From Deadman's Trail

Update! - Bill Woods's Interest Letter for a 57.5 Year Gathering



Click for a .pdf copy.

 

During the previous two USAFA ’68 Reunions, we’ve had a fair amount of discussion about potential other, mid-reunion opportunities for us to all gather and enjoy each other’s’ company.

Motivated by the reality of our too rapidly aging, I recently tried to follow up on this idea. It’s been cumbersome at best to single handedly come up with what I feel might be a winning choice. Beyond what I have looked at, I need some additional feedback and encouragement to put together specifics for a single, well-supported selection.

My primary selection criteria to this point have been: 1) Locations / activities primarily in the Eastern half of the US to offset the previous high costs of travel for many to the Colorado Reunions; 2) Reasonably affordable, i.e. no restriction on locations or levels of lodging, additional fees, required banquet, scheduled activities; and 3) Good air transportation availability. While I have no problem with other options that some might prefer, I’m not keen to organize an event that isn’t of strong interest to a reasonable portion of the class.

So, I submit for your consideration and feedback the following top three selections.

A. A Sun - Fri period in Branson, MO. Plenty of high-quality hotels, both local and national chains, entertainment, outdoor options nearby, and an overall appealing experience. Best time of the year is May to get the Spring weather and before the end of school schedules that bring in many families.

B. 2025 Cherry Blossom festival in Washington, DC. This would be a Thurs- Tues period in the Springtime (Mar 26- Apr 1 or Apr 2 – 8), and the array of lodging, restaurants, visual and experiential opportunities in addition to the cherry blossoms is obviously extensive.

C. A 9 day/8 night Music City cruise between Nashville and Memphis, or a Sun - Fri period at Nashville, TN (that could include a Showboat cruise). March to May or September to November are said to be the best times to visit Nashville. That reduces to April – May and October – November for Memphis.

I’ve included potential web sites for your review if you want to take a look at these options in more depth. Your interest, including your potential lack of interest, is vital to my further pursuit or lack of pursuit of any specific options. No one will be obligated or limited by their response to this interest input request.

Thanks in advance for your consideration and comments. I’ll let everyone know if and what I’m looking into further or if the feedback doesn’t warrant my further efforts for a 2025 class-wide reunion level opportunity.

Cheers!

Bill Wood (aka “Wooder”)

Woodncolo@Comcast.net

Websites for Additional Information

A. BRANSON, MO

Branson Hotels

Things To Do

The Bradford Hotel



B. CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL (Washington DC)

Cherry Blossom Festival

Cherry Blossoms

National Cherry Blossom Festival

Hotels in Washington DC

Bloom Watch


C. MUSIC CITY / CRUISE

American Cruise Lines

Nashville Attractions

Things to do in Nashville

More things to do in Nashville

Things to do in Memphis

Free things to do in Memphis

Activities in Memphis


Click HERE for a .pdf copy

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