reunion friendly news spring 2013

Bringing Reunions and Locations Together Since 1991Published by THE Reunion Network, Inc. Volume XV • Spring, 2013

10th Annual

Hotel Issue

Complete ConFAM©

Schedule pp. 7–16

ConFAMs©

Four Sides p. 2Patterns p. 22

Safety p. 23

Hotels

Industry Watch p. 26Menus p. 35

Second Tier p. 37

Hotels

Providing GREAT service ... ... and keeping costs down

9Telephone Service 9Parking 9 In-Room Safe 9 Internet Access 9Restaurant(s) 9Meeting Space 9and many more

R e u n i o n F R i e n d l y n e w s • S p r i n g , 2 0 1 3

When a planner likes a hotel, decides that’s where he wants to hold the next reunion, sits down with the Sales Manager, what is the first question asked? You all know the answer. It is “What is the room rate?”

Life is not so simple or easy anymore, because there are actually four sides to that question. The first, of course is the rate quoted, but the fact is that there is a lot more to it! You simply cannot take a rate quote and effectively compare hotels on that basis. Room rate is only one side of the room.

The second side of the room is taxes. The hotel hasn’t any control over this, because it is set by governmental agencies, especially the local ones. With bed tax rates generally in excess of 10%, the taxes imposed on the room have a substantial impact on what you will pay. In New York City, for example, there is a State sales tax and a City sales tax totaling 8.875%, plus a New York City Hotel Room Occupancy tax. This last is not fixed, but in most cases amounts to $2 per day plus 5.875% of the room rate. The total rate, which was sharply reduced a few years ago, still comes out to 14.75% plus $2. Sticking to New York City for the moment, the ADR (Average Daily Room Rate) was up to $324 in December 2011. This means that the tax alone came to just under $50/day.

Even in parts of the Midwest, where the ADR is only $70, plus a tax as low as 8%, so that the average total room tax is a mere $5.60 per day. It appears obvious that it pays to inquire what the tax is before signing an agreement. This is particularly true if you are comparing cities, because many individual cities and counties have imposed these taxes. Additionally, these are constantly changing as local authorities decide to “sock-it” to the tourists.

Shuttles & ParkingEvery reunion attendee may have an additional cost, depending upon how he came to the reunion. Driving a vehicle may result in a daily parking fee. The larger the destination city, the higher this tends to be, although many hotels still offer free parking. In some locations, it may run as high as $75 per day, so it is not to be taken lightly. If there is a parking fee, be sure that it is spelled out in the contract as a single fee including taxes. Parking fees may or may not be negotiable depending on who controls the parking space. The hotel has a lot less leeway where parking has been sold as a concession.

For those who do not arrive by automobile, but by air, bus, or train, there is the question of how much it costs to get from the terminal to the hotel. Many hotels offer free shuttles, but many do not. In some case, it may cost as much as $75 per person each way, so that if two people arrive together, and take a shuttle to and from a terminal, at a rate of $50 per person, it comes to an additional $200 or $50 additional per night cost for the room if they stay four days.

The Fourth SideOn top of all this, there is another side to the room of growing importance. This side is called surcharges, and they are growing rapidly in dollar amounts as well as variety. Once again, you need to have charges clearly stated and limited in your contracts. Attendees at RFN’s ConFAMs© learn ways to avoid many of these through proper contract language.

These charges originate largely because hotels, like air lines, believe that raising rates and “throwing in” various items will make them look more expensive, and thus cause them to lose business, have taken this tactic. For savvy reunion planners,

these can often be negotiated away. However, bear in mind that just a few years ago, hotels made a great deal of money on telephone surcharges. With the advent of almost universal cell phone use, this profit has vanished. Some hotels still charge for telephone access, as well as Internet connections, room safe, resort fees, newspapers, energy, among others, whether you asked for or want any of these particular items. There are other kinds of charges as well. You may be charged a room service fee, either as a flat daily rate or each time you use room service. If you open the mini-bar in the room, there may be a daily “restocking” fee. If you want to use the exercise room, the swimming pool, or the golf course, you may have to pay each time, or as a standard daily fee.

Your JobEvery reunion planner we have ever met took the job of reunion planner with the idea that he or she would do the best possible job. We commend all of you who are planners for doing that service. At the same time, even if it is just for your personal satisfaction, you want to be sure that you have done your best.

When it comes to comparing hotels, be sure you have the facts to make a legitimate comparison between rates. Room cost is a big expense factor, and needs to be examined carefully to make sure that you are comparing grapefruit to grapefruit.

Sloppy research may cost a lot of money to your buddies, so take your time. Ask the questions, and then make your comparisons. Sometimes, the result may give you a shock. If you want to know more, come to the RFN WorkFAM© in the Washington DC Area June 23-26, 2013. I hope to see you there.

[email protected]

Four Sides to a Room


FE AT URING OVER 10 0 LIVE SHOWS • SILVER DOLL AR CIT Y • T ITANIC MUSEUM AT T R ACTIONT HREE PRIST INE L AKES • BR ANSON L ANDING • FISHING • BOATING • MUSEUMS • SPAS • GOLF • Z IPLINES

OU T LET SHOPPING • DINING • RESOR TS • HIST ORIC DOWN T OWN

IN BR ANSON, YOUR MILITARY REUNION GROUPS WILL TAKE

9TH ANNUAL MILITARY REUNION PLANNERS CONFERENCE - AUGUST 19-22, 2013 | To Request the 2013 Reunion Planner Sales Kit,Contact: Julie Peters, CTIS, Leisure Group Sales Manager • Branson/Lakes Area CVB • P.O. Box 1897 • Branson, MO 65615

800-214-3661 • 417-334-4084 • Fax 417-334-4139 • [email protected] • ExploreBranson.com

CENTER STAGECeNTER STAGE


in this issue

2 �� Four Sides to a Room

6 �� A Time For Change

22 �� Hotel Patterns Changing

23 �� Safety & Security

26 �� Industry Watch

35 �� Menus for 2013: What’s Hot and

What’s Not

36 ��Come to A NEW ConFAM

37 �� Second Tier is Not Second Class

in every issue

5 ��Editorial: From the Situation Desk

ConFAM© / WorkFAM© Parade 9 �� D�C� Area/McLean, Virginia 10 �� Washington, D�C� 11 �� Nashville, Tennessee 12 �� Boise, Idaho 13 �� Branson, Missouri 14 �� New London, Connecticut 15 �� Albuquerque, New Mexico 16 �� St� Augustine, Florida

17–21 New & Renewing Members

24 �� Member Memos

30 �� Finance: Getting Out of Trouble

with the IRS

32 ��From A Woman’s Point of View 33 ��Think Before You Donate

34 �� Paul’s Opinion

38 ��Email & Letters

40–46 Member Listing

SHIP TO:

Name

Address

City

State, ZIP

Books will be sent on receipt of check made payable to RFN, 1835 E. Hallandale Beach Blvd., Suite 332, Hallandale

Beach, FL 33009.

Books by Paul J. Spiewak

A NEW, easy-to read, fast-paced guide for both Leaders and “want-to-be” Leaders.

Do YOU

Want To Be

a Leader?by Paul J. Spiewak

and other true stories

By Paul Spiewak

The Day I Flew In My Car anD OTher True STOrIeS

Anecdotes by an OctogenarianRegular price $39.95Now available to RFN members at $29.95 plus shipping and handling

DO yOu wanT TO be a leaDer?A philosophical analysis at the practical level of leadership and how to evaluate the effectiveness of any leader. In an “easy-to-read” fast-paced style; richly endowed with quotations and personal anecdotes. The book is based on the author’s 60 plus years as an employee, employer, consultant and entrepreneur in more than 19 different situations. Regular Price: $14.99 + s&hNow available to RFN members at $12.95 postage paid!

The latest book on:Planning, Organizing, & Running

Military Reunions!

Available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and all fine book sellers at $99.95 • Kindle Version $39.95

Order Direct from RFN & SAVE!Planner Special Price: $59.95CVB & Hotel Members: $69.95

All Others $79.95


This issue brought to by the support of these organizations

By Zac Spiewak,Managing Editor, Reunion Friendly News

FroM tHe situAtion Desk

It took two issues, but we finally have it… the complete ConFAM© / WorkFAM© schedule for 2013 (see the new page 7) and due to Charlene’s seemingly tireless efforts there are some changes since the Winter 2012-13 issue. Please note the date change and the new venue for the ConFAM© in New London.

There is a new combined and updated registration form on page 8. We are in the process of rebuilding our website and when that is completed you’ll be able to complete the form on-line if that is easier for you. Please see page 19 for more information on our updated website.

It’s amazing to me how this year seems to be zooming right along. Maybe it seems a little bit faster than ever before. Is this possible? It’s probably because I had another battle with a kidney stone; the kidney stone lost, but so did I… about 4 weeks.

My setback aside, this is one of the best Spring issues we’ve ever put together because there are more articles about the Hotel side of the business than we’ve ever had in a single Spring issue. And the articles run the gamut of the hotel industry and should ultimately help you understand how the pressures that are facing the hotels will affect the contracts you make for your reunions. For example, please take a look at page 26 for Industry Watch, the birds eye view of the entire hotel industry and page 35 for creative ways to handle your banquet menus. But it doesn’t end with those two articles; there are additional articles about some aspect of having a reunion at a hotel on pages 2, 22, 23, and 37.

We’ve had a good time putting this issue together and it was very different than any issue I’ve worked on so far because we did not have a single article recapping one of our ConFAMs©. Those articles are also known as ‘Traveling with RFN’ will return in the Fall issue following the ConFAMs© in Washington DC, and Nashville Tennessee.

My thought for Memorial Day is “Today is life. The only life you’re sure of. Make the most of today.” See you in three months and since I can’t resist because baseball season (my personal favorite) is just around the corner… Play Ball!

CO Colorado Springs CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

ID Boise CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

LA Jefferson County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

MO Branson Lakes Area CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

MO Pulaski County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

NY Niagara Tourism & Convention Corp . . . . . 25

OH Greene County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

SD Rapid City CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-29

TN Chattanooga CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

VA Fairfax County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

The DefiniTive Source of informaTionfor The volunTeer reunion Planner

Published byTHE Reunion Network, Inc.

DBA: Reunion Friendly Network1835 E. Hallandale Beach Blvd., Suite 332

Hallandale Beach, Florida 330091-800-225-5044 • 954-454-0904

Fax: 954-454-0978Website

http://www.reunionfriendly.com

President / FounderPaul J. Spiewak

“The Reunion Guru”[email protected]

Executive Vice PresidentCharlene Adamson

[email protected]

Vice President – FinanceMarc Spiewak

[email protected]

Managing EditorZachary M. Spiewak

[email protected]

Manager of Membership Sales and Development

Jane [email protected]

Director of CommunicationsGale Helser

Subscriptions for Reunion Friendly News are free of charge to qualified reunion planners.

All others: $30.00 per year or $10.00 per issue.

Go Green (Internet version) free of charge at http://www.reunionfriendly.com/news.html

Reunion Friendly News (Reunion Friendly Network) is not responsible for opinions expressed in editorial material. The opinions are exclusively those of the authors and do not express the opinions of the Reunion Friendly Network, its staff, its members, its advertisers, or its readership. All editorial material is for information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The Reunion Friendly Network assumes no liability or responsibility for errors, mistakes, misprints, missing information, or content of advertising and advertorial copy. Reproduction of any portion of this publication is permitted for use in reunion group newsletters, providing attribution is given to the Reunion Friendly Network.


It’s funny the way things often work out. For us at RFN, some unexpected circumstances occurred that moved all of the ConFAMs© to the second half of the year, at least to mid-June and beyond. This gave us an extended time period to make changes. First , the RFN website is undergoing a complete revision. If it is not in place by the time you receive this, it will be shortly. Second, it has allowed us to review what we do at the ConFAMs©. This has led to a new schedule to meet current needs of both the host and the planners.

ConFAM© ChangesRecognizing that the addition of the reception on the evening prior to the seminars has created difficulties. Either planners pay for a room night or the host hotel has to furnish those extra room-nights at no cost. Either way, it is an additional and unnecessary expense. The idea behind it was to have a time when planners and exhibitors could meet each other in a relaxed atmosphere.

To overcome this situation, we have added a welcome brunch on the first seminar day and added a reception for both exhibitors and planners on the evening of the seminar day. To make it possible, we have packed our PowerPoint presentation a little tighter, and eliminated the last short session. Because the event starts with a brunch, planners have a little more time to arrive, and we believe everyone should benefit as a result. In the case of the Washington DC Area ConFAM©, for example, that extra night with tax would have cost the attending planners to spend well over $200 to attend the reception. Even if a planner has to travel a distance, a room can be booked the night prior to the event anywhere within a couple of hours drive. Here is what the new schedule looks like:

SummaryIn short, we have responded to every reasonable request to give you more value for your time spent with us. It has been a huge effort on our part to provide better service. We hope you like the changes.

[email protected]

A Time for Change

10:00A-10:15 Planner Registration

10:15A-10:30 Opening Ceremony/Welcome

10:30A-10:45 Planner Briefing– re 1-on-1

10:45A-11:15 30 Minute Marketplace

11:15A-12:15P Joint Planner/Exhibitor BRUNCH

12:15P–12:45 30 Minute Marketplace

12:45P–1:30 NEW SESSION #1


2:00P- 2:45 NEW SESSION #2


3:15P-4:00 NEW SESSION #3

4:00P- 4:30 30 Minute Marketplace

4:30 Exhibits Close & Breakdown

4:30P-5:15 NEW SESSION #4

5:15P-6:30 Planner Rest

6:30P-8:00P Planner/Exhibitor Reception

7:00A-8:00 Continental Breakfast w/ Exhibitors

8:00A-8:45 EXHIBITOR PANEL & FORUM

8:45A-9:15 Door Prizes

9:15A–NOON Planner/Exhibitor Interviews

NOON Conference ENDS

12:30 Planner FAM Departure

All Day Planner FAM — Event ends after Dinner

New Day One

Day Two – No Change

Day Three – No Change


Cancellation Policy: Up to three weeks before the ConFAM© for a full refund, or up to two weeks before the event, you may transfer to another ConFAM© without charge. Less than two weeks before, no transfer or refund available.

A ConFAM© is an all-expense-paid multi-day event combining a Reunion Conference and

a FAMiliarization tour of the area.Rooms (three [3] free room-nights only), meals,

admission, local transportation, instruction and instructional materials are furnished — at no

cost to you — by RFN, the local CVB host hotel, other participating hotels and local attractions. You only pay to get there and return, alcoholic

beverages and personal purchases,

including items charged to your

hotel room.

To register: ➀ Tear out this page from the magazine. ➁ Complete the form on the back. ➂ Mail with your check to RFN, 1835 E. Hallandale Beach Blvd., Suite 332, Hallandale Beach FL 33009

Incomplete applications will be rejected!

F

E

Registration Fee: $199*

for a planner with guest;

$149* for a single person.

NEW PRICING

A

C

B

G

*ConFAMs© include a free copy of RFN’s Military Reunion Handbook, retail value is $99. WorkFAMs© include a copy of Ins & Outs of Military Reunion Contracts which is not available elsewhere. Details:

ConFAM©/WorkFAM© Location Month Conf FAM LeaveOn

A ConFam© VA/DC Area June Th-F 20-21 F-Sa 21-22 Sun 23

B Work FAM© VA/DC Area June Mon 24 Tues 25 Wed 26

C ConFam© Nashville, TN August Th-F 8-9 F-Sa 10-11 Sun 12

D ConFam© Boise, ID August M-T 19-20 T-W 20-21 Thur 22

E ConFam© Branson MO† Sept M-T 16-17 T-W 17-18 Thur 19

F ConFam© New London, CT Sept-Oct M-T 30- 1 T-W 1-2 Thur 3

G ConFam© Albuquerque NM Oct M-T 21-22 T-W 22-23 Thur 24

H ConFam© St. Augustine FL Nov R-F 13-14 F-Sat 14-15 Sun 16

D

H

Thousands of copies of Reunions Step by Step, written by “Reunion Guru” Paul Spiewak, was the first and only book about organizing, planning, and running military reunions. A three year effort to update and rewrite this work led to the printing of RFN’s Military Reunion Handbook in 2011. This new work is now available from all major book resellers at a list price of $99.95. Military reunion planners get a FREE copy by registering and attending an RFN ConFAM©. If you cannot attend a ConFAM©, you can purchase the book at a 50% discount (plus $10 shipping and handling) directly from RFN. Planners who already have the book who are registering for a new ConFAM© may elect to receive a $40 refund instead of the book.

Note that those attending a WorkFAM© do not receive a copy of RFN’s Military Reunion Handbook because they will have already received a copy when they attend the pre-required ConFAM©. Instead, they receive a copy of Ins & Outs of Military Reunion Contracts, a book written specifically for use and exclusive distribution at WorkFAMs©.

[email protected]

†Branson’s Pre-Conference reception is on Sunday, September 15th at 6:30 pm.


FAMReg 2/11/13

REUNION PLANNER REGISTRATION FORMPLEASE ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS IN BLACK INK TO QUALIFY

Sign me UP for (Location) _________________________ On Date _________________ Do YOU or YOUR Guest have any disability or dietary need that requires special attention?

___________________________________________________________________________________Please note that each event requires frequent on and off bus stops, plus walking

through attractions and hotels

In case of emergency while at the event, please contact: (NAME) ___________________________________________ Telephone ____________________________

Date ___________________ Signature ______________________________________ Print Name ______________________________________________________________

Spouse Name ______________________________ Primary Address ___________________________________________________________________________________

City ____________________________________________________________________________ State __________________ Zip __________________________

Preferred Telephone ________________________________ E-Mail Address _____________________________________________________________________

YOUR Group Name __________________________________________________________________________ Military: Branch of Service ___________________

# Members You Send Newsletter to? __________ Your Group Years in Active Service: From ________ To __________

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Your LAST Reunion: YEAR ________ MO ___________ How Many Came Incl Guests ____________ Banquet Cost _________________

Where? Hotel ______________________________________________ City _______________________________________ State _______ Room Rate _____

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Your NEXT Reunion: YEAR _________ MO ___________How Many Expected Incl Guests _________ BNanquet Cost _____________________

Where? Hotel ______________________________________________ City _______________________________________ State _______ Room Rate _____

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Your NEXT UNBOOKED Reunion: YEAR _________ MO ___________ Preferred Dates __________________________________________________________

How Many Expected Incl Wives & Guests _________ Expected # Rooms Peak Night ____________ How Many Nights? _________________

What Part of the Country (Circle): NorthEast Mid-Atlantic SouthEast Midwest North Midwest Central Midwest South SouthWest NorthWest

Do You Need (check all those that apply) ____ Hospitality Room ____ Separate Meeting Room _____ Memorial Service Location

What Type of Tours Do You Want? ___ Military Related ___ Nature Oriented ___ OTHER HELP _______________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ HOW DOES YOUR GROUP SELECT THE NEXT REUNION LOCATION ?

PLEASE CHECK ONE: ___I MAKE THE DECISION ___I AM PART OF THE COMMITTE THAT DECIDES ___ WE PUT IT TO A VOTE

Registration Fee $149 – Single $199 – w.Guest (sharing Room)

PAY NOW Or

Print Form & Mail to RFN

The Reunion Friendly Network, Inc. 1835 East Hallandale Beach Blvd, St, Hallandale Beach FL 33009 Toll-Free 800-225-5044 954-454-0904 Fax 954-454-9078 email: [email protected]

Visit our Web Site: www.reunionfriendly.com


©

A McDonnell FH-1 (FD-1) Phantom on display at the National Air and Space Museum. Photo by Eric Long/NASM, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution. Copyright Smithsonian Institution.

U.S. Marines Memorial

Enola Gay

Mount Vernon

D.C. Area/McLean, VirginiaJune 20–23, 2013

Crowne Plaza Tyson’s Corner

WWII memorial

©


©

Washington, D.C.June 23–26, 2013

Hilton Washington Dulles Airport

What You Will See & Do

Lincoln Memorial

Smithsonian American Art Museum

Arlington National Cemetery

AND MORE!Sign Up Now — Limited Space

Attendees eligible for RFN Planner Certification

You asked for it! Now it’s here...

A FAM Tourplus a FULL DAY on CONTRACTS

History, Structure, Requirements, Analyzing, Dissecting, Improving YOUR Contracts

What You MUST Have • What You Should HaveWhat You Don’t Want • What You Should Not Accept

Classroom with Tables

DAY ONE 5:30 PM - 6:00 PM Welcome Reception/Dinner

DAY TWO 8:00 AM Breakfast 9:00 AM - Noon THREE Classroom Sessions &

Breaks Noon Lunch 1:00 PM – 4:45 PM FOUR Classroom Sessions &

Breaks 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Dinner & Reception, & Site

Inspection

DAY THREE ALL DAY FAM & Site Inspections

Sessions Conducted by the “Reunion Guru”Paul Spiewak

Everything You Wanted to Know About Contracts,

But Did not Know What to Ask!


©

Nashville, TennesseeAugust 8–11, 2013

Holiday Inn Opryland Airport

Tennessee State Capitol

War Memorial Plaza

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Everybody knows about “Music City, USA.” but there’s a whole lot more to Nashville than the Country Music Hall of Fame. Officially there are 197 major attractions encompassing history, architecture, gardens, and performing arts. One of the most popular is the Hermitage, Home of President Andrew Jackson. Another is the Belle Meade Plantation, but there is also the Lane Motor Museum with the largest collection of European cars and motorcycles in the U. S. Keeping the ladies in mind there is the Relache Spa and the Cheekwood Botanical Gardens. Just a few miles out of the city you can enjoy the Yazoo Brewing Company (especially on Saturday), the Blackstone Brewpub & Brewery, the Big Bang Bar, and even a winery. You can sign your group up for several choices of a dinner theatre including a 2½-hour mystery dinner, or dine on the General Jackson Showboat. There’s even a special place with Dukes of Hazard memorabilia. Nashville is the home of Vanderbilt University and the Nashville Speedway, too. If that isn’t enough, there’s a long list of restaurants, many featuring country music or jazz, and for any old-timer the Tennessee Central Railway Museum including a tour.


©

MILITARY ATTRACTIONS ✭ Warhawk Air museum ✭ Idaho Military History Museum ✭ Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial ✭ J. Curtis Earl Memorial Arms Exhibit at the Old Idaho

Penitentiary ✭ Gowen Field (Idaho Air Nat’l Guard and Idaho Army Nat’l

Guard) ✭ Mountain Home Air Force Base ✭ Idaho Veterans Cemetery ✭ USS Boise Memorial

GENERAL ATTRACTIONS& ACTIVITIES

✭ The only Basque Museum in the United States ✭ Old Idaho Territorial Penitentiary (one of only 4 in the

U.S)) ✭ Thunder Mountain Train – scenic rail and dinner train ✭ The World Center for Birds of Prey ✭ Idaho State Capitol Building ✭ Idaho Historical Museum ✭ Idaho Botanical Garden ✭ Idaho Shakespeare Festival ✭ The Boise River Greenbelt (26 mile path) ✭ Boise Art Museum ✭ Idaho Black History Museum ✭ Boise State University – Blue Turf of Bronco Stadium ✭ Snake River Valley Wine Region (over 20 wineries) ✭ Capitol City Public Market

ACCESS ✈ Boise Airport (BOI) – served by Southwest Airlines, United, Delta/Skywest, US Airways, Allegiance and Horizon/Alaska Air

` Free Hotel Shuttles to all area hotels

2 Interstate 84

Boise, IdahoAugust 19 – 22, 2013

The Riverside Hotel

ConFAM hosted by the Boise Convention Bureau and the

Riverside Hotel.

Airfare will be complimentary for one pre-qualified planner

per organization.

Boise Street Scene

Boise Street Scene

Boise Art Museum

Boise Basques


©

Branson, MissouriSeptember 15–19, 2013

Radisson Hotel Bransonwww.explorebranson.com

Titannic Branson Museum

Branson Landing

Showboat Branson Belle

MILITARY ATTRACTIONS ✭ Veteran’s Memorial Museum ✭ Ride the Ducks ✭ Hall of Heroes


✭ Branson Variety Theater ✭ Clay Cooper Theatre ✭ Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction ✭ Flash Photo Group Photography ✭ Mansion Entertainment & Media Ctr ✭ Showboat Branson Belle ✭ Sight and Sound Theatres ✭ The Starlite Theatre ✭ Titanic Museum Attraction

ACCESS ✈ Branson (BKG)

✈ Springfield (SGF) Ground Transport to hotel; shuttle or rental car

2 I-44 to Springfield, south on Hwy. 65


©

New London, ConnecticutSeptember 30–October 3, 2013Holiday Inn New London North Hotel

Block Islands South Lighthouse

Thames River

Custom House Maritime Museum

Coast Guard Museum

While the major draw for veterans is undoubtedly the New London Submarine base, there are plenty of other things that you can do for your reunion. How about a lobster dinner cruise on a tall ship? Or perhaps a visit to some of the lighthouses? Or perhaps a tour of historic homes? Even better might be a visit to Jazz Underground or a trip to the historic Brixton Windmill? Better yet try a visit to The Research and Development Center (RDC). It is the Coast Guard’s sole facility performing research, development, and test and evaluation in support of the service’s major missions. This is located in the historic Fort Trumball area of New London; convenient to the Coast Guard Academy, naval submarine-base, and Old Mystic Village. The RDC sits along the shore of the Thames River.


©

Albuquerque, New Mexicohttp://itsatrip.org

October 21–24, 2013MCM Elegante

Old Town

Tram

MILITARY ATTRACTIONS ✭ New Mexico Veterans Memorial ✭ National Museum of Nuclear Science & History ✭ Ernie Pyle Home & Library ✭ Bataan Memorial Park ✭ Bullhead Park


✭ Old Town ✭ Albuquerque Biological Park ✭ Indian Pueblo Cultural Center ✭ National Hispanic Cultural Center ✭ Anderson-Abruzzo Balloon Museum ✭ Albuquerque Uptown Shopping Center ✭ Albuquerque Museum of Art & History ✭ Sandia Casino ✭ Isleta Casino ✭ The Downs at Albuquerque Racetrack & Casino

ACCESS ✈ Albuquerque Sunport International (ABQ)

2 I-40, I-25


©

St. Augustine, FloridaNovember 13–16, 2013

Holiday Isle Oceanfront Resort

Attractions: ✭ Anastasia State Park ✭ Castillo de San Marcos ✭ Fountain of Youth ✭ Marineland Dolphin Adventure ✭ Old St. Augustine Village ✭ Old Town Trolley Tour of St. Augustine ✭ St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park ✭ St. Augustine Beach ✭ St. Augustine Old Jail ✭ St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum ✭ Villa Zorayda Museum ✭ Whetstone Chocolate Factory

Military Attractions: ✭ Fort Matanzas ✭ Fort Mose Historic State Park ✭ St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum

Access: 2 I-95

✈ Northeast Florida Regional Airport (UST)

Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley

Fort Mose

Fort MatanzasCastillo de San MarcosSchooner Freedom at sunset

St. Augustine Lighthouse

Villa Zorayda Museum


Convention and VisitorsBureas

COColorado SpringsColorado Springs CVB515 S Cascade Avenue80903Natalie [email protected]

ILGurneeLake County CVB5465 W Grand Ave Ste 10060031Kimberly [email protected]

ILLisleLisle CVB (Chicago Area)925 Burlington Ave60532Jay [email protected]

ILSchaumburgWoodfield Chicago NW Conv Bureau1375 E Woodfield Rd Ste 12060173Melinda Garritano847-278-3446www.chicagonorthwest.commgarritano@chicagonorthwest.com

LABaton RougeBaton Rouge Area CVB359 Third Street70801Jennye Snider225-382-3584www.visitbatonrouge.comjennye@visitbatonrouge.com

LAJeffersonJefferson Parish CVB1221 Elmwood Park Blvd, Suite 41170123Magan Adams504-731-7083www.experiencejefferson.commagan@experiencejefferson.com

MOBransonBranson Lakes Area CVBPO BOX 189765615Julie [email protected]

NCFayettevilleFayetteville Area CVB245 Person St28301Myron Jones800-255-8217www.visitfayettevillenc.commjones@visitfayettevillenc.com

PAKing of PrussiaValley Forge CVB1000 First Ave Ste 10119406Courtney Pozo610-834-7971www.valleyforge.orgpozo@valleyforge.orgPATunkhannockEndless Mountains VB5405 State Route 618657Jean Ruhf570-836-5431www.endlessmountains.orgjean@endlessmountains.org

TXSan AngeloSan Angelo CVB418 W Avenue B76903Pamela [email protected]

UTOgdenOgden/Weber CVB2438 Washington Blvd84401Joni [email protected]

VAFredericksburgFredericksburg Regional Tourism Partn.706 Caroline St22405Kimberly Herbert540-372-1216www.VisitFred.comksherbert@fredericksburgva.gov

Thank You NEW & Renewing MembersWe welcome these “Reunion Friendly” Members, who have either just joined or renewed their memberships.They actively support the Reunion Friendly Network and eagerly seek the opportunity to host YOUR reunion.

We hope you will give them due consideration.See the complete list of RFN Members which starts on page 40.


CVBs, continued

VANorfolkVisit Norfolk232 E Main St23510Melissa Hopper757-664-6620www.visitnorfolktoday.commhopper@norfolkcvb.com

Destination Managers

FLJacksonvilleActive Escapes Jax/St Aug1177 Garrison Drive32092John Aguilera904-230-8787www.activeescape.comjohn.aguilera@activeescape.com

SCCharlestonCharleston Convention & Group Services1 Carriage Lane, Bld G29407James Mellen843-571-5882www.DestinationCharlestonSC.comjmellen@destinationCharlestonSC.com

Hotels

ALMobileRenaissance Hotel Mobile64 South Water St36602Derrick Williams251-415-3086www.renaissanceriverview.comderrick.williams@renaissancemobile.com

CABuena ParkHoliday Inn Buena Park Hotel & Conf Ctr7000 Beach Blvd90620Dennis [email protected]

CTGrotonGroton Inn & SuitesP 0 Box 80706340Nancie [email protected]

ILDeerfieldHyatt Deerfield1750 Lake Cook Rd60015Dawn Brandau847-597-4521www.deerfield.hyatt.comdawn.brandau@hyattdeerfield.com

ILElk Grove VillageWyndham Garden Elk Grove Village-O-Hare2550 Landmeier Road60007Rina Patano847-593-6200www.wyndham.com/[email protected]

KYErlangerHoliday Inn Cincinnati Airport1717 Airport Exchange Blvd41018Molly Fruin859-746-5612www.holidayinn.com/[email protected]

LAMetairieRamada Metairie-New Orleans2713 N Causeway Blvd70002Gina Abernathy504-648-3821www.ramadametairie.comgabernathy@ramadametairie.com

MES PortlandBest Western Merry Manor Inn700 Main St04106Donald Haggett207-774-6151www.merrymanor [email protected]

MOBransonRadisson Hotel Branson120 S. Wildwood Drive65616Sarah Hord417-690-4026www.radisson.com/[email protected]

NVLaughlinEdgewater-Colorado Belle Casino Resorts2020 South Casino Drive89029Kathy [email protected]

SCHilton Head IslandComfort Inn - South Forest Beach2 Tanglewood Drive29928Arlene Anderson843-842-6662www.comforthiltonhead.comarlene.anderson@snbhotels.com

Thank You NEW & Renewing Members


Hotels, continued

SCMyrtle BeachSands Resorts201-75th Avenue N29572Jessica [email protected]

SCMyrtle BeachSpringmaid Beach Resort3200 S Ocean Blvd29577Sharon Kemerer843-315-7173www.springmaidbeach.comskemerer@springmaidbeach.com

VANorfolkNorfolk Plaza Hotel Downtown700 Monticello Avenue23510Donna [email protected]

VARestonSheraton Reston11810 Sunrise Valley Dr20191Bob Ciccone703-262-5931www.sheraton.com/[email protected]

WASeattleCrowne Plaza Seattle Downtown1113 Sixth Avenue98101Beth Harwood206-676-3923www.cphotelseattle.combharwood@cphotelseattle.com

WIAppletonRadisson Paper Valley Hotel333 W College Ave54911Nancy Hollis920-733-8000www.radissonpapervalley.comnhollis@radissonpapervalley.com

WIGreen BayRadisson Hotel Green Bay2040 Airport Dr54313Jennifer Simonar920-494-7300www.radisson.com/[email protected]

Hotel Management

MNRochesterCarlson Rezido Hotel Group9002 11th Ave NE55906Janelle Smith507-884-9610www.carlsonrezidor.comjanelle.smith@carlsonrezidor.com

Attractions - Non-Military

AKWrangellNolan CenterPO BOX 105099929Terri [email protected]

MOBransonShowboat Branson Belle4800 State Hwy 16565616Teina Woodburn417-336-7411www.silverdollarcity.comtwoodburn@silverdollarcity.com

SCNorth Myrtle BeachThe Alabama Theatre4750 Highway 17 S29582CMP, Kathy B Flowe843-272-5758www.alabama-theatre.comkflowe@alabama-theatre.com

TNNashvilleGrand Ole Opry2802 Opryland Drive37214Wayne Chandler615-882-5435www.opry.com/[email protected]

Thank You NEW & Renewing Members

Web Site Changes Coming Soon

Recognizing that our world is rapidly

becoming more technical and more tied

to the Internet convinced us that the RFN

web site required updating. Accordingly,

an extensive rewriting has occurred and

includes easier and faster navigation. Many

new features have been added, including

the ability for YOU to post comments. The

monthly RPM (Reunion Planner Memos) is

now posted directly on the web site, thus

eliminating extra e-mail. Searching for a

reunion location has been made faster.

Reading Reunion Friendly News, both the

current and prior issues on-line has been

simplified. Registration for ConFAM© which

previously required mailing a form can now

be completed on-line.


HOTELS - RED LION

CAAnaheimRed Lion Hotel Anaheim1850 South Harbor Blvd92802Jennifer Mendoza714-750-2801www.anahaimredlion.comjennifer.mendoza@redlion.com

Cathedral CityRed Lion Hotel Cathedral City69 151 E Palm Canyon Drive92234Marlo [email protected]

ReddingRed Lion Hotel Redding1830 Hilltop Drive96002Carol [email protected]

COAuroraRed Lion Hotel Denver Southeast3200 South Parker Road80014Shelby Rushbrooke303-695-1700www.redlion.com/[email protected]

IDBoiseRed Lion Boise Downtowner1800 Fairview Avenue83702Mowbray Brown208-344-7691www.redlion.com/[email protected]

IDLewistonRed Lion Hotel Lewiston621 21st Street83501Laurie Wilson208-799-1000www.redlionlewiston.comlwilson@redlionlewiston.com

MTKalispellRed Lion Hotel Kalispell20 North Main Street59601CJ Getty406-751-5050www.redlion.com/[email protected]

MissoulaRed Lion Inn Missoula700 W Broadway Street59802Kimberley [email protected]

NMGallupRed Lion Hotel Gallup3009 W Hwy 6687301John [email protected]

OREugeneRed Lion Hotel Eugene205 Coburg Road97401Cedric [email protected]

ORPendletonRed Lion Hotel Pendleton304 SE Nye Ave97801Cheryl Rolstad541-276-6111www.redlion.com/[email protected]

PortlandRed Lion on the River Jantzen Beach909 N Hayden Island Dr97217Felicia Patterson503-283-4466www.redlion.com/[email protected]

ORSalemRed Lion Hotel Salem3301 Market ST NE97301Kara [email protected]

UTSalt Lake CityRed Lion Hotel Salt Lake Downtown161 West 600 S84101Josh Porter801-521-7373www.redlion.com/[email protected]

WABellevueRed Lion Hotel Bellevue11211 Main Street98004Raquel Wheeler425-455-5240www.redlion.com/[email protected]

KelsoRed Lion Hotel Kelso/Longview510 Kelso Drive98626Ginny Whiffen360-636-4400www.redlion.com/[email protected]

KentRed Lion Hotel Kent25100 74th Ave South98032Paul [email protected]

OlympiaRed Lion Hotel Olympia2300 Evergreen Park Dr SW98502Kyla Cavanagh360-943-4000www.redlion.com/[email protected]

PascoRed Lion Hotel Pasco2525 North 20th Ave99301Genevieve [email protected]


WABellevueRed Lion Hotel Bellevue11211 Main Street98004Raquel Wheeler425-455-5240www.redlion.com/[email protected]

KelsoRed Lion Hotel Kelso/Longview510 Kelso Drive98626Ginny Whiffen360-636-4400www.redlion.com/[email protected]

KentRed Lion Hotel Kent25100 74th Ave South98032Paul [email protected]

OlympiaRed Lion Hotel Olympia2300 Evergreen Park Dr SW98502Kyla Cavanagh360-943-4000www.redlion.com/[email protected]

PascoRed Lion Hotel Pasco2525 North 20th Ave99301Genevieve [email protected]

WAPort AngelesRed Lion Hotel Port Angeles221 N Lincoln Street98362Vickie [email protected]

RichlandRed Lion Richland802 George Washington Way99352Genevieve Speegle509-946-7611www.redlion.com/[email protected]

SeattleRed Lion Hotel Fifth Avenue1415 Fifth Ave98101Michelle [email protected]

SeattleRed Lion Hotel Sea Tac18220 International Blvd98188Ruby Turner206-246-5535www.seatttleairportredlion.comruby.turner@redlion.com

SpokaneRed Lion Inn at the ParkW 303 North River Drive99201Stephanie Stobie509-326-8000www.redlion.com/[email protected]

WASpokaneRed Lion River Inn700 N Division99202Stephanie [email protected]

TacomaRed Lion Hotel Tacoma8402 S Hosmer Street98444Brandie [email protected]

VancouverRed Lion Hotel Vancouver at the Quay100 Columbia Street98660Michele Dunn360-694-8341www.redlion.com/[email protected]

YakimaRed Lion Yakima607 East Yakima Ave98901Erica [email protected]

Hotel Management - RED LION

WASpokaneRed Lion Hotels Corporation201 W North River Dr, Ste 10099201Sharon Danitschek425-501-1430www.redlion.comsharon.danitschek@redlion.com


What has emerged over the last four years is a far different scenario than that which was prevalent throughout the last twenty years. Professional and corporate meeting planners are clearly opting for smaller and shorter meetings. Hoteliers are scurrying for strategies to minimize the negative effects.

In particular, those planners are resisting guarantees more than ever before. Food and beverage minimums, a mainstay of corporate business are either shrinking or going by the boards. Guaranteed room blocks are also shrinking and in many cases are going out the window.

Military reunion planners take heed!

Prior advice to military reunion planners to avoid Tuesdays and Wednesdays for their reunions is more important than ever before. For a corporate hotel, these are the “hot” days. These are the days when you meet the hotels terms or they may walk away.

Even Worse for Hotels

Forward planning periods seem to be shrinking also. This really makes it tough for hotels to plan future occupancy and, of course, future revenue. As a planner, you can use this to your negotiating advantage!

The Perfect Negotiation

Everybody wins! Everybody gets what he wants! It’s a Win-Win situation!

That’s the outcome that is best all-around. The hotel wants to make a good profit. The planner wants to get a good deal for his group. If both get what they want, that’s perfect.

The way this is done, is to understand what the other party wants. Give what they want, and then ask for what you want.

Here are a few things you can do or offer to do that will give a hotel an incentive to extend themselves to get your business.

Book early – make the deal at least a year in advance, rather than waiting. Future booked business means a hotel can plan its finances and its personnel needs well in advance.

Stay away from mid-week! For most hotels, the ideal reunion period is Thursday through Sunday. That’s when they need the business the most. That’s when they tend to make the most concessions.

Figure out what the banquet total bill will be, knock off 30% and that should be the absolute highest food total you should guarantee. The fact is that more and more corporate groups are not having sit-down dinners at all. They are moving toward receptions, but the kitchen facilities still have to be used. When you come along with a banquet, you are welcome indeed.

Make A List

Before you start negotiating with a hotel, you ought to have a list of the

extras you want, the things that you expect to be “thrown in,” and the absolute necessary concessions.

The list may be short or it may be long, but if you do not ask for it, chances are pretty strong that you will not get it!

Watch those surcharges, because there are more and more of them. They can really add up, and attendees hate it when they get a battery of charges that drives up the cost of staying at the hotel.

Above all, remember that no matter what they promise you, it does not count unless it is in the contract. The contract governs as a matter of law! As you negotiate, write down every point that you agree on. Write down every item that is offered. Then, when the contract arrives, go through the contract and be sure it covers every single item. If it does not, send it back and tell them why.

It is not unusual for a meeting contract to go back and forth a number of times before both sides can agree.

Be careful, too, of the fine print — the language the hotel put in that you did not know about. It counts just as much!

Be sure that it states somewhere that the charges listed are the whole charges, and that no additional fees will be charged for any reason.

Then, go forth, and have a great reunion!

[email protected]

Hotel Patterns ChangingNow that the dust is settling, and as the hospitality industry

begins a recovery, there are changes that have taken place which directly affect military reunion planners.

Military reunions make up a tiny part of the meetings business for hotels; and it is those booking corporate meetings who set the pattern.


Are you aware of the enormous number of changes that have occurred in the hotel industry to make you physically safer, and your personal information more secure?

Are you aware of the new demands on hotels that create problems for hotels and increase their costs?

The industry as a whole has made huge strides in protecting you. Those actions have unquestionably been a big factor contributing to increases in room rates.

Physical ImprovementsOver the last ten years or so, we have witnessed a massive movement away from the motels which were so popular in the 1970s and 1980s. It cost more to build and to maintain inside corridors, but the threats to personal security from “drive up and open the door rooms” were very real.

Electronic door locks have replaced the old room key in the great majority of properties. One of the effects has been to eliminate a stranger who stayed in a room previously from coming in and surprising the new occupants. This happened to us a few years ago when the fellow (I can’t really call him a gentleman) unlocked our hotel room door, marched in, and stated “What are you doing here? I always stay in this room!”

The installation of individual room safes were another protective measure for hotel guests. Scenarios like those in many movies where theft from an entire bank of vaults occurs

have simply been bypassed.

Still another major improvement was in the replacement of almost all the ice making machines with high technology, with silver based bacteria prevention.

This effort is on-going. Over the past few years the industry has made a giant effort to replace bedding with bedbug proof sheets and other devices to combat the surge brought in by visitors from other countries.

The New AgeIn September 2008, we received notice from a planner about credit card fraud at a California hotel. Attendees at the reunion were confronted with large charges on the credit cards which had been tendered for payment to the hotel.

Eventually this was tracked down to an employee of the credit card processing company used by the hotel. Since then other cases have emerged where the problem arose from illegal actions by the night auditor.

New precautions have been installed in many hotels largely in the form of new computer software. Computers, however, have created a new problem for both the hotels and the guests. The name of the problem is Wi-Fi. What Wi-Fi allows is access to the Internet and email without a wired connection. Unfortunately, this technique, available in many locations, and which will probably become available on airplanes this year, also applies to the hotel computer. The fact is that it can be “hacked!” Hacking the hotel computer means that all of the information that the hotel has about you, your credit card, etc. is open to the hacker.

Last June, the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) filed a suit against Wyndham hotels, charging that the

hotels had subjected consumers’ data to an “unfair and deceptive” lack of protection. This, the FTC claims, led to a series of breaches that in 2008 compromised more than a half-million credit cards. No matter the outcome of the lawsuit, hotels will have to take steps to insure the safety of information and credit cards in additional ways. This, inevitably, means that hotels are going to spend money, time, and an on-going effort to protect those who stay at their properties.

Plain FactsBecause hotels are getting safer, more comfortable, and more secure, it obviously means that they will have to charge more if they want to stay in business. Unfortunately, modern day problems only make the problems of safety and security more intense. Anyone can see that threats are increasing.

RFN regularly receives complaints about hotel charges. Some are reasonable. Many, if not most are not. While many protest the “high cost” of a hotel room, the fact is that there have been a huge number of improvements made almost universally. On top of all these improvements, primarily made for your safety and protection, the value of the dollar is less than half of what it was when RFN started in 1991.

While none of us likes to pay more, it is simply unavoidable. Rates today have to reflect the costs of construction, refurnishing, and inclusion of every safety and security action the hotel can reasonably provide. It is a huge task, and we need to applaud the industry for keeping the rates as low as they are today.

[email protected]

Safety & Security


The hotel is Holiday Inn Dumfries Quantico Center in Dumfries, VA.Subject: VMF/VMA-311 Alumni Reunion 2012

Greetings,We just finished up our reunion in Quantico and I have to mention that the Holiday Inn Quantico Center ranks as one of the best I have every dealt with as a planner. Petra Carr and her entire staff made for a great week. Our reunion was attended by eighty some all week and then for the banquet on last night we had 96 in attendance. A Marine Color Guard from Quantico MCB posted the colors and a bugler from MCB played “TAPS” for our memorial service. Not many dry eyes in the house. We toured MCB, ate lunch at the base and visited the Marine Corps Museum one day, Pentagon and Lockheed-Martin the next. we also threw in a short tour to Manassas. All which went well. Academy Bus was our carrier and also did a very professional job. I had Marine buses lined up but got cancelled less than 3 weeks out and had to scramble to get some more buses off Academy which we had already set up as “Plan B”. I would recommend this hotel for any group that may be going to Quantico. They let us use the banquet hall all week for a hospitality room at no charge and set up a comp breakfast outside of that hall for us every morning. The staff was superb. Very friendly and very professional. There was nothing we needed that wasn’t taken care of. The only glitch to the whole thing was the service on banquet night which was very slow and confused partially for me not conveying the exact instructions to the staff and partially

because half the staff serving banquet was inexperienced. Ms. Carr and I sat down and discussed this at length. She felt badly that anything had gone wrong. The greats far outweighed the bad and we had a great time. Marines adapt to the problems and we go on. Just wanted to pass that along. Please use me as a POC for anyone wanting

Thanks for the referral of USS Point Defiant!!!!Hello Jane and Charlene!I wanted to say thank you so much for giving John Picolosi of the USS Point Defiant my contact info. We had a chance to chat at length yesterday about his potential 2013 reunion. I’ve already sent out his contact info to 5 different hotels in Kissimmee that I think will work very well for him! In our database I put that it was a referral that came as a direct result of us participating in your ConFams. It is a great way to show our County Manager how important ConFam participation and hosting are for our area. So thank you again!!! I look forward to seeing you next June!

Jadeine ShivesSr. Sales Representative

Kissimmee Convention & Visitors BureauOsceola County Department of Tourism Development

1925 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy., Kissimmee FL 34744VisitKissimmee.com/407-742-8255

[email protected]

any info concerning the Holiday Inn Quantico Center or the tours.

Semper Fidelis,Jim Galchick, President

VMF/VMA-311 Alumni [email protected]

330-337-9383


T h ro u g h o u t the economic d o w n t u r n , hotels have s u f f e r e d along with many other industries. A fair number of hotels have gone out of b u s i n e s s .

Others, who had sufficient capital, took the opportunity to upgrade their properties. Now, there is a general feeling in the industry, largely due to a surge in the last month or two of 2012, that the industry will turn around in 2013.

In general, hotel rates will go up a few percent in 2013, despite indications that the supply of rooms from new hotels will exceed the expected growth in demand. Whether increases in hotel revenue come from increases in room rates, there is evidence that most hotels will prefer adding surcharges and fees that they never imposed before.

Most hotel users are already familiar with surcharges ranging from telephone access charges to a daily charge for the use of a room safe, even though they do not need, want, or use those services. Be aware that there is pending action by the Federal Trade Commission to make it illegal to impose any surcharges without first disclosing them at or before you register.

There are five fees, not necessarily new, that you can expect in 2013 from hotels that never previously dreamed of using them. These are:• Mini-bar Restocking Fees – as if the

cost of using an item in the mini-bar isn’t high enough, you can also expect a “Mini-Bar Restocking Fee” as soon as you take the first item. Typically, this fee ranges from $2.50 - $6.00 PER DAY.

• Baggage Holding Fees – if you just

want to leave your bags with the bellman so you avoid paying for an extra day’s room, instead of just a tip, you can expect a per bag fee of $2 in many hotels.

• Early Departure Fee – if you decide to checkout sooner than you planned, many hotels will charge you anyway

• Cancellation fees have been around for a while, but many hotels are making the window smaller, so that you have to cancel at least two, and in some cases, three full days if you do not want to pay.

• Internet charges for movies IN ADDITION TO any movie cost. This charge is commonly termed “Internet Bandwidth Usage.

Reduced AiR SeRviceAs indicated in the February issue of Reunion Planner Memos (RPM) reduced air service is now a matter of fact at many of the nation’s airports.

Note: If you are not receiving RPM by email every month, it is because you have not given us a valid email address OR you are blocking it. Let us know (by email) if you want us to include you for future issues.

On June 1, 2009, the U.S. Dept. of Transportation was authorized to provide subsidies to airlines for serving rural communities that would otherwise have no commercial air service. There are 152 such airports (45 in Alaska), and the subsidies run from a low of about $75 per flight to a high of about $800. This has saved service at these airports, but the subsidies are not passed on to the passenger. The one hour and twenty minute flight from Albuquerque to Carlsbad, NM still runs nearly $200 per person.

It is a rare airport that has not suffered some reduction in service since the bottom fell out of the economy in mid-2008. Airports are expensive to build and expensive to maintain. The only way to pay for them, short of general taxation in the area is for the airport owners to charge landing fees. These

fees are added and included in the cost of an airplane ticket. Almost all U.S. airports are municipally owned, so that the emphasis is not on profit, but actually having service in that locale.

The airport in Branson is the only privately owned, privately operated, commercial service airport in the country. It happens to be one of the nicest airports in the country, and surely has the most scenic approach road of any airport in the country. Unfortunately, it has not been a financial success, and at last reports was up for sale.

Airport fares have been kept low by virtue of extra fees and surcharges. Many travelers resent these charges, but the plain, simple fact is that airlines have a very poor record of earnings, and have a high rate of financial failure. This is evidenced by bankruptcy of major airlines, and at the time of this writing, the potential takeover of bankrupt American Airlines (the 4th largest) with U.S. Airways (the 5th largest), which is substantially smaller.

OveRAll 2013 FORecAStWithin the hospitality industry, there are quite a few organizations who have made forecasts regarding rates and air fares for 2013.

In general, the expectation is that airfares will go up by approximately 5%. Hotel room rates are anticipated to increase by approximately 3%.

Fortunately, the astounding increases in U.S. oil production, mostly due to improved extraction techniques, is helping to keep the cost of fuel down, and slowing the rise in prices.

Hotels and airlines are striving to maintain profitability, and in some cases staying alive, in the face of poor economic conditions. The fact remains, however, that you can expect to pay more in the future.

[email protected]


2013 TRN Ad#2.indd 1 1/16/13 8:35 AM


Some of the greatest friendshipsform when men and women come together to serve their country in thearmed forces. Celebrate those friend-ships and reconnect with your militaryfamily with a reunion in Rapid City,South Dakota. Centrally locatedto many patriotic sites, includingMount Rushmore National Memo-rial, Rapid City in the Black Hills of South Dakota was voted the 2011 “Most Patriotic Small Townin America” by Rand McNally andUSA Today. Along with Mount Rushmore, you’ll also find a strong military presence and history. Ellsworth Air Force Base, home to the 28th Bomb Wing’s B-1B Lancers, is located on the eastern side of

Rapid City. For decades, Ellsworth has been a part of protecting theUnited States and her allies. The South Dakota Air & Space Museum, the Minuteman Missile NationalHistoric Site, the Black HillsNational Cemetery, and historic Fort Meade are also all located within minutes of Rapid City. Nothing inspires you likebeing surrounded by towering pine forests, abundant wildlife and breathtaking scenery. EnjoyNative American heritage, freeattractions, wildlife parks, hiking trails, golf courses and a variety of

outdoor recreation located within Rapid City or just minutes from the city. Wander the streets of downtown Rapid City and experience the City of Presidents, a historic sculpture walk with life-size bronze statuesof past presidents, while enjoying new restaurants, boutiques, art galleries and attractions like Main Street Square. Rapid City is easy to reach,located in the center of theUnited States. Serviced by fourmajor airlines with direct flights from Chicago, Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Las Vegas,Minneapolis/St. Paul, Phoenix/Mesa and Salt Lake City andInterstate 90 running through the city, the problem isn’t getting here, it’s convincing yourself togo home.

© Crazy Horse Memorial Ellsworth Air Force Base

City of Presidents – Rapid City, South Dakota

Main Street Square


Contact Lisa Storms – [email protected] | 1-800-487-3223 ext. 8487

Download a free Meeting Professionals Guide at RapidCityMeetings.com

Experience a different kind of military reunion or meeting when you come to Rapid City, South Dakota in the Black Hills. Explore patriotic places like Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the City of Presidents, the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, Ellsworth Air Force Base and more. Conveniently located in the center of the country, Rapid City has all the reunion amenities you expect and some you don’t.

Some of the greatest friendshipsform when men and women come together to serve their country in thearmed forces. Celebrate those friend-ships and reconnect with your militaryfamily with a reunion in Rapid City,South Dakota. Centrally locatedto many patriotic sites, includingMount Rushmore National Memo-rial, Rapid City in the Black Hills of South Dakota was voted the 2011 “Most Patriotic Small Townin America” by Rand McNally andUSA Today. Along with Mount Rushmore, you’ll also find a strong military presence and history. Ellsworth Air Force Base, home to the 28th Bomb Wing’s B-1B Lancers, is located on the eastern side of

Rapid City. For decades, Ellsworth has been a part of protecting theUnited States and her allies. The South Dakota Air & Space Museum, the Minuteman Missile NationalHistoric Site, the Black HillsNational Cemetery, and historic Fort Meade are also all located within minutes of Rapid City. Nothing inspires you likebeing surrounded by towering pine forests, abundant wildlife and breathtaking scenery. EnjoyNative American heritage, freeattractions, wildlife parks, hiking trails, golf courses and a variety of

outdoor recreation located within Rapid City or just minutes from the city. Wander the streets of downtown Rapid City and experience the City of Presidents, a historic sculpture walk with life-size bronze statuesof past presidents, while enjoying new restaurants, boutiques, art galleries and attractions like Main Street Square. Rapid City is easy to reach,located in the center of theUnited States. Serviced by fourmajor airlines with direct flights from Chicago, Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Las Vegas,Minneapolis/St. Paul, Phoenix/Mesa and Salt Lake City andInterstate 90 running through the city, the problem isn’t getting here, it’s convincing yourself togo home.

© Crazy Horse Memorial Ellsworth Air Force Base

City of Presidents – Rapid City, South Dakota

Main Street Square


FINAN

CE

by Marc A Spiewak, Certified Public [email protected]: @marcspiewak

IRS Correspondence The IRS is sending you threatening letters. Letters that say you haven’t filed or that you owe money. They are going to garnish, levy, lien or maybe even arrest you and throw you in jail (the jail part I made up – they don’t throw you in jail, for the most part). The letter itself is scary. You don’t know where you stand and you don’t know what the next step is.

I have had clients that give me unopened IRS letters because they are too scared to open them. There have been clients calling me because the IRS is knocking at their door or at their place of business. They give me letters that they received months ago and just couldn’t deal with it. (Note: the longer you procrastinate, the harder the job it is for me to help you).

Taking Away the Mystery The first rule in survival training is to take inventory of the situation. We need to know what the IRS knows. Let’s open those envelopes, put them in order, throw away the duplicates, collectively and figuratively take a deep breath and see what it is all about!

The IRS has a transcript on each and every one of us. After I get the client/taxpayer to sign off on a POA (power of attorney), I then contact the IRS and get from them all detail on open years (years that you either haven’t filed or still owe money on). Now we know where we stand!

Taking Away the Misery The second rule in survival training is to take control of the situation. Let’s see if we can reduce the tax liabilities and slow down the IRS in their collection efforts.

First order of business is to contact the IRS and let them know that we have tentative changes and to put a hold on the account for 45 days. They will do this for a tax professional just for the asking.

Second, make sure that the taxpayer is in compliance. All tax returns must be submitted. Many times the IRS will file a return for a taxpayer if the taxpayer hasn’t filed one themselves. This is never good for the taxpayer.

Third, let’s see if we can get the tax liability down. This can be accomplished by making sure that the tax return is prepared properly and aggressively as possible.

Fourth, do not forget that I will be requesting the abatement of penalties if at all possible.

In one case, recently, the taxpayer/client owed money per the IRS (and lots of it) and I actually got the client refunds instead. This was all accomplished from what I outlined above.

Be Pro-ActivePro-active rules to follow:1. File all tax returns timely.2. File an extension if you cannot

follow rule #1.3. If you are self-employed, consider

incorporating to save money on taxes. This is going to make your tax filings more involved. Your professional accounting fees will be higher, but your tax liability will be less in most cases and your chances of being audited will be less. Discuss this with a qualified tax and accounting professional.

4. If you owe money to the IRS make arrangements with them to pay the obligation. Do not ignore tax liabilities. They only get worse and they get worse fast.

5. Keep track of your business income and expenses. Document everything. If you have a phone with a calendar feature, use it. It will make your life a whole lot easier at the end of the year when you are trying to determine what your expenses were.

I know there are ways to file tax returns by yourself, but if you are self-employed, you better be a bit more knowledgeable and sophisticated than the average layman.

Use a ProfessionalI cannot emphasize enough the importance of using a professional accountant in dealing with these issues. Just like any other profession (i.e. doctor, lawyer) you do not want to have yourself as your own patient or client.

For the Self-Employed

Getting out of TROUBLE with the IRS


Fairfax County …

for Reunions “Above and Beyond” the Ordinary!

Why do hundreds of reunion groups decide to get together in Fairfax County, Virginia every year? It’s not simply the county’s location, directly across the Potomac River from Washington, DC. There’s a lot more to it than that.

“There are lots of wonderful reunion sites across the United States,” notes Dean Miller of Visit Fairfax, the county’s convention and visitors bureau, “but I can’t think of any place that publicly celebrates and embraces America’s veterans the way the Washington area and Fairfax County do.”

The list of “must see” attractions located in and around Fairfax County and goes on and on … Arlington National Cemetery, the Tomb of the Unknowns, the World War II, Korean War, and Viet Nam War memorials, the Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps memorials, the battlefields of Manassas and Antietam, and many, many more.

Groups meeting in Fairfax County enjoy the best of both worlds. They have easy access to the monuments and museums of Washington, DC, along with the lower room rates and ample free parking typical of suburban locations.

It really is all about service, Miller said. “At Visit Fairfax, our goal is to assist reunion planners in any way we can. Whether it’s finding great hotels at great rates, making introductions to staff personnel at our world-famous attractions, providing lists of transportation suppliers, or simply recommending restaurants for group dining, we are here to be of service to those who have served.”

When asked about the many accolades that Visit Fairfax has received from planners, Miller recalled one group in particular. “We were working with an Air Force fighter squadron to help them have their reunion here. The planner was a retired major general. When we were finished, he said to us, ‘Thanks … you really went ‘above and beyond’ for us.’ Coming from a two-star general, that really meant something to us.”

When it comes to accessing the museums, monuments and memorials honoring America’s veterans, no destination in the country rivals Fairfax County, Virginia. Our proximity to Washington, DC makes it easy to organize trips and observances. Our wide range of hotel options let you accommodate any budget level. And with the many historical sites and entertainment opportunities right here in Fairfax County, you’ll fi nd plenty of places to trade stories and reminisce right here.

To learn more about all there is to see and do, simply visit FXVA.com

The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center features one of the country’s leading collections of historic aircraft and spacecraft, including the space shuttle Discovery, which permanently docked at the museum in 2012. Admission to the museum is free.


From a Woman’s Point of View …

Paul and I make a point of the importance of the planners’ spouses and the responsibilities they

share with their planners in creating a successful military reunion. We observe them taking detailed notes in the seminars and sharing experiences over the dinner tables at our events. Planners’ spouses are serious about the role they play.

At one event, a female planner with a male spouse laughed at the fact that it is assumed that all planners are male and all spouses/companions are female. This “old school” philosophy is what my daughter calls “gender bias.” I made the error early in my career with the company that all spouses were husbands or wives. Imagine my chagrin when a female companion let me know very quickly that she was not a wife nor did she plan to become a wife. What about the couple in their early eighties who were so attentive to each other it evoked my interest. I asked how many years

By Charlene Adamson

they had been together and as they held hands they told me they had married early the prior week before coming to our event!

To those of you who have been married for so many years, my applause is for you. To those of you who have chosen to share a life without marriage, I also applaud you. After all, we are in the second group and we made a serious commitment in this shared life. Between us we have seven children, twelve grandchildren and three great grand-children. We can hold our own

reunion!

Male or female, single or married, the important

fact is that each of us focuses on the pride of country, the patriotism we share, and the commitment to celebrate and

honor all who are veterans and all who

have shared in this life.This is a “Woman’s point

of view.”


From a Woman’s Point of View …Think Before You DonateSomeThing To Think abouT before You make conTribuTionS:

As you open your pockets to do a good thing and make yourself feel good, please keep the following facts in mind:

The American Red Cross

President and CEO Marsha J.

Evans’salary for the year was $651,957 plus

expenses

March Of Dimes

It is called the March of Dimes

becauseonly a dime for every 1 dollar is given to the

needy.

The United Way

President Brian Gallagherreceives a

$375,000 base salary along

with numerous expense benefits.

UNICEF

CEO Caryl M. Stern receives$1,200,000 per year (100k per month) plus all expenses

including a Rolls Royce.

Less than 5 cents of your donated

dollar goes to the cause.

Goodwill CEO and owner Mark Curran

profits $2.3 million a year. Goodwill is a very catchy name

for his business.You donate to his business

and then he sells the items for PROFIT.

He pays nothing for his products and pays his workers

minimum wage! Nice Guy. $0.00 goes to help anyone!

Stop giving to this man.

Instead, go “green” and put your money where it will do some good — give it to any of the following:

The Salvation Army Commissioner Todd Bassett receives a small salary of only$13,000 per year (plus housing)

for managing this $2 billion dollar organization.

96% of donated dollars go to the

cause.

The American Legion National

Commander receives a $0.00

zero salary. Your donations go to help Veterans and their families

and youth!

The Veterans of Foreign Wars

National Commander

receives a $0.00 zero salary.

Your donations go to help Veterans and their families

and youth!

The Disabled American Veterans

National Commander



and youth!

The Military Order of Purple Hearts

National Commander



and youth!

The Vietnam Veterans

Association National

Commander receives a $0.00

zero salary.Your donations go to help Veterans and their families

and youth!

Make a WishFor children’s last

wishes.100% goes to

funding trips or special wishes for a

dying child.

St. Jude Research Hospital

100% goes towards funding and

helping Children with Cancer who

have no insurance and can

not afford to pay.

Ronald McDonald Houses

All monies go to running the houses

for parents who have critical Children

in the hospital.100% goes to housing, and feeding the

families.

Lions Club International

100% of donations go to help the

blind, buy hearing aides, support

medical missions around the world.

Their latest undertakingIs measles

vaccinations (only $1.00 per shot).


Paul’s OpinionThis article is a personal opinion,

and does not necessarily represent the views of The Reunion Friendly Network, its employees, customers, or reunion planners.

An editorial by Paul Spiewak

“Gung Ho!” (literally, “work together”) was a watchword when we were in service, yet we still enjoyed our differences. Think about it for a moment. In major cities throughout the U.S, there are “Chinatowns.” Almost every city of size has a “Little Italy.” There are cities dominated by one ethnic group after another. The U.S. is a melting pot, but somehow people, even though they may work with others or meet socially with others, still like to congregate with their own “kind,” whatever their kind happens to be.

That’s why it puzzled me just a little nearly eight years ago when the European Union was formed. I could not imagine, particularly after the animosities generated by WWII that a political entity of this nature could ever be put together. In my mind, this was far more complex than settling the Arab-Israeli issue. Yet, it seemed to work. During my first visit to Europe (Italy, Greece, Turkey, and Israel) in 2011, the Euro was strong and the dollar was weak. Euros were used in Turkey, Greece and Italy, but look at what’s happened. Even better, let’s take a look at why it happened.

Fundamentally, I think that the people in Spain want to be Spanish; the people in Portugal want to be Portuguese; the people in Greece

want to be Greek; and surely the people in France want to stay French. Even worse, none of them want to be Germans!

Rightly or wrongly, the fact is that there are a variety of nationalistic, perhaps even tribal, and political viewpoints that are in conflict with the conformity required for political and financial union.

Why is the U.S. Different?For one thing we have a Constitution, a political document agreed to in advance of any economic or financial union.

That seems to be sensible, as we still have something called the Tenth Amendment, which clearly states that powers not specifically allocated to the Federal government remain with the individual states. This split enables us to build the greatest political entity the world has ever seen, and it lasted from 1789 when George Washington was inaugurated to 1933, when FDR began to amass Federal power.

I was a mere seven years old when I clearly remember my father saying to my mother that the National Recovery Act (NRA) that President Roosevelt was trying to push through was awful. Almost all of it, or at least the worst parts) was (thank the good Lord) subsequently declared unconstitutional. But! Here we go again!

Freedom is Under Attack!Every day our government, we the people, is becoming more intrusive. Thousands of new regulations are pouring out of Washington with the express aim of controlling people and their actions.

Things that belong to the individual states are gradually coming under Federal control in direct violation of the Constitution, and sadly, we look the other way.

The Tale of the Farmer, the Pig, the Cow, and the Mouse

The farmer’s wife saw a mouse, and sent the farmer to buy a trap. The mouse told his barnyard friends about his, but they all shrugged it off, saying to the mouse that it was his problem, not theirs. Meanwhile, the trap was baited, and a snap was heard in the middle of the night. The wife went to investigate, but the trap had caught a snake by the tail. When the wife got close, the snake bit her. The farmer rushed his wife to the hospital, and the whole family came visiting to see her. First, the farmer killed the chicken to make chicken soup for his wife. Then he killed the pig to feed the visiting family. This was all to no avail, because the wife died from the snake bite. There was a big funeral, and the farmer killed the cow to feed all those who attended. “It’s not my problem,” said the mouse!

Day of ReckoningBack home, it is even worse, because we may be faced with the matter of war crimes. Quite candidly, I do not know about you, but I felt the war crime trials after WWII were righteous. There are many problems in International Law that makes such prosecutions difficult. Even putting aside any question of legality, the President of the United States has been personally selecting targets for assassination. As of June 30, 2012, more than 2,000 people have been killed by drone attacks in Afghanistan, Yemen, Somalia, and Pakistan. Many of these are terrorists, but there are many, including wives and children who are not. Note that we are not at war with these countries.

Day of ReckoningOne day, these actions may be deemed “war crimes.” It will be a sad day when a President – or former President – of the United States is brought before an International Court and declared a war criminal. What do you think?


The National Restaurant Association surveyed professional chefs and bartenders to predict the hottest trends on restaurant menus in 2013.

A good deal of opinion aimed at more healthful children’s items, adults weren’t ignored. There appears to be a definite movement toward local food sources. This is probably true because of the escalating costs of transportation and storage.

You can expect to see new cuts of meat such as: teres major (shoulder steak), Denver steak (between the shoulder and neck), and pork flap meat or flap steak. Beef flap meat is actually better known as sirloin tip, and is probably both the least expensive and one of the tastiest steaks when grilled.

You can also expect to see more whole grain foods, especially those that are gluten-free. Quinoa, pronounced as “keen-wa” will start to make significant inroads as a gluten-free rice substitute.

Changes in Drinks Coming, Too!The trend toward micro-breweries, and local beer will continue to accelerate, but the new big deal will be “Culinary Cocktails.” These concoctions started to enter the scene in a big way in 2011, moved forward in 2012, and are ready to overtake the bar and lounge market in 2013. The focus is fresh ingredients plus spices and fruits, blended in new ways, including some new machinery. While they sound weird to those of us who prefer vodka or gin tonics, or a shot of bourbon, or even a martini (shaken or stirred) these are really wild. Here are a few examples:

9 Champagne with blood orange flower water pearls dancing with the bubbles

9 Gin with pineapple and jasmine 9 Citrus Vodka with pureed

Granny Smith apples and sprayed with thyme syrup

9 Fresh basil gimlet with balsamic vinegar on the rim and a tomato-mozzarella flower

9 Cucumber inundated with gin using a vacuum seal machine

9 Spice infused tequila with agave nectar, lemon & hot water

9 Bourbon Manhattan infuse with cherry wood smoke

9 Vodka pumpkin martini

For those with stronger tendencies, how about Gray Goose vodka out of the freezer over dry ice. This one is definitely not for beginners,

Other TrendsThere is a growing awareness among chefs and restaurants that recipes need greater emphasis on health. Well over half of the chefs surveyed indicated that they are trying much harder, and even eliminating some dishes which have unhealthful ingredients.

What about Cost?With economic conditions still a major factor, it is interesting that only 4% reported that prices had to be raised in order to accommodate the changes. The balance were nearly equally divided between changing menu selections, changing ingredients of existing dishes, and exploring new sources of supply as a means to avoid raising prices.

For those who are more interested in the top trend ranking, here is the top twenty list from the National Restaurant Association (NRA).

NRA’s Top 20 Trends for 2013

1. Locally sourced meats and seafood

2. Locally grown produce 3. Healthful kids’ meals 4. Environmental sustainability as

a culinary theme 5. Children’s nutrition as a culinary

theme 6. New cuts of meat (e.g. Denver

steak, pork flat iron, teres major)

7. Hyper-local sourcing (e.g. restaurant gardens)

8. Gluten-free cuisine 9. Sustainable seafood 10. Whole grain items in kids’ meals 11. Farm/estate branded items 12. Non-wheat noodles/pasta (e.g.

quinoa, rice, buckwheat) 13. Non-traditional fish (e.g.

branzino, Arctic char, barramundi)

14. Ethnic-inspired breakfast items (e.g. Chorizo scrambled eggs, coconut milk pancakes)

15. Fruit/vegetable children’s side items

16. Health/nutrition as a culinary theme

17. Half-portions/smaller portions for a smaller price

18. House-made/artisan ice cream 19. Black/forbidden rice 20. Food trucks

[email protected]

Menus for 2013What’s Hot & What’s Not

Vodka Pumpkin Martini


Come to a NEW ConFAM©

After 22 years of presenting the way to go about planning, organizing, and running a reunion; and after writing four books on the subject, it’s time to step back and review the program.

Everything that has been covered is still in effect, but the fact is that the hospitality industry, itself, has undergone some incredible transformations over the years. As we look back, we note these milestones.

Recognition of Military Reunions as a solid and lucrative off-season market segment. RFN was founded to assist veteran reunion planners get a better deal; and this industry acknowledgment paved the way for thousands of reunions

The 1999 Attrition decision in the case filed by Hyatt Hotels against the Women’s International Bowling Congress, the largest women’s sports activity in the U.S. The two major factors were:1. If attrition is not mentioned in the

contract, you don’t owe attrition penalties. You cannot be legally forced to pay for unused rooms unless there is specific language in the contract allowing the hotel to do so.

2. “Double dipping” by hotels is legal. It is legal, though perhaps unethical for hotels to “double dip” by charging attrition penalties on rooms which were resold to guests outside the meeting group.

This decision unexpectedly led to the addition of attrition clauses in contracts throughout the country. Most meeting planners, not just military, hate them be cause they work against the customer, and only in the hotel’s favor.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifying access requirements. Many hotels, conscious of our safety have voluntary added measures, such as grab bars, even when not required.

Major and expensive Hotel Upgrades1. Security, safety, & health

consciousness that is everywhere today was not much of an issue back in 1991 when we started. Guest security and safety has lead to the disappearance of most of the “drive-up” motels that seemed to be everywhere back in the ‘80s and 90s.

2. Electronic door locks have largely replaced the old style numbered keys.

3. Ice Machines have almost all been replaced with new silver iodide machines that kill bacteria.

4. The “bedbug crisis” has largely been eliminated with new protective bed linens.

5. Room safes under the access control of the guest have been added to more than half of all hotel rooms. While many do not need or want them, this is perceived as a security issue.

6. Expanded security staffing almost everywhere, not just in hotels.

7. Internet access from your room may not be very important to most reunion attendees; it is to most other guests.

The 2008 economic collapse took a terrible toll on the hospitality industry, especially on CVBs and hotels. CVB budgets were drastically cut, and in some cases eliminated entirely, forcing some out of business. Some hotels could not handle the losses and simply shut down. Others, with adequate resources, took advantage of the lull to make major renovations to their properties. Many new hotels were and are being built as this is being written. There also has been a consolidation as franchise hotels tighten standards.

The Effect on YOU!In view of all the foregoing, the most visible change has been in room rates. Long gone are the simple drive-up

motels offering a $25 room. Even considering inflation, room rates are more of a bargain today than ever before, as quality continues to improve. At the same time, you can expect a safer and more secure place to put your head.

The Effect on RFNThose of us who put the ConFAMs© and WorkFAMs© together are working harder. We want to assure you of a stay at a nice hotel during the event. Yet, when times are tough, as they are right now, it is harder for hotels to use their scarce resources for events. This occasionally leads to rescheduling or even cancellation due to unexpected conditions.

The St Augustine ConFAM© had to be shifted a week because of unexpected conditions. Hurricane Sandy and a subsequent snowstorm delayed the opening of the hotel in New London, and that event had to be shifted from April to September.

Change or the Same?There is an old French proverb when translated says “The more things change, the more they are the same.” This is surely true when it comes to the broad scoped of planning a reunion. Nevertheless, things have changed, and I believe that you need to change the way you plan, the way you negotiate, and surely the way you handle the contract phase. The idea of a hotel just sending off a letter and asking the planner to sign it instead of a contract is fraught with danger.

For those of you who are old enough to remember the words of Arthur Donovan, the referee at most of Joe Louis’ bouts, “Remember to protect yourself at all times!”

[email protected]


Second TierIs NOT

Second Class!Too often, those who select locations for military reunions confuse city size with city quality. As a result, they tend to pick only large cities for their reunions.

This is not knocking the larger cities, but the fact is that the larger cities have only two advantages. First, almost all are easier to get to, because of both more choices in air service and usually more super-highways. Second, in many cases the major general attractions are in the larger cities, but when it comes to military attractions that advantage is questionable.

Idea FixationSomehow, as part of our cultural makeup, we want to be Numero Uno. As a result, locations that are not considered “First-Tier” are also considered as not being the best. Nothing could be farther from the truth.

From the reunion planner, the actual reunion venue is of far lesser importance than considerations of nearby attractions and restaurants, type of accommodations, access to both military oriented and general attractions, and of course, prices.

Price is a consideration by itself. For many planners this is the prime factor. If that is the case, it is an absolute fact that the highest hotel rates are invariably in the larger cities. It is also a fact that you can invariably do better when it comes to price in the outskirts of a larger city, than in the heart of a metropolis. It is a rare reunion group that can afford the rates in the likes of San Francisco, or New York City. Indeed, we recently stayed at a hotel in Brooklyn, avoiding Manhattan rates, but wound up paying $300 plus another $25 to park the car overnight.

Third Tier Is NOT

Third Rate Either!

Who decides what is first-tier, second-tier, or third-tier, anyway? Some say it is population, some economic activity, some say transportation facilities, we say hogwash! These measurements provide no benefit to military reunion groups, so why don’t we just drop those designations and go to a place that’s good for the reunion.

The intelligent reunion planner will pick a place that offers a good all-around deal. A good all-around deal means that the prices and terms are within the range that the attendees can afford to pay. A good all-around deal means that the contract conditions are fair and do not unnecessarily penalize the group. A good all-around deal means that there are enough things to see and do within a reasonable distance. Most of all, a good all-around deal means that the hotel staff is welcoming, accommodating, and proud to serve a veterans group.

Picking a PlaceSo how do we pick a place for the reunion? The roster of RFN Members has many locations that satisfy these requirements. How do you select one over another?

The answer is not the same for every group, because the attendees are not the same from one group to another. Many groups decide by committee. They get together, discuss some potential locations, and then take a vote. If that works for you, fine; but it is one of the poorest ways of getting the best deal.If you want to do this in a logical manner.

[email protected]

Reunite. Reminisce. Renew.

Christina Petro

[email protected]


That’s unbelievable about Boise paying the airfare. What a deal! It would be great if more cities could afford to do that. Too bad we had a reunion there already. However, I can attest to the professionalism we received from the CVB and the hotel where we stayed. There are so many things to do in Boise that folks don’t know about. I hope they do well with this.

George H. Overman (RM 64-66)USS Cogswell DD-651 Association

My participation in your services was very rewarding for our reunions. Thanks for the many years of putting to use the many things you have taught. But now, at 90 years of age, my reunion days are past. Please remove me from your mailing list. Good health to you, Paul, & God’s blessing.

Glen E Edquist156 FA Bn., 44th Div

Glad to have been of service to you. We regret seeing you go and all those who served in WWII. I will always treasure our association.

Paul

ELEVATE YOUR CONNECTION

Home to Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods and five military installations, Colorado Springs provides an inspirational setting for sharing memories and reconnecting. With the convenient Colorado Springs Airport, endless scenic beauty and more than 55 group-friendly attractions, you will elevate your reunion when you gather in Colorado Springs.

Hold your reunion in Colorado Springs and enjoy blue skies, easy access and great value.

Start Planning Today!

VISITCOS.COM/REUNIONS or call 800-888-4748 ext 138

The 2013 USS Rogers Reunion. I am alive and well. As many of you know, after retirement my wife and I became certified Adjusters for the NFIP National Flood Insurance Program. We are deployed anytime the US is hit by a Hurricane. Hurricane Katarina was a bad one we worked on that one four months.

Hurricane Sandy is no lady, We were deployed Oct 29th. Our first losses were on Staten Island NY. As we arrived the streets were completely blocked with debris. There was no food or water. Everyone within one half mile of the ocean had either lost their home or they were standing in 6 to 8 feet of salt water wondering what to do now. I never saw friends, neighbors, and family come to the aid of so many so fast. That NY bunch, I tip my hat because they showed me a spirit within I have never seen in any other natural disaster and I have seen a few. Well done NY, you should be very pleased with what you have done. Many young people came from the Bronx, Rye, Brooklyn, and many other places with fifty pounds of meat and a grill in the trunk setup on the beach and started cooking for the victims of Sandy. Individuals came from all around and gave what they had to help. The larger groups began to get it together and you would see different churches come setup a tent, bring clothes, water, toiletries, and many other needed supplies. If you have never seen the heart and soul of a people come together you would have been blow away with Hurricane Sandy. I will post some photos on the Rogers web page in a few days.


http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/USS-Rogers/146471288707451?v=info&edit_info=all

Thank you for the mention in the RFN News that arrived today regarding the scam photographer Robert Good from Circleville Ohio. I failed to mention that there is a reputable photographer under the same name located in Virginia. He has a FB profile and a great website. I hope that your mention of the ‘good’ Robert Good Photographer does not besmirch his business or character.

OUR Robert Good from Circleville, Ohio is not that savvy and does not have a website or FB account.

I have learned that there are dozens of reunion groups that now are still waiting on their products. Mr. Robert Good has even hit closer to home. One of my groups and a couple more who hosted in Dayton were scammed as well. I have encouraged any and all to contact the Ohio Attorney General’s office – Mike Dewine to report their losses.

It still burns me up that our veterans are being taking advantage of by this crook.

Thanks for all you do! Lisa Willis

Greene County Convention & Visitors Bureau1221 Meadowbridge Drive, Suite A

Beavercreek, Ohio 45434(937) 320-9865 direct

(937) 429-9100 front office1-800-733-9109

Greenecountyohio.org

www.reunionsatftwood.org/TRN

Pulaski County Tourism Bureau - St. Robert, MO

877.858.8687

• Home to Fort Leonard Wood, the largest training installation in the country• Guided driving tours of the fort & Rt. 66• Daily direct flights to Fort Leonard Wood• State-of-the art military museums• Complimentary itinerary planning• Assistance obtaining bids for restaurants, hotels, meeting space & much more

Not Lost in the Woods Anymore!Bring your reunion group to Ft. Leonard Wood, MO, centrally locaed in the United States - We’re right along I-44 between St. Louis & Branson!

Now to our question what about the 2013 reunion? IT IS A GO. I have a strong right hand with Bruce and Marilyn. Just about everything else is in place. The Choo Choo and the Chattanooga Chamber are working for us and I may need to call on some of you guys that were planning on sitting in the back row to come forward. I still believe this will be the best ever reunion. I plan to contact many of our guys that live in the NY NJ area while I am here and hope to incur rage in them to take a more active part in the 2013 reunion we need you….

Rogers reunion date and placeMay 24th 27th 2013

Chattanooga TN.At The CHoo Choo Hotel click link below for more

details.http://www.choochoo.com/ChattanoogaTN/

reunions/?dest=54

Rogers Reunion staff:Host - Vick, David & Shirley

1st - Co Host - 2013 Reunion Greater - Rogan, Bruce & Maryland

2nd - Co Host - 2013 Reunion Hospitality room Stockwell, Bob &

3rd - Co Host - reserch Bob OrtaDavid Vick

906 W Terrace DrPlant City, Fl. 33563

[email protected] leave message

http://www.whc.net/rjones/USN/USN_team.html

Pulaski County USA, Missouri —

A Welcome Place in America’s Heartland

The Pulaski County Tourism Bureau provides professional, complimentary services to Military Reunion Planners.

✭ Customized Group Itineraries ✭ Spouse Itineraries ✭ Lodging/Dining Bids ✭ Meeting Space Options ✭ Museum Tour Coordination ✭ Ft. Leonard Wood POCs ✭ Transportation Options

Call us for more information at 877-858-TOUR or visit our website at ReunionsatFLW.com.We are a welcome place for your military reunion in America’s Heartland.


RFN

Mem

bers

CVBs (Convention & Visitors Bureaus & Tourism Development Agencies)

These CVBs help the military reunion community in many ways, and offer a variety of free services to help you have the best reunion possible.

When you work with a member CVB, you help us ALL!

AL Huntsville Huntsville/Madison County CVB Sharon Snell 800-843-0468 [email protected] Mobile Mobile Bay CVB Ron McConnell 251-208-2018 [email protected] Tucson Metropolitan Tucson CVB RoxAnne Erickson 520-770-2120 [email protected] Yuma Yuma Vistors Bureau Shannan Gonzalez 928-376-0100 [email protected] Burlingame San Mateo County/ Silicon Valley CVB Adrienne Nudo 650-348-7600 [email protected] Sacramento Sacramento CVB Betsy Longmire 916-808-7275 [email protected] Colorado Springs p 38 Colorado Springs CVB Natalie Hirsch 719-685-7638 [email protected] Pueblo The Greater Pueblo COC Jeanne Santillanez 719-542-1100 [email protected] Dover Kent County CVB Kimberly Bailey-Thomas 800-233-5368 [email protected] Rehoboth Beach Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach COC Meghan McCalley 800-441-1329 [email protected] Auburndale Central Florida VCB Joni Allen 863-551-4708 [email protected] Daytona Beach Daytona Beach Area CVB Nina Crabtree 386-255-0415 [email protected] Ft Myers Beaches of Fort Myers Sanibel Candice Cocco 239-338-3500 [email protected] Jacksonville Visit Jacksonville Bob Meyer 904-421-9183 [email protected] Kissimmee Experience Kissimmee CVB Jadeine Shives 407-742-8255 [email protected] Panama City Panama City Beach CVB Ann Gager 850-233-5070 [email protected] Pensacola Pensacola Bay Area CVB Larry Orvis 850-434-1234 [email protected] St Augustine St Augustine, Ponte Vedra & Beaches VCB Jaya Larkin 904-209-4429 [email protected] Augusta Augusta CVB Michelle Bovian 706-823-6600 [email protected] Columbus Columbus Georgia CVB Sid Kaminsky 706-317-2110 [email protected] Waterloo p 4 Waterloo CVB Lonnie Elmore 319-233-8350 [email protected] Gurnee Lake County CVB Kimberly Ghys 800-525-3669 [email protected] Lisle Lisle CVB (Chicago Area) Jay Allen 630-769-1000 [email protected] Oak Brook DuPage CVB Julie Scholle 630-575-8070 [email protected] Schaumburg Woodfield Chicago NW Conv Bureau Melinda Garritano 847-278-3446 [email protected] Salina Visit Salina Area COC JoAnn McClure 785-827-9301 [email protected] Wichita Go Wichita Andre- Mboule 316-660-6312 [email protected] Bowling Green Bowling Green Area CVB Duncan Hines 270-782-0800 [email protected] Covington Northern Kentucky CVB Barbara Dozier 800-447-8489 [email protected] Lexington Lexington CVB Roseanne Mingo 800-848-1224 [email protected] Baton Rouge Baton Rouge Area CVB Jennye Snider 225-382-3584 [email protected] Jefferson p 47 Jefferson Parish CVB Magan Adams 504-731-7083 [email protected] Lafayette Lafayette CVC Irene T. Hodge 337-232-3737 [email protected] Centerville Cape Cod COC Patti Lloyd 508-362-9351 [email protected] Salisbury North of Boston CVB Sue Ann Pearson 978-465-6555 [email protected] Baltimore Maryland Office of Tourism Devel Rich Gilbert 877-209-5883 [email protected] Ocean City Ocean City CVB/Dept of Tourism Norma Dobrowolski 410-289-2800 [email protected] Kalamazoo Discover Kalamazoo CVB Jennifer Williamson 269-488-0057 [email protected] Lansing Greater Lansing CVB Heather C. Kim 517-377-1402 [email protected] Bloomington Bloomington CVB Tony Cook 952-278-8532 [email protected] Rochester Rochester CVB Jay Gunnarson 507-424-0818 [email protected] Branson p 3 Branson Lakes Area CVB Julie Peters 417-243-2117 [email protected] Independence Independence Missouri Tourism Dept Amanda Wadington 816-325-7108 [email protected]

R e u n i o n F R i e n d l y n e w s • S p r i n g , 2 0 1 3 R e u n i o n F R i e n d l y n e w s • S p r i n g , 2 0 1 3

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bersCVBs (continued)MO Joplin Joplin CVB Lenny Brubaker 417-625-4789 [email protected] Maryland Heights Maryland Heights CVB Laura Brahan 314-738-2497 [email protected] St Charles St Charles CVB Karen Fraser 800-366-2427 [email protected] St Robert p 39 Pulaski County Tourism Bureau Beth Wiles 573-336-6355 [email protected] Fayetteville Fayetteville Area CVB Myron Jones 800-255-8217 [email protected] Fargo Fargo-Moorhead CVB Jill Gates 701-365-4560 [email protected] Omaha Omaha CVB Bill Slovinski 866-937-6624 [email protected] Albuquerque Albuquerque CVB Serena Sullivan 505-222-4355 [email protected] Laughlin Southern Nevada Regional Office - NVCVA Cherie Westbrook 702-298-3022 [email protected] Niagara Falls p 25 Niagara USA/Tourism & Conv Corp Reanna Darone 716-282-8992 [email protected] Beavercreek p 26 Greene County CVB/near WPAFB Lisa Willis 937-320-9865 [email protected] Dayton Dayton/Montgomery Cnty CVB Carman Huffman 937-226-8292 [email protected] Toledo Destination Toledo,Inc - CVB Julie Bolfa 800-243-466 [email protected] Gettysburg Gettysburg CVB Jenny McConnell 717-338-1053 [email protected] Harrisburg Hershey Harrisburg Regional VB Sandy Wenner 717-231-2988 [email protected] King of Prussia Valley Forge CVB Courtney Pozo 610-834-7971 [email protected] Tunkhannock Endless Mountains VB Jean Ruhf 570-836-5431 [email protected] Providence Providence Warwick CVB Sheila Lindemann 401-456-0228 [email protected] Charleston Charleston Area CVB John Michel McCants 843-805-3098 [email protected] Rapid City p 28-29 Rapid City CVB Lisa Storms 605-718-8487 [email protected] Chattanooga p 37 Chattanooga Area CVB Chris Petro 423-424-4417 [email protected] Nashville Nashville CVB Amy Spear 615-259-4716 [email protected] Pigeon Forge Pigeon Forge Dept of Tourism Kay Poole 865-453-8574 [email protected] Amarillo Amarillo CVB Emilea white 806-342-2017 [email protected] Beaumont Beaumont CVB Rebecca Woodland 409-880-3749 [email protected] El Paso El Paso CVB Catherine Stevens 915-534-0695 [email protected] Fort Worth Fort Worth CVB Jeremy Montoya 817-698-7827 [email protected] Galveston Galveston Island CVB Sheri L. Teller 409-797-5150 [email protected] Huntsville Huntsville CVB Kimm Thomas 936-291-9726 [email protected] Killeen Killeen CVB-Civic & Conf Ctr Tanida Mullen 254-501-3888 [email protected] Lubbock Visit Lubbock CVB Jessica Mendoza 806-747-5232 [email protected] Midland Midland CVB Sarah Marston 432-686-3561 [email protected] Plano Plano CVB Kay Summerville 800-817-5266 [email protected] San Angelo San Angelo CVB Pamela Miller 325-655-4136 [email protected] Ogden Ogden/Weber CVB Joni Wall 801-778-6253 [email protected] Arlington Arlington CVB Portia Conerly 703-228-0873 [email protected] Chesapeake Chesapeake CVB Jeff Bunn 757-502-4898 [email protected] Fairfax p 31 Visit Fairfax Dean Miller 703-790-0643 [email protected] Fredericksburg Fredericksburg Regional Tourism Partn. Kimberly Herbert 540-372-1216 [email protected] Hampton Hampton CVB Julie A. Williams 757-728-5318 [email protected] Leesburg Visit Loudoun Jennifer Ritter 703-771-7525 [email protected] Manassas Discover Prince William & Manassas Michael -Mike- Stoupa 571-482-7049 [email protected] Newport News Newport News T & D Barb Kleiss 757-926-1442 [email protected] Norfolk Visit Norfolk Melissa Hopper 757-664-6620 [email protected] Richmond Virginia Tourism Corporation Joni Johnson 804-545-5544 [email protected] Seattle Seattle Southside Visitor Info Meilee Anderson 206-575-2691 [email protected] Vancouver Vancouver USA Regional Tourism Office Debbie Picard 360-750-1553 [email protected] La Crosse La Crosse Area CVB Clarissa Erickson 608-782-2220 [email protected] Waukesha Waukesha & Pewaukee CVB Deana Birmingham 262-542-0330 [email protected]


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Destination Management Companies, Tour Operators & Military Reunion Planners

Tired of running around? These RFN Members can make life easier for you. Tell them what you want and leave the rest to them!

FL Jacksonville Active Escapes Jax/St Aug John Aguilera 904-230-8787 [email protected] Plymouth Tour Trends Ed Sturrup 508-224-2288 [email protected] Branson West Gatherings Plus Pam Brown 417-338-4048 [email protected] St Louis Precise Plans, Inc. Christal Rogers 314-334-0158 [email protected] Charleston Charleston Convention & Group Services James Mellen 843-571-5882 [email protected] Nashville Gray Line of Tennessee Rhonda Hawkinson 615-883-5555 [email protected] Nashville Sharin- Nashville Tours Sharon Cole 615-846-0867 [email protected]

Hotels

TRN could not exist without the support of member hotels. They want to help you have the best reunion you possibly could have.

We urge you to think of these folks first!

AL Mobile Renaissance Hotel Mobile Derrick Williams 251-415-3086 [email protected] Phoenix Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix Airport North Crystal Peters 602-293-0338 [email protected] Tempe Sheraton Phoenix Airport Hotel Tempe Chris Robertson 480-967-6600 [email protected] Anaheim Red Lion Hotel Anaheim Jennifer Mendoza 714-750-2801 [email protected] Buena Park Holiday Inn Buena Park Hotel & Conf Ctr Dennis Fyda 714-690-4603 [email protected] Cathedral City Red Lion Hotel Cathedral City Marlo Amelio 760-324-5939 [email protected] Fremont Fremont Marriott Silicon Valley Kay Samoly 510-413-3774 [email protected] Rancho Cordova Sacramento Marriott Rancho Cardova Stacy Reynolds 916-861-2204 [email protected] Redding Red Lion Hotel Redding Carol Owens 866-430-2692 [email protected] San Diego Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside Jodie Langhammer 800-650-6660 [email protected] San Diego The Handlery Hotel & Resort Amber Matheney 619-398-8334 [email protected] Aurora Red Lion Hotel Denver Southeast Shelby Rushbrooke 303-695-1700 [email protected] Groton Groton Inn & Suites Nancie Keenan 860-445-9784 [email protected] New London Holiday Inn New London Joan Garcia 860-443-7000 [email protected] Norwich Holiday Inn Norwich Katie Weber-Coleman 860-889-5201 [email protected] Washington The Melrose Hotel Mekdim Yemane 202-955-3836 [email protected] Cocoa Beach Courtyard by Marriott Cocoa Beach Ana Leonard 321-784-4800 [email protected] Cocoa Beach International Palms Resort Colleen Mazzoni 321-783-2271 [email protected] Daytona Beach Holiday Inn Resort Oceanfront Kenneth Berthiaume 386-255-0921 [email protected] Daytona Beach Plaza Ocean Club Sophia R. Huger 386-239-9800 [email protected] Daytona Beach The Plaza Resort & Spa Efrain Vargas 386-267-1691 [email protected] Fort Myers Crowne Plaza Fort Myers Stephanie Millican 239-210-2462 [email protected] Ft Lauderdale Wyndham Nassau Resort Pat Reilly 954-701-6566 [email protected] Jacksonville Crowne Plaza Airport Natalie Galmore 904-421-2031 [email protected] Jacksonville Sheraton Jacksonville Hotel P. J. Bailey 904-380-4127 [email protected] Kissimmee Maingate Lakeside Resort Mercedes Haibon 407-997-1107 [email protected] Kissimmee Radisson Resort Orlando Celebration Melody Martinez 407-997-7038 [email protected] Kissimmee Ramada Gateway Janis Blair 407-997-6614 [email protected] Orlando Buena Vista Suites Jeffrey McNulty 407-239-8588 [email protected]


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bersHotels (continued)FL Orlando Renaissance Orlando Hotel Airport Stephen Russell 407-513-7226 [email protected] Orlando Sheraton Orlando Downtown Hotel Kristine Floyd 407-244-7465 [email protected] St Petersburg Hilton St Petersburg Bayfront Debbie Sanders 727-894-5000 [email protected] Tampa Mainsail Suites Hotel & Conference Ctr. Kelly Nixon 813-243-2635 [email protected] Columbus Holiday Inn North Erica Newton 706-324-0231 [email protected] Columbus Wingate Hotel - Columbus/Ft. Benning Kimberly Williams 706-225-1000 [email protected] Pooler Holiday Inn Savannah/Airport Pooler Lauren Heldreth 912-330-5100 [email protected] Savannah StayInSavannah.com Cathryn Bowyer 912-721-6014 [email protected] Boise Red Lion Boise Downtowner Mowbray Brown 208-344-7691 [email protected] Boise The Boise Hotel & Conference Center Curt Asmussen 208-914-3957 [email protected] Lewiston Red Lion Hotel Lewiston Laurie Wilson 208-799-1000 [email protected] Deerfield Embassy Suites Chicago North Shore Dawn Brandau 847-945-4596 [email protected] Deerfield Hyatt Deerfield Dawn Brandau 847-597-4521 [email protected] Elk Grove Village Wyndham Garden Elk Grove Village-O-Hare Rina Patano 847-593-6200 [email protected] Northbrook Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel Susan Fox 847-897-5421 [email protected] Wheeling The Westin Chicago North Shore Jim Straus 847-777-6559 [email protected] Lenexa Crowne Plaza Kansas City - Overland Park Jennifer Commuso 913-217-1006 [email protected] Wichita Marriott Wichita Becky Lehane 316-651-0333 [email protected] Bowling Green Holiday Inn University Plaza Jessica Waren 270-393-8667 [email protected] Erlanger Holiday Inn Cincinnati Airport Molly Fruin 859-746-5612 [email protected] Baton Rouge Holiday Inn Baton Rouge South Heather Day 225-924-7021 [email protected] Kenner Days Inn Hotel New Orleans Airport Lisa Sweet 504-464-1644 [email protected] Metairie Ramada Metairie-New Orleans Gina Abernathy 504-648-3821 [email protected] New Orleans French Quarter Chateau LeMoyne Thu Tran 504-613-3210 [email protected] Boston Constitution Inn Emily Goretsky 617-241-8400 [email protected] Boston The Midtown Hotel Gregg Bolduc 800-343-1177 [email protected] Gaithersburg Hilton Wash DC North/Gaithersburg Bernard Howe 301-591-9906 [email protected] Ocean City Dunes Manor Hotel Lauren Prendergast 800-523-2888 [email protected] Rockville Crowne Plaza Washington DC-Rockville Jessica Greene 301-795-3280 [email protected] S Portland Best Western Merry Manor Inn Donald Haggett 207-774-6151 [email protected] Waterville Best Western Plus Waterville Karen Spaulding 207-873-0111 [email protected] Rochester Kahler Grand Hotel Chris Wagner 507-285-2740 [email protected] Branson Grand Plaza Hotel Darlene Burkhart 417-336-6646 [email protected] Branson Radisson Hotel Branson Sarah Hord 417-690-4026 [email protected] Branson Stone Castle Hotel & Conf Center Rachael James 417-231-4721 [email protected] Branson Welk Resort Branson Susan Smith 417-243-1232 [email protected] Branson Westgate Branson Woods Resort Joann Chamberlain 417-332-3557 [email protected] St Robert Baymont Inn & Suites Betsy Thomson 573-336-5050 [email protected] St. Louis Sheraton Westport Hotels Nancy Masterson 314-212-2137 [email protected] Kalispell Red Lion Hotel Kalispell CJ Getty 406-751-5050 [email protected] Missoula Red Lion Inn Missoula Kimberley Best 406-728-3300 [email protected] Albuquerque MCM Elegante Hotel & Event Center Kara St John 505-884-8723 [email protected] Albuquerque Sheraton Albuquerque Airport Hotel Jacque Rankin 505-843-7000 [email protected] Gallup Red Lion Hotel Gallup John Hughes 505-722-2221 [email protected] Laughlin Edgewater-Colorado Belle Casino Resorts Kathy Millar 702-807-4470 [email protected] Reno Ramada Reno Hotel & Casino Larry Cardarelli 775-954-2521 [email protected] Reno Sands Regency Casino Hotel Janette Spradley 775-348-2242 [email protected] Buffalo Adam-s Mark Hotel Buffalo Niagara Christa Beal 716-845-5100 [email protected]


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Hotels (continued)NY Buffalo Millennium Airport Hotel Buffalo Edwin Shelp 716-206-8325 [email protected] Niagara Falls Comfort Inn -The Pointe- Tricia Mezhir 716-284-6835 [email protected] Dayton Crowne Plaza Dayton Kris Davis 937-229-9831 [email protected] Fairborn Holiday Inn Dayton/Fairborn Matt Pauley 937-431-4611 [email protected] WPAFB Hope Hotel & Richard C Holbrooke Conf Ct Sue Edlen 937-879-2698 [email protected] Norman NCED Hotel Candie Westbrook 405-366-4976 [email protected] Eugene Red Lion Hotel Eugene Cedric Rudd 541-348-2520 [email protected] Pendleton Red Lion Hotel Pendleton Cheryl Rolstad 541-276-6111 [email protected] Portland Red Lion on the River Jantzen Beach Felicia Patterson 503-283-4466 [email protected] Salem Red Lion Hotel Salem Kara Campuzano 503-370-7888 [email protected] Camp Hill Radisson Hotel Harrisburg Kelly Lehr 717-433-9737 [email protected] Frazer Sheraton Great Valley Hotel Kim Turnbaugh 610-280-2090 [email protected] Harrisburg Sheraton Harrisburg-Hershey Hotel Katie Reichel 717-558-4608 [email protected] Philadelphia Crowne Plaza Main Line Philadelphia Ron Balle 215-477-0200 [email protected] Philadelphia Holiday Inn Historic District Mizetta Hopkins 267-765-3327 [email protected] Warwick Crowne Plaza Hotel Michelle Sartrys 401-732-6029 [email protected] Charleston Holiday Inn Charleston Riverview Rose Guinn 843-460-1441 [email protected] Hilton Head Island Comfort Inn - South Forest Beach Arlene Anderson 843-842-6662 [email protected] Myrtle Beach Landmark Resort Hotel Pat Emmons 843-448-9441 [email protected] Myrtle Beach Sands Resorts Jessica Grella 843-692-5264 [email protected] Myrtle Beach Sea Mist Oceanfront Resort Leanne McCulloch 843-282-5125 [email protected] Myrtle Beach Springmaid Beach Resort Sharon Kemerer 843-315-7173 [email protected] North Charleston Radisson Hotel Charleston Airport Stacie Lynam 843-744-2501 [email protected] North Charleston Sheraton Charleston Airport Hotel Lindsey Stedman 843-529-2312 [email protected] Rapid City Cambria Suites Jasmin Marcus 605-341-0101 [email protected] Rapid City Grand Gateway Hotel Bob Hodet 866-742-1300 [email protected] Chattanooga Chattanooga Choo Choo Tonya Steele 423-308-2406 [email protected] Chattanooga Country Inn & Suites/ I-24 West Christi Baggett 423-825-6100 [email protected] Clarksville The Riverview Inn Renee Bruens 931-552-3331 [email protected] Gatlinburg Greystone Lodge at the Aquarium Renee- Spurling 865-436-5621 [email protected] Gatlinburg The Park Vista A Doubletree By Hilton Angela Quigley 865-277-1042 [email protected] Nashville Holiday Inn Express Airport Area Mari Anne Liporace 615-883-1366 [email protected] Nashville Holiday Inn Express Nashville Downtown Jennifer Jones 615-244-0379 [email protected] Nashville Holiday Inn Opryland Airport Sonya Slay 615-316-1062 [email protected] Nashville Millennium Maxwell House Hotel Catherine E. Spivey 615-313-1366 [email protected] Nashville Nashville Airport Marriott Tracy Porier 615-684-5067 [email protected] San Antonio Doubletree by Hilton San Antonio Airport Judy Sandoval 210-321-4815 [email protected] San Antonio El Tropicano Hotel Michael Rodriguez 210-277-4046 [email protected] San Antonio Holiday Inn Airport Roland Lopez 210-524-5932 [email protected] San Antonio Holiday Inn San Antonio Riverwalk Debbie Zaeske 210-272-1514 [email protected] Salt Lake City Red Lion Hotel Salt Lake Downtown Josh Porter 801-521-7373 [email protected] Alexandria Hilton Alexandria Mark Ctr Michael Sicheri 703-845-2645 [email protected] Alexandria Holiday Inn & Suites Historic District Jamila Ahmed 703-299-4960 [email protected] Ashburn Embassy Suites Dulles North Jolene Pardee 703-554-6051 [email protected] Dumfries Holiday Inn Dumfries Quantico Ctr Petra Carr 703-441-9001 [email protected] Falls Church The Westin Tysons Corner Alex Lindemann 703-893-1340 [email protected] McLean Crowne Plaza Tysons Corner Maggie Drummond 703-738-3118 [email protected] Newport News Point Plaza Suites & Conf Ctr Kelli Lantz 757-952-0116 [email protected]


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bersHotels (continued)VA Norfolk Norfolk Plaza Hotel Downtown Donna Faison 757-802-9283 [email protected] Reston Sheraton Reston Bob Ciccone 703-262-5931 [email protected] Virginia Beach Best Western Plus Virginia Beach Rachel Hayes 757-428-5370 [email protected] Virginia Beach Cavalier Hotel & Convention Center Cindy Woolfolk 757-352-2764 [email protected] Virginia Beach Crowne Plaza Virginia Beach Valencia Moore 757-213-4386 [email protected] Virginia Beach Holiday Inn & Suites North Beach Amanda Mason 757-419-3665 [email protected] Virginia Beach Holiday Inn Virginia Beach Norfolk Hotel Katie Casson 757-499-4400 [email protected] Bellevue Red Lion Hotel Bellevue Raquel Wheeler 425-455-5240 [email protected] Kelso Red Lion Hotel Kelso/Longview Ginny Whiffen 360-636-4400 [email protected] Kent Red Lion Hotel Kent Paul Sandhu 253-520-6670 [email protected] Olympia Red Lion Hotel Olympia Kyla Cavanagh 360-943-4000 [email protected] Pasco Red Lion Hotel Pasco Genevieve Speegle 509-547-0701 [email protected] Port Angeles Red Lion Hotel Port Angeles Vickie Stafford 360-452-9215 [email protected] Poulsbo Poulsbo Inn & Suites Terri Douglas 360-779-3921 [email protected] Richland Red Lion Richland Genevieve Speegle 509-946-7611 [email protected] Seatac Seattle Airport Marriott Kris Lafata 206-241-2000 [email protected] Seattle Crowne Plaza Seattle Downtown Beth Harwood 206-676-3923 [email protected] Seattle Red Lion Hotel Fifth Avenue Michelle Dayan -- [email protected] Seattle Red Lion Hotel Sea Tac Ruby Turner 206-246-5535 [email protected] Spokane Red Lion Inn at the Park Stephanie Stobie 509-326-8000 [email protected] Spokane Red Lion River Inn Stephanie Stobie 509-326-5577 [email protected] Tacoma Red Lion Hotel Tacoma Brandie Hesson-Bullard 253-548-1212 [email protected] Tukwila DoubleTree Suites-Hilton Seattle Arpt SC Diane Witt 206-777-3300 [email protected] Vancouver Red Lion Hotel Vancouver at the Quay Michele Dunn 360-694-8341 [email protected] Yakima Red Lion Yakima Erica Moloney -- [email protected] Appleton Radisson Paper Valley Hotel Nancy Hollis 920-733-8000 [email protected] Brookfield Sheraton Milwaukee Brookfield Adam VanOuwerkerk 262-364-1010 [email protected] Green Bay Radisson Hotel Green Bay Jennifer Simonar 920-494-7300 [email protected]

Hotel Management Companies

Hotel Management Companies and Hotel Chains are increasingly aware of the military reunion market. These TRN Management Company & Chain Members

offer the reunion planner an opportunity to look at a number of locations and sites using one source.

MN Rochester Carlson Rezido Hotel Group Janelle Smith 507-884-9610 [email protected] Greenville JHM Management, Inc. Ann Kies 864-528-5814 [email protected] Spokane Red Lion Hotels Corporation Sharon Danitschek 425-501-1430 [email protected]


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• RFN’s Hall of Certified Planners• Poll Results – Best Reunion Location(s)• Finance Opinion – Saving the Small Business in America

In The Next Issue:

General Attractions

These RFN Members provide additional services and support for your reunions. Help yourself and help TRN continue its work. Always go to RFN Members first!

AK Wrangell Nolan Center Terri Henson 907-874-3699 [email protected] Washington Phillips Seafood Restaurants Debra Morroni 202-488-8192 [email protected] St Augustine Ripley-s Believe It or Not Museum Kathi Ellison 904-824-1606 [email protected] Branson Branson Variety Theater Lisa Martin 888-462-7267 [email protected] Branson Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction Kamber Sperle 417-336-7974 [email protected] Branson Flash Photo Group Photography David Cain 417-334-0073 [email protected] Branson Showboat Branson Belle Teina Woodburn 417-336-7411 [email protected] Branson Sight and Sound Theatres Simi Telesco 717-687-4220 [email protected] Branson The Starlite Theatre Jill Pearce 417-335-6350 [email protected] Branson Titanic Museum Attraction Ruth Ann Crust 417-334-9500 [email protected] Lockport Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises Mike Murphy 716-433-6155 [email protected] North Myrtle Beach The Alabama Theatre CMP, Kathy B Flowe 843-272-5758 [email protected] Nashville Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum Keith Wright 615-416-2001 [email protected] Nashville Grand Ole Opry Wayne Chandler 615-882-5435 [email protected] Tacoma Emerald Queen Hotel & Casino Doreen Vitek 253-441-3189 [email protected]

USA Promotion

FL Hollywood Promotional Associates, Inc. Stephen C. Greenberger 954-295-5955 [email protected]

Military Oriented Attractions

Everyone wants to have a good time! These attractions offer fun things to do for your reunion attendees.

As RFN Members, these attractions promise a great experience!

IA Waterloo Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum Cyd McHone 319-234-6357 [email protected] Norfolk Nauticus & Battleship Wisconsin Colby Preston 757-664-1021 [email protected] Triangle National Museum of the Marine Corps Sara O-Bryan 703-649-2365 [email protected] Seattle The Museum of Flight Meagan McGuire 206-768-7104 [email protected]

R e u n i o n F R i e n d l y n e w s • S p r i n g , 2 0 1 3 Page 46 R e u n i o n F R i e n d l y n e w s • S p r i n g , 2 0 1 3

C o n v e n t i o n & V i s i t o r s B u r e a uC o n v e n t i o n & V i s i t o r s B u r e a u

C o n v e n t i o n & V i s i t o r s B u r e a u

To learn more, ask for our Group Tour Planner Guide. Call 504-731-7083 or TOLL FREE 1-877-572-7474.

Explore Jefferson Parish, a place of great heritage, tradition and diversity. Visit the Century of Sentries Veterans Park with A-4 Skyhawk and

F-14 Tomcat displays. Shop and dine in historic Old Metairie or cross the Mississippi River strolling Huey P. Long Avenue. Visit the famous

National WWII Museum, just minutes from Jefferson Parish. Live theatre, outdoor markets, and friendly people make Jefferson a place to experience!

Close your eyes and picture the soldier as he holds his musket in his bloody hands.

He stands barefoot in the snow, starved from lack of food, wounded from months

of battle and emotionally scarred from the eternity

away from his family surrounded by

nothing but death and the carnage of war.

He stands tough, with fi re in his eyes and victory on his breath. He looks at us now in anger and disgust

and tells us this:

“I gave you a birthright of freedom born in the Constitution and now your children graduate too illiterate to read it.”

“I fought in the snow barefoot to give you the freedom to vote and you stay at home because it rains.”

“I left my family destitute to give you the freedom of speech and you remain silent on crit-ical issues, because it might be bad for business.”

“I orphaned my children to give you a govern-ment to serve you and it has stolen democracy from the people.”

“It’s the soldier, not the reporter, who gives you the freedom of the press.”

“It’s the soldier, not the poet, who gives you the freedom of speech.”

“It’s the soldier, not the campus organizer, who allows you to demonstrate.”

“It’s the soldier who salutes the fl ag, serves the fl ag, whose coffi n is draped with the fl ag that allows the protester to burn the fl ag!”

Gift from a Soldier in Valley ForgeA Tribute to ALL Veterans

THE REUNION NETWORK

2450 HOLLYWOOD BLVD.SUITE 504HOLLYWOOD FL 33020

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDFORT LAUDERDALE, FL

PERMIT 5395

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

“Serving Those WhoServed Our Country”

TRN2003-Fall.indd 64 10/10/2003, 11:55:42 AM

Close your eyes and picture the soldier as he holds his musket in his bloody hands.

He stands barefoot in the snow, starved from lack of food, wounded from months

of battle and emotionally scarred from the eternity

away from his family surrounded by

nothing but death and the carnage of war.

He stands tough, with fi re in his eyes and victory on his breath. He looks at us now in anger and disgust

and tells us this:

“I gave you a birthright of freedom born in the Constitution and now your children graduate too illiterate to read it.”

“I fought in the snow barefoot to give you the freedom to vote and you stay at home because it rains.”

“I left my family destitute to give you the freedom of speech and you remain silent on crit-ical issues, because it might be bad for business.”

“I orphaned my children to give you a govern-ment to serve you and it has stolen democracy from the people.”

“It’s the soldier, not the reporter, who gives you the freedom of the press.”

“It’s the soldier, not the poet, who gives you the freedom of speech.”

“It’s the soldier, not the campus organizer, who allows you to demonstrate.”

“It’s the soldier who salutes the fl ag, serves the fl ag, whose coffi n is draped with the fl ag that allows the protester to burn the fl ag!”

Gift from a Soldier in Valley ForgeA Tribute to ALL Veterans

THE REUNION NETWORK

2450 HOLLYWOOD BLVD.SUITE 504HOLLYWOOD FL 33020

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDFORT LAUDERDALE, FL

PERMIT 5395


“Serving Those WhoServed Our Country”

TRN2003-Fall.indd 64 10/10/2003, 11:55:42 AM


Spring, 2013

Reunion FRiendlysm netwoRk1835 E. Hallandale Beach Blvd., Suite 332Hallandale Beach FL 33009

Now hear this! Now Hear this! Now hear this! Now hear this! Now hear this!

RFN Has Moved!

Reunion Friendly Network1835 East Hallandale Beach Blvd.,

Suite 332Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009

RFN’s new telephone numbers are:954-454-0904

Fax – 954-454-0978

Now hear this! Now Hear this! Now hear this! Now hear this! Now hear this!

reunion friendly news spring 2013

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