above the smoke
and flames, assisting in putting out the
fire. The mantra of the Skycrane and
crew was “You call, we haul.”
The reunion group also visited The
Mariners’ Museum, America’s National
Maritime Museum, home to the premier
Civil War attraction – the USS Monitor
Center.
For information about reunions in
Newport News, contact Cheryl Morales
toll-free at 888-493-7386;
cmorales@nngov.com.
CH-54 Skyrane refurbishment and members of the CH-54 Skycrane Association.
Pacific War
Museum enters
new era
George H.W. and Barbara Bush celebrate the opening of
the wing at the National Museum of the Pacific War in
Fredericksburg, Texas. Photo credit: Jim Partain.
The National Museum of the Pacific
War in Fredericksburg, Texas, is the
only institution in the US dedicated to
telling the story of the Pacific Theater in
World War II.
Visitor demographics change, so the
way the story is told must change, too. In
1999, World War II veterans made up
about 30% of the museum’s visitors; in
2008 they constituted only 2.5%. The
changing audience was a major focus of
the new exhibit’s design. They have just
dedicated a new expansion with exhibits
that engage new generations.
The museum is a property of the Texas
Historical Commission supported by The
Admiral Nimitz Foundation, for
Fredericksburg’s native son, Fleet
Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, Commanderin-Chief
of Allied Forces, Pacific Ocean
Area in World War II. Visit www.nimitzmuseum.org/.
Vietnam Veterans Reunion draws thousands
An emotional ceremony kicked off the 27th Annual Howard
County (Indiana) Vietnam Veterans Reunion, a four-day
event that draws thousands. A 22-acre lot on Indiana 26 near
Kokomo, Indiana, resembled a small city of tents, military
flags, vendors and veterans.
A large group of veterans escorted a 30-foot by 40-foot
American flag around the grounds filled with hundreds of tents
and campers. The traditional flag-raising ceremony followed,
and was met with cheers from thousands in attendance. Rounds
from a 105 mm Howitzer shook the ground.
“There’s nothing like being around these guys,” one vet said
of the reunions. ”Everybody out here would give the shirt off his
back for each other. Coming here is not about trying to remember.
This is home. I know people who want to move here after
coming to the reunions. Kokomo is the place. I love Kokomo.”
From a story by Mike Fletcher in the
Anderson Herald Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 43

Welcome to Reunion Resources!
How to use REUNION RESOURCES
Reunion resources is divided into sections. Reunion
friendly places include destinations (convention, visitor and
tourism bureaus) and locations (hotels, resorts, ranches,
condominiums, bed & breakfasts, inns, dormitories, camps).
They are listed alphabetically by state and city. The sections
which follow list books and publishing, cruises, fundraising
and mementos, invitations, photography, preserving
reunions, postcards, and other products and services.
Many resources include e-mail and web page addresses.
Start on our web page www.reunions mag.com and in just
one click, go directly to other resource pages – a wonderful
way to visit, get more details and in some cases even
place orders.
We encourage you to tell the listings you contact that
you learned about them from REUNIONS MAGAZINE. And if
at any time you find any info that is inaccurate or e-mail or
web links do not work, notify us immediately at
reunions@execpc.com; PO Box 11727, Milwaukee WI
53211-0727. And by all means, feel free to comment
and/or suggest changes and additions you’d like to see in
this section.
REUNIONS MAGAZINE will not be held liable for information
presented as facts in these ads. We reserve the right to
edit and/or refuse any material submitted for publication.
DESTINATIONS AND LOCATIONS
ALABAMA
MOBILE BAY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 1
South Water Street, Mobile AL 36602. Rely on us to make planning
your reunion easy and affordable with these services: Direct
contact with hotels to obtain rates and banquet pricing, a single
proposal packet detailing military sites, attractions, dining and
transportation, follow-up to answer all your special needs, sightseeing
service to coordinate your leisure activities. Call 800-566-
2453 ext 4 for a free Planning Guide. E-mail to ron-mcconnell@
mobile.org. Visit us at www.mobilebay.org.
ARIZONA
RADISSON SUITES HOTEL TUCSON AIRPORT 7051 S. Tucson
Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85756. We are Reunion Specialists! Our spacious
suites with full amenities, lush courtyards with fountains, pool
and whirlpool spa will make your group feel right at home! We
have great on-site dining and beautiful banquet facilities for
groups large & small. A full American breakfast buffet, evening
reception & internet access are included in the rate! Call 520-
225-0800 for information or email: habbott@viharas.com.
www.radisson.com/tucsonaz
ARKANSAS
THE LODGE AT MOUNT MAGAZINE STATE PARK, ARKANSAS
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 1-877-665-6343 for group rates or log on to
MountMagazineStatePark.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
CALIFORNIA
BALBOA INN “The Resort” and Banquet facility is located on the
beach offering 45 rooms and ocean view suites with balconies and
state of the art amenities. Located at 105 Main Street, Newport
Beach CA 92661. 949-675-3412; Toll Free: 877BALBOA-9; fax
949-673-4587; www.balboainn.com; info@balboainn.com
YOSEMITE PINES RV RESORT & FAMILY LODGING 20450
Old Highway 120, Groveland, CA 95321 (209) 962-7690 We offer
some of the best lodging near Yosemite National Park with an
assortment of cabins in a variety of sizes and price points. Our
Luxury Cabins offer plenty of space with a large double loft and
room for eight people, while our Premium Loft Cabins offer a large
single loft and room for six people. Spaces to accommodate all
types of RVs and group tent sites. The whole family will enjoy our
pool area, our gold mine tour and our games area complete with
sand volleyball court, tetherball and horseshoes. www.yosemite
pinesrv.com.
HOLIDAY INN SAN DIEGO BAYSIDE 4875 N Harbor Drive,
San Diego CA 92106; 619-224-3621; 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
44 R EUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES
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!
NORTHSTAR-AT-TAHOE RESORT offers a great place to
sleep, eat, play and relax in a beautiful mountain setting with a
wide variety of accommodations and activities such as golf,
swimming and tennis in the summer and snow sports activities
in the winter. It's no wonder Northstar was voted as a top 10
reunion destination by Family Travel Forum. A personal event
planner is provided to help plan your unforgettable reunion.
Highway 267 & Northstar Dr., Truckee, CA 96160, 800-926-5096,
northstar@boothcreek.com, www.NorthstarAtTahoe.com.
VACAVILLE CONFERENCE & VISITORS BUREAU 1671 E.
Monte Vista Avenue, Suite 112, Vacaville CA 95688. Discover the
hidden the hidden gem of Vacaville, California. We’re only a short
drive from the Golden Gates of San Francisco, the Wine Country
in Napa and Sonoma, our historic Capitol in Sacramento and the
spectacular Sierra mountain range in Lake Tahoe. For more
information please contact us at info@vacavillenow.com or 888-
822-2132; visitvacaville.com.
COLORADO
GOLD POINT RESORT Breckenridge CO 80424; 866-664-9793.
Incredible views inspire incredible memories. Gold Point Resort
provides the perfect backdrop for bringing your family together.
Located above beautiful Breckenridge, Gold Point offers scenery
that is second to none and residences that are as expansive as
the vistas. Rafting, fishing, horseback riding, alpine slide and
numerous dining options are all close by. Call today to learn how
to save 40%, source code REUNN. www.goldpoint.com.
ESTES PARK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU PO Box
1200, Estes Park CO 80517. Estes Park may be the perfect setting
for your reunion! Nestled in a valley surrounded by Rocky
Mountain National Park, fabulous scenery and recreation await
you. Enjoy shopping, trout fishing, horseback riding, river rafting,
golf, go karts, barbecues, hayrides, miniature golf, tram rides,
scenic drives and hiking. Let our group specialist help you find
lodging, meals and fun things for the whole family to enjoy! 800-
44-ESTES; fax 970-577-1677; groupsales@estes.org; www.estes
parkcvb.com/groups.cfm.
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: 970-923-2000; 800-598-
2009; fax 970-923-5466; www.snowmassgroups.com. SEE OUR
DISPLAY AD!
DELAWARE
GREATER WILMINGTON CVB Nestled in the heart of the Mid-
Atlantic, along the I-95 corridor, Delaware’s Greater Wilmington
and Brandywine Valley provides meeting/event planners and their
attendees with an unparalleled variety of attractions to experience.
Best of all, this is a tax-free destination with up to $20,000 in
transportation assistance available! Easily accessible by I-95,
Amtrak (80 trains daily) and Philadelphia International (20 minutes),
Greater Wilmington offers more than 6,000 guest rooms and the
ability to accommodate 1,600 attendees. To unlock all that this
tax-free destination has to offer, the Greater Wilmington, DE-CVB
holds the key. Please explore us at VisitWilmingtonDE.com or
call 800-489-6664. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
FLORIDA
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-the-art 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!
EMERALD COAST CVB, INC. DESTIN-FT. WALTON BEACH
FL Emerald Coast CVB, Inc. Destin-Fort Walton Beach – Okaloosa
Island a reunion planner’s paradise with 24 miles of sugar white
beaches and emerald green waters, 16,000 first-rate accommodations,
400 events & festivals, water sports, superb coastal
cuisine, championship golfing, Air Force Armament Museum,
Big Kahuna’s Water Park, art galleries, nature trails and the
largest fishing fleet in Florida. Emerald Coast Conference Center
offers 35,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space and gourmet catering.
Let us make your reunion planning easy! Contact Sherry Rushing,
CTIS, srushing@co.okaloosa.fl.us, 1-800-322-3319; www.destinfwb.com.
SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
FRIENDS DON'T LET FRIENDS…Stay In Hotels! There's only
one choice to host your family reunion and that's to stay in a
Florida Leisure Vacation Home. Hotels can be expensive particularly
when you need multiple rooms to house everyone. Florida
Leisure has an expansive range of 3 to 7 bedroom vacation homes
available and many of them are located close together so housing
large parties is no problem. Our homes all have a full kitchen,
living area, laundry, multiple TV's, private swimming pool and
best of all our homes are really close to Walt Disney World
and the other area attractions. Call 1-866-678-6088 or email
Reservations@FloridaLeisure.com or visit www.FloridaLeisure.com
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 800-513-2820, or
reservations@star-island.com, www.star-island.com
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. 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. 321-329-4024; fax
321-329-4001; mwinter@floridaysorlando.com; www.Floridays
ResortOrlando.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
THE POINT ORLANDO RESORT 7389 Universal Blvd, Orlando
FL 32819. Orlando’s newest, all-suite boutique hotel is one block
from International Dr., and one mile from Universal Studios. Walk
to Wet ‘n Wild or take the I-Ride Trolley to shops, restaurants and
amusements. We offer an outdoor heated pool, banquet rooms
and fitness center. Junior Suites sleep 4 and two-bedroom suites
sleep up to 8. 407-956-2056; www.thepoint-orlando.com.
WET 'N WILD – ORLANDO 6200 International Dr. Orlando, FL
32819. 407-351-1800 Toll Free: 800-992-9453; www.wetnwild
orlando.com; info@wetnwildorf.com. Make your reunion a splashing
success! Come join us at Wet 'n Wild to celebrate your unforgettable
Family Reunion. We offer a variety of group discounts for groups
of 15 or more. Various food and beverage options can be added
for the complete package. With more multi-passenger tube rides
than any other waterpark in Orlando! Open year-round with pools
heated seasonally, Wet 'n Wild is the perfect place for the entire
family to relax, have fun, and soak up the warm Florida sun!
COMFORT SUITES – WORLD GOLF VILLAGE 475 COMMERCE
LAKE DR, ST. AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA 32095; Make your reunion
memorable at this beautiful lakeside hotel with 162 suites located
ten minutes south of Jacksonville and north of St. Augustine
Historic area and outlet malls. Banquet facilities, bar, indoor/
outdoor pool, fitness center, complimentary deluxe continental
breakfast. Activity planning and golf available. Special rates for
reunions. 877-940-9501; fax 904-940-9600; ComfortSuites@
CSWGV.com; www.CSWGV.com
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.Visit
Tallahassee.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
INNISBROOK, A SALAMANDER GOLF & SPA RESORT
Located 25 miles from Tampa Int’l Airport, the newly renovated
Innisbrook offers a private setting – perfect for families, group
gatherings and special reunions. Everything you need is on-site
including spacious condo-style accommodations, 4 restaurants,

Postcards that
make your
reunion point!
save
the
date
Send
TIME IS
RUNNING
OUT
when it is!
Send
save
the
date
when you’ve set it!
Custom Printing
$45 p/hundred; 50¢ each,
Fill-in cards $15 p/hundred; 20¢ each;
plus s/h: 100-200 cards –
$5, over 200 – $10.
Send message, check and request to:
REUNION POSTCARDS
PO Box 11727 ❖ Milwaukee WI 53211-0727
To charge, call 800-373-7933.
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 45

6 pools, 2 waterslides, 4 championship golf courses, tennis,
fishing, biking, and the new Indaba Spa & Fitness Center. Visit
innisbrookgolfresort.com or call 800-456-2000.
QUORUM HOTEL TAMPA 700 N. Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL
33609. Summer 09' Weekend Group rates starting from $69 with
breakfast! Perfect location for Busch Gardens and pristine beaches.
Restaurants and shopping within walking distance. You'll love
our free massage, and complimentary drink. Ask about our reunion
planning gift. Call Becca Zarcone 813-288-3611 or bzarcone@quorum
tampa.com. Visit our website at www.QuorumTampa.com.
GEORGIA
ATLANTA'S COBB COUNTY CONVENTION & VISITORS
BUREAU Home to Six Flags Over Georgia, Six Flag's White Water
and just 10 minutes northwest of downtown Atlanta, and the Georgia
Aquarium, World of Coke and Stone Mountain Park. Cobb County
boasts easy interstate access, free parking, a multitude of restaurants,
attractions, shopping, golf and parks. For FREE assistance
with planning your reunion, contact the Cobb County CVB at
1-800-451-3480 or visit us at www.cobbcvb.com. SEE OUR DIS-
PLAY AD!
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.
DOUBLETREE HOTEL ATLANTA NORTHWEST-MARIETTA
2055 South Park Place, Atlanta GA 30339. Located off I-75 north
of downtown Atlanta in Marietta, close to all area attractions,
shopping & restaurants. Our oversized rooms feature signature Sweet
Dream bedding and Chaise lounge, Coffee Makers, Full Sized
Ironing Boards and Irons, Flat Screen TV, Data Ports & Wireless
Access in Rooms. Indoor and Outdoor Pools. Hotel has free parking,
fitness center, restaurant & coffee bar on site. 770-272-9441; fax
678-252-5907; lori@resourcehospitality.com; www.atlantamarietta
.doubletree.com.
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: cooked-to-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
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.atlantamarriott
perimeter.com
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.stay
bridge.com; Website: www.staybridge.com/atlanta-pr
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.
46 REUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES
CONVENTION AND 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!
JEKYLL OCEANFRONT RESORT 975 North Beachview Drive;
Jekyll Island GA 31527; 912-635-2531; fax 912-635-9072:
linda.amazon@jekyllinn.com; www.jekyllinn.com
DOLCE ATLANTA – PEACHTREE offers 40 beautifully landscaped
acres located only 25 miles South of Atlanta. With 233
guestrooms, tantalizing food and on site activities that include
swimming, volleyball, tennis, horseshoes, basketball, biking and
access to 90 miles of walking paths throughout the city, there are
endless options for enjoyment. Nearby shopping, golf, summer
concerts and easy access to downtown Atlanta ensures something
for everyone. 770-487-2666; www.dolce-atlanta-peachtree
-hotel.com.
COMFORT SUITE HISTORIC DISTRICT 630 West Bay Street,
Savannah GA 31401; 912-629-2001; fax 912-629-2002; diane@
savannahcomfortsuites.com; www.comfortsuiteshistoricdistrict
.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
IDAHO
Boise offers the culture and entertainment of a large urban area in
a place that feels a little like everyone's hometown. Festivals,
whitewater rafting, golf, riverfront bike trails, snow skiing, unique
and historic attractions like the Warhawk Air Museum, a vibrant
downtown, shopping, fine dining and performing arts will ensure
a reunion jam-packed with memorable experiences. BOISE
CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU PO Box 2106, Boise ID
83701; Lisa Edens; 800-635-5240; 208-344-7777; fax 208-344-
6236; ledens@boisecvb.org; www.boise.org.
ILLINOIS
RECONNECT IN LAKE COUNTY 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!
REUNITE IN REAL, ORIGINAL ROCKFORD, ILLINOIS. Located
just 60 miles west of Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, the
Rockford Region offers the perfect mix of big-city variety and
small-town value. You’ll be sure to find something everyone will
enjoy! Contact Jaki Berggren, Meeting Sales Manager, at the
Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, for assistance
planning your next reunion. Call 800.521.0849 or email Jaki at
jberggren@gorockford.com. RACVB, 102 N. Main St., Rockford,
IL 61101; www.gorockford.com.
KENTUCKY
Kentucky & Barkley Lakes Kentucky's Western Waterland
– Vast Shores & Open Doors! Only in Kentucky's Western
Waterland can you experience one of North America's largest
manmade waterways surrounded by unspoiled natural environments,
abundant outdoor recreation, and authentic Kentucky
heritage and hospitality. We are the perfect place for families, outdoor
enthusiasts, or the small meetings market. Free vacation
guide. 1-800-448-1069. www.kentuckylakebarkley.travel
THE RADCLIFF/FORT KNOX CONVENTION & TOURISM
COMMISSION The Radcliff/Fort Knox Community offers veterans’
organizations a chance to see the “New Army” while they
remember the “Old Army” with their fellow comrades. A Unit
itinerary usually consists of a memorial ceremony, lunch at a Fort
Knox dinning facility or the Fort Knox Leaders Club, and a visit to
the General George Patton Museum. 562 North Dixie, Suite A1,
Radcliff, Kentucky 40160; 800-334-7540; fax 270-352-2075;
radclifftour@bbtel.com: www.radclifftourism.org
MARYLAND
UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY Armel-Leftwich Visitor
Center, 52 King George Street, Annapolis MD 21402. Designed
specifically for those who participated in military operations
while in US service. Tour focuses on role of Naval Academy in
supplying officers and midshipmen in various conflicts. Tour includes
audio-visual presentation and walking tour. Tour time: 2 hours 30
minutes. Tour price: $9.00. Call for tour package and dining
information: 410-293-8687; fax 410-293-3365; tourinfo@usna
.edu; www.navyonline.com.
LA QUINTA INN and SUITES BALTIMORE SOUTH/ GLEN
BURNIE 6323 Ritchie Highway, Glen Burnie MD 21061. Contact
Farhaz Jessani, 410-636-4300, fax: 410-636-2630; lq6425gm@
laquinta.com, www.laquintagb.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.
PEHRSON LODGE RESORT ON LAKE VERMILION Let us
help you plan your perfect Minnesota lakeside reunion. We will
coordinate group events and provide a wide variety of individual
and small group activities to accommodate personal interests of
each group member. From guided fishing trips, pontoon tours
and wilderness hikes, sailing and waterskiing instruction and
daily children's programs to relaxing time at the beach, we
provide the ideal setting for your next gathering. Choose your
own "neighborhood" grouping of cabins on our secluded point or
on our beautiful beach … or choose to be under one roof in our
magnificent new 10,000 sq. ft. reunion house (Grand Vermilion
Chalet). The Grand Vermilion is a stand alone retreat center offering
12 bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, meeting space for 65, multiple
kitchens, and spacious decks and patios. Golf two minutes away.
Please join us! 2746 Vermilion Dr., Cook MN 55723, (800) 543-
9937 or (218) 666-5478, vacation@pehrsonlodge.com, www.
pehrsonlodge.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
MISSOURI
THE BRANSON/LAKES AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS
BUREAU Located in America's heartland, Branson, Missouri is
the perfect destination for your next reunion because we offer so
many choices of live music shows and family entertainment,
lodging, attractions, dining and more. Remember, in Branson, our
value is unrivaled, our scenery breathtaking and our authentic
Ozarks hospitality inviting. Call us toll-free at 800-636-8573 or
visit our website at ExploreBranson.com and request a Reunion
Planner Sales kit. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
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.VisitPulaskiCounty.org for additional
information. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
NEVADA
DESERT ROSE RESORT 5051 Duke Ellington Way, Las Vegas
NV, 89119; Phone 888-732-8099, Fax 702-597-3345; Spacious
renovated condo-style suites with full kitchen, separate living
room, dining room and relaxing balcony. Each room is modern
and beautifully decorated; Property features continental breakfast
each morning; location is just minutes from the famous Las
Vegas Strip, McCarran Airport. Resort consists of 284 suites in
addition to newly refurbished pool and Jacuzzi with BBQ facilities
and shaded seating; Banquet space available for special events.
This property makes for a perfect reunion of any kind. E-mail:
Sarah-Marie Vergara, Sales Manager svergara@shellvacationsllc
.com;www.desertroseresort.com.
GOLD COAST HOTEL & CASINO is 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!
THE PLATINUM HOTEL 211 East Flamingo Road, Las Vegas,
NV 89169 (877) 211-9211. At The Platinum Hotel, see what life
is like on the quieter side of Las Vegas. Escape to a welcoming
hideaway where each of the 255 one and two bedroom Las Vegas
hotel suites ensure unmatched personal attention, gourmet
kitchens, exquisite whirlpool tubs and balconies with beautiful
views. This non-gaming, smoke free hotel offers the best of both

worlds. Select from an assortment of great Las Vegas hotel deals,
combining special rates and unique services for getaways. The
Strip is there when you need it, just a block away. www.theplatinum
hotel.com
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!
LAUGHLIN VISITORS BUREAU 1555 S. Casino Drive, Laughlin
NV 89029; 702-298-3022; fax 702-298-0013; cwestbrook@
lvcva.com; VisitLaughlin.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 all-new 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 775-825-1170, 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!
NEW YORK
HOTELSCOUTER.COM Get Great Reunion Rates for Less...
Instead of calling dozens of hotels, fill out one simple form on our
website and we will have Group Friendly hotels in your desired
city respond instantly with their best rates. No more wasted time
playing phone tag. Group coordinators can get Free Rooms. Let
us make your reunion planning simple! Get Started Now! Info:
443-416-3800; groups@HotelScouter.com; www.hotelscouter.com
ALBANY CLARION HOTEL 3 Watervliet Ave Extension, Albany
NY 12206. In the heart of New York’s Capital City stands the
Clarion Hotel Albany, where comfort and convenience are paramount
and the value can’t be beat. We offer a Full American
Breakfast, an indoor pool, on-site restaurant, free WIFI and complimentary
shuttle service. Reunions are offered special rates and
complimentary hospitality suites. 518-438-8431; sales@Clarion
HotelAlbany.com; www.ClarionHotelAlbany.com
BEST WESTERN ALBANY AIRPORT INN 200 Wolf Road,
Albany NY 12205. Looking for a place to hold your reunion? Well,
look no further! We can accommodate your reunion from family
to military with very affordable prices. Our property has 153
rooms with an indoor heated pool, an onsite restaurant and lounge
and 6000 sq ft of meeting space. We also have a complimentary
full hot breakfast available every morning. 518-458-1000;
sales@BWalbanyAirport.com; www.BWalbanyairport.com
THE BEST WESTERN SOVEREIGN HOTEL is one of the top
hosts of reunions in the Capital Region. Restaurant on-site, along
with indoor pool and sauna. Shopping malls, golf and theaters
near hotel. We also provide complimentary shuttle to area
attractions. We have 192 newly renovated guest rooms, over
CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES
8,000 square feet of meeting space and much more! 518-489-
2981; reunions@SovereignHotels.com; www.SovereignHotels.com
NORTH CAROLINA
BILTMORE FARMS HOTELS – Your One Stop Shop in
Asheville We know a thing or two about family. As a family
owned business we understand the importance of reconnecting
with relatives. Gather your family at one of our five hotels in
beautiful Asheville, NC. Enjoy mountain vistas, plan an outdoor
adventure and visit historic destinations. With locations just a
short distance from all Asheville has to offer, isn't it time you
visited beautiful Western North Carolina? Visit us at biltmore
farmshotels.com or call Christine at 828.771.2274.
LAKE LURE & THE BLUE RIDGE FOOTHILLS. Family, girlfriends,
military buddies, golfing, relaxing…whatever your reason
for getting together, you'll find the perfect setting here. Cruise on
beautiful Lake Lure, shop, go to a spa, dine, hike, bike..do it all –
or do nothing at all, and enjoy your gathering with family and
friends. Choose from sumptuous accommodations in an historic
hotel, cabin on the lake or other unique accommodations. We are
surrounded by major highways, have three major airports within
an hour, and are only thirty minutes from Asheville NC. Please
visit us at reunionsyourway.com.
“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
NORTH DAKOTA
BISMARCK AND MANDAN. WHAT A TRIP. Looking to reunite
with some old friends? Bismarck-Mandan offers what most cities
twice their size can't – distinctive scenery, a rich country heritage
and unsurpassed hospitality. Make your reunion something outside
the ordinary. Meet up in Bismarck and Mandan, North Dakota.
Visit discoverbismarckmandan.com/RM. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
OHIO
EXPERIENCE COLUMBUS 800-354-2657, www.Experience
Columbus.com/reunions. Columbus is ranked one of the top value
destinations in the country. With four downtown entertainment
districts, annual festivals, the #1 rated Columbus Zoo & Aquarium,
and an array of outdoor parks to choose from, you won't want to
have your family reunion anywhere else. Planning a reunion in
Columbus is easy. And we're here to help. Plus, all of our
services are free. We will assist you with finding hotels, local
attractions and more. And when the time comes, we'll provide
you with Visitors Guides, Visitor Maps, plastic bags and pens.
OREGON
LOON LAKE LODGE & RV RESORT 9011 Loon Lake Road,
Reedsport, OR 97467 (541)-599-2244 Reserve Cabins or the
Lakefront Home with fully furnished kitchens, satellite TV and free
Wi-Fi, for your next Family Reunion. Spaces to accommodate all
types of RVs and group tent sites. There is plenty of open water
for fishing, kayaking, WaveRunner riding, water skiing, or just
relaxing on a leisurely pontoon boat ride. Restaurant and general
store on property and catering available. Some of the smoothest
water skiing in Oregon is right here at Loon Lake! www.loonlake
rv.com.
PENNSYLVANIA
COMFORT SUITES CARLISLE 10 South Hanover Street, Carlisle,
PA 17013. Downtown location conveniently located between
Gettysburg, Harrisburg & Hershey. One mile to US Army War
College, Army Heritage & Education Center and walking distance
to Dickinson College & PSU Dickinson School of Law. Banquet
facilities for up to 325. Offering special rates / packages for family,
class, military and other reunion groups. Visit our web-site at
www.comfortsuitescarlisle.com or call our Sales Department at
1-800-704-1188.
The perfect Days for your reunion – DAYS INN DONEGAL, in
the heart of the beautiful Laurel Highlands, conveniently located
just off the PA Turnpike at exit 91. 51 lovely guestrooms, elegant
outdoor pavilion seats 125, new banquet room seats 80, catering
services, snack bar, arcade, outdoor pool and patio, volleyball
and shuffleboard courts. Route 31 east, PO Box 184, Donegal PA
15628 Call Rose: 724-593-7536; daysinndonegal@yahoo.com;
www.daysinndonegal.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
WOODLOCH RESORT & MEETING FACILITY Nestled in the
pristine forests of the Pocono Mountains Lake Region of
Northeastern Pennsylvania, Woodloch Resort is the ideal destination
for family vacations, reunions, weddings and corporate retreats!
Featuring a private lake and miles of beautiful scenery, this 250
acre resort is located only two and a half hours from New York
City and is the perfect combination of old world charm, gracious
hospitality, and modern resort conveniences. We invite you to
visit our website at: www.woodloch.com or call 1800-572-6658
for further information and reservations.
VALLEY FORGE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU
1000 First Avenue, Suite 101, King of Prussia PA 19406. DO
WHAT WASHINGTON DID. SET UP CAMP IN HISTORIC VALLEY
FORGE FOR YOUR NEXT REUNION! Quality hotels, unique offproperty
meeting sites, world class shopping and fine dining.
Thirty minutes from Philadelphia. Surrounded by great regional
attractions. Get a free Valley Forge Meeting Planners Guide.
Contact Courtney Pozo: 610-834-7971,or pozo@valleyforge.org
or visit www.valleyforge.org. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
RHODE ISLAND
THE BEST WESTERN THE MAINSTAY INN 151 Admiral Kalbfus
Road, Newport RI 02840; 401-849-9880. Located 1/2 mi. from
Newport Navy Base, Minutes from Historic Harbor, Newport
Mansions and across from Newport Grand Casino. Full Service
hotel with 200 guest rms, full service Restaurant, Lounge,
Banquet and Meeting facilities. Comp. Hospitality Rm and Group
Leader Room. themainstayinn@aol.com
SOUTH CAROLINA
At 14 stories the HOLIDAY INN RIVERVIEW stands tall. This
unique Charleston landmark offers guests 180 nicely appointed
guest rooms and a full service restaurant with panoramic views of
Historic Charleston and the Ashley River as well as complimentary
shuttle service to the heart of the city for shopping and tours.
Enjoy easy planning with our experienced staff. Ask about special
incentives for event planners. 301 Savannah Hwy, Charleston SC
29407. Contact Megan O’Hara Owen at 843-460-1440; fax 843-
766-8355; mowen@hiriverview.com; www.holidayinn.wm/chsriverview.com.
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; group
sales@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 800-964-8600 ext. 3017 or by e-mail
at chrisp@chattanoogacvb.com for free help planning your next
reunion! www.chattanoogafun.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 action-packed Parkway. Want nature? Great Smoky Mountains
National Park is next-door. Want entertainment? More than a
dozen theaters await you. Hungry? We’ll feed you well. Details: 1-
800-285-7557 or visit pigeonforgereunion.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY
AD!
TEXAS
HILTON HOUSTON NORTH 12400 Greenspoint Drive, Houston
TX 77060. 281-875-4553; fax 281-875-4596; mcrawford@sun
stonehotels.com; www.houstonnorth.hilton.com
LEWISVILLE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 606 W.
Main Street, Lewisville TX 75057; 800-657-9571; fax 972-219-
3719; pcox@cityoflewisville.com; www.visitlewisville.com Bring
your reunion to Lewisville TX, a small town within an urban
metropolis. Groups choose Lewisville because of our location,
hotel variety, mall shopping, restaurants, golf & Lewisville Lake.
Enjoy bass fishing, bird watching, catamaran sailing, water parks
& historic Old Town, all conveniently located 10 minutes from
DFW International Airport.
BLUEBONNET EVENT CENTER Adjacent to Lake Conroe KOA.
35 fully furnished 1& 2 bedroom cottages. Great Family Reunion
Package – free hospitality room with kitchen if family rents 10 or
more cottages for 2 night minimum. Campfires, indoor pool/hot
tub, 6 acre fishing lake, playground, tennis court, shuffleboard,
horse shoes, paddle boats for rent – 1 1/2 miles from Lake
Conroe. 19785 Hwy. 105 West, Montgomery TX 77356; 936-
582-5100; fax 936-582-1218; bluebonnetevents@consolidated
.net; www.bluebonneteventcenter.com.
F EB R UARY/MARCH/AP R I L 2010 ❖ REUNIONS 47

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
Fredericksburg – TIMELESS. That’s the perfect description of
the Fredericksburg region. Visitors to the area encounter the
richness of the American experience, and walk in the footsteps of
presidents and generals. They feel the joy of discovery in the
Fredericksburg area’s unique present and entertaining past, in its
historical attractions and battlefields, shops, galleries, beautiful
wineries and chef owned restaurants. To book your reunion, please
contact Lura Hill, Manager Tourism Sales, at 540-372-1216 or
866-405-3046. Or, email her at lhill@fredericksburgva.gov. www.
VisitFred.com
LOUDON COUNTY – FREEDOM CENTER 13951 Freedom
Center Lane, Leesburg VA 20176. We have 100 beautiful wooded
acres for your next reunion, birthday, anniversary or picnic.
Delicious catered meals; stocked 2 acre lake; sports and hiking
areas. Visit www.freedomcenter.us or call 703-777-3505 for a
tour. E-mail info@freedomcenter.us or fax 703-777-5077.
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!
NEWPORT NEWS Close encounters with the ocean, ships,
history and the great outdoors in one central destination. All this,
plus Williamsburg and Virginia Beach. Whether getting together
with old classmates, shipmates or “familymates,” Newport News
provides the perfect location and services to make your reunion a
success! Outstanding services and support, the best value and
plenty to see and do, Newport News will make your next reunion
a memorable one. Call Cheryl Morales at 888-493-7386 or email
her at cmorales@nngov.com to book your reunion. www. newportnews.org.
NORFOLK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 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 2,000 committable
hotel rooms in various price ranges. Call 800-368-3097; dallen@
norfolkcvb.com; www.norfolkcvb.com. SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
WEST VIRGINIA
CANAAN VALLEY RESORT Davis, West Virginia. Four season
resort featuring 250 comfortable lodge rooms, 23 secluded cabins/
cottages and 34 campground sites. Seasonal activities include
indoor/outdoor pools, golf, skiing, summer/winter tubing, hiking/
biking trails, and more. Meeting rooms and banquet services
available for your reunion needs. Karen Rhodes 304-866-4121
x2681 or rhodesk@canaanresort.com www.canaan resort.com
WISCONSIN
GRAND GENEVA RESORT & SPA 7036 Grand Geneva Way,
Lake Geneva WI 53147; (800) 558-3417. At Grand Geneva, find
yourself surrounded by beauty. Two golf courses, newly renovated
guest rooms, spa, 62,000 square feet of meeting space and indoor/
outdoor waterpark located an hour from Milwaukee and 90
minutes from Chicago. Meeting planners: “Pick your free” when
you book a room for $99 between November 1 and March 14,
2010 and choose from a FREE reception, FREE ski lift tickets or
FREE continental breakfast. www.grandgeneva.com/specials/winter
meetings.asp
48 REUNIONS ❖ reunionsmag.com
CATALOG OF REUNION RESOURCES
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
All of the following can be purchased at www.reunionsmag.com/
shopping or call 1-800-373-7933, ext.4.
BOOKS
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.
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 Pick A Party book set, by Patty Sachs, party-planning
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.
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!
BADGES & BUTTONS
NAMETAG (PHOTO BUTTON) Using the alumni' photo we
create a custom button with your school name, colors, and
reunion year. Attachment options and accessories are available.
We offer personalized service and quick turnaround. Visit us at
www.TheButtonFactory.com/Reunions.htm
BOOKS AND SOFTWARE
THE REUNION PLANNER 11661 San Vicente Blvd., Suite
306, Los Angeles CA 90049; 310-820-5554; fax 310-820-8341;
lindah@reunionplanner.com; www.reunionplanner.com.
PLANNERS
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REUNION MANAGERS (NARM)
PO Box 335428; North Las Vegas NV 89033 narm@reunions.com;
www.reunions.com.
REUNION RIBBONS
REUNION 2010? Colorful, embossed custom ribbons (in your
words) add a “touch of class” to your event & name badges. Ideal
bookmark-keepsake that says “you were there”. Created expressly
for class, family and military reunions. Class Ribbons available
in school colors. For sample ribbon and idea brochure:
REUNION MATE 800-208-6804 or www.ribbons4reunions.com.
SEE OUR DISPLAY AD!
REUNION WEBSITE 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 – 877-769-
3836 or info@myevent.com.
T-SHIRTS
AD-fordable Imprints … your ONLY source for PERSON-
ALIZED Imprinted reunion T-shirts/apparel. Custom 1 color
imprint priced as low as $3.59 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,
doug@ad-fordableimprints.com, www.ad-fordableimprints.com
AMERICA’S #1 SOURCE FOR REUNION APPAREL AND
GIFTS T-shirts, Totes, Keepsakes & Gifts Easy-To-Order.
Fun-To-Wear. Fast-Turn-Around. Beautiful and colorful reunion
designs as featured on Good Morning America, personalized for
your event! Browse our huge selection of quality apparel and
exciting new products. Shop our Reunion Kits for great package
pricing and low minimums! REUNION GEAR 1-800-451-1611
www.reuniongear.com
CREATE YOUR OWN FAMILY REUNION T-SHIRT STORE
at Store4Reunions.com. Design and set prices for your own
family’s products. Sell regular screen-printed t-shirts, special photo
tees, embroidered polos, coffee mugs, and buttons. Call 800-
575-2595 for FREE planner or email info@store4reunions.com
for reunion planning spreadsheet templates.
TRAVEL DIRECTORY
COLORADO VACATION DIRECTORY Make your search for
the perfect family reunion destination easier! FREE FAMILY REUNION
DESTINATION LOCATION SERVICE: www.TheCVD.com/groups
and click on “EMAIL US your Request for Group Accommodations.”
We will then send your requirements to Cabins, Vacation Homes,
Lodges, Motels, Condo's, B&B's, and Campgrounds that can
accommodate your desires; each one will email you directly with
additional information. OR download our free Colorado Vacation
Directory to compare reunion locations, which includes Places to
Stay & Fun Things to Do. www.TheCVD.com/OrderForm.html

P.O. Box 11727 ❖Milwaukee WI 53211-0727
www.reunionsmag.com
TM