The National Museum United States Army

Bringing reunions and locations together since 1991

magazineVOL 22 | WINTER 2019

A SNEAK PEAK AT The National Museum OF THE United States Army

IN THIS ISSUE Planner’s Perspective—When Sales Contacts Change A Special Message from Veterans Affairs The National Army Museum— A Fitting Tribute to those that served Military Reunion Network | WINTER 2019 | #militaryreunionsmatter

FROM THE situationDESK

To our Reunion Planner Readers, In the Fall 2018 issue of the MRN Magazine, we The combined results of the surveys provide a included the 2019 Reunion Planner Survey. Just snapshot of the full market industry. Did you know, 21 questions that take less than 5 minutes to by the way, that September is by far the preferred answer. I appreciate the responses received so far. month to have a reunion? (No, it is not just your HOWEVER, over 11,000 of you receive this magazine reunion, hundreds of reunion planners said the and well, I was a bit disappointed that more surveys same thing.) Perhaps you would be interested did not arrive in the mailbox. If you think your to know that 69% of you have a reunion website individual responses don’t matter very much, I am while only 51% have a FaceBook page. (for more here to tell you they DO! information check out The State of the Industry article on the website. Just click on MRN Blog). In the Hospitality Industry, Military Reunions are considered a segment of the overall business many If I need to beg, I will. If I need to dangle a carrot are attempting to attract. The Military Reunion out there, I will do that too. Every survey that has Market is made up of over 14,000 reunions been returned by April 30th will be entered to win annual with a combined spend of over $100 $250. (Sent it already? If you included your name, million dollars. (Are you feeling more important you are already entered) If you don’t want hassle yet?) Representatives rely on The Military Reunion with stamps and envelopes, Network for best practices, market statistics and as Visit the website and click on SURVEY (See how easy a vehicle to promote themselves to you. (Member that is?) Listings start on page 27 by the way.) I thank you in advance for your help. It really makes I rely on you to share what is working, what isn’t and a difference! where improvements are needed. I rely on you to share what you are experiencing when you are going through the planning process. I rely on you to tell me about your reunion, where you like to meet Sharon and when. Sharon Danitschek, President

Bringing reunions and locations together since 1991 Published by: Military Reunion Network, Inc. President: Sharon Danitschek - [email protected] - www.militaryreunionnetwork.com Subscriptions to Military Reunion Network Magazine are free of charge to qualified reunion planners. Copyright ©2019 by The Reunion Group, all rights reserved. Military Reunion Network Magazine is not responsible for opinions expressed in editorial material. The opinions are exclusively those of the authors and do not express the opinions of Military Reunion 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 Military Reunion Network assumes no liability or responsibility for errors, mistakes, misprints, missing information, or content of advertising. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher.

2 Military Reunion Network | WINTER 2019 | #militaryreunionsmatter contentsTABLE OF A Fitting Tribute to Thank you to our advertisers Those Who Served...... 5 PAGE SPONSOR 3 Visit Oceanside A Public Health Approach 4 Branson CVB to Partnership...... 8 6 Visit Fairfax VA 6 Colorado Springs CVB 2019 Reunion Planner Survey...... 11 10 Holiday Inn Bayside 13 Seattle Southside Upcoming Events...... 14 18 Greene County 21 Dayton CVB 24 Visit Plano A Planners Perspective...... 20 25 Visit Jacksonville Upcoming Reunions...... 23 Interested in advertising? Visit our website: www.militaryreunionnetwork.com Member listings...... 27 Dear Valiant Vets, It’s reunion time. Love, O’side

For your upcoming gathering, there’s no destination more military • Complimentary Planning minded or surf-and-sun-soaked than Oceanside, California— • Group Rewards home of Camp Pendleton and all things O’riginal O’side. • Discount Room Rates The platoon of group travel specialists at Visit Oceanside stands • Customized Itineraries and Group Activities ready to whip your celebration into fighting form, complete with: • Shuttle transportation

Get started today by contacting Dana Higgins at 1.760.637.9953 | visitoside.org/military-reunions

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BRANSON HONORS VETERANS EVERY DAY.

VETERANS DAY PARADE

Join us for Military Reunion Network’s Central Regional Round Table May 3-7, 2018

To request a Military Reunion Planner Sales Kit contact: Julie Peters, CTIS, CEP at [email protected]

417-243-2117 4 Military Reunion Network | WINTER 2019 | #militaryreunionsmatter

AFITTING TRIBUTE TO THOSE WHO HAVE SERVED

On a hillside above the Fairfax County Parkway, just a few miles south of Washington, DC, a battalion of construction workers is pouring concrete and hoisting large steel beams to erect a long-overdue tribute to the more than 30 million men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States Army. The museum, the Army’s first national museum in its 240 year history, will celebrate the service and sacrifice of 11 generations of American soldiers. It will preserve the Army’s history, educate the American society. public on its evolution into the world’s premier Six galleries will trace the Army’s history from fighting force, and inspire both current and future 1775 until the present day; a seventh gallery will generations. examine the Army’s unique role in American The Army’s proud history will be brought to life society, from spearheading advancements in in state-of-the-art interactive displays, as well as science, technology, and public health to helping to by thousands of artifacts (both large and small) integrate America. and pieces of artwork, many of which have never Additional exhibits will examine what life is like been exhibited publicly before. Artifacts will range for Army families, how soldiers use technical and from tanks, helicopters, landing craft, and airplanes problem-solving skills to achieve their missions, and to personal items that soldiers have carried into – most importantly -- tell the personal stories of combat. Together, the artifacts and displays American soldiers throughout the Army’s history. will vividly convey the Army’s proud heritage, A circular Army Theater will show a 15-minute its present-day mission, and its role in shaping motion picture entitled “Of Noble Deeds”

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RALLY THE TROOPS

When it’s time to gather, share stories, and pay tribute, we have the place to make the most of your time together. With easy access to Washington, DC and a wide range of hotel, dining and entertainment options, Fairfax County, Virginia will help make your reunion one to remember. The new National Museum of the United States Army opening in Fairfax County in 2020 Visit FXVA.com to learn more.

we’ll get you THERE

welcome to THERE. Pikes Peak - America’s Mountain, the U.S. Air Force Academy and the National Museum of World War II Aviation create the backdrop for reconnecting with life- long friends. Fly in to the Colorado Springs Airport to start the fun sooner, and let our professional staff help you plan a reunion to remember in Olympic City USA.

VisitCOS.com/meet

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Continued from page 5 three times an hour, highlighting the experience of American soldiers in combat. A 306-degree screen will wrap around the audience and immersive special effects will dramatize the dangers that soldiers face on a daily basis. Virtual reality simulators will allow visitors to experience the training that today’s soldiers undergo for their missions around the world. For veterans’ associations and other groups, to average between 500,000 and 750,000 visitors the museum will offer a dramatic, inspiring, one- annually. Both admission and parking will be of-a-kind setting for hosting receptions, dinners, free. The museum will be located on the grounds ceremonies, and other special events. The soaring of Fort Belvoir; however, visitors will not need to and expansive Main Lobby of the museum will pass through base security in order to visit. The accommodate seated dinners for up to 450 guests, new attraction will be located less than 15 minutes and the Veterans Hall will be able to accommodate from George Washington’s Mount Vernon and less 160 guests for seated dinners and presentations. than 30 minutes from downtown Washington, DC. The Medal of Honor Garden, a beautifully The National Museum of the United Sates Army is landscaped outdoor area, will accommodate scheduled to open to the public in 2020. weddings, receptions, and other celebratory events. Visit Fairfax, Fairfax County’s award-winning DMO, The museum will be equipped with full catering is already working with Army reunion groups and facilities. other associations looking to hold events at the The museum will encompass more than museum as part of their gatherings in Fairfax County 185,000 square feet of space, with ample room and the National Capital area. Planning assistance is for expansion over time. Attendance is expected available free-of-charge at www.fxva.com. 

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The question came up recently about the mission of The Military Reunion Network. For reunion planners, our focus is to provide a place for resources, education, and connection to the “military reunion minded” hospitality industry. The follow up question while phrased in various ways is always, “why is that important?”

After studying the Annual Veteran Suicide Report generated by Veterans Affairs, we began to realize the critical importance of maintaining connection through military reunions. For close to a week every year, Veterans and their significant others spend time with people just like them. People that understand why they don’t like large crowds or loud noises. They don’t have to explain why they prefer to sit where they can see the door.

This connection is one of the major factors in reducing Veteran Suicide. The more MRN can help Veteran volunteers that have stepped up to plan reunions, the more we provide resources for them to find battle buddies, the greater the chance of saving a life.

Friend and Warfighter, Boone Cutler penned The Spartan Pledge, which challenges Veterans to reach out to a battle buddy first before taking their own life. They need to find a mission to support their own Warfighter Community. “It is imperative that we help our own. When you leave the military, you either assimilate, isolate or die. Veterans that disconnect run a higher risk of death by suicide. They are the ones we can’t leave behind.”

In the past several months, The Military Reunion Network and staff with the Suicide Prevention Team at Veterans Affairs have had conversations about Veteran suicide and the ways MRN might support their efforts. We thank Aimee Johnson for her contribution to MRN Magazine

Understanding VA Suicide Prevention Program’s Public Health Approach to Partnerships Aimee Johnson

At VA, preventing suicide among the nation’s prevention, VA has broadened its focus to reach all 20 million Veterans is one of our top priorities, Veterans, even those who do not — and may never and we recognize that we can’t do it alone. Only — seek care within our health system.. about half of Veterans use VA services, and only The public health approach to suicide prevention one-third received VA health care in the past year. is about more than improving access to mental By taking a public health approach to suicide health care. It is about delivering resources and

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support to Veterans earlier, before they reach a facilitating an educational webinar crisis point. Preventing Veteran suicide requires about suicide prevention, and a collective effort within VA facilities and among incorporating suicide prevention community partners, which is why VA is building practices into an organization’s partnerships and empowering the people who employee assistance program. interact with Veterans every day to provide lifesaving support. • Program-based partnership Partnerships are a vital component of VA’s initiatives include activities such as National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide. assembling a coalition of like-minded They help expand our reach beyond VA facilities and organizations to brainstorm suicide deliver care and support to Veterans where they live, prevention strategies, organizing work, and thrive. Currently, VA is working with more a suicide prevention event in the than 60 partner organizations across 14 sectors, community, and conducting an including federal agencies, private companies, and employee suicide risk screening. nonprofits. VA recognizes that effective outreach to Veterans VA will continue to develop partnerships requires programs that are carried out in diverse across all sectors to deliver care and support to settings and systems. Greater coordination of Veterans nationwide. Everyone has a role to play in efforts among different stakeholders and settings preventing Veteran suicide. Join us in our mission can increase the reach and impact of suicide to end Veteran suicide by sharing VA suicide prevention activities. prevention resources in your community. Each partner organization can have a unique The health and well-being of our nation’s impact, based on its sector, network, capabilities, Veterans and former service members is VA’s and established Veteran initiatives and programs. In highest priority. Guided by data and research, VA is addition, partnership initiatives are flexible and can working with partners, Veterans’ family members be categorized by scope as either engagement- and friends, and the community to ensure that based, project-based, or program-based activities: Veterans and former service members get the right care whenever they need it. To learn about • Examples of engagement-based the resources available for Veterans and how you partnership activities include sharing can #BeThere as a VA employee, Veteran’s family Veterans Crisis Line information member or friend, community partner, or clinician, and other VA resources on an visit www.mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention/ organization’s website and social resources.asp. media platforms, participating in If you or someone you know is a Veteran Suicide Prevention Month events experiencing thoughts of suicide, contact the in September, and sharing the Veterans Crisis Line to receive free, confidential S.A.V.E. suicide prevention training support and crisis intervention available 24 hours a video created in partnership with day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Call 1-800-273- PsychArmor Institute. 8255 and Press 1, text to 838255, or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat. • Project-based partnership initiatives Reporters covering this issue are strongly include activities such as sharing encouraged to visit reportingonsuicide.org for aggregate data and research with important guidance on how to communicate about VA about specific populations, suicide. 

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The Spartan Pledge

I will not take my own life by my own hand until I talk to my battle buddy first. My mission is to find a mission to help my warfighter family.

Written by Boone Cutler

San Diego Reunion Experts

Let us host your special reunion at the Holiday Inn Bayside in beautiful San Diego. You’ll enjoy spacious and elegant guest rooms, harborview banquet rooms overlooking San Diego Bay and full service amenities. It’s the perfect reunion location for groups up to 200 people.

LARGEST BANQUET: 200 FEATURES: Great hospitality rooms, airport ROOMS: 291 shuttle, senior discounts, heated pool, 4875 North Harbor Drive MEETING ROOMS: 8 whirlpool, ﬁ tness room, 9-hold putting green, San Diego, CA 92106 restaurant, lounge, gift shop, free HBO, WiFi, VALUE SEASON: December through holinnbayside.com 37" ﬂ at screen HDTV, coffee, refrigerators, February Call Jodie Langhammer hair dryers, newspapers, guest laundry. REUNION PACKAGE: Hospitality suite, 800.650.6660 NEAR: Across from San Diego Bay, waterfront Complimentary parking, Welcome 619.224.3621 restaurants, Liberty Station and ASW base. reception package available MCRD, Seaport Village, San Diego Zoo, Fax 619.224.1787 SeaWorld, Golf and Tennis are nearby.

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Take the Annual Military Reunion Market Planner Survey MRN is the industry resource for the military reunion market, and we need your help. Each year we capture market statistics relative to military reunions in an effort to better serve veterans and the hospitality industry. We thank you in advance for taking a few moments to share your thoughts. Reunion Planners please complete the survey below or take the survey online. Visit the MRN website militaryreunionnetwork.com (click on the pop up window). Completed surveys can be returned to: The Military Reunion Network 2801 Bickford Ave Suite 103-172 Snohomish WA 98290

Veteran/Military Reunion Planner Questions:

1) Branch of Service: (circle appropriate answer) Army Navy Air Force Marines Coast Guard National Guard reunion

2) Our service includes the following conflicts: (circle all that apply) Korea Era Somalia Era Cuba Era Bosnia Era Gulf War Era Vietnam Era Kosovo Era Dominican Republic Era Iraq/Afghanistan Era Lebanon/Grenada Era Panama Era Other:______

3) We meet: (select one) Annually Even Years Odd Years Other______

4) How many people attend your reunion on average? (select one) 25 or less 30-45 50 75 100 125 150 more than 150

5) If your reunion is small would you consider combining with another reunion? Yes No Considering it

6) Does the person in charge of planning the reunion change every year? Yes No

7) What is your preferred month to meet? (select one) January February March April May June July August September October November December

8) What is your typical start day? (select one) M T W TH F SA SU

9) Typical number of days? (select one) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

10) Do you prefer to bring alcohol into your hospitality space? Y N

11) What do you do when the hotel/venue policy does not allow it? (circle one) go somewhere else negotiate with the hotel/venue skip the alcohol in the hospitality space

Continue on the next page

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Veteran/Military Reunion Planner Survey continued

12) What contract/reunion issues are you dealing with? (circle all that apply) Attrition Guarantees Rates Rental Fees Being “nickeled and dimed” Motor Coach Transportation Hotel Shuttle/Airport Transportation Getting people to go Finding Military Reunion Minded hotels and destinations 13) Does your organization have a website? Yes No Working on it 14) Does your organization have a Facebook page? Yes No Working on it

15) How do you communicate with your association membership? (circle all that apply) email newsletter phone Facebook

16) Do you hold reunions in one part of the country or across the US? (circle all that apply) Entire US West Central Great Lakes NE SE

17) When visiting a website of a potential destination, how beneficial is it to have a page on their website that focuses on Military Reunions? (circle all that apply) Really helps would be nice not that important doesn't matter

18) How often to you conduct a site inspection when considering somewhere new? Always Sometimes Rarely Never

19) What would you like the Hospitality Industry to know when working with Military Reunions? ______20) How can The Military Reunion Network better serve you? ______21) Please send me more information about:

The Educational Summit Salute E-Newsletter Special Offers MRN Radio MRN Magazine

Contact information (optional) Name______Organization ______Address______Phone______Email______

12 Military Reunion Network | WINTER 2019 | #militaryreunionsmatter meet in seattle’s ADVERTISEMENT 4 TIPS to PLANNING backyard a SUCCESSFUL REUNION by Caitlyn Shearer

1 LOCATION. LOCATION. LOCATION. Selecting a destination can have a major impact on attendance. When it comes to choosing a location, think of the three C’s: Convenience, Comfort and Captivation. Here are some questions to ask yourself before booking: Where’s the nearest international airport? Are there convenient transportation options for guests? Are the accommodations welcoming? Will guests have plenty of dining and entertainment options nearby?

2 HAVE FUN! Boost attendance and spirits by providing guests with a variety of fun and interesting attractions. Make your next reunion one A destination with activities such as beaches, museums, to remember. military bases, shopping and dining is sure to get reunion guests, and their spouses, excited about Seattle Southside is a great place for registering for the event. And who knows, they may even your reunion. Just south of downtown extend their trip! Seattle, it offers fantastic convenience and value. Your crew will be close to the 3 DON’T BREAK THE BANK! airport, natural wonders and all kinds of There are many ways to stretch your budget. military attractions. Typically you can save up to 30% on event space, caterers and more when you select properties and Plus, you’ll find a wide range of facilities vendors outside of downtown corridors. Look for and all the amenities you want for more hotels and venues that provide free parking, free airport affordable prices. shuttles, complimentary breakfast and package deals. Guests will appreciate you’re looking out for their To make sure your reunion is a finances so they can focus on fun! success, we provide complimentary, personalized, concierge-style service. 4 YOU DON’T HAVE TO DO IT ALONE. Email Caitlyn Shearer at Some destination marketing organizations provide [email protected] for free services that can help lighten the load on your help planning your reunion details. shoulders. Seattle Southside RTA is happy to help make your reunion a success, with free services such as hotel sourcing, site inspection coordination, itinerary planning, help with charter transportation and group rates at attractions, promoting your event, and even creating customized welcome packets.

To learn more about planning a reunion in Seattle Southside visit ReuniteInSeattleSouthside.com or contact Caitlyn Shearer at Visit ReuniteInSeattleSouthside.com today! [email protected]. 13 Military Reunion Network | WINTER 2019 | #militaryreunionsmatter

2019 Events

Columbus OH April 11-14

The 2019/20 Albany NY May 9 – 12 event calendar is up! Anaheim CA May 14—16 We are setting our sites on new places! Memphis TN

June 20 – 22 Join MRN, our partners, and fellow reunion planners Baltimore MD as we explore great reunion July 29 – 31 destinations! Shreveport LA Oct 11—13 WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO NEXT? Seattle WA Nov 7 – 10 LETS GO TOGETHER!

For more information or to register visit 2020 Events militaryreunionnetwork.com

(click on events) or use the Events Registration form on the next page Rapid City SD

May 14 – May 17 2020 Space is limited Secure your place NOW!!

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MRN Partner Event Registration Form

Name:______Reunion:______Guest/Additional Attendee:______Address:______City, State ZIP______Daytime Phone:______Email Address:______Emergency Contact and Phone:______

I acknowledge that I am participating in the following events as reunion planner/committee member for my reunion organization. Our organization is considering the following destinations as a potential location for our upcoming reunion within the next four years. _____(initial)

Reunion Attendance is approximately ____ people. Our preferred month is ______

Registration fees include overnight accommodations, group meals and all resource materials. Please note each event includes frequent on/off bus stops as well as walking through attractions and hotels. $99 per planner per event or $149 per planner and guest in the same room per event. Your registration will be confirmed upon receipt of payment.

Event 1)______Amount______Event 2)______Amount______Event 3)______Amount______Event 4)______Amount______Event 5)______Amount______Total amount enclosed:______

Send your registration payment to: The Military Reunion Network 2801 Bickford Ave Suite 103172 Snohomish, WA 98290

(Do NOT use this form for the 2019 MRN Educational Summit)

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Join us for

three days of exploration

connection and education. Check out

the NEW sights and sounds of Nashville.

Discuss reunion planning topics with industry experts during breakout session tracks. Keep up with the trends and issues of this market. Get down to business during individual appointments with hospitality representatives.

Saturday June 22: Arrival Day at your leisure. Sunday June 23: Tour Nashville! Monday June 24: Educational Breakout Tracks & Individual Appointments Tuesday June 25: Individual Appointments (Event concludes at 2:30pm)

The $299 Veteran/reunion planner registration includes three nights accommodations and all group meals.

Over 30 45 There are only 5 Reunion reunion Planner spots left. planners have registered! Register Now Visit the events page of Have you? militaryreunionnetwork.com for more information.

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2019 Education Summit Registration Form Name:______Organization:______Address:______City, State ZIP______Daytime Phone:______Email Address:______Emergency Contact/Phone:______

Planner and Guest $249 ($299 after March 1, 2019) Planner Individual $199 ($249 after March 1, 2019) Supplier Member $1,800 ($2,200 after March 1, 2019) Supplier NonMember $2,300 ($2,700 after March 1, 2019) Supplier Additional Registration $650 (Must be from the same organization.) Amount Enclosed:______Military Reunion Planners: Registration includes overnight accommodations Sat June 22—Mon June 24 Our Staff will make your accommodations reservation for you in a king or two double room, unless specific ADA accommodations are required. Pre/Post rates will be the planners responsibility at a rate of $159 per night plus tax. Suppliers: Registration includes participation for one organization representative in all conference events, as well as individual appointments. Call 1-855-584-3466 and reference The Military Reunion Network Summit 2019 for the discounted rate of $159 per room plus tax. A discounted rate of $129 plus tax is available if reser- vations are made before May 31, 2019 Please review registration cancellation policy listed on the website Send your registration payment to: The Military Reunion Network 2801 Bickford Ave Suite 103172 Snohomish, Wa 98290

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reene County is a diverse destination just east of Dayton, between Cincinnati and Columbus. Rare is the destination that provides activities at every turn, and yet, never hems you in. But here, in the rolling hills east Gof Dayton is a destination so free with itself, it defies conventional definitions. Instead, it is a diverse mix of attitudes and adjectives: laid-back, creative, friendly, beautiful, agricultural, energy, flight, freedom, tradition and spirit. And while it may have a structured side, it’s never routine.

I have had the good fortune of working for the Greene of perfecting practical flight and the brothers’ determination County Convention & Visitors Bureau for eleven years. We in getting it right. The Flying Field, just minutes from the Greene host several dozen military reunions of all sizes annually small museum atop the hill, looks just as it did over a hun- County, Ohio making reunions one of our favorite markets. We welcome dred years ago. This small museum packs a big emotional all branches of service! punch. You can also view the Wright Brothers Memorial is the place you Located in the suburbs just east of Dayton, Ohio, we’re there for a great photo opportunity. home to Wright-Patterson AFB and the National Muse- Dayton History’s-Carillon Park offers a beautiful 65 want to be for um of the USAF that welcomes over a million visitors a acre setting and home to over 30 historic structures and your next year with FREE admission. With four hangars and a missile hundreds of artifacts depicting Dayton’s importance to gallery the museum boasts hundreds of aircraft, artifacts and manufacturing and the many contributions to things we military collections carefully curated and on display. Much of what use in our everyday lives. Spend the day visiting the Wright reunion! you see has been donated from personal collections making Flyer III – (an NPS site), a covered bridge, lock system, the museum the ‘keeper of their stories’. gristmill, transportation center, the print shop, one room Give us a call school house, Newcom’s Tavern and a dozen more. Rest and for a reunion repast at the Carillon Brewing Co. for authentic food and , beer brewed as it was in the 1850’s or dine at Culp’s Café on you won t lighter fare. Greene County possesses some of the finest shopping forget! with the Greene Towne Center, the Mall at Fairfield Commons and for unique artist items check out the Village of Yellow Springs. Wind down your day at Young’s Jersey Dairy, a family owned and operated farm making home- made ice cream for over a century. Play a round of miniature Arranged in chronological order beginning with the ear- golf or pet the animals in a beautiful charming setting. In ly years of flight, you’ll advance through WWI, WWII, Mod- Greene County you’re minutes from aerospace to agriculture ern Flight, Cold War, Missile galleries and finally through in any direction. Presidential and Experimental aircraft. You can easily spend Want to fly in an old time open cockpit bi-plane? We can several days taking it all in. Once there you may want to arrange that. Want to Sky Dive? We can arrange that too. relax and watch one of several digital movies available. Take Want to take your group to a dinner theater? We can put you Lisa Willis, a solemn walk outside in Memorial Park where hundreds together with all of the right contacts to make your planning Sales Manager/ of USAF groups have dedicated monuments, benches, and easier. From hotel room blocks to suggested itineraries, Reunion Specialist plaques. Lunch is available in the Valkerie Café. transportation and more we’re a high level service bureau. Let us help you plan your itinerary with the many Our goal is to help any way we can. Greene County Convention & aviation themed sites. Did you know that Orville and Wilbur Complimentary custom designed name tags, welcome Visitors Bureau Wright were from Dayton? Stop in one of the NPS sites and signs and high quality welcome bags for your attendees are [email protected] let one of the park rangers tell their story. The Huffman what you can always expect from us. Allow our graphic artist 937.429.9100 ext. 224 Prairie Flying Field Interpretive Center has a 30 minute create a one of a kind keepsake for your group. www.greenecountyohio.org film narrated by Daytonian Martin Sheen on the early years Contact me to begin planning your next reunion.

2018 TRN ad2 Final.indd 1 1/18/18 10:12 AM Military Reunion Network | WINTER 2019 | #militaryreunionsmatter

2018 TRN ad2 Final.indd 1 1/18/18 10:12 AM Military Reunion Network | WINTER 2019 | #militaryreunionsmatter A PLANNERS PERSPECTIVE: THE SALES PERSON WHOM I HAD BEEN DEALING WITH IS NO LONGER AT THE HOTEL, WHAT SHALL I DO?

This is an interesting question with a few hospitality industry and likely have encountered it. different answers that depend upon the status Nowadays, it’s unusual that the sales person whom of your reunion-planning process. If you have you began with will be at the hotel when your reunion signed a contract with the hotel, you don’t have to be occurs. For my 2018 reunion, I dealt with 4 sales concerned because that contract governs the conduct persons over 24 months: 2 before signing the contract of your reunion by the hotel and your group. If you and 2 afterwards! have not signed a contract, the new sales person The following three situations are ever-looming should have all information related to your reunion and can adversely affect your reunion: that the previous sales person had. If so, things should • Management and management-company changes. proceed as they would have; if not, you must update • Ownership changes. the new person. • Franchise or brand changes. The last situation above identifies a crucial matter: Occasionally, changes in hotel staffs accompany you must obtain in writing everything that a sales changes in management companies or ownership; person promises you along the way toward signing but even when not, new management often a contract. These unofficial documents will be a changes some of a hotel’s policies. Franchise and time-saver and a sanity saver because they contain ownership changes have become regular occurrences important information that is to be transcribed onto nationwide and are often unannounced. Planners a contract. Without such documents, you will be will likely not be aware of hotel-staff changes unless back at square one and stand a good chance of informed by a subsequent sales person. When something important to your reunion being omitted informed of change of management company, from a contract. ownership, or franchise, a Planner must ask the sales Whatever the situation, you should periodically person, How does the change affect my reunion? contact the sales person until the day that your This question applies whether a contract is signed reunion begins. In this way, you might have a good or not. Either of those changes will not affect what’s chance of learning about issues that might arise or in a contract, but can trouble the planning stage need clarification and have sufficient time to deal of a reunion. For example, if a hotel will no longer with them. offer free parking and free parking is a required perk Those who are new Planners might be unaware for your reunion, your subsequent decisions and that most sales persons at hotels do not remain in actions can be up ended—especially if time is short. their positions for long periods. Their absences might What’s worse is that policy changes which result from be temporary or permanent. Examples of temporary management changes are usually unpredictable. absences are childbirth; maternity, paternity, or elder- A Planner’s only defense against a change in care leave; injury or illness; personal vacation; and management, ownership, or franchise is to sign a business-related travel or training. In most cases, contract well in advance of a reunion or as soon as a permanent move is the personal preference of practicable after you are informed of an impending the person for another job, but injury, illness, and change. Personnel of Event/Convention Services dismissal are other possibilities. Seasoned Planners and the Catering Departments are also related to the are aware of the high turnover rate of staff in the conduct of your reunion. Be aware of the names of

Continued on page 22 20 Military Reunion Network | WINTER 2019 | #militaryreunionsmatter Every Day Is Veteran’s Day in DAYTON

WE WOULD BE HONORED TO HOST YOUR GROUP!

DAYTON OFFERS:

• FREE site visit* • FREE Korean War Memorial • FREE Dayton bid proposal • FREE Vietnam Memorial • FREE customized name badges • Accessibility— • Discounts at the National Museum of the U.S. - Dayton International Airport Air Force Gift Shop & Theater* - Dayton is within a days drive of 60% • FREE National Museum of the U.S. Air Force of the U.S. Population *Certain restrictions may apply

FREE National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, the world’s largest and oldest military aviation museum, featuring 19 acres of indoor exhibits, over 350 aerospace vehicles, a cafeteria, 3-D Movie Theater, 9 Presidential Airplanes and a Memorial Park.

Contact your reunion specialist today! DAYTON Call 937.226.3162 or email [email protected]

daytoncvb.com 800.221.8235

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Continued from page 20 hotel staff who will be responsible for implementing prices at the alternate site. the details of your contract. c. Additional transportation charges associated with What if a change in ownership or franchise results the relocation. in closure of a hotel before your scheduled reunion? d. Any collateral damages. If you haven’t signed a contract, you’re out of luck! The above example can help you identify If you have signed a contract, things get dicey and depend solely on whether the contract has a clause circumstances for which your group and its that covers cancellation of the group by the hotel. members would desire compensation should a A hotel always includes a cancellation clause in its hotel cancel your reunion. Situations that are not contract that covers the hotel’s interest should a mentioned in your cancellation clause will likely not group cancel its event. Many Reunion Planners believe be eligible for compensation. that by rendering the hotel’s clause reciprocal, their Incidentally, I encountered an unexpected host- groups will be protected. This is faulty logic because hotel closure about 9 months before my first reunion! the factors involved with computations of damages The hotel was the Doubletree located at the Military sustained by a hotel for a cancellation by a group are Circle Mall in Norfolk, Va. Hotel employees were told different from those for the cancellation of a group by that the hotel would undergo major renovations and a hotel. reopen as a Crowne Plaza about 2 years later. I had The contents of a typical cancellation clause known the Sales Manager for many years and was that a hotel uses for its protection should a group familiar with her reputation and devotion for dealing cancel its event might state “a group’s cancellation with military reunions after having attended 2 FAM would ‘harm’ the hotel, and that harm would be Tours of Norfolk prior to scheduling my reunion difficult to determine.” That typical clause continues at the hotel. We had orally agreed on the reunion with a table of sliding percentages of the sum of period and other major elements of the contract guest room and food-and-beverage revenues about 15 months prior to the reunion that would versus periods of dates of a cancellation. The clause concludes with a statement similar to “the hotel occur in Sep 2010. Thus, I was in no rush to receive considers the values in the table to be reasonable the contract. While she was developing the contract estimates of the damages due.” The less time between in Jan 2010, she called to tell me that the hotel a group’s cancellation and its scheduled event, the was closing immediately! Having been familiar with greater the percentage of damages dues. You can hotels in Norfolk, I was able to contract with another understand why a hotel’s cancellation clause cannot hotel for the established dates of my reunion. As of have reciprocal applicability. January 2019, that closed hotel has neither undergone If a contract does not have a cancellation clause renovations nor reopened. that protects the interests of your group, you can Hopefully, I have increased your awareness of probably negotiate one. Members of your group who situations related to changes in hotel staffs and how had planned to attend a reunion that a hotel canceled you might cope with those changes. Because it’s will undoubtedly incur some financial damages. This possible that a change in hotel ownership or franchise would be especially true if the reunion would be might result in a hotel closure, I’ve provided some canceled within 6 months of your reunion and those insight into the importance of having a cancellation members have purchased air or train fares. You must clause that applies if a hotel cancels your reunion for negotiate a fair and reasonable cancellation clause that whatever reason. covers the hotel canceling your reunion. Although I Respectfully submitted, cannot provide precise language, you must consider all losses that your group and its reunion registrants might suffer, then develop specific language that Howard Dobson provides adequate compensation for those losses. The Chairman & Reunion Planner, following statement is a start: USS Sam Houston Veterans’ Assn Should the Hotel cancel this reunion, it agrees to pay the cost incurred by the group to host its reunion at an alternate site. This compensation shall include: Be advised that I am neither a lawyer nor have ever been a. The cost associated with securing an alternate site one or have ever served or functioned in any capacity in the that involves travel and consulting fees to conduct legal business. Therefore, any advice of a legal inference that I provide is my opinion. Such information has not been Site Inspections at each potential alternate site. reviewed by a legal professional. If you desire professional, b. The differences between the guest room costs, legal advice, please consult the resources of The Military meeting room rentals, and food-and-beverage Reunion Network. 

22 Military Reunion Network | WINTER 20182019 | #militaryreunionsmatter reunionsUPCOMING 12th TFW (MacDill 610 MASS Alumni CCKAB Princeton Veterans AFB, FL & Cam Ranh Association Bob Keller Inc. AB & Phu Cat AB, Harold Mitchell Jul 9-12 2019 Red Smith RVN) Sept 17-19, 2019 Dayton, OH April 20-24 2019 William Cathey Rapid City, SD Albuquerque NM May 6-9 2020 DesRon 21 Dayton OH 91st Strategic George Overman Thailand Laos Reconnaissance Jun 3-5 2019 Cambodia 1st Bn 40th Wing Association San Antonio, TX Brotherhood, F A - Nashville Jim Bard George W. Shenberger James Bishop June 2-8 2019 Distinguished Flying Oct. 3-5 2019 July 28-Aug 2 2019 Phoenix, AZ Cross Society Las Vegas, NV Nashville TN Warren Eastman Air Force Public Sept 15-19 2019 US Navy Divers 2nd Infantry Division Affairs Alumni Dayton/Fairborn OH Assoc, INC. (NDA) Mike Davino Association 26th David Ball Sept 18-22 2019 Annual Membership F106 All Troops May 10-14 2020 Tucson, AZ Meeting Reunion San Diego, CA John Terino Bob Kwiecinski 37th MIKE Company Apr 25-27 2019 Apr 3-7 2019 USMC Vietnam 3/7 Vietnam Assoc North Charleston, SC Tucson, AZ Tankers Association Reunion John Wear Vernon and Teresa Alpha Company 75TH Fleet Tanker Oct 31-Nov 4 2019 Wright Infantry (Ranger) Association Seattle, WA Oct 9-13 2019 (Airborne) and its Robert L. McBrayer Branson MO predecessors: 3779 Sept 18-22 2019 USS Ajax reunion LRRP (Airborne); Washington, DC Thomas Judge 3rd 8inch Howitzer June 9-13, 2019 V Corps LRRP Guantanamo Bay Battery (SP) (Airborne); D/17 LRP Minneapolis, MN Dennis & Cheryl O’Brien Association (Airborne) 197TH George Kennedy USS Aucilla (AO-56) Sept 12-15 2019 Infantry Brigade San Diego, CA Sept 22-26 2019 Associatioin Roy Bissey Buffalo, NY Tony Flynn 55th Wing Sept 14 2019 Sept 16-20 2019 Association (Fightin’ Woodway, TX Korea Veterans Charleston, SC Reunion Fifty-fifth) AN/USM-247(V) Vast Joe Spivey Dan Mcpharlin USS Bon Homme & AN/USM-470(V) Aug 8-11 2019 Richard Shipmates Apr 4-6 2019 Mini Vast Reunion Omaha NE Pigeon Forge, TN Jim Barton Anthony (Tony) Rulli Sept 9-15, 2019 601st &615th Jul 31-Aug 4 2019 MACV Advisors Harrisburg, PA AC&WSquadron Memphis TN Vietnam Association Lewis Grissaffi USS Caliente AO53 ASR-ARS Association Apr 3-7 2019 James Rawlinson Derald Parkhurst Mary Neal May 6-9, 2019 Houston, TX Sept 23-25 2019 Sept 9-Sept 14, 2019 Savannah GA Savanna, GA Clarksville, IN Naval Traning Center Bainbridge Arline Calinger Oct 10 - 14, 2019 Columbus, GA Continued on page 26 23 Military Reunion Network | WINTER 2019 | #militaryreunionsmatter Military Reunion Network | WINTER 2019 | #militaryreunionsmatter

CLOSE FRIENDS SHARED STORIES IT’S ALL HERE

I hadn’t seen my military buddies in years. Then Gary called and said we’re all getting together…in Plano. Perfect. It’s close to Dallas, but just far enough away. We checked out the flight museum when we got there. It brought back lots of memories…and plenty of old stories. We had an amazing steak dinner and really got to catch up. These are special guys. I’m glad we found a special place to get together. Plano really does have it all. visitplano.com

24 Military Reunion Network | WINTER 2019 | #militaryreunionsmatter Military Reunion Network | WINTER 2019 | #militaryreunionsmatter

TODD CAME WITH HIS MILITARY ID

AND LEFT WITH A LOVE OF PADDLE BOARDING.

You may be coming to Jacksonville as a soldier, but you’ll leave as so much more. A master fisherman, stand-up paddleboarder, or even a professional craft beer connoisseur – the activities are endless in Jacksonville. Do what you love or try something new. Meet yourself in Jacksonville. To learn more about hosting your next event in Jacksonville, visit meetinjax.com.

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UPCOMING reunions Continued USS Chemung USS Lewis and Clark USS Point Defiance USS Takelma (ATF- (AO-30) SSBN-644 LSD 31 113) with NAFTS Robert L. McBrayer Tom O’Donnell Mike Doto Dick Schreifels Sept 18-22 2019 Oct 3-6, 2019 Sept 11-15 2019 Sept 3-7, 2019 Washington, DC North Charleston, SC Gatlinburg TN Green Bay, WI USS Cogswell DD-651 USS Lockwood USS PROTEUS AS-19 USS The Sullilvans George Overman FF1064 Paul Castle DD537/DDG68 Jun 3-5 2019 Tom Schultz May 6-9 2019 Bill Galarneau San Antonio, TX June 5-7 2020 Pensacola, Fl Sept 25-29 2019 Las Vegas Nevada Jacksonville, FL USS Conserver ARS- USS RICH 39 Reunion USS McKean DD/DDR Association 26th USS Thomas C. Hart Kevin Weaver 784 Annual Reunion DE/FF 1092 April 24-28 2019 Joe WInkel Jim Chester David E Neimeyer Branson, MO Oct 11-13 2019 May 6-10 2019 June 4-9 2019 Omaha, NE Clearwater, FL Rapid City SD USS Downes DE/FF- 1070 Reunion USS Mitscher, DL-2/ USS Salisbury Sound USS Topeka CLG-8 Shannon Metzger DDG-35 (AV-13) Association June 20-23 2019 Gary Marchido Maurice Medland Pat Baker Branson, MO Sept 9-16 2019 Oct 14-18, 2019 Sept 17-20 2019 Warwick, RI Newport, RI Rapid City, SD USS Firedrake (AE-14) Dick Tracy USS Morton DD948 USS Sam Rayburn USS Wahoo SS 565 2019 Johnny Bourns (SSBN 635) Jim Van Vranken Norfolk VA Oct 16-20 2019 Larry Oiler Sept 20-22 2019 San Diego, CA Sept 26-29 2019 San Diego, CA USS HANK DD-702 Groton, CT WILLIAM (BILL) SKINNER USS Nitro AE-2/AE-23 USS Walke DD723 SEPT 18-22 2019 Association USS Sea Poacher SS Mike Young Mobile AL Bob Eberlein 406 Oct 8-13 2019 Jun 20-23 2019 Bill Brinkman Louisville, KY USS Holder Boston MA Sept 25-28 2019 Jim Debarrios Manitowoc WI USS Willis A Lee, Sept 25-28, 2019 USS Norfolk, DL-1 DL-4 Louisville, KY Bob Godas USS Sierra AD-18 Frank Graham Sept 9-16 2019 Bill Skillin Sept 9-16 2019 USS Huse CDE-145 Warwick, RI Sept 23-27, 2019 Warwick, RI David Perlstein Dayton Ohio Oct 20-23 2019 USS Ozbourn DD 846 USS Yancey AKA-93 Savanah GA Bi-Annunal Reunion USS Springfield George Clifton Mark Beaulieu Bluejackets Sept. 5-9 2019 USS JOHN YOUNG, Aug 29-Sept 1 2019 Richard A Wilson Buffalo, NY DD-973 Portland,OR Sept 12-15, 2019 Mike Trotta Washington DC VP-4 All Hands March 29-31, 2019 Larry Hames Jacksonville FL Sept 11-15 2019 San Diego, CA

26 Military Reunion Network | WINTER 2019 | #militaryreunionsmatter MEMBERlisting National Sales Red Lion Hotels COLORADO KISSIMMEE Christy Nauta Colorado Springs 1550 Market Street Suite 500 Ramada Gateway Hotel Eleganté Conference and Event Center Janis Blair Denver, CO 80202 Michele Williams [email protected] 7470 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy 2886 South Circle Drive Kissimmee, FL 34747 509-828-5518 Colorado Springs, CO 80906 www.redlion.com [email protected] [email protected] 407-997-6614 719-302-9870 www.ramadagateway.com ALABAMA www.hotelelegante.com Experience Kissimmee CVB Visit Colorado Springs Jadeine Shives CMP, HMCC MOBILE Dina Chiaravalloti 215 Celebration Place Suite 200 Mobile Bay CVB 515 S. Cascade Avenue Kissimmee, FL 34747 Garrett Wagner Colorado Springs, CO 80903 [email protected] 1 South Water St [email protected] 407-569-4855 Mobile, AL 36602 719-685-7625 www.militaryreunionsinkissimmee.com [email protected] www.VisitCOS.com 251-208-2016 MELLBOURNE www.mobile.org CONNECTICUT Hilton Melbourne Rialto Place USS Alabama Natalie Gentry Rhonda Davis MYSTIC 200 Rialto Place Melbourne, FL 32901 2703 Battleship Parkway Mystic Seaport Museum Mobile, AL 36603 [email protected] Rebecca Shea 321-308-0049 [email protected] 75 Greenmanville Ave 251-433-2703 www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/hilton- Mystic, CT 6355 melbourne-rialto-place-MLBMHHF/index.html ussalabama.com [email protected] 860-572-5309 PANAMA CITY BEACH ARIZONA www.mysticseaport.org Panama City Beach CVB Anne Williams TUCSON DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA 17001 Panama City Beach Parkway Visit Tucson Panama City Beach, FL 32413 RoxAnne Erickson Hampton Inn Washington, DC - NoMa, [email protected] 100 S Church Ave Union Station 850-233-5070 Tucson, AZ 85701 Michelle Earl, Sales Manager www.visitpanamacitybeach.com [email protected] 501 New York Ave, NE 520-770-2120 Washington, DC 20002 ST AUGUSTINE www.visitTucson.org [email protected] St Augustine, Ponte Vedra & Beaches VCB 202 791 9383 Jaya Dillard YUMA hamptoninndcnoma.com 29 Old Mission Avenue Yuma Visitors Bureau Saint Augustine, FL 32084 Leslie McClendon [email protected] 202 S 1st Ave Suite 202 DELAWARE 904-209-4429 Yuma, AZ 85364 Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach COC floridashistoriccoast.com [email protected] Carol Everhart 800-293-0071 501 Rehoboth Avenue ST PETERSBURG visityuma.com Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater [email protected] Hortensia Simmons 302-227-6446 8200 Bryan Dairy Road, Suite 200 CALIFORNIA www.beach-fun.com Largo, FL 33777 [email protected] OCEANSIDE 727-452-4788 Oceanside Conference & Visitors Bureau FLORIDA www.VisitStPeteClearwater.com Dana Higgins 928 N. Coast Highway, Suite A DAYTONA BEACH Oceanside, CA 92054 Daytona Beach Area CVB GEORGIA [email protected] Sam Pollack 760-637-9953 126 East Orange Ave COLUMBUS visitoceanside.org/military-reunions/ Daytona Beach, FL 32114 Visit Columbus Georgia CVB [email protected] Ashley Woitena SAN DIEGO 386-255-0415 900 Front Ave Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside www.daytonabeach.com Columbus, GA 31901 Jodie Langhammer, CMP, CGMP [email protected] 4875 North Harbor Drive JACKSONVILLE 706-317-2110 San Diego, CA 92106 Crowne Plaza Jacksonville Airport www.visitcolumbusga.com [email protected] Shawana Scott 800-650-6660 14670 Duval Road SAVANNAH www.holinnbayside.com Jacksonville, FL 32218 Embassy Suites Savannah Historic USS Midway Museum [email protected] Toni Shiver Pat Pfohl 904-421-2031 605 W. Oglethorpe Ave. 910 N Harbor Drive www.cpjacksonvilleairport.com Savannah, GA 31401 San Diego, CA 92101 Visit Jacksonville [email protected] [email protected] 912-721-0572 Ashleigh Hirsch www.savannah.embassysuites.com 619-398-8257 208 W Laura Street Suite 102 www.midway.org Jacksonville, FL 32202 TUCKER [email protected] Handlery Hotel San Diego Discover DeKalb Convention & Visitors Cindy Nelsen (904)421-9162 950 Hotel Circle North visitjacksonville.com Bureau San Diego, CA 92108 Penny Moore [email protected] 1957 Lakeside Parkway, Suite 510 619-398-8333 Tucker, GA 30084 www.handlery.com [email protected] 770-492-5018 discoverdekalb.com

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IDAHO METAIRE MICHIGAN Country Inn and Suites by Radisson BOISE DETROIT (Metairie-New Orleans) Boise Convention and Visitors Bureau Gina Abernathy Doubletree Hotel Detroit/Dearborn Taylor Williams 2713 N Causeway Blvd Mimi Sion 1101 W Front St Metairie, LA 70002 5801 Southfield Expressway Boise, ID 83702 [email protected] Detroit, MI 48228 [email protected] 504-648-3821 [email protected] 208 472 5204 countryinn.com/metairiela (313)336-3340 www.boise.org www.dearborn.doubletree.com NEW ORLEANS FRANKENMUTH LaQuinta New Orleans Downtown ILLINOIS Corey Chadborn Bavarian Inn GURNEY 301 Camp Street Nina Dion New Orleans, LA 70130 One Covered Bridge Lane Lake County CVB [email protected] Frankenmuth, MI 48734 Kimberly Ghys 504-598-9977 x3 [email protected] 5465 W Grand Ave Ste 100 www.laquintaneworleansdowntown.com 989-652-7206 Gurnee, IL 60031 www.bavarianinn.com [email protected] National WWII Museum 800-525-3669 Shelly Dupy www.lakecountyreunions.com 945 Magazine St MINNESOTA New Orleans, LA 70130 SPRINGFIELD [email protected] BLOOMINGTON Visit Springfield Illinois 504-274-1248 Bloomington, MN Convention and nationalww2museum.org Melissa Bowers Visitors Bureau 109 N 7th Street Visit Jefferson Parish Tony Cook Springfield, IL 62701 Charlene Hale 2131 Lindau Lane, Suite #420 [email protected] 1221 Elmwood Park Blvd, Suite 411 Bloomington, MN 55425 217.789.2360 x5538 New Orleans, LA 70123 [email protected] www.visitspringfieldillinois.com/Planners/ [email protected] 952)858-8500 MilitaryReunions.aspx (504)731-7083 www.bloomingtonmn.org/meetings/military-reunions visitjeffersonparish.com KANSAS SHREVEPORT MISSOURI Shreveport-Bossier Convention & Tourist WICHITA BRANSON Bureau Visit Wichita Branson Lakes Area Convention & Visitors Lindsay Gulley Kevin Flowers 515 S. Main, Ste 115 629 Spring St. Bureau Wichita, KS 67202 Shreveport, LA 71101 Julie Peters CTIS [email protected] [email protected] 269 State Highway 248 316.265.2800 318-429-0625 Branson, MO 65616 visitwichita.com shreveport-bossier.org [email protected] (417)243-2117 www.explorebranson.com/groups/reunions KENTUCKY MASSACHUSETTS Flash Photo Inc. LEXINGTON PLYMOUTH David Cain 232 Green Briar Dr. Visit LEX Tour Trends Ed Sturrup Branson, MO 65616 Roseanne Mingo [email protected] 250 West Main St Suite 2100 PO Box 772 Plymouth, MA 2362 4173340073 Lexington, KY 40507 flashphotobranson.pixieset.com [email protected] [email protected] 859-244-7714 508-224-2288 Radisson Hotel visitlex.com tourtrends.com Donna Williams 120 Wildwood Drive LOUISVILLE Branson, MO 65616 MAINE [email protected] Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport 417-690-4021 Kim Broussard PORTLAND www.radisson.com/bransonmo 830 Phillips Ln Clarion Hotel Portland ME Branson Veterans Memorial Museum Louisville, KY 40209 Heather Levesque [email protected] Geoff 1230 Congress St 1250 W 76 Country Blvd 502-380-4230 Portland, ME 4102 cplouisville.com Branson, MO 65616 [email protected] [email protected] 207-774-5611 417-336-2300 www.clarionportlandme.com/clarion_hotel/military- veteransmemorialbranson.com LOUISIANA reunions/ LAYFAYETTE Best Western Merry Manor Inn ST. LOUIS Lafayette CVB Don Haggett Explore St. Louis Irene Hodge 700 Main St Holly Rogers 1400 Northwest Evangeline Thruway South Portland, ME 4106 701 Convention Plaza, Suite 300 Lafayette, LA 70501 [email protected] St. Louis, MO 63101 [email protected] 207-774-6151 [email protected] 337-769-3813 www.merrymanorinn.com 314-992-0655 lafayettetravel.com Maine Military Museum www.explorestlouis.com ST TAMMANY Lee Humiston Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis Forest Park 50 Peary Terrace Lisa Schmidt St. Tammany Tourist Commission South Portland, ME 4106 2111 Sulphur Street Christina Cooper [email protected] St. Louis, MO 63139 68099 Hwy 59 207-650-8651 [email protected] Mandeville, LA 70471 mainemilitarymuseum.org/ (314)659-4907 [email protected] www.druryhotels.com/locations/st-louis-mo/drury- 985-892-0520 inn-and-suites-st-louis-forest-park www.louisiananorthshore.com

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MONTANA NEVADA DAYTON Dayton Convention & Visitors Bureau BILLINGS LAUGHLIN Teena Sheffler Visit Billings Southern Nevada Regional Office - LVCVA 1 Chamber Plaza Suite A Stefan Cattarin Cherie Westbrook Dayton, OH 45402 815 S. 27th St. 1555 S. Casino Drive [email protected] Billings, MT 59101 Laughlin, NV 89029 937-226-8292 [email protected] [email protected] daytoncvb.com 406-245-4111 702-298-3022 www.visitbillings.com/veterans www.VisitLaughlin.com CLEVELAND Marriott Cleveland East Billings Hotel and Convention Center RENO Cheri Milne Polly Kondrat 1223 Mullowney Lane Sands Regency Casino Hotel 26300 Harvard Road Billings, MT 59101 Lisa Miolini Warrensville Heights, OH 44122 [email protected] 345 North Arlington Avenue [email protected] 406--248-7151 Reno, NV 89501 (216) 755-1912 www.billingshotelmt.com [email protected] www.clevelandmarriotteast.com 775-544-3958 Wright-Patterson Air Force Base www.sandsregency.com Hope Hotel and Conference Center NORTH CAROLINA Susan White 10823 Chidlaw RD/ Bldg #823, FAYETTEVILLE NEW YORK Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OH 45433 Fayetteville Area CVB BUFFALO [email protected] Myron Jones 937-879-2698 245 Person St Millennium Buffalo www.hopehotel.com/ Fayetteville, NC 28301 Christine Casucci [email protected] 2040 Walden Ave 800-255-8217 Buffalo, NY 14225 OREGON www.visitfayettevillenc.com [email protected] 716-206-8327 EUGENE millenniumhotes.com/buffalo Eugene, Cascades & Oregon Coast CVB NORTH DAKOTA Visit Buffalo Niagara Juanita Metzler BISMARCK Meaghan Zimmer PO Box 10286 403 Main St. Suite 630 Eugene, OR 97440 Bismarck Mandan CVB Buffalo, NY 14203 [email protected] LaRae Nelson [email protected] 541-743-8758 1600 Burnt Boat Dr 716-218-2947 www.eugenecascadescoast.org Bismarck, ND 58503 visitbuffaloniagara.com [email protected] Crowne Plaza - Portland/Lake Oswego NEW YORK Sandra Bailey 701-222-4308 14811 Kruse Oaks Drive, Apt 44 www.discoverbismarckmandan.com Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Lake Oswego, OR 97035 Ashley Allen [email protected] W 46th St. and 12th Avenue 5036249083 NEBRASKA New York, NY 10036 www.cplakeoswego.com OMAGA [email protected] 212-245-0072 Visit Omaha www.intrepidmuseum.org PENNSYLVANIA Jessica Weishahn 1620 Dodge st, Suite 1900 ERIE Omaha, NE 68102 OHIO [email protected] Visit Erie AKRON Hannah Stancliff 402-444-1760 208 E. Bayfront Pkwy. Suite 103 www.visitomaha.com Akron/Summit CVB Erie, PA 16507 Jennifer Wozny [email protected] 77 E Mill St 814-454-1000 NEW JERSEY Akron, OH 44308 visiterie.com Battleship New Jersey Museum and [email protected] Memorial (330)374-8927 GETTYSBURG Jack Willard www.visitakron-summit.org Destination Gettysburg 62 Battleship Place BEAVERCREEK/DAYTON Nicole Absher Camden, NJ 8103 1560 Fairfield Road [email protected] Greene County Ohio CVB-WPAFB Gettysburg, PA 17325 866-877-6262 Lisa Willis [email protected] www.battleshipnewjersey.org 1221 Meadowbridge Dr Ste A 717-338-1052 Beavercreek, OH 45434 destinationgettysburg.com [email protected] NEW MEXICO 937-320-9865 HERSHEY/HARRISBURG ALBUQUERQUE www.greenecountyohio.org/ Hershey Harrisburg Regional VB Visit Albuquerque COLUMBUS Sandy Stewart Misty Jester 3211 N Front St Suite 301-A 20 First Plaza NW Suite 601 Experience Columbus Harrisburg, PA 17110 Albuquerque, NM 87102 Roger Dudley [email protected] [email protected] 277 W. Nationwide Blvd, Ste. 125 717-231-2988 505-222-4327 Columbus, OH 43215 www.visithersheyharrisburg.org www.VisitAlbuquerque.org [email protected] 614-222-6146 National Civil War Museum Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown Hotel experiencecolumbus.com Trini Nye Sarah Wilson One Lincoln Circle at Reservoir Park 2600 Louisiana Blvd. NE Motts Military Museum (Columbus Area) Harrisburg, PA 17103 Albuquerque, NM 87110 Warren Motts [email protected] [email protected] 5075 South Hamilton Rd 717-260-9573 505 830 5786 Groveport, OH 43125 www.nationalcivilwarmuseum.org sheratonalbuquerqueuptown.com [email protected] 614) 836-1500 www.mottsmilitarymuseum.org/

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PHILADELPHIA Best Western Ramkota, Rapid City Grand Ole Opry Entertainment Group Marci Reuter/Julie Larson Jamie Lynn Thompson Discover Philadelphia 2111 N. LaCrosse Street 2804 Opryland Dr Darnell Belford Rapid City, SD 57701 Nashville, TN 37214 1601 Market Street, Suite 200 [email protected] [email protected] Philadelphia, PA 19103 605-737-5644 615-882-5439 [email protected] www.hotelsinrapidcitysd.h.bestwestern.com www.opry.com/groups 215-636-3308 www.discoverphl.com Hampton Inn (Rapid City) Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum Kelly Rardon Brad Henton Central Pennsylvania CVB 1720 Rapp Street 222 5th Avenue South Dave Gerdes Rapid City, SD 57701 Nashville, TN 37203 800 East Park Ave [email protected] [email protected] State College, PA 16803 6053481911 615-416-2015 [email protected] www.hamptoninnrapidcity.com countrymusichalloffame.org/visit/group-tours 814-231-9684 www.visitpennstate.org Sweet Magnolia Tours - Nashville Karen Morrissey, CTIS TENNESSEE 330 Commerce St Suite 101 RHODE ISLAND GATLINBURG Nashville, TN 37201 [email protected] WARWICK Black Bear Inn and Suites 800-235-5295 Michelle Hammontree www.sweetmagnoliatours.com Crowne Plaza Hotel Providence - 1100 Parkway Warwick Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Sharin’ Nashville and See Memphis Tours Sarah Shibley [email protected] Stacy Barry 801 Greenwich Avenue 800-933-0777 951 Patio Dr Warwick, RI 2886 blackbeargatlinburg.com Nashville, TN 37214 [email protected] [email protected] 401-732-6000 Greystone Lodge on the River 615-846-0867 crownehotelwarwick.com Nicole Shisler www.sharinnashvilletours.com 559 Parkway Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Courtyard by Marriott at Opryland SOUTH CAROLINA [email protected] Lyndsi Warner 865-436-5621 125 Music City Circle CHARLESTON greystonelodgetn.com Nashville, TN 37214 [email protected] Explore Charleston Edgewater Hotel and Conference Center 615-872-8122 John Michael McCants Tonya Young marriott.com 423 King St 402 River Rd Charleston, SC 29403 Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Storytellers Museum and The Hideaway [email protected] [email protected] Farm of Johnny Cash 843- 805-3098 865-277-0159 Karen Morrissey www.meetcharleston.com edgewater-hotel.com 9676 Old Hwy 46 Bon Aqua, TN 37025 MYRTLE BEACH MEMPHIS [email protected] Myrtle Beach Area CVB Memphis CVB 615-242-5373 Melanie Doty Holly Townsend storytellersmuseum.com/promo-video/ 1200 N Oak Street 47 Union Avenue Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 Memphis, TN 38103 [email protected] [email protected] TEXAS 843-685-8585 901-543-5367 www.visitmyrtlebeach.com/groups/reunions www.memphistravel.com LUBBOCK Sea Mist Oceanfront Graceland Visit Lubbock CVB Leanne McCulloch Savannah Burkholder Tiffany Kennedy 1200 S Ocean Blvd 3734 Elvis Presley Blvd 1500 Broadway 6th FL Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 Memphis, TN 38116 Lubbock, TX 79401 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 800-200-8687 (901)332-3322 806-723-8230 www.myrtlebeachseamist.com/group-functions/ graceland.com www.visitlubbock.org military/ Sheraton Memphis Downtown PLANO The Alabama Theatre Katey Huber-Hiller Visit Plano Kathy B Flowe CMP 250 N Main Blaire Zahn 4750 Highway 17 South Memphis, TN 38103 7600 Windrose Ave., #G110 North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 [email protected] Plano, TX 75024 [email protected] (901)214-3615 [email protected] 843-272-5758 sheratonmemphisdowntown.com (972) 941-5861 www.alabama-theatre.com NASHVILLE visitplano.com Nashville CVC SAN ANTONIO SOUTH DAKOTA Staci Flores El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel RAPID CITY 150 4th Avenue North Suite G-250 Anthony Valdez Nashville, TN 37219 110 Lexington Avenue Grand Gateway Hotel [email protected] San Antonio, TX 78205 Anna Vandegrift 615-259-4751 [email protected] 1721 N Lacrosse Street www.visitmusiccity.com 210-277-4004 Rapid City, SD 57701 www.eltropicanohotel.com [email protected] The Inn at Opryland 866-742-1300 Vicky Garner Holiday Inn Riverwalk www.grandgatewayhotel.com 2401 Music Valley Drive Victoria Brock Nashville, TN 37214 217 N St. Mary’s Visit Rapid City [email protected] San Antonio, TX 78205 Tyson Steiger 615- 231-8826 [email protected] 512 Main Street Suite 240 www.theinnatopryland.com 210-272-1514 Rapid City, SD 57701 www.hiriverwalk.com [email protected] 605-718-8489 visitrapidcity.com

30 Military Reunion Network | WINTER 2019 | #militaryreunionsmatter

MEMBER LISTING CONTINUED

Hilton San Antonio Airport NORFOLK 9404 E. Margional Way S Oscar Perez Seattle, WA 98108 611 NW Loop 410 Visit Norfolk [email protected] San Antonio, TX 78216 Melissa Hopper 206-768-7104 [email protected] 232 E Main St www.museumofflight.org 210-377-4607 Norfolk, VA 23510 Sanantonioairport.hilton.com [email protected] SEATTLE NORTH 800 368 3097 Wyndham San Antonio Riverwalk www.visitnorfolktoday.com Snohomish County Tourism Bureau/ Gloria Figueroa Seattle North 111 East Pecan Street QUANTICO/DC AREA Ernest G. Matthews, Jr San Antonio, TX 78205 National Museum of the Marine Corps 6705 Puget Park Drive [email protected] Kendall Eskey Snohomish, WA 98296 210-362-6417 18900 Jefferson Davis Hwy [email protected] wyndham.com Quantico, VA 22134 425-348-5802 [email protected] www.snohomish.org VIRGINIA 703-640-7965 events.usmcmuseum.org WISCONSIN ARLINGTON RESTON BROOKFIELD Arlington VA CVB DC Area Sheraton Reston Portia Conerly Jamie Issa Visit Brookfield Tracy Sinclair 1100 N Glebe Road Ste. 1500 11810 Sunrise Valley Dr 17100 W Bluemound Road, Ste. 201 Arlington, VA 22201 Reston, VA 20191 Brookfield, WI 53005 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 703-228-0873 703-262-5931 262-789-0220 www.stayarlington.com sheratonreston.com www.visitbrookfield.com CHESAPEAKE RICHMOND GREEN BAY Chesapeake Convention & Visitors Virginia Tourism Corportation Bureau Stephanie C. Kenney Greater Green Bay Convention & Visitors Jeff Bunn 901 East Byrd St Bureau 1224 Progressive Dr Richmond, VA 23219 Denise Humphrey Chesapeake, VA 23320 [email protected] 1901 S. Oneida St [email protected] 804-545-5547 Ashwaubenon, WI 54304 757-382-1352 virginia.org/meetings [email protected] www.visitchesapeake.com 920-405-1105 Tysons Corner www.greenbay.com FAIRFAX Tysons Corner Marriott Katharine Balek Radisson Hotel Green Bay Visit Fairfax - Washington DC 8028 Leesburg Pike Shelle Ponfil Dean Miller Tysons, VA 22182 2040 Airport Dr 3702 Pender Drive, Ste 420 [email protected] Green Bay, WI 54313 Fairfax, VA 22030 7035062449 [email protected] [email protected] marriott.com/wastc 920-405-6438 703-790-0643 www.radisson.com/greenbaywi www.fxva.com/meeting-planners/reunions/ Hyatt Regency Fairfax WASHINGTON WEST VIRGINIA Melodye Bridges BREMERTON 12777 Fair Lakes Circle CHARLESTON Fairfax, VA 22033 USS Turner Joy [email protected] Charlie Birdsell Charleston West Virginia CVB (703)653-6022 300 Washington Beach Ave Todd Morris fairfax.regency.hyatt.com Bremerton, WA 98337 601 Morris Street / Suite 204 [email protected] Charleston, WV 25301 FREDERICKSBURG 360-340-3571 [email protected] Fredericksburg Virginia Regional Tourism ussturnerjoy.org 304-344-5075 www.charlestonwv.com Ptnrs CHEHALIS Victoria Matthews 706 Caroline St PBR Rides Vintage Vietnam era 32ft MKII Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Robert Brower [email protected] 123 Habein Rd 540-372-1216 Chehalis, WA 98532 www.VisitFred.com [email protected] 253-670-1657 HAMPTON www.gamewardensnw.org Hampton Convention & Visitor Bureau SEATTLE Julie A Williams CMP 1919 Commerce Drive, Suite 290 Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Hampton, VA 23666 Authority [email protected] Caitlyn Shearer 757-728-5318 3100 S 176th St www.visithampton.com SeaTac, WA 98188 [email protected] NEWPORT NEWS 206-686-7261 Newport News Tourism Development www.seattlesouthside.com/meeting-professionals/ Office military-reunions Cheryl Morales Red Lion Hotel Seattle Airport 700 Town Center Drive, Suite 320 Corry De Rooze Newport News, VA 23606 18220 International Blvd. [email protected] Seattle, WA 98188 757-926-1428 [email protected] www.newport-news.org 206-248-8188 www.redlion.com The Museum of Flight Bethany Carrillo

31 Military Reunion Network 2801 Bickford Avenue, Suite 103-172 Snohomish, WA 98290 #militaryreunionsmatter 425-501-1430