Serra Rally - Orlando - Disney - Kennedy Space Center - Golf Tennessee - Oak Ridge - Richmond - Seven Days - Petersburg - Cold Harbor - Fredericksburg - Manassas - CWRT Gettysburg - Antietam - Bauer Built 80th - Eucharistic Congress - Disney - Serra Intl - NGAUS 2024 - Civil War Symposium - Ice Age Trail Mammoth Challenge 2024 - Serra North Central Regional Meeting
2024
Tuesday
January 16, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0720 Burlington, WI -10 degrees at 0500 Sunset: 1656 Antioch, TN 12 degrees at 1500 – Sunday/Monday snow over 7” – Nashville area can’t handle it
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| Cannonball HD - Terre Haute IN Picture from the internet - east side of Hwy 41 The name itself means I should have stopped just to get a t-shirt |
HAMPTON INN – HICKORY HOLLOW, 210 Crossing Place, Antioch, TN - a King -standard room $ paid in advance – non–refundable. Adequate. WIFI works. Odd, the desk lamp arm is not adjustable. Most businesses and restaurants closed – drove to an Applebee’s for dinner. When I got there, I was the only customer – half the tables had their chairs stacked - had to ask if they were open. Maybe 10 people in the restaurant when I left.
Wednesday
January 17, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0656 CST Antioch, TN -3 at 0600
Coldest in northern TN since 1993; snow on Monday exceeded 6” which is
more than Nashville gets in a normal winter.
News has EV owners complaining about taking 2 hours to charge your car
in order to get to work. TVA showing peak demands – numerous outages because of
snow. Snow and rain and bitter cold predicted for
Tennessee Thursday – it’s going to be slow going through the mountains. Sunset: 1755 EST Lake Park, GA 45 degrees
TRAVEL: Nashville, TN – Lake Park, GA 467.4 miles 7 hours 35 minutes, with stop for gas and lunch - averaged 24.6 mpg – better than driving yesterday in the cold through IN at reduced speeds. This was I-24 all the way from Nashville - Chattanooga - Atlanta - Lake Park, GA.
HAMPTON INN – VALDOSTA/LAKE PARK AREA, 4906 Timber Drive, Lake Park, GA - a King -standard room $ paid in advance – non–refundable. Adequate. WIFI works. Got the jeep washed at a nearby Circle K. Dinner at Cowboy’s Firepit Grill & Bar.
COWBOY BLESSING
Talk Less -
Say More
Live each day with honesty and courage
Keep
Promises
Be Tough
- But Fair
Stand Up for What’s Right
Thursday
January 18, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0729 EST Lake Park,
GA 32 degrees at 0700 Sunset: 1753 EST Miami, FL
81 degrees at 1700
TRAVEL: Lake Park, GA – Miami Marriott Dadeland, Miami, FL 421 miles 8 hours 30 minutes. Unsure why I took US 27 down through central Florida instead of the Florida Turnpike. 23.9 mpg.
MIAMI MARRIOTT DADELAND, 9090 S. Dadeland, Boulevard, Miami, FL 33156 - a King -standard room, 21st floor, valet parking
SERRA RALLY 2024 - MIAMI
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The 2024 Serra
Rally is a compact conference
filled with engaging talks, workshops, and opportunities for prayer and
reflection. Whether you’re a long-time member of the Serra community or just
beginning the journey, this rally is designed to strengthen your faith, deepen
your connections, and renew your passion for vocations.
 |
| Cardinal Collins is the celebrant |
Friday
January 19, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0708 Miami, FL Sunset: 1754
Miami, FL 71 degrees and
cloudy at 0600 and cloudy; forecast high
of 78
TRAVEL: Miami, FL
MIAMI MARRIOTT DADELAND, 9090 S. Dadeland, Boulevard, Miami, FL 33156 - a King -standard room – the elevators here a unique – like nothing I’ve seen before – you chose your floor on a touch pad – it will tell you which lift to get on – the elevators ae the most quiet I’ve ever been on and have TVs in the mirrors that are on the inside of the elevator. Very unique. Much, mostly all, of the staff speaks Spanish – some English.
0830 –
0900 Welcome Remarks: Mike Downey,
President US Council Mike Downey, is current President of Serra USA, I feel like
I’ve gotten to know him through the Monthly Zoom meetings and other Serra communications.
To Inform
To Inspire
To Ignite
The theme sounded
familiar “ SERRA, NOW MORE THAN EVER” – as Pope Francis said ‘Serrans should
become special friends to priests’
IDEA: invite Fr. Ryan to
dinner some evening along with Dan & Kris & family
 |
| Archbishop Thomas Wenski |
0900 – 10000 Keynote Speaker: Archbishop Thomas Wenski, Archbishop of Miami – ordained 1976, archbishop since 1997. ‘The best thing about Miami is that it is still close to the US” i.e. a multicultural city/area.
‘Americans have a
long-term fear of commitment – a crisis in priesthood and marriage – however,
there are more seminarians today than there were in 1978 but there are more unmarried/divorced
Americans than those who are married – Every 1 in 6 priests is Polish – for
vocations to grow we need to get parents back on board – it’s a crisis of faith
not a question of celibacy – FAITH is the solution.’
IDEA: Fr. Matthew Gomez, indicated that all through the diocese, a Hail Mary is said during every Mass – to increase vocations. Canon Law 233 ‘it is the duty of every Catholic to promote vocations’ All Serrans pray a Hail Mary for Vocations.
IDEA: Pope John Paul VI monstrance – call Chicago for use – each of our 5 parishes and extend to St. Leonard’s – perhaps work with the Milwaukee club – check with Fr. Jim. The monstrance will be at the Eucharistic Congress.
1015 – 1045 US Council Vocations Committee Presentation Moira Leite, USA Council Vocations President
IDEA: already ordered the Seven Greats for each Serran TO INSPIRE
IDEA: Every Serran should be receiving ‘Always Forward, Never Back’ if not let the Chicago office (Barbara Luster) know.
IDEA: ‘the conference calls are open to all Serrans - Mike Downey
IDEA: on next visit with Fr. John LaCoco give him a copy of the Seven Greats, give a copy of the Seven Greats in Spanish to Fr. Ryan
IDEA: consider the traveling crucifix program in the grade and high school. Perhaps a separate traveling crucifix programs with the families highlighted in BLCC magazine.
1045 – 1100 Challenge Coin Presentation – Greg Schweitz
IDEA: Give a coin in Spanish to Fr. Ryan; new pastor at St. Thomas, Fr. John Burns, a coin for military chaplains
1100 – 1145 US Council Communications Committee Presentation Don Simoneaux, USA Council Communications Vice President – to self still much ado about nothing
IDEA: Provide by-laws to each member
1145 – 1245 Lunch – wonderful lunch of rice and mahi-mahi and of course dessert
 |
| Cardinal Collins with his 'red' book the Bible |
Easter Vigil i.e. Christ is the flame, and the fire must spread through the church
You must draw water . . . . from the wells of salvation – we journey through s desert – there is a shortage of vocations to the priesthood and to marriage
The world is full of illusions, mirages, we need to find the oasis
Cardinal Collins made references to songs i.e. It’s My Life but its not about me, myself and I – All the lonely people where do they all come from . . . Tolkien is about eliminating evil and the I power
‘in order to have HOPE we must have FAITH"
SABBATH – take a day off – stop, look and listen, take
one hour a day to pray
REPENTENCE/RECONCILIATION –
UNCEASING PRAYER – offer everything you do – read Way of
the Pilgrim
READING – gives Wisdom & Understanding
SPEAK LORD YOUR SERVANT IS LISTNEING
APOCRYPHAL PERSPECTIVE
WATER TO FIRE – ‘you must become fire’ Homeward Bound
1345 – 1430 Speaker: Fr. Jorge Terres, Executive Director of the CCLV not 255 but secretary for Clergy Consecrated Life and Vocations
IDEA: Serrans should say to altar servers ‘thank you for your service to the church’
1500 DEPART HOTEL
 |
| The campus of St. John Vianney College Seminary |
1530 Tour and Mass at St. John Vianney College Seminary – The Vincentian Fathers opened and ran the school, but in 1975 the Archdiocese of Miami assumed responsibility for the direction of the seminary. The seminary serves men of all the Catholic dioceses in the state of Florida, as well as other seminarians from various dioceses throughout the United States and the world. In accordance with the cultural makeup of Southern Florida, the seminary bills itself as bilingual, allowing seminarians the opportunity to interact, pray and socialize in both Spanish and English. Graduates must be bilingual. Presently home to 38 (undergraduate) seminarians.
A campus with ties to Mary Louise (Maytag) MaCahill, the
same of the Maytag Company. Archbishop
Coleman Carroll began construction on the Chapel of
St. Raphael on September 6, 1964. Due
in large part to a generous donation by Mary Louise
Maytag, heiress to the Maytag
fortune, St. Raphael Chapel (in its distinct neo-gothic style with
high walls and large overhangs that bear resemblance to the archangel Raphael's
wings).
The library has a huge collection of books on philosophy
 |
| This is the mural above the altar - Fr. Bryan Gomez attempted to give an interpretation for about 15-20 minutes but there is so much detail here - I think you could study it for hours and hours and come back years later and still find something new |
Mass in the St. Raphael Chapel was presided by Fr. Bryan Gomez, Vice Rector, Dean of Seminarians. Followed by a wine, cheese, beer reception in the dining room. Done very well.
1915 – 2100 Dinner at Hotel – an excellent buffet dinner of salad, rice, fried plantains, chicken, pork and desserts of Churros/Tres Leches, Conversation at the dinner table with people from Indiana, Judy Cozzens, and 3 ladies from El Paso.
Saturday January 20, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0708 Miami, FL 67
degrees at 0600 cloudy Sunset: 1755 Miami, FL high of 71 forecast for today
TRAVEL: Miami, FL
MIAMI MARRIOTT DADELAND, 9090 S. Dadeland, Boulevard, Miami, FL 33156 - a King -standard room
0800 –
0900 Holy Hour with Cardinal Collins
 |
| The Pope John Paul II monstrance |
On November 24, 2004 the late Pope John Paul II blessed six monstrances for use during the Year of the Eucharist for people to pray for an increase of vocations to ordained ministry and consecrated life. The Year of the Eucharist began October 17, 2005 and concluded in October, 2006 with a world Synod of Bishops with the Eucharist as its theme. The monstrances were designated for Eucharistic adoration for vocations for each major continent or geographical area around the world as a symbol of the connection between the Eucharist and priestly vocations. The six regions given a monstrance are: North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa and the Pacific. The North American Bishops subsequently gave protection and distribution duties of the monstrance to US parishes to Serra USA.
IDEA: this can be requested for adoration in local parishes – talk to pastors - short readings then silence the hour went quickly –
Reading where disciples catch more fish than they can
handle “where there is adoration, there is an abundance of people called to the
Lord”
The story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus where they do not recognize the risen Lord until after they break bead with him - Luke
A reference to Tolkien and “the long defeat” – like our journey on Earth is through Babylon while we are on the road the Holy City of Jerusalem – ‘the window in the wall” - the monstrance was the Paul VI monstrance – ‘the fist words of the mass are COME, the last are GO and make disciples of the nations’
I could listen/pray with him all day . . .
 |
| Sr. Margaret Ann & Sr Irene Regina |
Irene Regina is a Daughter of St. Paul missioned in Miami. Sr Margaret Ann is a Carmelite Sister of the Most Sacred Heart. These two were both a ‘riot’ and an inspiration. Friends since each received a basketball scholarship at St. Mary’s University – and now both positioned in the Miami area - they worked together well as a team that caused your to laugh and cry.
EXERCISE DAILY; WALK WITH THE LORD
‘priests are courageous men – they have the most powerful
hands in the worlds – they forgive sins – consecrate the Eucharist’
MATT 9 38 (the harvest)
IDEA: IF this was
recorded it is a must for Serran program
IDEA: use the Prayer For
Priests by Cardinal Cushing at future meetings or during holy hours
Angel of God . . . .
remember angles, they fill the sanctuary at every Mass
1030 – 1115 Membership Committee – Candace Tyrell – 358 new Serrans in the last years – 4 new clubs – the Miami Club grew from 9 to 132 in less than 3 years.
IDEA: The pastor at each Mass mentioned Serra – ‘Today we have with us . . . . and in the intentions . . . and he stood near the table in the gathering space’ - ‘ you don’t have to come to meetings but pray’
IDEA: Develop 5 REASONS TO BECOME A SERRAN
·
A ministry where a couple can serve
together
·
This gets you beyond your local parish
ministry’
·
Ties you to the seminary community
IDEA: Altar Server
Recognition – Awards Mass - for several parishes – held at the seminary –
mass, tour – perhaps a lunch – invite mom & dad, the family, grandparents. - TO
SELF: maybe coordinate with Pastors and Vocations Director – maybe the
Milwaukee Club – gets the word out about Serra – perhaps an opportunity for new
members
Obstacles: dues and affordability, Serran’s are ‘old rich people’, therefore difficult toa attract younger members
1115 – 1145 Programs Committee – Morry Wutuski – each Serran received a new book entitled “Serran’s Call To Holiness” - based on some of Sean Yao’s reflections – it has been shortened from the original and will now be included in the Serran “Welcome Packet. “
IDEA: Order one for each member – include in 2024-25 budget
S-RRA
is incomplete without
E-ngagement
With your (head, heart, & hands)
Make yourself a SERRAN, MD
Missionary Disciple
The story of Eutychus, form Acts where he fell off the
ledge, some Serrans will fall the ledge, but they cam come back to life.
1200 – 1315 Awards Luncheon - chicken -but delicious, of course there was dessert
1315 –
1415 Seminarian Panel – three seminarians, ages, 32, 20, 19 and their rector Fr. Bryan Gomez (35) shared their vocation
stories/ discernment shared their vocation stories/ discernment. The seminarian who was 32, a convert, who
attended a Catholic High School and it from a black family of Baptist ministers. Great stories. The panel was moderated by Fr. Matthew,
Vocations Director. Only 2 of the 5 were altar servers.
 |
| Cultural Outreach Panel |
IDEA: mass intention vocations from my parish, school,
family
1730 – 1800 Closing Mass with Bishop Daly
1830 – 1900 Cocktail Reception with Cash Bar
1900 –
2100 Banquet Dinner – tenderloin, asparagus and potato with a chocolate
dessert. A pianist played during dinner
and a vocalist (2nd year voice major) who was also a Miami Club
Serran, sang accompanied arias and show tunes for a half hour, ending with Ave
Maria
Bishop Daly was the speaker.
Next year’s Serra Rally will again be held in Miami. It may be hard to beat the content and quality of this year’s program,
Forty-Niners 24 - Packers 21
It was a good contest
Sunday
January 21, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0708 Miami, FL 53 degrees at 0700 sunny Sunset: 1755 Orlando, FL 59 degrees at 1630
TRAVEL: Miami, FL – Orlando, FL This time I took the Florida Turnpike to Hwy 27 and somehow routed on the east side of Lake Okeechobee to the Turnpike and through Kissimmee to the Hotel. 232 miles – 21.6 mpg – 4.5 hours on the road
CHOICE HOTEL VACATION – I got an invite to this time-share presentation because I attended the ESGR Awards and Training dinner at the Heidel House last year in March – I was already planning to go the Disney and the Serra Rally – so this cinched the opportunity allowing a smooth transition from the Rally to Orlando – I had to pay $350 up front but was promised the ‘gifts’ of $275 in Simon Mall American Express debit/credit cards in return – therefore, ‘cost free’ except for my time with the sales force – it is a useless effort since Hilton has now closed a deal to buy this place. No plans to upgrade again with Hilton.
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| Shingle Creek |
King bed – 10th floor – pay for parking (50% off $25/day) parking through online – looking forward to see how this works – 20% off golf - no microwave. My Bluegreen Vacations preview is Monday 9am, 12400 International Drive, Orlando. Sherwin Williams is having a sales conference here – I should have gotten a quote for painting my kitchen ceiling and drywall repair spots while I was gone – 2,149 attendees.
Rosen Hotels & Resorts gets a “10” – the best desk staff – I’ve probably experienced anywhere – very courteous and friendly and understanding.
Monday
January 22, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0717 Orlando, FL 47
degrees cloudy at 7 am; forecast high of
67 Sunset: 1756
Orlando, FL 67 degrees and cloudy at 3 pm
TRAVEL: Orlando, FL
CHOICE HOTEL VACATION - Rosen Hotels & Resorts – Shingle Creek, 9939 Universal Blvd, Orlando.
0900 – 1100 Bluegreen Vacations Preview – The Fountains, 12450 International Dr, Orlando. A deal was closed January 17, 2024 where Bluegreen Vacations became a wholly owned subsidiary of Hilton. Bluegreen did it right – extremely courteous – has benefits that HGVC does not offer – and of course the ‘sizzle’ to me was the ability of be a member for life – Did pick up a good story . . . .
The sheik of Dubai has said:
My grandfather rode a camel
My father rode a camel
I ride in a Mercedes
My son rides in a Land Rover
My grandson will ride in a Land Rover
My great grandson will ride a camel
BOTTOM LINE: When it gets easy
you don’t have to work as hard
However, it took 3 ½ hours not 2, and they did make an offer that I almost couldn’t refuse but I did – all the benefits 8,000 points for literally the cost of 4,000 with about $1,300 down and a balance of about $13,000 for about $205 /month for 10 years – with maintenance at about $1,100 per year. I believe it was a good deal but I didn’t bite. I did collect $275 in a MC credit cards. Of course, nobody could tell me what would happen in the future with Hilton and Bluegreen but right now they are separate. Sounded just like what was happening when Hilton bought Diamond Resorts several years ago. I did tell them that Hilton could learn a few things from them. I took the money and ran.
Tuesday
January 23, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0717 Orlando, FL 62
degrees cloudy- forecast high of 74 Sunset: 1757
Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orlando, FL – a lot of people in Florida seem to be in a hurry – a number of expensive cars driven by people who don’t really know the ‘rules of the road’ – LOUD expensive ‘muscle’ cars everywhere. Breakfast at Denny’s – probably the best deal in town 2 eggs, 2 bacon strips, 2 sausages, two pancakes and coffee for $10.10. A lot better than McDonald’s.
CHOICE HOTEL VACATION - Rosen Hotels & Resorts – Shingle Creek, 9939 Universal Blvd, Orlando. No vacation is ever FREE – $8 per day State Tax, $7.98 per day County Tax and half off $28 per day self-parking plus 6.5% tax.
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| Shingle Creek Resort Hotel - a web photo |
Mass at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 12600 Marshfield Ave, Orlando – a 5.4 miles 13 minute drive. About 35 people in church – I’ve been here in the past but this mass was not held in the church but n a room used as a chapel. ‘Those who follow the will of my Father, are my brothers, my sisters and my mother’ Homily referenced the translation of original Greek where the English word ‘brother does not always mean ‘blood brother’ i.e. Jeus had no blood brothers or sisters . . . .
1100 ZOOM Meeting ESGR Initial Planning for Breakfast With Leaders
Worked most of the day on ESGR
‘Just ate at Beth’s Burger Bar – proof that one girl can beat five guys’ good – but not outstanding – expensive - a 16 oz draft of Yuengling was $5.98
Wednesday
January 24, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0717 Orlando, FL 64 degrees, cloudy at 0600 Sunset:
1758 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Rosen Shingle Creek Resort – Holiday Inn Vacation Club (HIVC) Orange Lake
.jpg)
pinpoint exactly when - Designed by the Arnold Palmer Design Company, the Palmer legacy is found in a handcrafted course with design features reminiscent of the finest classics in the world. Strategy and variety are front and center with some of the course’s features to harken back to the golden age of golf course design. Elevated greens and strategically placed bunkers are surrounded by enchanting flora and wildlife. Green complexes with fairway-cut surrounds or runoff areas give golfers of all levels more forgiveness and entertaining strategic options. EXPENSIVE: $152.51 - I got a 20% discount because I was a hotel guest.
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| Apples at the turn a nice touch |
Below are the course ratings
Tee Par Yardage Rating Slope
Black 72 7213 74.3 137
Gold 72 6600 71.4 130
Blue 72 6213 69.9 122
Silver 72 5582 67.0 121
Ivory 72 4945 68.6 122
I shot 102 (52 on the front, 50
on the back) with 2 lost balls, and 4 shots out of the sand, 42 putts. Not exactly a stellar golf course, undulating
and water enough for Florida, but it was fun – I think you could get a lot more
for your money $152.51 with a 20% discount in Wisconsin.
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| Sunset HIVC Orange Lake Resort Clubhouse - view from my room |
I had hoped to make a reservation
in the River Island Towers but they were full. So I’m at the “Clubhouse” i.e. registration. This was a deal 9 days for 68,400 points (I
get 70,000 every other year) and a $64 reservation fee.
Clubhouse, Rm 5254 – King bed, kitchen, DR, LR, bath. Check in left out many of the details. No oven but the microwave has a convection oven feature, 2 burner electric cooktop, half size refrigerator, dishwasher. Laundry facilities are at no charge down the hall – not in the room. Housekeeping every 7 days, I will ask for it on Monday. NOT – IF I WANT HOUSEKEEPING I HAVE TO PAY FOR IT. Unsure if there is a business center where I can gain access to a printer. Seems like the front desk check in left out a lot of things.
Adequate but stingy on widows and natural light. One window and it doesn't open. Kitchen area is small. One sink, 2 burner cooktop, dishwasher, half size refrigerator was probably an upgrade, now you trip over it when working at the counter. Counter? Very small and little or no room for preparation. Cabinets hardly room for the pots, pans and dishes - really no room for food storage.
At first - WIFI is inadequate – non-existent – unreliable - UNSATISFACTORY and then . . . I called the desk and they gave me the correct login site and password that was not given to me when I checked in. There are four computers in the lobby where I can gain access and print documents.
WIFI WORKS – I can print from the pcs in the lobby but it’s a pain to log in, etc. No chairs - you have to stand.
This is not the Marriott Dadeland, certainly not the Shingle Creek Resort. It’s a Holiday Inn and you get what you could expect at a Holiday Inn – affordable – not great service.- vacation on the cheap. There was no complimentary coffee in the kitchen, I wonder if they would charge for more paper towels, dishwashing liquid or shampoo. This is not Hilton.
Thursday January 25, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0716 Orlando, FL 68
degrees at 0400 mostly sunny/cloudy
High of 86 Sunset: 1758
Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orlando, FL
1300 SAFELITE, 604 E Osceola Pkwy, Kissimmee, FL repair of windshield nick caused by stone thrown by truck on Hwy 27 Thursday January 18. The nick will become a crack and they will replace the windshield tomorrow at 2 pm – I have a $250 deductible.
Worked on ESGR Freedom Awards most of the day. I’ll be glad when this is done and I can relax and enjoy the warmth of Florida.
Friday
January 26, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0716 Orlando, FL 68
degrees at 0600 mostly cloudy High of 81 Sunset: 1759
Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orlando, FL
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| Sister Faustina's vision of Divine Mercy |
Got up early to do laundry. The pool is just outside and to the left –
very convenient – but
didn’t know it was there until I walked around the
building.
8 o’clock Mass at St. Faustina Parish. A new parish, the last time I visited here mass was held in the rental space of a nearby mall. Close to 60 people in church.
1400 SAFELITE, 604 E Osceola Pkwy, Kissimmee, FL replacement of the windshield - $250 deductible
Saturday
January 27, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0716 Orlando, FL 64 degrees cloudy- then partly cloudy - High of 81
Sunset: 1800 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orlando, FL
HIVC – Orange Lake Resort East Village 1BR Clubhouse WIFI Works
Exercise –Fitness Center - West Village is in this building. 30 push-ups, 30 crunches, 1.25 miles - 20
minutes. Towels in the fitness center,
no water. Good assortment of equipment –
6 treadmills.
Noon Mass at Our Lady Queen of the Universe Basilica.
I finally spent an hour this afternoon in the sun by the pool. Worked on ESGR for about 3 hours; taxes about 1 hour.
Sunday
January 28, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0715 Orlando, FL 68
degrees at 0500 – cloudy – short rain around 0915 - some sun in the afternoon – not supposed to
get much warmer than 69 Sunset:
1801 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orlando, FL
HIVC – Orange Lake Resort East Village 1BR Clubhouse WIFI Works
 |
| The Conversion of Saul Our Lady Queen of the Universe |
Exercise – Fitness Center – West Village 30 push ups, 30 crunches, 1.50 miles 23 minutes. More people in the Fitness Center this morning. No towels available.
Finished taxes – just have to verify and print a number of documents, check entries.
Spent hours on Freedom Award entry of points in ESGR FAN . . . .
Our Lady Queen of the Universe Basilica – 10 am Mass – it’s a pleasure to go to mass here just to hear the choir . . . High Mass – 2 priests – deacon – 7 servers – incense – great voices – I may have missed the prelude. The homily – gospel was Mark’s – casting out a demon – the priest in his homily pointed the finger at us and said we all had demons – not inspiring – certainly not helpful
Monday January 29, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 7150 Orlando, FL 46
degrees at 0600 clear – later sunny-clear-windy-high of 59 Sunset: 1802
Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orlando, FL
There is an anniversary today . . . .
WIFI Works
Exercise – Fitness Center
– West Village
30 push ups, 30 crunches, 1.50 miles 23 minutes.
Ran out of the small bottle of
Joy the resort provided, good thing I bought a small bottle of Dawn.
8 am Mass at St. Faustina Church – the priest this morning started with a joke ‘My brother is visiting and staying with me. This morning he asked me if I always had the air conditioning set so low” - Mark’s gospel today about a man possessed who lay himself down at the feet of Jesus – when He asks his name the man replies ‘Legion is my name. There are many of us’. Jesus orders the demons to enter a herd of nearby 2,000 swine – the swine run down the bank, into the sea and die. The man want to follow Jesus. Jesus tells the man he has suffered enough and he should go back to the family that has missed him. Compassion . . . yet the man still proclaims his healing to the people in the town.
1300 ESGR Freedom Award Alumni Meeting via MICROSOFT TEAMS
Spent way too much time on ESGR today and I’m still not done with Freedom Awards.
Tuesday January 30, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0714 Orlando, FL 45 degrees and clear at 0500 High of 77 around 1430 clouded up and the temperature dropped to the low 60’s around 1630 Sunset: 1803 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orlando, FL
HIVC – Orange Lake Resort East Village 1BR Clubhouse
Exercise – Fitness Center – West Village 30 push ups, 30 crunches, 1.50 miles 23 minutes.
Of course the $120 RESORT GIFT CARD IS NOT GOOD FOR GOLF ON THE RESORT. SALES PEOEPLE WILL SAY ALMOST ANYTHING OR JUST LEAVE OUT THE DETAIL WHEN ASKED. LITERATURE DID NOT SAY GOLF WAS NOT A RESORT ACTIVITY. There are 4 Golf courses on the resort property.
8 am Mass at St. Faustina Church Mark’s gospel – it was like watching an episode of Chosen – the woman hemorrhaging who only wants to touch the cloak of Jesus and the synagogue official who’s daughter is dying and reported dead – Jesus heals them both because of their Faith – he says the girl is only sleeping not dead (spiritually) and then tells the official to feed her and not tell anyone – well an impossible ‘ask’ – of course he will tell all – as ‘witness’. Perhaps, I remember what is going on here because the priest is loud in his presentation and literally repeats the gospel in his own words during his homily.
GOOD NEWS – SORT OF: HGVC called to confirm my reservations. I had the representative read them back to me twice because it sounded like I had reserved more rooms that I needed and I had. Double booked a Studio Feb 18-22. I called HGVC ELITE Services – they cancelled the double booking – I asked if it was possible to put me in a 1 BR from Feb 10-18 ILO the combined Studio and 1 BR I had form the same period. It was done Cost me more points but – I that’s OK – I won’t have to move in mid-week.
ESGR PORTAL DOWN IN THE AFTERNOON – I CALLED THE PROBLEM IN
 |
| Wildlife on #2 tee |
I’ve never played this course. Located in the West Village of Orange Lake Resort, the clubhouse is about a block away, actully its only a desk in a multi-purpose building. The Reserve consists of 18 holes and 6,505 yards of expansive
greens that were supposedly, specifically redesigned to be in harmony with the
resorts preserved wetlands. While this
course is the shorter of two championship courses here, it offers a very challenging
layout. The unfriendly starter
last week Thursday told me it was ‘tight and hard’ – decided to play 9
holes twilight member rate $40+tax.
Below are the course ratings
Tee Par Yardage Rating Slope
Green 71 6,505 68.6 125
White 71 6,031 66.2 116
Yellow 71 5,119 61.7 105
 |
| The Reserve #5 171 yd Par 3 |
Since I couldn’t use the Gift Card at the golf course I decided to ‘eat out’ – went to Tradewinds Bar & Grill at River Island. A good burger $17.50 and a very potent/expensive Margarita made with Patron $20 . There was a guy playing guitar and conversing with the crowd – not bad - he had a memory for names – talked as more than he played , but could have been a daytime ‘time share salesman’ – within his first set he must have been from 4 different towns/cities.
Missed the 2100 EST ESGR Area 2 Meeting via MICROSOFT TEAMS that I thought was at 2200 EST.
Wednesday January 31, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 714 Orlando, FL 46 at 0600 clear and sunny- High of 71- mostly
sunny Sunset: 1803 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orlando, FL
HIVC – Orange Lake Resort East Village 1BR Clubhouse - WIFI Works
ESGR PORTAL STILL DOWN – I SENT AN EMAIL
8 am Mass at St. Faustina Church Mark’s gospel – I’m pretty sure that Fr. Carlos, the pastor, said Mass today – he said Mass when I attended last week. This story was about Jesus in his home town of Nazareth. A gospel often quoted by Protestants indicating that Jesus had ‘brothers’ – depends on the translation of Greek where ‘brothers’ also means cousins and other relatives . . . Bottom Line: the people of Nazareth had little Faith – i.e. no belief in Jesus – therefore he could not perform any miracles there.
I’ve played this course
before. Located in the East Village of Orange
Lake Resort, The Legends is an 18 Hole Arnold Palmer
Signature Design and this 7,072-yard championship course offers two
distinct play experiences.
Scottish-style golf is featured on the front nine; while the towering
pines, majestic oaks, winding fairways and flowing water on the back nine are
reminiscent of the Carolinas and I’ve never played in the Carolinas. It’s not easy the last time I played here I shot 110. The mid-day rate for owners was $89 + $5.79 tax
+ $2.61 Surcharge = $97.40.
Below are the course ratings
 |
| The Legends - a Par 3 Sand, Water and a tree - if your over its lost in the jungle ferns |
Tee Par Yardage Rating Slope
Green 72 7,072 71.8 137
Black 72 6,665 74.5 142
Blue 72 6,263 73 139
White 72 5,780 69.4 128
Yellow 72 5,199 68.3 118
I played with an 88 year old guy named Bob – he hit from the Yellow tees but he hit them straight and longer than me - in a former age he taught golf. He only played nine, the two others were a pair of brothers – Craig from CO and Ed from NY.
Shot 50 on the front nine (3,107 yds) with 3 in the sand and 16 putts, 51 on the back (2,673 yds) with 3 in the sand, 20 putts for a total of 101 better than the 110, I shot the last time I played here. Greens are small and well protected by sand and/or water. The back nine holes are shorter but have some pretty nasty dog legs. The pin placement again was also close to the edge of the green usually protected by a sand trap. Play on the back nine was especially slow waited on almost every hole – yet still finished in four hours 20 minutes. Over all a nice course – challenging.
Thursday February 1, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0713 Orlando, FL 46
degrees at 0500 – clear Forecast high of
only 66 Sunset: 1804 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orlando, FL
HIVC – Orange Lake Resort East Village 1BR Clubhouse - WIFI Works
 |
| St. Faustina's |
8 am Mass at St. Faustina Church Mark’s gospel – the reading was “When the time of David's death drew near, he gave these instructions to Solomon his son: ‘I am going the way of all the earth. Be strong and be a man!’”
Spent most of the day on ESGR Freedom Awards. Packed and went to Trader’s to have a beer.
 |
| Adios - HIVC Orange Lake |
Friday February 2, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0713 Orlando, FL Mostly
sunny high of 70 Sunset: 1805 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orlando, FL
Ground Hog Day – apparently no shadow and an early spring.
Breakfast at Denny’s.
light procession acknowledging Candlemas Day, also known as the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus Christ, commemorating the presentation of Jesus in the temple. Feb 2 is 40 days after Christmas and this is a traditional day when Christmas decorations are taken down.
Disney Springs – exchanged vouchers for tickets and bought the Disney Photo Pass. A glass of Harp at Raglan Road and made a dinner reservation for 7:15 pm on Saturday.
 |
| Hilton Grand Vacations Club Sea World - aerial view |
HGVC – Seaworld – a 2 BR unit with a King in one BR and 2 Queens in the other and a pullout couch. Two full bathrooms, kitchen, living room and porch. Plenty of room – full sized refrigerator, range/oven, 12 cups coffee maker, housekeeping on Monday. Did not get a text indicating my room was ready – waited two hours but did get a ‘free’ Stella, compliments of the Food & Beverage Manager (Tom)/Bar Manager (Alyssa) while waiting. HGVC 2024 UPDATE everything went up except Save Points and RCI fees. Annual dues up $10 to $209 annual.
Saturday February 3, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0712 Orlando, FL 49 degrees at 0500 clear
High of 74 at 1600 Sunset: 1806 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld – Orlando Airport – HGVC Seaworld – Orlando, Airport – Disney Springs - HGVC Seaworld
 |
| Disney Springs - Raglan Road |
Amy and Annabelle arrived just before noon
 |
| Raglan Road |
 |
| HGVC - Seaworld |
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0711 Orlando, FL 64 at 0600 Forecast high of 73 with rain around 1100 and a thunder shower at 3pm Sunset: 1807 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld – Our Lady Queen of the Universe – Hollywood Studios – HGVC Seaworld
HGVC – Seaworld we were gone all day but Housekeeping brought sheets, as requested for the pull-out – and they also cleaned, changed line, made the beds this wasn’t supposed to happen until Monday
Our Lady Queen of the Universe Basilica – 10 am Mass – the choir, as usual, was outstanding – just a pleasure to listen to – prelude-offertory-communion. The priest spoke more about the reading from Job, than the gospel. Hope. I’m pretty sure he was on target with a universal message - that everyone could relate to in one way or another..
DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Train a 55-minute waitOgas Cantina – Galaxy’s Edge not my first visit but Amy and Annabelle’s, - you need a reservation – ours was 1325 but still had to wait 10 minutes for a table. A local cantina, with exotic drinks and expensive prices, where bounty hunters, smugglers, rogue traders, and weary travelers of all ages come together to refuel, enjoy music, and conduct meetings—no questions asked. We were placed at high top – no stools or chairs – but they did get a highchair for Annabelle.
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld – Magic Kingdom – HGVC Seaworld
HGVC – Seaworld
DISNEY’S MAGIC KINGDOM
I got into the virtual queue for Tron at 0700. Now, we wait to receive an email with our time and we have to be in the actual queue within an hour of the time Disney gives us.
Mickey’s PhilharMagic – still a good show in 3D
 |
| Dumbo - The Flying Elephant |
 |
| Somebody really doesn't like It's A Small World |
 |
| Much happier on the Magic Carpets |
 |
| Caught by Wozowski '5 and three-quarters' |
Tron Light Cycle/Run – three of us got into the made a Virtual Queue reservation at 7 am – we got group #92 and were called to the ride at 4:40 pm. While we were in the queue Amy and Annabelle went on the rides below:
Buzz Lightyear
Tomorrow Land Transit Authority People Mover
Tuesday February 6, 2024
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld – Animal Kingdom – HGVC Seaworld
HGVC – Seaworld
 |
DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM
Annabelle signed up for the Junior Explorer program.
Tusker House - character dining – buffet – reservation 9:10 am – met Mickey, Donald, and Goofy
 |
| Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail always a good walk through. |
 |
| Kilimanjaro Safaris always pleasant |
 |
| Expedition Everest - Legend of the Forbidden Mountain Josie and I were on and off the ride in 20 minutes |
 |
| Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond a stage show - enjoyable |
 |
| Expedition Everest |
 |
| Feathered Friends in Flight a bird show |
It’s a Bug Life - 3D not my most favorite adventure, neither was it Annabelle's the 'cockroaches' exiting under your seat before you is not pleasant - neither is the stink bug - or whatever 'stings' you - but it's in the Tree of Lie e- something you just 'gotta' do
The Boneyard
Tricera Top Spin
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld – Magic Kingdom – HGVC Seaworld - EPCOT- HGVC Seaworld
HGVC – Seaworld
DISNEY’S MAGIC KINGDOM
Purchased a GENIE+ pass for all. The goal was to try to save some time . . . i.e. waiting in lines and be out of the park by 1:30 pm – for the most part Mission Accomplished. Purchased Genie+ Multiple Parks – the price is based on the most expensive park in the mix – M
agic Kingdom = $23 each +
tax. Peter Pan’s Flight – this ride always seems to have lines that exceed 50 minutes – we made a GENIE+ reservation for a time of 9:20 – However, it was 9:20 PM – we cancelled – made a reservation for Haunted Mansion and got in the 50 minute wait line – it only took 20 minutes. I guess we were lucky.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – since we had our next reservation at 10:20 and still had a hour to wait – we got in the 35 minute wait line for this ride.
On the way to Haunted Mansion, there was a Parade with Floats at 1030 – this was different than the 1430 Parade.
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| Haunted Mansion |
 |
| Haunted Mansion |
 |
| Haunted Mansion |
 |
| Jungle Cruise |
minute wait line – it took all of 75 minutes. This was our longest wait time for any ride we went on at Disney World.
Pirates of the Caribbean – this was our second GENIE+ ride – literally walked right on
Amu and Annabelle walked up and through the Swiss Family Treehouse.
Those were the five rides we wanted to get on. Each usually has a 1 hour wait time . We got them all done in about 4 hours. Back to HGVC SeaWorld and lunch by 1430
(Experimental Prototype Community Of Tomorrow)
Unfortunately, the GENIE+ could not be used for Frozen Ever After or Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. So we used it to get on GENIE+ Soarin’ Over California – saved a 35 minute wait. It’s usually longer.
The Seas with Nemo and Friends – literally walked right on
Princess Storybook Dining at Askerhus Royal Banquet Hall – expensive – but worth the smiles of little girls – served family style – all you can eat - a good meal of Lefse with cinnamon butter, Field greens with Lingonberry Vinaigrette, Traditional Kj0ttkake: Norwegian Meatballs, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Green Beans, Red Cabbage, Macaroni and Cheese, Norwegian Chicken and Dumplings, Corn Dog Nuggets, and Norwegian desserts. Visited by Belle, Princess Aurora, Tiana, Snow White and Ariel.
 |
| Snow White |
 |
| Belle |
Thursday February 8, 2024
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld – Orlando Airport - HGVC Seaworld
HGVC – Seaworld
Dropped off Kris and Josie at the airport by 0630 for a 0900 flight to Atlanta.
ESGR finalization of events/emails and phone calls for Freedom Award submissions and the upcoming Freedom Award “Gathering of Eagle’s” luncheon on February 16, 2024.
Pool Time/Nap Time
Bahama Breeze time . . . 50% off appetizers, $5 drinks, $3 tap beers
Friday February 9, 2024
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld – EPCOT- HGVC Seaworld
HGVC – Seaworld
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| EPCOT Map |
.jpg) |
| Frozen Ever After |
 |
| Frozen Ever After |
Prototype Community Of Tomorrow)
Frozen Ever After: Norway – a boat ride in Norway going through a frozen adventure the 55
minute wait was really about 25 minutes
Mulan: China
Biergarten Restaurant: Germany – brats and beer
 |
| Jasmine: Morocco |
 |
| Alice: United Kingdom |
 |
| The Hedgerow Maze in the United Kingdom |
Journey Into The Imagination With Figment – a tour of the Imagination Institute
Mission Space: Earth – NASA style training (Green Mission) for a ride around the Earth in space – Four people play Pilot, Commander, Engineer, Navigator –we made it safely on the X-2 Space Shuttle
 |
| Moana Journey of Water |
 |
| Moana Journey of Water |
Journey of Water; Inspired by Moana – a new interactive outdoor trail that explores the wonders of water – you can actually control the fountains with you hands – great summer ride – can cool you off
Pretty much saw most of EPCOT between today and Wednesday evening. Only missed Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind – still a virtual queue and not quite ready for little ones yet; Disney Pixar Film Festival; Test Track; Living With The Land; The American Adventure; and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure (lines as long as 90 minutes)
Dinner at Olive Garden – we were seated right way and the waiter was excellent/friendly
Saturday February 10, 2024
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld – Orlando Airport - HGVC Seaworld
HGVC – Seaworld checked out of a 2BR (Room 4404) at 1000; received text indicating a 1BR (Room 5607) was ready at 1258. A 1 BR – seems a little larger, especially the LR, than last week’s suite without the 2nd BR. Layout is opposite of last week i.e. my room and bath is on the left, no lock-off. Grounds and service staff seem to be more friendly than those behind the desk.
PC running out of memory – deleted a bunch of old files and called the Help Desk in Caledonia – moved some pictures to the ‘cloud’
Noon Mass at Our Lady of the Universe Basilica
Rested - worked a little on editing and labeling the pictures from last week.
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0707 Orlando, FL 68
degrees at 0600, partly cloudy High of
82 Sunset: 1812 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld
HGVC – Seaworld Fitness Center is now open 24 hours, used to be only open 0700 to 2200 - 30 pushups, 30 crunches, 1.0 mile
Disney Springs – Chase ATM – somehow, I thought 10 o’clock Mass was at 9 o’clock – so I went to Disney Springs to find a Chase ATM. Disney Springs doesn’t open until 9 am. I parked in the Lime Garage and was literally the first in line to get in. It was only a minute wait - found the ATM thanks to a grounds worker from Turkey.
1000 Mass at Our Lady of the Universe – the 8 person choir is always a pleasure to listen to. They did acapella pieces as a prelude, offertory and after communion. Gospel about the leper Jesus cures and then He tells him not tell anyone of the cure but go to the synagogue and offer a sacrifice of thanks according to the Law of Moses – of course the leper tells everyone – and Jesus has to hide and cannot enter the city.
An afternoon by the pool, in the sun, a singer guitarist for entertainment 2-5 pm.
SUPER BOWL LVIII
49’ers 22 - Chiefs 25
WON IN OVERTIME
Monday February 12, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0706 Orlando, FL 68
degrees and cloudy at 0600, Forecast
High of 83 Sunset: 1813 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld
LINCOLN’S BIRTHDAY traditional
HGVC – Seaworld Fitness Center – 30 pushups, 30 crunches 1.25 miles on treadmill
9 am Mass at Our Lady Queen of the Universe Gospel reading from Mark - the Pharisees tested him and wanted a sign – He answers ‘no sign will be given . . . and went off to the other shore’
Disney Springs – Photo Pass – Stitch and ideas for gifts Christmas B-Days – couldn’t find Rapunzel Art – Princesses Anna/Elsa tiara-scepter set
I found a silhouette cut-out shop adjacent to Photo Pass, as well as a portrait studio. Wish I would have known that last week.
ESGR Freedom Award Alumni Luncheon - Microsoft Teams Meeting at 1 pm
Cloudy all day but the sun did come out for about an hour between 3 and 4
Went to Wal-Mart for Newman’s sockarooni sauce but forgot a small can of mushrooms. Tried to locate Chad’s rental place, 8033 Dreamsicle Dr, Kissimmee, FL – unable to locate – my car GPS didn’t have the roads that Google Maps did and I still couldn’t locate it – off Inspiration Dr south of Irlo Bronson Dr. Stopped by Harley-Davidson and got a shirt for Dan – 30% off the price at the price.
Stopped by Mystic Dunes and made a tee time for tomorrow.
Serra Programs Committee Zoom Meeting at 8 pm – I reviewed the powerpoint – I think this is going to be a repeat of what ws presented at the Serra Rally in Miami.
Tuesday February 13, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0705 Orlando, FL 62
degrees partly cloudy at 0600 F High of
69 Sunset: 1814 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld
HGVC – Seaworld - Housekeeping
 |
| Entrance |
 |
| Sand and Waste Traps so large that golfers leave their balls in the sand |
Mystic Dunes Golf Club is a 4.5 star rated par 72 public golf course. It offers two distinctly different but challenging nines. 8 am tee time.
 |
| Mystic Dunes #11 Par 3 from #12 tee |
This course is still under repair ($800,000) and more to come. Mystic Dunes – not much water but a lot of sand – to the right – to the left – not much near the greens. However, the sand may be the only place on the course that is level – everything else slopes – perhaps that ‘s why the greens don’t need much protection i.e. they are fast with hardly a flat surface anywhere. If the flag is in the middle of the green rest assured that from the hole it slopes front, back, right and left.
Tee Par Yardage Rating Slope
Black 71 7,012 75 145
Blue 71 6,574 73 136
White 71 5,893 69.4 127
Gold 71 5,332 67 121
Gold (W) 71 5,332 71.3 123
Red(W) 71 4,665 67.3 118
After golf drove down to see
where Chad will be staying (8033 Dreamsicle Dr, Kissimmee). Inspiration Dr toward Margaritaville Resort – ran into a key card gate but I
think I was within a few hundred yards of the home.
Drove to Old Town – 5770 W Irlo Bronson Pkwy - four blocks of shopping, dining, rides and more! Family-friendly but don’t look for name brand or chain stores – these are entrepreneurs. Did find some unique ornaments for Christmas.
Dinner with friends at Benihana’s on International Dr by Blue Green’s The Fountains. It was a good evening - probably haven't eaten at a Japanese steak House for over 20 years.
Wednesday February 14, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0704 Orlando, FL 50
degrees at 0600 and clear High of 72 clear
and sunny in the afternoon Sunset: 1614 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld
HGVC – Seaworld
VALENTINES DAY
ASH WEDNESDAY Mass at 9 am Our Lady of the Universe Basilica - ‘now is the appropriate time’ ‘harden not your hearts’ – about 300 people in church
HGVC Owner’s Update – Parc Du Soleil at noon - the only reason I signed up for this was a $150 Visa Gift Card. Changed it to today for another $25. So I got a $175 gift card. Already endured 2 ‘timeshare’ presentations – no worse for the wear – I finally got a respectable time share salesman. He explained HGVMax and the differences . . . I actually learned some things and told him he was the first in years to actually be of assistance. Ed Azpiri. I liked this guy and I was out of there in time to make my 20m ESGR ZOOM meeting.
HGVMax consists of
HGVC of which I am a member – issues deeds pts xchg 16:1 for HH pts Some how the term ELITE+ was replaced by PREFERRED+ i.e.22,000pts and up with something about 20%
Hilton
Vacation Club which was Blue Diamond – your part of a trust
Hilton
Club – high end exclusive pts xchg 32:1 for HH pts
Hilton yet to be
named – Blue Green Vacations
-Also found out that Hilton’s web page HGVHub has cruise vacations and will meet and beat an advertised price. He indicated the Celebrity has single bed rates i.e. they don't charge for double occupancy – he worked for Disney Cruise and said that the double occupancy basically pays for the ship and crew -
-Additionally, found that if I use open season I can get
more for the points
-And . . . 3 guest
certificates i.e. no $90 pay for reservations when I do not go with and if I don’t
use these there is also some benefit
I’ve been missing a lot of what is offered . . . . . and I think there is more
Something about VIP – still not sure what that is all about
Of course, the offer was to get me to PREMIER 38,000 pts with something about 30%. Selling me to ELARA indicating that I was maxed out at HGVC Las Palmeras
ESGR Ombudsman Sustainment Training at 1400 I just enjoy listening to these guys tell their war stories – and there was some learning/review – Ombudsmen are FACILITATORS – not Mediators or Arbitrators. Few cases are submitted to DOL/DOJ. As facilitator if an understanding cannot be reached between an employer and employee/service member, the facilitator cannot take sides but suggest that the next step is file a complaint with DOL or hire a private attorney.
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld
A turn down day – laid back – worked on the stations, prepared for ESGR EXCOM Meeting, reviewed taxes. Thinking about a Shutterfly book of the Disney Vacation. Left time to opine.
DC – the District of Confusion
Recent article on the web about the Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall unveiled a plan to reorient the service so it can prevail in future conflicts with China. The plan includes 24 decisions aimed at maintaining the nation’s superiority in the air and space domains for years to come.
Kendall outlined 4 Goals for the Air Force:
Kendall said the reorientation is driven by urgency to address America’s pacing challenge: China. "Ladies and gentlemen, we are out of time, we are out of time, we are out of time," he said.
And . . . .National Guard Bureau Chief Gen Daniel Hokanson,says anyone who attacks the nation's service members will face "punishment" for their actions. Hokanson’s remarks follow a January 28 attack from an unmanned aerial system that wounded at least 41 Army Guardsmen in northeast Jordan. He also cited the changing threat landscape worldwide as proof of the Guard’s crucial role helping defend the nation. "With an aggressive China asserting influence in the Indo-Pacific and around the globe, a belligerent Russia invading a peaceful neighbor, North Korea developing long-range offensive weapons and numerous violent, non-state actors in the Middle East and beyond, the mission of the National Guard and the capabilities we bring to the fight have never been more important." No longer referring to China as a near term competitor, aggressive China, belligerent Russia – the Air Force doesn’t mince words. They are the ENEMY.
ESGR EXCOM ZOOM Meeting at 5 pm
Friday February 16, 2024
sailor take warning’ looks like rain for the weekend-Forecast High of 78
 |
| Our Lady of the Universe Chapel |
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld
HGVC – Seaworld
9 am Mass at Our Lady of the Universe – held in the chapel.
DISNEY SPRINGS shopping for Stitch, socks, mug, princesses – birthdays and Christmas gifts. Used all of the $175 Gift card form HGVC plus a little more.
 |
| I've never felt this way or thrown a club but Grumpy's cute |
Tee Par Yardage Rating Slope
 |
| Lake Buena Vista #7 Par 3 |
Blue 72 6,745 72.3 133
Red 72 5,177 69.7 119
Saturday February 17, 2024
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld
HGVC – Seaworld
Another day of nothing planned – downloaded pictures from Disney Photo Pass – reviewed taxes - packed for the next move tomorrow - redid Stations again. OK it rained all afternoon.
Sunday February 18, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0701 Orlando, FL 58 degrees and raining at 0600 Forecast High of 60 – rained all day Sunset: 1817 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld – Out Lady of the Universe – HGVC Seaworld – Ybor City – Disney Springs – HGVC Seaworld. I-4 is just terrible to drive on – traffic jams. Maybe in spots it needs to be 4 or 5 lanes. I’m not going to hold my breath – it’ll take 10 years to complete something like that.
HGVC – Seaworld Checked out of the 1BR and into a Studio for 4 nights. New thermostat that lights up the night (literally) it’s distracting. I heard a woman at the desk asking for a dark plastic bag to put over it – yes it is that bright. I put two washcloths over it. I also must have failed the test on how to operate it. I’m in Bldg 9, 1st floor, right across from the elevator. WIFI – SLOW – must still be on the old system – I’m in Building 9, second from the end, 1st floor, edge of the property.
0800 Mass at Our Lady of the Universe – 40 days in the desert, living with the wild beasts and ministered by angels.
Lunch at the Columbia Restaurant (Florida’s oldest restaurant – Spanish food – 2117 E 7th Ave, Ybor City (Tampa), FL 1 1 ½ hour 70 mile drive) with an old friend that I haven’t seen since the late 70’s. Jon Pinch. I’ve known Jon since HS – he was a ham radio operator – met him and others through Jon Reise/Rick Wyrwas – invited him to join the Music Slyde – playing sax – moved south in the late 70’s – haven’t seen him since then. A good reconnection.
Margaritaville Resort – met up with Chad & Sara. Dinner at Miller’s Pub on Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway (US 192).
Monday February 19, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0700 Orlando, FL 53
degrees at 0500 cloudy, Forecast high of 65 and sunny by late afternoon. Sunset: 1818 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld – Margaritaville – Sara dropped us off at Magic Kingdom – picked us up at EPCOT – Margaritaville – HGVC Seaworld
HGVC – Seaworld - Studio
DAYTONA 500 the kickoff of the NASCAR season – was rescheduled to 3 pm this afternoon because of rain all across Florida yesterday
PRESIDENTS
DAY – a federal holiday
DISNEY’S MAGIC KINGDOM
Met at the Town Square Theater – gave us name tags and hearing devices to hear the guide constant narration – took our order for Harbour House – lots of choices. PICTURES NOT ALLOWED ON THE TOUR pic of our guide after the tour
Main Street – is actually a role of credits, like in a film, where the Producer
is listed first - Roy
Disney is the statue
in the Town Square with Mickey – the second story windows are a list/history of
the people who developed Walt Disney World – the last building has the Director - Walt Disney.
A very interesting history.
Jungle Cruise – we bypassed the 65 minute wait line to get on our own boat
BACKSTAGE - Disney
Festival of Fantasy Parade
Lunch at Harbour House
Haunted Mansion – we bypassed the wait and sent in through a door off the exit
BACKSTAGE - Tour of the underground “Utilidor” tunnels that allow
people and supplies to travel beneath the park unseen. The Guest-accessible areas of Magic Kingdom Park are actually on the
second floor of a massive structure. The "tunnel" below, known as the
Utilidor, allows Cast Members, deliveries and even
rubbish to be unknowingly transported below Guests’ feet as they wait in line
for their favorite attractions. The “Utilidor” was
built first and Magic Kingdom on top of it.
EPCOT – took the monorail, listened to the rock group playing in Great Britain, had a glass of Harp and purchased a print of Rapunzel featured during the International Festival of the Arts.
Dinner at Chad & Sara’s.
Tuesday February 20, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0659 Orlando, FL 46 degrees at 0600, clear/sunny Forecast High of 66 Sunset:
1819 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld - HIVC Orange Lake – Bahama Breeze – HGVC Seaworld
HGVC – Seaworld - Studio
HIVC Orange Lake – lunch at Breezes
Restaurant & Bar – I had $59.99
left on a gift card from listening to the HIVC owners update that had to be
spent on the property.
Dinner at Bahama Breeze on Vineland – Happy Hour 4-6 pm, then on to Ford’s Garage which was very busy – I still don’t see the lure of this place..
Wednesday February 21, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0658 Orlando, FL 49
degrees clear and sunny, Forecast high of 66 at KSC Sunset:
1819 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld – Kennedy Space Center -
HGVC – Seaworld -Studio Chad met me at HGVC Seaworld and drove me to Kennedy Space Center. My second visit here. I bought a ticket for him as a Christmas present. Sara did not want to join us.
Kennedy Space Center,
one of 10 NASA field centers, is a premier multiuser spaceport with more than 90 private-sector partners and nearly 250 partnership agreements. The presence of commercial companies at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center is larger than ever before, enabling us to embark on a new era of space exploration. Although Kennedy is the agency’s main launch site, the center also is home to facilities that research and develop innovative solutions that government and commercial space ventures need for working and living on the surfaces of the Moon and other bodies in our solar system.Thursday February 22, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0657 EST Orlando, FL
48 degrees and clear at 0400 -got
as low as 38 when traveling through parts of north central Florida-light shower
when I got near Nashville Sunset: 1734 CST Smyrna, TN
TRAVEL: HGVC-Seaworld
– Stones River National Battlefield - Hilton Hampton Inn, Smyrna, TN 669 miles in about 10.2 hours avg
speed 65 mph; @24.5 mpg
The windshield that I had replaced on 1/29 developed a crack from the center working it’s way up and toward the passenger side – eventually a stone in TN north of Nashville on 2/23 caused another nick in the glass – upper passenger side. Made an appointment to have it replaced in Kenosha on Monday.
WASHINGTON’S BIRTHDAY Traditional
198 STONES RIVER NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD, 1563 N Thompson Ln, Murfreesboro, TN When I got near Nashville it started to drizzle, Stones River was literally 3 miles off the Interstate and about 10 miles from the Hampton Inn I was going to stay at. So, I visited for about an hour and a half. Not my first visit, nor my last. I was here with the Chicago Roundtable in May of 2015. I’ll let the pictures tell the short story.
 |
| Stones River map |
HAMPTON INN, 2573 Highwood Blvd, Smyrna, TN WIFI Works.
Friday February 23, 2024
WEATHER: 26 degrees and snow
flurries when I reached Burlington
TRAVEL: Smyrna, TN – Burlington, WI
562 miles – 11 hours and 13 minutes I got home around 1730
and the trip took me an extra 1 ½ to 2 hours - A comedy of errors – NEVER RELY
ON JEEP’s GPS – I ended up passing Chicago’s Midway airport along IL 50 and
eventually went through the LOOP – a lot of bad decisions
Saturday February 24, 2024
TRAVEL: Burlington - Mead Hotel, Wisconsin Rapids
St. Barbara Day Celebration
Sponsored by the 1st Battalion 120TH Field Artillery Regiment, Wisconsin Army National Guard. There were hundreds of pictureS taken by a photographer, Here are just a few . . . a good time was held by all
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| The National Anthem |
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| Sarah & Colonel Paul Gapinski |
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| COL (Ret) Ron Luebke, SFC (Ret) Jim Hass, COL (Ret) Dave Gapinski, COL (Ret) Larry Kaplan, COL Paul Gapinski |
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| 57th Field Artillery Brigade Commanders All Wearing the Ancient Order of St. Barbara Award |
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| 105 Eagle Ct 2BR 2 Bath Condo with Kitchen |
WEATHER: 54 degrees at 5:30 am - cloudy
TRAVEL: Burlington, WI – CrossvIlle, TN 588 miles in about 10 hours with a stop for lunch at Cave City and gas just south of Louisville
Sunday
April 14, 2024
WEATHER: Burlington,
WI – Crossville, TN – forecast high of 77
TRAVEL: Dorchester Golf Club
DORCHESTER GOLF CLUB 53/51
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| Steve Hart's score was most under average |
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| Dorchester #1 from the White Tees - more water in front of the hole below the hill |
There were only 5 skins on 18 holes. Wayne and I won two - $14 each on the back nine. This is where the money was supposed to be won – However – after $80 paid for the 4 closest to the pin on par 3’s and 4 longest putts on par 5 and $80 for the 1st place/$40 for the 2nd place time there wasn’t much left. Only 6 skins for the 18 holes. I was part of the 2 man team that won 2 of the 6 on the back nine. Roughly $7 per member for a skin – which means there was only $84 in the pot for skins. I won $14 for the 2 skins along with Wayne whose was my partner.
The BIG MONEY is in the Scramble. 7 Under won – second place was 5 under; my team came in third with 3 under.
Dinner was spaghetti with garlic bread in the condo.
Monday April 15, 2024
WEATHER: 57 degrees at 6 am; forecast high of 79 partly cloudy/mostly sunny
TRAVEL: Druid Hills Golf Club
DRUID HILLS GOLF CLUB 51/55 435 Lakeview Dr Fairview Glade, TN
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| Jerry Romanowski was most under average |
Only 4 skins – I didn’t win any. Jerry shot a 39/34 OUTSTANDING.
3 man scramble – I believe better than yesterday. One Under won and there was a 3 way tie at EVEN for second; one team was one over. Won $8 for on the scramble.
WEATHER: cloudy and 61 and 6 am
TRAVEL: Stonehenge Golf Club
STONEHENGE
GOLF CLUB 54/57
17 putts on the front nine; 25 on the back nine – Won $4 on
skins Refunded $22 from the pot for not playing on Saturday
Wednesday
April 17, 2024
TRAVEL: Dorchester Golf Club
DORCHESTER
GOLF CLUB 54/56
Lots of sand today – but satisfied with the distance of the ball – too often pulled the ball right - no lost balls – the sand added the strokes – no 3 putts -
Dublin Crossing for dinner – only Jerry, Steve, Greg, Kurt,
Dave P and me. Jerry and Steve each
bought a round, Dave Prill bought the dinner and remaining rounds. Won $4 on one
skin where I got a par on a par 3.
Thursday
April 18, 2024
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| Heatherhurst Crag #17 from the White tee |
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| Jerry got his first hole in one here during the scramble |
WEATHER: 60 degrees at 6 am, partly cloudy forecast calls for high of 80 and clear
TRAVEL: Heatherhurst - Crag
HEATHERHURST GOLF CLUB – CRAG COURSE 54/45
My best score of the week – everybody did well – i.e. all
shot under their average
Friday April 19, 2024
WEATHER: 62 degrees
at 6 am ; high of 68 – clear to partly cloudy to cloudy – NO RAIN
TRAVEL: Heatherhurst Brae
HEATHERHURST GOLF CLUB – BRAE COURSE 58/58
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| Heatherhurst Brae #10 not the same as the resort picture, is it? |
CART PATH ONLY
I won no money . . . it was my worst score of the week – the ‘cart path only’ didn’t help my disposition. Kurt brought spaghetti and sauce for all . . . salad and garlic bread complimented the main dish
WEATHER: 44 degrees and a
thunderstorm at 6 am; drizzle at 8 am forecast high of 61 in Crosssville
TRAVEL: Crossville, TN – Manhattan Project National Historic Park, Oak Ridge, TN – Hampton Inn, Knoxville East, TN
in the 40’s with some wind but the sun started to break
through by 9:30 am. I got some gas, went
back to the room, worked on the computer for about 35 minutes and decided to
head to Oak Ridge. On the way I stopped at McDonald’s – couldn’t
find my McDonald’s card – so I reached for my credit card – no
wallet in my pocket. Figured I had left it on the dining room
table in the condo – so I drove back.
And now for the rest of the story – I got back to the condo
a little after 10 am and I was locked out – the code must have expired at 10 am – I
called the agent twice and got an ‘after hours’ operator – after 50 minutes the
agent called and I got back in the condo – went to the table – no
wallet!
Mildly upset – but not panicky – I planned how to proceed with a another week on the road without an ID or cash . . . I looked under the ‘cab caddie’ in the jeep – there was my wallet – don’t know how it got there . . . just a thank you to St. Anthony . . . got ‘on the road again’ about 11:10 am.
395 MANHATTEN PROJECT NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK 461 W. Outer Dr, Oak Ridge, TN
I visited the Manhatten Project National Historic Park site in Hanford, WA on August 6, 2017. It was a half day tour and very informative. Not sure why I didn’t visit Oak Ridge or Los Alamos – might have been out of the way or the NPS did not do a very good job of promoting it on their web site.
The Oak Ridge Visitor Center is located within the Children's Museum of Oak Ridge. It’s a children’s museum and the only thing it has to do with Oak Ridge is that it was an elementary school during the 40’s. There a volunteer – no film and a kids NPS Store. The volunteer was a retired nuclear engineer who worked at Oak Ridge. There was no film. There was some literature.
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BOTTOM LINE most of the original Oak Ridge
is gone – there more than a few museums
(all charge admission). There is some literature
on Manhattan Project-related historic sites throughout Oak Ridge. Visitor
Center services are limited on Sundays, but brochures, maps, and site films are
said to be available. Saturday OPEN 10am
– 4pm
The Manhattan Project was an unprecedented, top-secret World War II government program in which the United States rushed to develop and deploy the world’s first atomic weapons before Nazi Germany. The use of these weapons by the United States against Japan in August 1945 ultimately became one of the most important historical events of the 20th century. The project ushered in the nuclear age and left enduring legacies that echo all around us today. The Manhattan Project took shape at three primary locations across the country: Hanford, Washington; Los Alamos, New Mexico; and Oak Ridge, Tennessee.
Three
centers of operation:
The US Army Corps of
Engineers began a nation-wide search for three rural sites that each met a
distinct list of criteria. The federal government then used eminent domain
authorities in the Second War Powers Act of 1942 to acquire the sites, which
displaced Tribes, farming communities, and homesteaders. Some only had 30 days
to leave and were minimally compensated for their homes. Native Americans were
also displaced and lost access to their traditional homelands and subsistence
areas. The three sites were: Oak
Ridge, TN; Hanford, WA, Los
Alamos, NM
A massive industrial complex was built at Oak Ridge, Tennessee, to
enrich uranium and eventually serve as the headquarters of the nationwide
project. Three separate uranium enrichment technologies were pursued in parallel. A pilot
reactor and chemical separation plant were also constructed at Oak Ridge to
produce a limited amount of plutonium.
The Manhattan Project was a highly significant chapter in
America’s history that ushered in the nuclear age, determined how the next war,
the Cold War, would be fought, and served as the organizational model behind
the remarkable achievements of American "big science" during the
second half of the twentieth century. The project helped develop three
communities—Hanford (the Tri-Cities), Los Alamos, and Oak
Ridge—that are thriving today and are now part of the Manhattan Project
National Historical Park.
The Manhattan Project also raised ethical and moral
questions among scientists and citizens alike—questions that continue to this
day. More than 200,000 people died by the end of 1945 as a direct result of the
atomic bombings. The advance of nuclear science has given rise nuclear energy
and medicine as well as radioactive waste and health problems. The Manhattan
Project and its legacies are complex as the science that made the project
possible.
HAMPTON INN, Morristown, TN – under renovation, rooms large – fairly
clean – little furniture, rugs need to be replaced – towels are worn thin
Pictures of the golf scores
were sent to me. I entered them on a
spreadsheet and calculated the ‘skins’ based on handicaps. Sent them back to guys still in Crossville,
TN. Checked for a local Catholic Church – found St.
Patrick’s about a mile down the road, with a 5 pm mass. I got there at 5 pm CDT – I’m in the EDT zone
– the people were leaving church.
Changed my watch to EDT and found my McDonald’s card in my back
pocket.
Sunday
April 21, 2024
WEATHER: 53 degrees and raining at 4 am – forecast high of 58 and cloudy for Morristown, TN – high of 58 and partly sunny forecast for Williamsburg, VA NEVER HAPPENED RAINED ALAMOST ALL DAY through the Appalachians, through the Shenandoah Valley and the rest of the journey to Williamsburg. Never got above 50 degrees.
TRAVEL:
Hampton Inn, Morristown, TN - Richmond National Battlefield
– HGVC Historic Powhatan Resort, Williamsburg,
VA
135 RICHMOND NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD PARK
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Richmond, Virginia, which served as the capital of the Confederate States of America for most of the war. The park connects certain features within the city with defensive fortifications and battle sites around it. Not my first visit to any of these sites. I’ll visit only a few – Visitor Centers are closed Monday and Tuesday.
“On to Richmond”
Richmond was the center of Confederate
manufacturing and it fueled a modern war, one of the South’s largest hospitals
gave care to the sick and wounded, and armies battled on open fields and in
miles of defensive earthworks. From 1861 to 1865, Richmond’s fate would
determine America’s future.
The Peninsula Campaign, a massive Federal
Operation against Richmond began in March 1862 and ended five months
later. General George B. McClellan landed
his troops on the tip of Virginia’s
southeastern peninsula, then pushed slowly toward the capital.
1862 SEVEN DAYS BATTLES (some excerpts below from National Battlefield
Trust; other NPS)
Robert E.
Lee makes a spectacular entrance onto the Civil War's main stage and in less
than a week, later termed the Seven Days Battles, the Federal war effort is set
back almost a year.
By late afternoon on May 31, 1862, the tens of thousands of sweat-soaked, powder-grimed, battle-deafened men near the rural crossroads of Seven Pines, Virginia, might well have wondered if the sun would ever go down. They had fought for hours, wet to the knees in flooded fields or blinded or blocked by dense thickets. It had been one of the bloodiest and more brutal days in American history to that point.
Late in the day, Confederate army commander General Joseph E. Johnston went forward to gain a better sense of events. Johnston commanded the Southern army in the field near Seven Pines, east of Richmond, Virginia, the Confederate capital. He had that day attacked a much larger Federal army attempting to capture the city. It had been a bold move, but Johnston sat on his horse calmly that afternoon near Fair Oaks Station listening both to reports from officers and to bullets as they buzzed by him. Johnston turned to admonish a subordinate for ducking in unmanly fashion and, a moment later, he felt a bullet hit his shoulder. Johnston stoically bore the pain, but seconds later shell fragments from a bursting artillery round tore into his chest and leg and knocked him from his mount. In agony and uncertain of whether he would live or die, the army commander was laid in an ambulance and started for the capital.
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| Cchickahominy Bluff |
In that darkest of hours of the aspiring Confederate nation, Jefferson Davis was fortunate to have at his disposal a dignified and unassuming Virginian who, during nearly 30 years of service in the Old Army, had earned the respect of his colleagues as much for his demeanor as for his excellence as a soldier and engineer. General Robert E. Lee was one of the highest-ranking generals in a Confederate uniform; however, he had never commanded an army in the field and most of his assignments in the first year of the war had ended inauspiciously. On the night of May 31, 1862, Jefferson Davis rode with the general westward from the battlefield to Richmond. The conversation between the two mounted men was not recorded, but when Davis uttered the words that placed Lee in command of the army he changed American history forever.
CHICKAHOMINY BLUFF
– is a site developed by the NPS. It was
the outer Confederate line defending Richmond.
The bluff offered a view of Mechanicsville and the Chickahominy
River valley. Within sight of the earthworks here, General Robert E. Lee
witnessed the Battle of Beaver Dam Creek on June 26, 1862.
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| Battle of Beaver Dam Creek |
lies here in the valley of Beaver Dam Creek. The June 26, 1862 attack by the Confederates was met by Federal artillery and infantry that stopped Lee’s attack all along the line. The Confederate battle plan called for a decisive maneuver by Gen. Stonewall Jackson’s command. Lee expected Jackson’s force to effect a turning movement, getting above and behind the Union army.
The inevitable variables of military
operations crippled the Confederate plan.
Jackson’s men did not arrive as
early as anticipated. A.P. Hill initiated
a crossing of the Chickahominy
at Meadow Bridge anyway. His
unexpected move triggered the Confederate offensive and started the Seven Days Battles.
Darkness signaled the end of the
battle. No Confederate had reached the
Union line. Lee’s army suffered 1400 casualties,
the Union only 350. A Union victory, yet
the arrival of Jackson late in the day forced the Union troops into retreat.
Most of the battlefield has been lost to
development but NPS protects about 365 acres along the lower section of the
Chickahominy.
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| Battle of Gaines' Mill |
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| Battle of Gaines' Mill |
attacked the Federal line repeatedly along Boatswain Creek, about one mile from the mill. By nightfall, both armies had suffered over 15,000 casualties in the heaviest fighting of the Seven Days Battles.
McClellan deployed Fitz-John Porter’s V
Corps across an arc of 1 ½ miles with
its back to the swampy Chickahominy River, while the rest of the Union army
withdrew to the James River.
Porter had little hope, with about 34,000
men to face Lee’s 60,000 Confederates. The
Union infantry made full use of the terrain and enjoyed abundant fields of
fire. Abundant artillery helped Porter’s
men survive until darkness set in.
With less than an hour before sunset, Lee made
a final attack and broke Porter’s line in two places but insufficient daylight remained
to overwhelm the beaten Federal force.
Darkness allowed Porter’s men to cross the
Chickahominy and rejoin the army. Porter
suffered 6,000 casualties, while the Confederates had 9,000.
I’ve been to all these
places in the past and will try to find Savages Station
– White Oak Swamp – Glendale (Frayser’s Farm) – Malvern Hill and Drewry’s Bluff tomorrow.
Stopped at the COLD HARBOR Visitor Center
it was CLOSED.
Drove the road showing the Federal and Confederate lines.
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| St. Bede's |
across the road from the Powhaten. A large church with a large campus. A church in the round. About 300 people at mass – Good Shepherd Sunday – the church could easily hold 500 perhaps 600 people. Presided by a priest with a Deacon who gave the sermon (soft spoken – no reference to the readings or the National Day of Prayer for Vocations) – 4 high school age altar boys – a young choir – eight communion stations – it took forever for the priest to purify all the communion vessels.
WEATHER: pleasant low in the 40’s high in the mid-60’s
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30 JUNE 1862 – BATTLE OF GLENDALE (FRAYSER”S FARM) – Federal troops protected the vital crossroads near old Frayser Farm, Glendale, while McClellan’s army retreated toward Malvern Hill. Confederate forces repeatedly attacked the position but failed to carry it. Perhaps, a lost opportunity for the Confederates. All of the Union army had to go through these crossroads, northeast of White Oak Swamp, in order to reach the James River.
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| Malvern Hill |
1 JULY 1861 – BATTLE OF MALVERN HILL – A federal victory. This battle ended the Seven Days Battles. The Federal defensive line was a line of cannon and troops positioned on the crest of a gently sloping hill. The position’s strength was in its fields of fire. The massed artillery and infantry shattered the ranks of the attacking Confederates.
Here Lee and Longstreet devised a plan where Confederate artillery would shatter the union artillery and allow the infantry to seize the hill. Like the future battle of Gettysburg the plan did not work.
Additionally, poor Confederate Command & Control – piecemeal attacks – where 20 separate Confederate Brigades crossed the hill and were never able to stay on the crest. The Confederates suffered 5,000 casualties to the Union’s 3,000.
The battle ended at dark.
Malvern Hill is probably the best preserved Civil War battlefield in central
or southern Virginia.
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| My second visit to this location and still did not walk the 1 mile trail to the James River. The first visit was because it was raining, this visit - not enough time |
15 MAY
1862 - DREWRY’S BLUFF – Five Federal ships including the
Monitor, were turned
back at Drewry’s Bluff on the James River. The successful defense prevented Richmond from being shelled early in
the war. The presence of the fort was a
deterrent to other Federal naval forays up the James River.
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| Fort Brady |
DEFENSIVE FORTS
FORT BRADY – a well-preserved fortification on the James River, was built by Union engineers after the battles of late September, 1864. It kept Confederate gunboats bottled up to the north, and anchored the Union line that extended to Fort Harrison and beyond..
BATTERY
IV - a
Union fortification constructed after the battles of September, 1864. It was
one of four batteries connecting Fort Harrison (renamed Fort
Burnham by that time) with Fort Brady to the
south, and was designed for 200 defenders and up to eight guns.
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| Fort Hoke |
FORT HOKE – After capturing Fort Harrison on September 29, 1864, Union General Edward O.C. Ord directed an attack southward down the Confederate line toward Forts Hoke and Maury. If these Confederate defenses fell, the direct road to Richmond along the Osborne Turnpike would be open to Union troops. Ord fell wounded almost immediately. Several hours later his men overwhelmed the Confederate defenders and captured Fort Hoke.
Union victory was short-lived. Before dark a strong Confederate force advanced, but found the Federal troops already abandoning their recent conquest. Ord’s men had received orders to withdraw back to Fort Harrison. Within days Fort Hoke became a southern anchor of a new Confederate defensive line stretching north to Fort Johnson.
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| Fort Harrison |
FORT HARRISON - was key to General Butler's plan of attack. It represented the strongest
oint on the Confederate line of defenses. From it, one could see all the way to the James River. However, in 1864 most of the Confederate forces were in Petersburg and here the Confederate defenders numbered barely 200. Their guns were mostly so poor as to be scorned by the main field artillery. The Union attack pierced the fort quickly, with relatively few casualties. Had the Union attacks on the rest of the Confederate line succeeded as well as at New Market Heights and Fort Harrison, the overall military significance would have been greater.
On September 30, Robert E. Lee personally organized a major effort to recapture the lost fort. His attack also lacked coordination, and the well prepared Union defenders-some of them armed with multiple shot weapons crushed the Confederate effort and inflicted great loss on the attackers. The victors abolished the Confederate title for the fort and renamed it Fort Burnham after the Union general killed in the attack of September 29
136 PETERSBURG NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD
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| Petersburg 1st Offensive - The Opening Assaults |
miles south of Richmond, Virginia. The park encompasses a large area with battlefield sites and visitor centers located in Dinwiddie, Hopewell and Prince George Counties.
The park commemorates the nine and one-half month siege of this city from June 1864 - April 1865. A driving tour of the battlefields outlined on the park map includes 13 separate sites with three visitor centers along a 33 mile route. A full day is required to experience the entire battlefield park.
The Eastern Front Visitor Center offers exhibits and audio-visual programs that introduce the story of the siege and its place and impact on the course of the Civil War. Park staff will answer questions and provide information to help you make the best use of your time. At Grant's Headquarters at City Point you will learn about the Union's massive supply base and large field hospital operation. Also explore the story of the Appomattox plantation, the Eppes family and the enslaved people who were here before the war's arrival.
On the western end of the tour route is Five Forks Battlefield where Gen. Sheridan's victory over Gen. Pickett's forces ensured the collapse of Petersburg and Richmond.
Out From the Trenches
The Union siege lines around Petersburg were extended in a series of offensives launched westward around the city toward the South Side Railroad. In a methodical approach, Gen. Grant would use superior numbers to attack or threaten the Richmond defenses first and then send massed troops from the trenches around Petersburg out to attack the Confederate positions defending the southern and western approaches to the city.
If the Union forces were victorious in a battle resulting from one of these offensives or if the Confederates had stopped them but had not swept them from the field, the Union army would start digging in right there and extend their existing trench lines to connect with the new fort they were now building. As trenches were extended so was the Military Railroad which would be situated in the rear behind the Federal lines and forts.
If taken chronologically, one can see, with a few exceptions, that each battle occurred further west each time until the breaking point at Five Forks on April 1, 1865. These "above ground" battles punctuated the grueling and harsh routine of trench warfare at Petersburg and were the places where most of the 70,000 soldiers became casualties in the last ten months of the war.
Major Engagements 1864
The Opening Assaults June 15-18, 1864
Jerusalem Plank Rd June 22, 1864
Battle of the Crater July 30, 1864
Weldon Railroad August 18 - 21, 1864
Reams Station August 25, 1864
Peebles Farm September 30 - October 2, 1864
Burgess Mill October 27,1864
1865
Hatcher's Run February 5-6, 1865
Fort Stedman March 25, 1865
Lewis Farm March 29, 1865
White Oak Road March 30 - 31, 1865
Five Forks April 1, 1865
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| 3rd Offensive Battle of the Crater |
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| 4th Offensive - Weldon Railroad |
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| 5th Offensive Battle of Peebles Farm |
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| Battle of Fort Stedman |
WEATHER: 45 at 6 am high of 70 - cloudy to partly sunny
On May 27, 1862 elements of Brig. Gen. Fitz John Porter's V Corps extended north to the right flank of Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan's Union Army of the Potomac. Porter's objective was to deal with a Confederate force near Hanover Court House, which threatened the avenue of approach for Union reinforcements that were marching south from Fredericksburg. The smaller Confederate force, under Colonel Lawrence O'Bryan Branch, was defeated at Peake's Crossing after a disorganized fight.
The Union victory was moot, however, since the Union reinforcements were recalled to Fredericksburg upon word of Maj. Gen. Nathaniel P. Banks's rout in the Shenandoah Valley at the First Battle of Winchester.
Mangohick Church On May 27, 1864 Grant started east on a long march around Lee's right flank. Burnside and Hancock lingered behind to guard the North Anna fords while Warren and Wright headed for the Pamunkey River crossings above Hanovertown, thirty-four miles distant. Major General Philip H. Sheridan's cavalry, recently returned from its foray to Richmond, led the way, patrolling side roads to screen the army's advance. Grant pitched his tent for the night at Mangohick Church, three miles above the Pamunkey. He suffered from a migraine headache so severe that he took chloroform to relieve it. His army—"tired and hot," according to an aide—sprawled across the countryside for miles around.
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| Crossing the Pamunkey |
Nelson’s Crossing on the Pamunkey River Lee reacted swiftly and sent a fought-out brigade of three North Carolina cavalry regiments along the Pamunkey's southern bank to scout Grant's movement and harass the Federals where possible. His infantry meanwhile drew south along the railways, putting the Army of Northern Virginia southwest of Grant, where it could shift to counter the Federals' likely moves. If Grant made west for the rail lines, Lee would be there to meet him. If he began another crablike movement south, then dashed for Richmond, Lee could follow along a smaller interior arc and parry his thrust. Most important, Lee's move put another river between himself and the enemy. Meandering diagonally betwixt the antagonists ran Totopotomoy Creek, an obscure, high-banked Virginia waterway destined to lend its name to history.
Late on May 27, 1864 Torbert's Union cavalry crossed the Pamunkey near Hanovertown and engaged the North Carolina troopers, who offered stout resistance as they retired before Torbert's superior numbers. Word of the engagement confirmed for Lee his hunch that Grant intended to cross the Pamunkey near Hanovertown.
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Backed against the Confederate capital, his mobility was severely restricted. A single misstep could spell disaster. Early on the morning of May 28, he described his thinking in a letter to the Confederacy's president, Jefferson Davis. Grant clearly meant to advance on Richmond, but it was too soon to determine his line of march. "The want of information leads me to doubt whether the enemy is pursuing the route [through Mechanicsville] or whether, now that he finds the road open by Ashland, he may not prefer to take it," Lee wrote. "Should he proceed on the road to Mechanicsville, the army will be placed on the Totopotomoy. Should he on the other hand take the Telegraph Road, I shall try to intercept him as near Ashland as I can." To perfect his dispositions, Lee put Ewell's corps on his far right, touching Totopotomoy Creek at Pole Green Church and closing Shady Grove Road to Grant; Anderson formed west of Ewell, behind Hundley's Corner; Breckinridge deployed across the Richmond-Hanovertown Road near Totopotomoy Creek; and Hill secured the Confederate left, east of the Virginia Central Railroad near Atlee's Station. Whichever approach to Richmond Grant chose, Lee was confident that he could shift to meet him.
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| Enon Church - The Battle of Haw's Shop |
Haw’s Shop/Enon Church Early on May 28, 1864 the Southern commander directed Major General Wade Hampton, a South Carolina planter and politician with a marked aptitude for leading cavalry, to conduct a reconnaissance in force toward Grant. Hampton started from Atlee's Station, crossed Totopotomoy Creek, and headed east toward Haw's Shop. His force consisted of three veteran brigades and a handful of new regiments—the 4th and 5th South Carolina Cavalry, temporarily under Colonel B. Huger Rutledge, and the 20th Georgia Battalion, under Lieutenant Colonel John M. Millen—belonging to a new brigade under Brigadier General Matthew C. Butler. The newcomers wore crisp homespun uniforms that inspired many a joke from the ragged veterans. Butler himself had not yet arrived, but Hampton was glad to have at least some of his men. The regiments were large, and the soldiers hefted long muzzle-loading Enfield Rifles which promised to make them formidable warriors.
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CAVALRY CLASH AT HAW'S SHOP: MAY 28
Union and Confederate cavalry, scouting the roads between the armies, collide near Haw's Shop. Throughout the day, battle lines sway and fighting swirls around the Haw house. In the late afternoon, the added weight of Custer's brigade breaks the Confederate line near Enon Church and opens the road to the Totopotomoy.
Shelton House/Totopotomay Creek
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| Shelton House |
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| Shelton House |
(never could find old Bethesda Church)
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| Immanuel Episcopal Church |
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| Cold Harbor - June 3, 1864 'the killing ground' |
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| Cold Harbor - June 1, 1864 |
COLD HARBOR Having gathered both Wright's and Smith's corps at Old Cold Harbor, Grant orders an attack. Kershaw ties down Smith's attack to the north, while Hoke contends with Wright's advance. Along a small creek on which the two Confederate divisions hinge, an undefended gap is discovered by Truex's brigade. Funneling through the Confederate line, Truex effects a break-through only to be stopped by Southern reinforcements. Emboldened by this partial success, Grant plans to follow up with a general assault the next morning.
In the early morning of June 3,1864 Grant's planned assault against Lee's position finally moves forward. Following a thirty-six-hour delay, Grant's attack along Lee's nearly seven miles of entrenchments holds little chance for success. On Lee's right, Hancock's corps manages to penetrate the Confederate line, only to be thrown back by a determined counterattack. In the center, Wright stumbles forward in a lackluster attack that gains little ground, while Smith suffers tremendously from flanking fire resulting from Wright's sluggish advance and a lack of support from Warren, who claims he cannot move forward. On Lee's far left Burnside gets off to a slow start but finally gets within a few yards of the Confederate trenches before being stopped. By 8:00, the Union assault has spent its momentum and Grant's men take shelter wherever they can find it, in some areas within mere yards of the Confederate line.
“I have always regretted that the last assault at Cold Harbor was ever made. At Cold Harbor no advantage was gained to compensate for the heavy loss we sustained.” General Ulysses S. Grant
Wednesday April 24, 2024
WEATHER: 56 degrees and clear at 4 am, forecast indicates it will turn cloudy and rain most of the morning with a high of 71; cloudy and in the high 60’s for Fredericksburg; partly cloudy and high in the 60’s for Gettysburg this afternoon and evening
TRAVEL: Williamsburg, VA – Fredericksburg,, VA - Gettysburg, PA
. . . and not my first visit to Manassas which was probably in 2000 with a Congressional visit by the WING - we had a morning off before flying bak to Wisconsin - some went golfing - I went to Manassas. Later visits were in 2015 when I was traveling and with the Chicago CWRT and Kenosha Civil War Museum.
My first visit to Gettysburg was probably 1978 with Myrna and Chad when we visited Tom and Julie who were living in Mechanicsburg, PA. Then numerous visits to include 1999 with the US Army War College; a return visit with the USAWC for the 20 year reunion in 2019; the Chicago Civil War Roundtable in 2014 and numerous personal visits. I’ve stopped counting at 100 days on the battlefield – now I’m sure I’m in excess of 125 days. Always something new to learn or relearn.
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| The Battle of Fredericksburg December 13, 1862 |
139 FREDERICKSBURG AND SPOTSYLVNIA NATIONAL MILITARY PARK – just a stop by – it was on the way pick up 2 books for Casen & Kaden
122 MANASSAS NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD PARK – another one that was on the way – purchased a book on Field Artillery by Earl Hess
nothing of interest
CHICAGO CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE
“Gettysburg Campaign 1863”
Base Hotel: Comfort Inn and Suites, 945 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg
Dinner
at Base Hotel – Speaker Wayne Motts – CEO of Gettysburg Foundation
His presentation was entitled: The George
Spangler Farm: XI Corps Army Hospital. Today it is owned by the Gettysburg
Foundation, with an easement to the NPS and serve as
Foundation HQ. Located between the
Tanneytown Road and Baltimore Pike it served as a hospital from July 1 through
August 9, 1863. He is a licensed battlefield guide with a major in military
history.
An enthusiastic speaker – his research centered on the Spangler family before and after the war; the people who were treated at the hospital; and the doctors/nurses who worked there.
One story was about George Nixon, Great Grandfather of Richard Nixon who was a member of an Ohio Regiment, shot in the hip on a skirmish line, rescued by a fellow soldier who received the Medal of Honor. George died at this hospital and is buried in the Gettysburg National Cemetery.
Thursday
April 25, 2024
CHICAGO CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE
“Gettysburg Campaign 1863
TOUR GUIDE: ERIC LINDBLADE– of course this guide marched to his own drum
 |
| Buford Statue in Background |
Buford Defense Line Stop 1 – talked about it – no detail
24th MI – 26th NC Monuments drive by - no mention
8th IL Cavalry Monument Stop 2
LUNCH –
12th IL Cavalry Monument walk by - no mention
Gettysburg Visitor Center – Bookstore, Film, Cyclorama, Museum Stop 5
WEATHER: 38 degrees at 7 am partly cloudy, forecast high of 63
CHICAGO CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE
“Gettysburg Campaign 1863
TOUR GUIDE: ERIC ‘I would argue’ LINDBLADE
Ewell’s Attack – XI Corps Defense
82nd IL Monument
Barlow-Blockers Knoll
Retreat of the XI Corps through Gettysburg
LUNCH: Appalachian Trail Brewery
East Cemetery Field
Culp’s Hill
149th NY Monument
General George Sears Greene Monument
WEATHER: 48 degrees at 6 am, cloudy, forecast high of 59 - a disturbing drizzle 10 am – 2 pm
CHICAGO CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE
“Gettysburg Campaign 1863
TOUR GUIDE: JAMES HESSLER better delivery but another guide – sure of himself – I believe the guides get so enamored with themselves that they enjoy talking and ‘arguing’ their viewpoint – all consider themselves ‘historians’ – obviously experts – ask them – cautious ‘in my opinion’
July 2 Union Defense – Longstreet’s Attack – not in detail
Peach Orchard Attack/Defense – Stop 4
LUNCH: Dobbins Inn – good lunch plenty of food
East Cavalry Field – entered from vicinity of Harley Davidson
Brinkerhoff’s Ridge – found it; it was on Road
General Custer – suffered the most casualties
J.E.B. Stuart – July 3 Flank Attack– his objective not reached; nor was Pickett’s
 |
| MG John Sedgewick |
and whether this was a good place to deploy III Corps
DRIVE BY Longstreet Statue
 |
| 1st MN Monument |
STOP 6 1st Minnesota Monument
.jpg) |
| Adams County Historical Society Christ Gwinn |
about Gettysburg and I will never attain the knowledge or the ‘arrogance’ that most of the licensed guides boast about. I wonder if I will ever return to Gettysburg – I’ve walked probably 90% of the battlefield, read almost every interpretation marker, seen almost every monument. . . . . it’s tiring. In order to stay current, I’d have to read about or visit Gettysburg almost everyday . . . .
WEATHER: 52 degrees and cloudy and foggy at 6 am, forecast calls for partly to mostly sunny by 10 am- didn’t clear up until noon then a high of 80
CHICAGO CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE
“Gettysburg Campaign 1863
TOUR GUIDE: ERIC 'I would argue' LINDBLADE
Pickett’s Charge – Stop 1, 2,3
General Meade Monument - Stop 3 we made a stop here but Eric never even mentioned the statue
BOX LUNCH: Base Hotel
 |
| Gettysburg - July 3, 1863 |
WEATHER: sunny to cloudy as I drove west
WEATHER: sunny high of 82
 |
| Jerry Bauer |
Purpose of the visit was to attend the UW – Eau Claire Alumni Awards. A dinner honoring UW Alumni and friends. Jerry was honored with the Lifetime Excellence Award: presented to UWEC alumni who have demonstrated longtime and successful commitment to their careers and communities. Individuals who have made a positive and dramatic impact through enthusiastic dedication to service and living their lives as a testimony to UWEC’s motto “Excellence.”
Played a round of golf with Jerry and Larry prior to the event.
Saturday - May 18-19, 2024
 |
| Gifford School - Jungle Book Casen as King Louie |
WEATHER: sunny high mid-70’s
TRAVEL: Durand – Sturtevant – Gifford School – Burlington
An early return in order to give an ESGR USERRA brief to USAR units in Sturtevant, with a real purpose of attending Casen’s performance in Jungle Book. Attended both Saturday and Sunday matinees. A cute play – well performed and choreographed where the kids were onstage dancing/moving about, most of the time – sung to a continuous ½ hour soundtrack.
Friday
- June 21, 2024
WEATHER: threat of rain
but it was a cloudy evening in the low 70’s, not humid
TRAVEL: Burlington – Durand Gun Club - Burlington
Bauer Built Inc. celebrated its 80th Anniversary at the Durand Gun Club. Relatives were invited – Durand Bauer Built employers – friends of the family – not necessarily a business event i.e. no dealers or sales reps – just one heck of a party.
Free food from pizza, beef, Mexican, ice cream and cake
food trucks, as well as, a open bar – under the biggest tent I’ve seen erected
for a private party – larger than a football field – tables – chairs – sofas –
a huge dance floor and stage – continuous entertainment from two bands – and
concluding with my first ‘drone light show’.
Bauer Built hired an event planner from the cities - attended by about 500 people – in my
opinion the best private/corporate event I’ve ever attended. Only Paul and family attended - Amy, Chad, Kristin - busy.
 |
| Drone Show - Durand Rod & Gun Club |
 |
| Drone Show - Bauer Built 80th |
 |
| Drone Show - 'Sam' Bauer |
JULY 17 – 21, 2024
Indianapolis, IN
The National Eucharistic Congress marks a significant moment in the life of the Church in the United States. POPE FRANCIS June `9, 2023
WEATHER: warm – high in the 80’s
clear – a brief shower around noon in Indianapolis
TRAVEL: Burlington – Indianapolis – Hotel Indy – Expo Hall/Indianapolis Convention Center (ICC) - Hotel Indy – Lucas Oil Stadium (LOS) – Hotel Inday
HOTEL INDY A nice hotel – extremely pleasant staff - however, the room is small – adequate – but no desk to put a laptop on, only two hangers in the armoire, two luxurious robes, limited electrical outlets – a huge shower – no bath - bar and restaurant 1st floor - a ‘rooftop’ bar 6th floor, closes at ten. Dinner of steak sliders at the Hotel Indy1st floor bar – literally no one else in the place. UNABLE TO CONNECT TO WIFI.
1
 |
| Serra Booth Indiana Convention Center |
2000 – 2200 REVIVIAL SESSION 1 “From the Four Corners” - I estimated about 37,000 present in LOS
”From
the Four Corners”
The evening Revival Sessions had music –
concert quality – better than concert quality
musicians from all over the US and 3 emcees (way above average) Montse Alvarado (EWTN Spanish &
English) Sr. Miriam James
Heidland
(Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity) and Fr. Josh Johnson (Diocese of Baton Rogue,
Sacred Heart Church & School). Alvardo sometimes a bit over the top – Sr.
Miriam reserved and sincere – Fr. Josh – powerful/enthusiastic.
 |
| Lucas Oil Stadium |
There were 4 pilgrimage 65 day routes from
the four points of the compass forming a cross and meeting in Indianapolis. WEST St. Junipero Serra Route – EAST St. Eliabeth Ann Seton Route – SOUTH St. Juan Diego Route and the NORTH Marian Route.
Continuous music and prayer with music in
the background. Singing, Exposition – Benediction led by Archbishop Andrew Cozzens. He led invocations, and the Divine Praises.
CARDINAL CHRSTOPHE PIERRE – born in Rennes, France – served in the military (French) speaks French, Italian, English, Spanish and Portuguese. In 2016, Pope Francis appointed him Apostolic Nuncio to the US. His talk set the tone of the conference ‘Christ’s presence’ – ‘ seeing Him everywhere we go’ – ‘ He is present in our friends, families, and communities’ His talk was a little heavy, i.e. philosophical - but it touched you – he ‘ challenged us to become a people who listen to one another’
SR.
BETHANY MODONNA – a Sister of Life who take vows to
protect and enchance life and live in a community immersed in Eucharistic
prayer. A great presenter, great content, entertaining –
referred to the Road to Emmaus ‘ you reflect the face of God’ – ‘ the love of
God ahs been a part of our life’ - she referenced something about avoiding the
demands of discipleship that that I didn’t quite catch –
music – I almost wanted to sing a long – sometimes - I did – certainly caught my attention and my sprit – entertaining – a massive happening – caught all the senses – a definite appeal to young people
A thousand priests present here – video “ Art Inspired by Discipleship” – I don’t remember all but I made a note that the message was for Chad, Paul, Kristin and Amy –‘parents listen to your children ‘ - i.e. Amanda’s confirmation, Josie’s interest in biblical quotations – something tells me ‘they know’
Thursday
- July 18, 2024
WEATHER: 61 at 0700
clear and sunny
TRAVEL: Hotel Indy to Lucas Oil Center (LOC) to Indiana Convention Center (ICC) to Hotel Indy and back again
“THE GREATEST LOVE STORY”
 |
| Opening Mass - Cardinal Timothy Dolan Lucas Oil Stadium |
0830 – 1000 Morning Liturgies LOC – Cardinal Timothy Dolan. Concurrent liturgies in Spanish at various locations by Sean Cardinal O’Malley and for Youth by Bishop Robert Lombardo. Dolan’s homily – ‘never are we closer than when we gather around the table’ - MASS IS A SACRIFICE – a SACRAMENT – a MEAL – he had a couple of good jokes – still the same voice as I remember – One of the jokes had to do with a Rabbi – explaining all the Jewish Holidays – all tell the same story – ‘they tired to kill us – God saved us’ – ‘LET’S EAT’ - ‘we need the Eucharist to feed our hunger – Satan tired to kill us – God gave us Eucharist - LET’S EAT
1045 – 1215 Morning Impact Sessions LOC
1215 – 1400 Lunch – Arbys 2 roast beefs for $6 – a deal
1400 – 1515 Afternoon Breakouts: Biblical Theology of the Eucharist – Gray Akers Leu I did not attend – the breakouts were set up so you could attend only one of the afternoon sessions – way too many choices – would have liked to attend several . . . . separate breakouts in Spanish with different topics
After noon Breakouts: EMPOWER – ICC Hall I – Fr. John Burns, Chika Anyanwu,– Sessions established to equip attendees with practical tools to become Eucharistic Missionaries, evangelizing their community and taking on deeper roles in spread the. Gospel to those around them. I did not attend. You had to sign up for afternoon breakout sessions in advance. I’ve invited Fr. John Bruns to speak at our Serra Club – he accepted – so I would have liked to have met him – another time.
1545 – 1600 Afternoon Breakouts: ENCOUNTER Biblical Walk Through the Mass - Dr, Edward Sri – something tells me he has a book or video that contains everything that he tried to cover in 1 hour and 15 minutes.
The Sign of the Cross – God’s presence
Ezekial – a sign of protection
“The Lord Be With You” – used in the Bible
when faced with a daunting task, Moses, Joshua, Gideon, David, Mary
Get Ready – Confess Our Sins
Glory to God in the Highest – song of the
angels
Liturgy of the Word – a lector loans their
voice to God ‘Catholics may not know
Chapter and Verse but the know the stories due to Cycle A, B & C
Creed – belief
Holy Holy Holy
‘This is my body’ – sacrifice – Eucharist - 1st
Passover meal
‘Do this in memory of me’
‘Blessed are those called to the supper of
the lamb’ REV 19:19 supper of the lamb – it’s a wedding invitation and Christ
is the bridegroom - think of Mary’s 1st communion –
John Paul II – what would this mean to Mary – struggles in prayer – the Devil
is discouraging you – God is trusting in our hearts
‘walk through the Kryigma
After the breakout – went to the Expo Hall, spoke with the folks representing the National Catholic Committee on Scouting – glad to see that they still exist – they could tell me little about Milwaukee – got a rosary blessed for a Serra member
1600 – 1715 Afternoon Liturgies choices . . . . options for different rites/languages/locations
St. John the Evangelist Church is located immediately across the street from the ICC. Open 24 hours for Eucharistic Adoration – I stopped in for a prayer and a visit.
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1900 – 2130 Revival Session 2: “The Greatest Love Story” The emcees – talk – talk – talk. Witness testimonies by Lila Rose and Ken& Mary Ann Duppong - Songs and music
Mother Olga of the Sacred Heart – encounters with Jesus – Cana – ‘feed the crowd’
 |
| Fr. Mike Schmitz |
Father Mike Schmitz – he must be known – a huge ovation - he started by saying ‘I’m not going to tell you something you don’t know’ - the road to Emmaus – ‘are you the only one in Jerusalem that doesn’t know’ – he talked very fast – Abraham/Isaac – lamb – John the Baptist ‘behold the lamb of God’ - Jesus enters Jerusalem the same day all the sacrificial lambs were brought to the City for the Passover- HIS was NOT an EXCUTION but a SACRIFICE – ‘the road to love is respect’ ‘you have to care – to repent’ – ‘I don’t need more knowledge – I need love’
CLOSED WITH BENEDICTION
Friday - July 19, 2024
WEATHER:
63 clear and sunny at 0700, high of 79
TRAVEL: Hotel Indy – Lucas Oil Stadium/Indianapolis Convention Center – Marriot – LOS/ICC – Hotel Indy
Hotel Indy – STILL UNABLE TO CONNECT TO WIFI – eventually connected WIFI
“INTO GETHSEMANE”
Called Bill Peterson from St. Joe’s – invited him to join me for the Serra Reception at the Indianapolis Marriott, Downtown for a light Reception between 4:30 and 6 pm. He’s staying at a B&B with another couple, he’ll get back to me.
0830 – 1000 Morning Liturgies - did not attend – tried to connect to WIFI – NO GO – probably would have better luck at a McDonald’s or Starbuck’s - updated some items for this blog on my pc
The line for the following was impossible:
Eucharistic Miracles Exhibit – ICC Wabash Ballroom 1-2
Relic
Chapel – ICC Wabash Ballroom 1-2
Shroud of Turin Exhibit – Wabash Ballroom 3 – there were lectures on Turin – this is one area where the planners failed to anticipate the crowds – maybe they did – and kept the number that could attend deliberately small – these exhibits were not the reason for the NEC.
1045 – 1215 Morning Impact Sessions: Indiana Convention
Center – Hall I-EMPOWER
If I haven’t already mentioned it the music opening each
session was top of the line – and appropriate – and continuous
Bishop
Joseph Espaillat – ‘good morning church ‘ his was a
message of healing – from the Dominican Republic – “God is Great-Don’t
Hesitate” - ‘if you hurt you can’t heal – if you don’t have love you can’t
love’ - ‘hurt people, hurt people’ – Thomas
putting his fingers into the wounds of Christ – “start a fire – not a program”
– Encounter – then heal
.jpg) |
| Meg Hunter-Kilmer |
Meg Hunter-Kilmer – this lady has an evangelistic spirit – the first speaker I’ve seen in jeans – we’re more involved with ourselves than others - the apostles always reminded Jesus of what they had done for Him - Matthew 8-9 “the wind and the sea obey”-
1215 – 1400 Lunch at Arby’s 2 for $6 plus tax and a $2+
small coke
1315 – 1400 ICC
Wabash Ballroom 3 – Jerusalem to Turin: The Shroud’s Elusive History- Dr.
Cheryl White - the line was impossible – I did not attend
1400 – 1515 Afternoon Breakouts:
1445 – 1600 Afternoon Breakouts: Building Bridges for Our Shared Mission: Connecting Parishes with Movements and New Communities – ICC 240-242 – Keith Arango, Bishop Joseph Espaillat, Laura Gonzoles, Walter Mathews, Bishop Evelio Menjivar, Peter & Sheila Oprysko, Marisela Rodriguez-Garcia, Fr. Carlos Rojas, Chris Tobin, Jose Yamamoto. This was not my first choice but the session sponsored by Serra was full.
1600 – 1715 Afternoon Liturgies – did not attend
 |
| St. John the Evangelist Food Tent |
1600 – 1830 Dinner – met Bill Peterson in the St. John the Evangelist beer Garden around 4 pm – invited him now and earlier to join met at the Marriot for the Serra ‘light snacks’ but he and a couple from Union Grove were going out to dinner. He had driven and was headed home Sunday.
.jpg) |
| Sr. Josephine Garrett |
1900 – 2130 Revival Session 3: “Into Gethsemane”
Sr.
Josephine Garrett – used a lot of quotes from the bible (she
was raised Baptist) a little ‘heady’ – philosophical – just a bit above of what
I can handle – ‘healing begins with repentance’ – ‘broken yes, but joyful – we
are hopeful’ – ‘begin in the garden of Gethsemane, where the cups will not pass
from Him’ – it was almost like a happening experience i.e. the same
techniques . . . .
The Eucharistic Procession and exposition and prayer by Fr. Boniface Hicks, O.S.B.
Saturday
- July 20, 2024
WEATHER:
63 at 7 am, clear and sunny, forecast high of 82
TRAVEL: Indy Hotel – LOS - ICC
“THIS IS MY BODY”
 |
| Eastern Rite Liturgy - Lucas Oil Stadium |
In 2033 the Church will be 2000 years old – I’ll be 85 – and I’ll be there if the Lord wills – there is so much JOY – LOVE – FRIENDSHIP here – ‘heal your HEART – like John and Mary at the foot of the cross – we are Love and Joy and Peace’
1045 – 1215 Morning Impact Sessions – ENCOUNTER - LOS – DCN Harold Burke-Sivers, Dr. Edward Sri
Harold-Burke’s message – the encounter with Christ is to be shared – KNOW-LOVE-SHARE – a disciple follows Jesus – Lead With Love – along with Thomas “My Lord and My God”
Sri’s focus was on ‘communion’ REV 19:9 “blessed are those who are called to the supper of the table – you are being invited to the most miraculous thing in the world” -
 |
| Msgr. Shea |
1215 – 1400 Lunch Arby’s
1400 – 1515 Afternoon Breakouts: Biblical Theology of the Eucharist: Session 3 – Dr. Ben Akers, Jeff Cavins – ICC Sagamore Ballroom This is what I signed up for but attended Msgr. Shea’s lecture on “The Religion of the Day” - ‘we need to get converted out of the religion that is around us – a conversion of mind – G.K. Chesterton’s answer to the question “What’s Wrong With the World?” “I AM” - joyful repentance – we live in areas of failure – without God we have no place to take our failures – stand your ground – live your faith – don’t give up and you will always win
PROCESSION TO MONUMENT SQUARE – I followed some of the route and went back to the hotel for a short rest.
1545 – 1600 Afternoon Breakouts:
1600 – 1715 Afternoon Liturgies
1600 – 1830 Dinner – back to Dick’s Last Chance for 2 beers stopped at St. John’s for a brat and kraut.
1900 – 2130 Revival Session 4: “This is My Body” – maybe 48,000 in the stadium
 |
| Jonathan Roume |
Tim Glemkowski Gloria Purvis Jonathan Roume (the actor who plays Christ in “The Chosen” – dressed in white – he read from John – a part of the bible that will not be part of the series – I did not get the Chapter/Verse – but it had to do with ‘eat my body’ Bishop Robert Barron – “Do this in remembrance of me”
I didn’t stay for Matt Maher, Testimony: Drew Mariani, followed by procession and Benediction. I was tired but stopped at St. John’s Adoration Chapel before back to the hotel and bed for an early rise.
My closing thoughts: SPECTACLE – INSPIRATIONAL – MOTIVATIONAL – HEARTFELT – HOLY – SPIRITUAL – DEVOTION
60,000 passes sold
8,000 attendees under the age of 25
5,000 attendees under the age of 18
3,866 Clergy & Religious
1,236 Religious Sisters & Brothers
206 Cardinals, Archbishops, Bishop
614 Seminarians
634 Deacons
1,176 Priests
WEATHER: 67 at 4 pm in Indianapolis
TRAVEL: Up at 3 am – a 4:15 UBER to the airport - DELTA FLT 2969 LV IND 0605 – AR DTW 0718 – LV
DTW DELTA FLT 2113 0836 – AR MKE 0846
Got to DTW – then the DELTA flights to
MKE and many other places were cancelled.
They say it came from Texas – did it have a China Connection?
“TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH”
From my arrival on Wednesday I wished that I would have decided to stay through Sunday – but my concern was the cost of another night in a Hotel – I should have stayed the extra day – I believe I missed something – a closing. As it turns out, I got a call from Amy on Friday and maybe I was meant to be home on Sunday.
Maybe I wasn’t meant to be home on Sunday:
CrowdStrike, a cybersecurity company based in Austin,
Texas, that’s widely used by businesses and government agencies that run on
Microsoft computers, said that a defect in one of its updates for computers
running the Windows operating system had caused the issue. The result was
arguably the largest global information technology outage in history.
The outage appeared to affect almost every major business sector
in one way or another.
Airports and flights across the world were severely delayed or
canceled altogether, as the computers on which these services rely were
disrupted by the issue. Three of the largest airlines in the United States —
American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines — all issued ground
stops, citing communications problems.
So I was up at 3 am, got an Uber, got on my Delta Flight to
DTW and once in Detroit – the flight to MKE was CANCELLED. The plane was there, and all but the co-pilot
was there – DELTA couldn’t fix it.
Luckily, I got my luggage, the three hour wait in line was
bearable to get a ticket on the same flight to MKE tomorrow, but the overnight
at a Hampton Inn in Detroit was not planned.
I needed rest – went out to eat – and went to bed early. Too tired even to update all that I should
have done daily on this blog.
I should have stayed the extra night in Indianapolis or driven
– the cost would have washed.
HAMPTON
INN Detroit/Airport –friendly staff, a free shuttle form the
airport driver kind of a bore – the room
was twice plus the size of the cubby hole at the Hotel Indy – a suite of sorts – great WIFI and a huge desk to work
on. Comfortable bed.
Monday
– July 22, 2024
WEATHER: 69 at 5 am – Detroit airport
TRAVEL: Shuttle of Airport - LV DTW DELTA FLT 2113 0836 – AR MKE 0846 - shuttle to Fast Park – drove to Burlington
SUNDAY
– July 28, 2024
Weather: warm but occasional
rain did not put a damper on the tailgate party
Travel: American Family Field – we met at the Park & Ride, 76th & Main, a convoyed to the General Parking off of Bluemound Rd
Brewers 6 vs Miami Marlins 2 @ 1310 – a birthday party – I Bought 4 Family Fun- Day Bundles for a total of 16 with 4 parking passes. A hot dog and small soft drink accompany each ticket in the stadium We tail-gated in the parking lot (brats, buns, chips, relishes, beer, soda) then walked to the gate.
Monday – July 29, 2024
WEATHER:
high in the mid 70’2 MKE – rain on and off all day
TRAVEL: LV MKE 1700 CDT Southwest Flight 3110 – direct flight to Orlando AR MCO 0845 EDT. A much better experience than flying DELTA or UNITED. Paul rented a GMC picked us up and drove to HGVC SeaWorld. I originally planned to fly with Paul and his family on Southwest leaving at 5am. Unknowingly, I purchased a 5 pm ticket. Not the end of the world . . .
DISNEY
WORLD
This started out as a Paul, Sarah, Casen, Kaden Family
vacation when Paul asked me if I could get him a room through HGVC in
Orlando. They’ve been there before. So, I arranged for a 2 BR condo. Sarah asked if I would like to come along –
at first no – then I decided – Why Not? – even though I had just been there in
February, I’d rather spend time in Florida with family – so I bought an
airplane ticket on Southwest. Later I
arranged for a separate 1 BR condo for myself and planned to stay an extra 2
days.
Over the weekend when Chad, Paul, Kris and Amy got together at Paul’s trailer in RRLE – Kris asked if I’d mind taking Kaleb with me – of course not – so Kris arranged for airline tickets for Kaleb on the same flights I was on. Kaleb did not get to go to Disney with Kris, Josie, Amy & Annabelle in February – so he was excited to go – and since he was going, I decided to get a 5 day park hopper pass through MWR for the two of us – that will accommodate the extra day and no princesses this time. If Kaleb had not joined us, I probably would have only bought tickets for two days.
Tuesday
– July 30, 2024
Weather:
77 at 6 am
– forecast high of 93 with chance of afternoon thundershowers
Travel: HGVC SeaWorld to Disney Magic Kingdom, yesterday was a long day for Paul and Sarah – breakfast at 9 am then to the MK
 |
Monster’s Inc. Laugh Floor
Tron
Buzz Lightyear
Teacups
Lunch – Harbour House
Mickey’s Phlharmagic
Haunted Mansion
Pirates of the Caribbean
Space Mountain
IT POURED SIDEWAYS RAIN WITH LIGHTNING -Eventually we decided to leave the Tron Shop – i.e. also the exit for Space Mountain – raining – we had ponchos - ankle deep water in some places – most water I’d ever seen at Disney – MONORAIL to the Transportation Center was SHUTDOWN – we were directed to the buses – longest wait of any line at Disney - almost 2 hours – we could have walked to the Transportation center faster
 |
| Coming back after the 'rain blowing sideways - lighting' event |
 |
| Casen & Kaden Buzz Lightyear |
The Haunted Mansion and the prospect of 'hitch hiking ghosts' did not appeal to Kaleb. Tron was a light cycle a minute - Salutes for Buzz Lightyear and even Mickey thought it was wet . . . .
Wednesday
– July 31, 2024
Weather:
78 at 8 am high of 95
NO RAIN
Travel: HGVC SeaWorld – EPCOT – HGVC SeaWorld
 |
| Figment |
EPCOT
(Experimental Prototype Community Of
Tomorrow)
It seemed like there more Photo-Pass opportunities at EPCOT
Moana – The World of Water
Nemo – was temporarily closed for some reason
Paul is not into Soarin’ so we bypassed THE LAND
 |
| France in EPCOT |
Journey Into the Imagination With Figment
Disney Short Classics – 3 excellent cartoons “Get A Horse” – “Piper” – “Feast”
UK for a Harp
Remy’s
Ratatouille Adventure
Beauty
and the Beast Sing Along
American
Adventure was temporarily closed
Gran
Fiesta Tour – always a pleasure to watch Disney’s 1945
“The Three Caballeros’ - alive action
and animation featuring Donald Duck, Jose Carioca and Panchito
Guardians
of the Galaxy
Mission
Space: Mars
Spaceship
Earth – first time I’ve been at Disney on a
ride that had to be evacuated – we only made it to the Renaissance and had to
walk from level six, down stairs to get to the bottom floor – gave us a second
class Lightning Lane pass for use ONLY on July 31 at EPCOT. It was almost 8 pm – we opted to leave.
 |
| The Three Cabelleros |
Thursday – August 1, 2024
Weather:
82 at 8 am, high of 90 – high of 95 – rain by 4:15 pm
 |
| Dessert at T-Rex |
Springs is planned – stopped by a Hertz counter in a nearby Hilton in order to add my name as a driver – through USAA no additional charge – an hour around the pool
T-REX – reservation for 4 pm we arrived early and were seated immediately. A very enjoyable meal – and an extremely pleasant waiter – Bronto Burgers, Cherry Limeade/I survived projector, Shark Water/I survived projector, a Raptor Rita, Cocoanut Shrimp, Collosso Nachos, a T-Rex character cup with rainbow ICEE, Meteor Meatloaf and a very dry Ketel One Martini – first time I saw vermouth served literally on the side of the glass in a kind of test tube looking vial - Of course it poured the entire time we were in T-Rex
RAGLAN ROAD – Irish Coffee, Harp and scotch – the kids were full
All were used up – it looked like more rain – we went back to HGVC SeaWorld
Friday – August 2, 2024
Weather:
76 at 7 am
– forecast high of 91 with rain between 2 and 4 pm
Travel: HGVC SeaWorld to Hollywood Studios to HGVC Seaworld
 |
| Tiana - I said 'no princesses' - now, why would Casen want to see this Princess? |
HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS
 |
| Star Wars |
Alien
Saucers – 1030 Lightening Lane
Indiana
Jones Stunt Show Spectacular
Millennium
Falcon: Smugglers Run
Oga’s
Cantina – 1315 reservation
Mickey
& Minnie’s Runway Railway – 1440 Lighting Lane
 |
| Hollywood Studios |
Star Tours – The Adventure Continues
Walt
Disney Presents
Sci-Fi Dinner Theater – 1620 reservation
‘could have been the airplane ride – might have been the kids . . .‘could have been 3 or four rainstorms I don’t know but look at the shape I’m in ‘ I didn't feel well . . . Paul drove me home - I was sick . . . .
Shopping on Hollywood Blvd, while waiting for Paul and Kaden to return
Rise
of the Resistance – 1840 Lightning Lane
Rock
& Roller Coaster Aerosmith – a 2x ride for Paul,
Casen and Kaden
Toy
Story Mania – Lightning Lane, just Kaleb & Sarah
whiles the rest went on Aerosmith 2x; they had plenty of fun without me
Saturday – August 3, 2024
 |
| Expedtition Everest |
Weather:
a pleasant day – I think – I never got outside – heard that
it rained
Travel: all went to Animal Kingdom – except me I stayed in bed
Dinosaur
Triceratops
Spin
Expedition
Everest
Avatar:
The Rite of Passage
Kilimanjaro
Safari
Rafiki’s
Planet Watch
Weather: Tropical Storm Debby is going to hit the
west coast of Florida from Tampa through the panhandle – 60 mph winds – storm
surge – may end up being a hurricane.
Expecting plenty of rain here today and tomorrow.
Travel: Paul’s family got off in an airplane back to Wisconsin this morning.
My illness resulted in an excess amount of beer left over – can’t possibly drink 12 cans in the next two days
Disney Springs – Kaleb had some shopping to do
Rest and dinner at Longhorn Steakhouse
Monday – August 5, 2024
Weather:
78 degrees raining – Debby made landfall at Steinhatchee, FL as a Hurricane –
raining
in the morning – clear between noon and 4 – then rain
Travel: HGVC SeaWorld to Magic Kingdom to HGVAC Seaworld to Bahama Breeze to HGVC Seaworld
Up at 7 am, got into the Virtual Queue for Tiana’s Group 48.
 |
| Were in the 3rd row from the end |
Jungle
Cruise – only a 20 minute wait
Pirates
of the Caribbean
Tiana’s
Bayou Adventure – literally got to the gate and
waiting to get into the next boat, when the ride shut down. We evacuated and got a Lightning Lane pass
for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Tiki
Birds
Country
Bear Jamboree – a new show featuring current Disney
songs
 |
| The ride had just opened up We were the only ones on the boat |
We were going to the Hall of Presidents – it was 20 minutes until the next show – so we went to confirm that we received a Lightning Lane Pass – the guy I spoke to, was the same guy who gave Chad & me the ‘back stage tour’ in February. He confirmed that we had a Lightning Lane pass and that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure had just re-opened. We walked right on – front row – in a boat all alone. Looked like it was going to rain. Went to Bahama Breeze for dinner – it did rain.
Tuesday – August 4, 2024
Weather:
warm and raining in Orlando – 68 upon return to Milwaukee
Travel: LV Orlando MCO 0800 Delta Flt 1463 – AR Atlanta ATL 0903 – LV ATL 1015 Delta Flt 2580 AR Milwaukee MKE 1103 CDT - DELTA - of course we missed the flight in Atlanta to Milwaukee – we didn’t get to the arrival gate until 1005 – 10 minutes to deplane – 10 minutes to get to the next concourse – the 1015 flight was gone. DELTA rebooked us on the next flight to MKE. Kris picked us up at the airport in Milwaukee.
Wednesday – August 7, 2024
WEATHER: 60 degrees at 5 am
in MKE – 96 degrees in New Orleans but the humidity was not as high as in
Florida - bearable
TRAVEL: : Milwaukee – Nashville – New Orleans LV MKE 0840 Southwest 179 – AR BNA 1010 – LV BNA 1455 Southwest Flight 3564 - AR MSY 1625. The four hour layover in Nashville was boring. The best deal was biscuits gravy and a PBR Tall Boy for $15. In New Orleans, ordered an Uber – wrong driver picked me up – got me to New Orleans Marriott, 555 Canal St. The driver said wait for Uber to bill me. I gave him a $10 tip – it was supposed to be a $51 trip. I got a notice that the trip was cancelled because I didn’t show for the driver that was supposed to pick me up. Later I got a $5.90 ‘no show’ charge.
 |
| Water coming up from . . I wondered if this had anything to do with the 'boil water advisory' |
 |
| New Orleans Marriott on Canal St |
NEW ORLEANS MARRIOTT, 555 Canal St - this hotel is immediately
across the street from the Sheraton that I stayed at for the NGAUS Conference. It’s a busy place – several conferences going on here. Serra Registration appears to in the Iberia Room on the 4th floor. I was closed when I got there a little before 7 pm.
Apparently a ‘boil water advisory’ in New Orleans or at least at the Marriott – don’t drink the water. The hotel gave me warm bottled water and I decided that cold beer was the best option to hydrate. So I decided to visit the French Quarter – I’ll let the pictures explain the evening.
 |
| Tizzy Trumpet |
Thursday – August 8, 2024
WEATHER: 83 and clear at 5
am – forecast high of 98 - the record was 97 on this day in 2023; 1st
day back to school in New Orleans . . . . WOW!
TRAVEL: World War II Museum - a 6 block walk
NEW ORLEANS MARRIOTT, 555 Canal St - room is adequate, small – like old hotel rooms – but it has a desk – the ‘boil water advisory’ is city wide due to a 30 minute electrical outage (tv showed mylar ballons caught in power lines) that caused pumps to stop yesterday
SERRA INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2024
August 8-11 New Orleans Marriott, New Orleans, LA
9:00am-4:00pm Convention Registration
9:00am-4:00pm Optional Side Trip to WWII
Museum, transportation provided
5:00-6:00pm Opening
Mass at the Hotel, celebrated by Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, Auxiliary Bishop
for the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston – This Bishop (from Italy) spoke soft
and was, at times, hard to understand – today was the Feast of St. Dominic
(1290) – he referenced that ‘Dominic and Francis were servants of the church’ –
his homily following the gospel referenced Christ’s “Follow Me” – the call was
compelling – however, ‘no buts’ – just answer the call
6:00-6:15pm Procession
of Eucharist to Adoration Room after Mass
6:15pm Midnight
Beginning of Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration
6:00-7:30pm “Heavy”
Reception at Hotel - chef carved roast
turkey, sandwiches, jambalaya, salad, hor d’ourves – plenty to eat – met a lot
of people from Toronto
Friday – August 9, 2024
WEATHER: 80 degrees at 5
am, forecast high of 95
TRAVEL: Marriott – New Orleans Jazz Historical Site – St. Louis Cathedral
NEW
ORLEANS MARRIOTT, 555 Canal St - “BOIL
WATER ADVISORY” lifted by the City of New Orleans
SERRA INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2024
August
8-11
New
Orleans Marriott, New Orleans,LA
8:45-9:00am Welcome
by Kurt Metyko, President S.I.
 |
| Fr. Colm Cahill |
Get into a Eucharistic Model
TAKEN
– vocations from the people
BLESSED – with formation
BROKEN – daily- you fail and try again
GIVEN – so the Lord can pour in
When
you give things away – you get it ack even more
“The
world promises you comfort, but your were not made for that. You were made for
greatness” Pope
Benedict Hyde Park 2010
I
thought of ‘persons are gifts - gifts given and gifts received’ – live out your
baptismal vocation
 |
| Fr. Mark Toups |
Seminarians for Houma/Thibodeaux Diocese, La - shared an amazing vocation story –
We ask because He asks
We ask when we don’t see immediate fruit – we
may have to wait a long time
When we ask – we LISTEN – don’t get caught up
in the results, but the process
He
ended with a sort of ‘happening’ meditation exercise
10:15-10:45am Coffee Break
 |
| Dr.Tom O'Neal |
11:00-11:45am Dr. Tom Neal, Director of Evangelization and Mission Engagement for Pensacola/Tallahassee Diocese, Fl - “the harvest is abundant, the laborers are few” – he built on Fr. Cahill’s remarks – “ don’t leave the church – lead the church” – and closed with GK Chesterton reply to “What’s wrong with the world?” “I AM” - BOTTOM LINE: don’t get discouraged – he digressed to share a story about St. Therese Benedict of the Cross, a Jew converted to Catholicism, originally named Edith Stein, #44070 in Auschwitz, sainted by John Paul II – ‘Saints Beget Saints”
Noon-1:30pm Lunch at Hotel
sponsored by Serra Foundation
1:30-2.15pm Vocations/Programs
Committees Workshops (concurrent)
1:30-2:15pm Membership/Communications/Foundation
Workshops (concurrent)
IDEA: Parish Membership Drive – St. Thomas, St.
Clare, BLCC, St. Francis
IDEA: Have cards printed hand out after mass Serra
logo, Prayer For Vocations
IDEA: Altar Server Awards
IDEA:
Target Eucharistic Ministers, Sacristans, KC, Parish Council, Lectors, Choir,
Hispanic SEVEN GREATS, Donut Sunday
IDEA:
continue Adoration – Stations
IDEA:
Invite parents of seminarians, have a brunch for the parents
IDEA:
target Seminarian cards to Vacation Bible School
To
self I was getting a bit discouraged – just keep trying – don’t give up
2:15-3:00pm Town
Hall Meeting
3:00-3:45pm Bishop
Thomas Daly, Episcopal Bishop for Serra U.S. -
STRATEGIC
PLAN – become recognized as a worldwide resource for supporting vocations by:
-
Increasing awareness at all levels
-
Improve local club engagement at the
parish level
-
Support for Serra Clubs
Soar
like an eagle
Expect
to thrive in 2025
Recruit
the best to be blessed
Respect
new members time
Acknowledge
and share some wine
3:45—5:15pm Travel to St. Louis
Cathedral, walk (5 blocks), small busses, uber, trolley - I walked to New
Orleans Jazz National Historical Site
In 1987, the 100th U.S. Congress resolved that "Jazz is
hereby designated as a rare and valuable national American treasure to which we
should devote our attention, support, and resources to make sure it is
preserved, understood and promulgated."
The park's mission is to serve the nation as a global leader in the promulgation of New Orleans jazz by enhancing and instilling a public appreciation and understanding of the origins, early history, development and progression of this uniquely American music art form - jazz. To preserve unimpaired this cultural resource and it's core values for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. Been here before – visited 19 Mar 2015.
5:00-5:15pm Brief history of the Cathedral
 |
| Mass St. Louis Cathedral |
6:30-9:00pm Dinner on your own (Riverboat Dinner Cruise, Tujague’s Restaurant, Napoleon House Restaurant and others), all within walking distance from Cathedral – I decided not to spend the $100 for the riverboat cruise . . . . . . I walked a few blocks to Bourbon Street - I had a lot more fun on Bourbon Street - Hard Rock Cafe - Leftite's Shop - Tropical Isle Bayou Club - Fritzel's European Jazz Club - Tickler's - Zydeco
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Saturday – August 10, 2024
WEATHER: 82 and clear, high of 93
TRAVEL: Marriot
SERRA INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2024
August 8-11 New Orleans Marriott, New Orleans, LA
7:00–8:00 Continental
Breakfast furnished by Serra
9:00-9:45am His
Eminence, Thomas Cardinal Collins, retired Archbishop of Toronto
9:45-10:30am
Very
Reverend Joshua Rodrigue, Rector of the Notre Dame Seminary in New
Orleans – ordained 2002 – 135 seminarians from 22 diocese – IDEA: the NOLA club
has mass once a month at the seminary – followed by breakfast and a meeting –
perhaps we could do this once a year.
John: 1: 35-39 ‘and they stayed’ the beginning of seminary formation - he had a good story of what the seminarians go through – like Michelangelo –‘ a block of marble already contains the statue, it just has to be chiseled out smoothed’
Programs of Priestly Formation – 6th edition since Vatican II
Four
Dimensions of Priestly Formation – HUMAN – SPRITUAL – INTELLECTUAL –
PASTORAL - forming priests configured to the Heart of
Jesus – the Good Shepherd – getting dirty to find the lost sheep This guy also built on the previous
speakers.
10:30-11:00am Coffee Break –
actually a ‘heavy’ coffee break – enough to last you through to dinner
11-11:45am State
of Serra, Kurt Metyko, President of Serra International (Serra Meets) – This
was actually a live “Serra Meets” - he may be a ‘leader’ but not a dynamic
speaker – spoke of the Board’s travels in 2023-24 with a power point – plans to
build clubs in Germany, France, Italy, Brazil
WHY PAY TO PRAY? 1. Serra is a family 2.Serra is connected to the Vatican
Noon-1:30pm Lunch on your own
1:30-2:30pm Serra
Around the World (Council Reports) god report from countries Mexico, Canada, Great
Britain, Mali, Nigeria, USA
2:30-3:45pm Delegates
Meeting – somehow I forgot to register as a delegate, I did not attend
3:45-4:45pm Regional
or District Meetings – none for North Central – as usual no communication
5:15-5:30pm Adoration
Procession
5:30-6:30pm Closing
Mass at Hotel, incl Blessing of Officers after Mass Celebrated by His Eminence,
Thomas Cardinal Collins retired Archbishop of Toronto
6:30-7:00pm Cocktails
7:00-9:00pm Annual
Banquet – a four piece jazz band entertained before and during and after dinner
Sunday
– August 11, 2024
WEATHER: 83 and clear at 6 am – much more humid today
TRAVEL: French Quarter – St. Louis King of France Cathedral, Antoine’s, Erin Rose, Royal House, Pat O’Brian’s
NEW ORLEANS MARRIOTT, 555 Canal St - had to check out and check in – the conference is over – a different room rate - of course there were added PERKS
A $30 gift cards
for use on a variety of tours
A $20 per day food
and beverage credit at the hotel
2 cards for Sazerac
House Tour which will include a shot of whisky at
the end of the tour, the Sazerac House I right across the street from the hotel
 |
| Royal House Oyster Bar |
Antoine’s , 713 St. Louis St – Jon made a lunch reservation
Erin Rose, 811 Conti St – a half block west of Bourbon St, less than 2 blocks from Antoines – frozen Irish coffee
 |
| Erin Rose |
Café Beignet, 311 Bourbon St – a three piece jazz band - piano, soprano sax, drums – Jon & Lu Ann had water – I had a Lite
Royal House Oyster Bar, 441 Royal St – grilled oysters
Pat Obrien’s, 718 St. Peter – home of the Hurricane, Jon & LuAnn had tonic water – I had a Lite – not crowded at all – it was Sunday night
Monday
– August 12, 2024
WEATHER: 87 at 8 am, forecast high of 93 with rain this afternoon
TRAVEL: NOLA
NEW
ORLEANS MARRIOTT, 555 Canal St -
Breakfast at Café Beignet, 622 Canal St – right across the street
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 |
| Bourbon House |
Dinner at the Bourbon House, 144 Bourbon St – nice restaurant, not extremely expansive – windows looking at Bourbon St for a half block – not that good – I’d try another the next time – called it an early night
Tuesday
– August 13, 2024
WEATHER: 82 and humid at 4 am in NOLA, 80 in Baltimore, 78 in Milwaukee
TRAVEL: Jon and LuAnn drove me to the airport, it was on the way
to Baton Rogue. LV New Orleans MSY 0655 Southwest Flt 1463 –
AR Baltimore BWI 0830 – LV BWI 1430 Southwest Flt 2580 AR MKE 1530 – took the shuttle to Fast Park, drove home
 |
| Marriott Renaissance Center the middle tower is the Marriot - the four surrounding towers are GM Headquarters |
WEATHER: pleasant
all day – never looked at the temperature
TRAVEL: Burlington – Detroit NGAUS - just over an hour from the Milwaukee gate to the Detroit gate. Met BG Dave May (Acting AG Wisconsin) at the baggage claim – he was told he had a separate car waiting and invited me to join him. As it turned out – no car and we both took the shuttle bus to the hotel – a good ½ hour drive or perhaps a little more from the airport.
Renaissance Marriott Detroit - a 'mad architects dream' – the Marriot is a 70+ story circular tower surrounded by 4 other circular towers that are GM’s Headquarters. The first three floors just go in circles and circles and circles.
Wisconsin’s
Hospitality Suite is on the 70th floor – extensive. My room is the largest of any of the three
Marriott’s I’ve stayed in recently on the 32nd floor. I had to explore – eventually located an
Applebee’s and IHop just across the street (of course you’ve got to find the
front of the building – Jacoby’s (German) and a rib place on Brush street
intrigued me. A 10 minute walk –
Jacoby’s had an old bar but it was not a Milwaukee style German restaurant – it
didn’t serve Beck’s or St. Pauli Girl – I had a LITE.
National Guard
Association of the United States -
146th General Conference & Exhibition
1800-2130 Company Grade/Warrant Officer/Field Grade Mixers - Belle Isle - Detroit, Michigan - The National Guard Association of Michigan presented a Picnic and Cruise at the Isle. A Detroit-style picnic dinner, music by the Blue Water Kings Band (MOTOWN Music) & 126 Army Band, and a car show courtesy of the Detroit Police Department & Detroit Public Safety Foundation. Belle Isle is a 982-acre state park in the Detroit River that separates the United States from Canada. It’s five miles from downtown. Transportation provided from the conference hotels – disembarked almost at least a half mile away from the entry to the event in order to ensure that all walked through the ‘car show’. Food and drinks were at an unexpected cost – FREE. Cheeseburgers/hot dogs/chips/beans and coleslaw or something like it in a cup. The ‘Mixers’ were not separate – they were all combined. After another 1/3 mile walk you located the band and the buses for a return to the hotel. No idea where the ‘cruise’ was.
This Belle Isle is located in the middle of the Detroit River. It is not the infamous Confederate Belle Isle Prisoner of War Camp located in the James River near Richmond, VA.
SATURDAY August 24, 2024
WEATHER: 62 degrees at 6:30 am, forecast high of 83
TRAVEL: Detroit
NGAUS - via bus to the Convention Center
and People Mover
Renaissance Marriott Detroit –
0830 Wisconsin Hospitality Room – Mark Mitchie held a ‘planning meeting’ for NGAUS 25 in Milwaukee – I attended because I could – funny how no one has asked me to attend or volunteer for anything – almost feel slighted . . . . at least yesterday I was approached by Jeremy Holmes to assist with the WINGA Golf Outing – Lynn Rasmussen asked me about the NGAUS outing next year – it’s at the Bog
National Guard
Association of the United States - 146th General Conference & Exhibition
100-1010 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony | Lobby Outside Hall B
1040-1200 Brunch (Complimentary
in Exhibit Hall) | Hall B, C – I held off on breakfast
hoping this would suffice until – dinner at the Governor’s Reception
1200-1700 First Business/Professional Development Session
| Hall D - Opening Ceremonies – Entrance
thru Exhibit Hall B
1220 Michigan Welcome - Maj. Gen. Paul Rogers, Adjutant General of
Michigan
Presentation of the NGAUS Harry S. Truman Award
to Honorable Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan - Remarks
by Honorable Will Snyder, Michigan House of Representatives - The
Blue Water Kings Band
1300 Roll Call of the States
1400-1445 Special Address by Bob
Parsons, CEO Parsons Xtreme Golf – co-founder of GoDaddy and a former Marine. Author of “Fire in the Hole: The Untold
Story of My Traumatic Life and Explosive Success”
 |
| Bob Parsons on the right |
1445-1530 Bob Parsons Book
Signing | Exhibit Hall Minuteman Stage1445
1445-1545 Exhibit Hall
Beverage Break (Complimentary
in Exhibit Hall) | Hall B, C
1600 Keynote Address: GEN
Randy George, Chief of Staff, US Army
1645 Special Address: The Honorable John James – R-Mich – US
House of Representatives
1830-2230 Governor's Reception - Henry Ford Museum, Dearborn, Michigan
 |
| The Henry Ford Museum |
The Henry Ford Museum is one of the area’s top attractions. The New York Times calls it “one of the world’s coolest museums.” The collection includes the presidential limousine of John F. Kennedy, Abraham Lincoln’s chair from Ford’s Theatre, the Rosa Parks bus and many other historical and cultural exhibits. It’s visited by more than 1.7 million people a year. The museum is 12 miles from downtown. Transportation was provided from conference hotels. Cars, trains, furniture, a review of the 20th and late 19th century century’s progress. Lots of food (hot dogs/Italian sausage, chips, beans or beef tips, salad, mac & cheese) beer and wine tickets at $8 each – soda and water free.
SUNDAY August 25, 2024
WEATHER: pleasant - cloudy - hot and humid afternoon
TRAVEL: Marriott –
People Mover to Huntington Place – Maritime Church – Marriott – Retired
Luncheon Cruise – People Mover to Hospitality
National Guard
Association of the United States - 146th General Conference & Exhibition
0700 Mass at the Convention Center took the People Mover there, walked back
Didn’t bother with the morning sessions – only one speaker that I may have wanted to hear but it seems the primary speaker of the morning is last on the agenda which almost always interferes with attendance at the Retiree Caucus
1130-1500
Retiree Caucus Meeting & Luncheon - Ovation Yacht, Detroit,
Michigan
 |
| No doubt the best Retiree Caucus I've ever attended |
The Ovation Yacht was docked on the Detroit River, located within walking distance of the Marriott, actually just outside of the Convention Center. The vessel had 3 decks, each with TV screens and microphones for use during the business session. Boarding and appetizers begin at 11:30 a.m. Lunch and Meeting start at 12 noon dockside. Following the meeting (the shortest retiree meeting I’ve ever attended), those who wished to disembark did so. Those remaining enjoyed a cruise on the Detroit River with views of both the US and Canadian shorelines, returning at 3 p.m.
Met some interesting people – Retired General Officer’s and
Members of the Legion de Lafayette – Alaska, Pennsylvania, Colorado, Hawaii –
mostly stayed away from the Wisconsin clique (Mitchie, Hinman, Leckel).
Drinks were free – never happened before – food was buffet
but plenty of it and tasty – appetizers served all during the cruise. Heard that a donation from a sponsor of
$32,000 paid for the event.
HOSPITALITY
NIGHT – most states get together at an offsite
location – I’m just not much into partying anymore . . . . Wisconsin and other BIG EIGHT states
got together at the - ‘dueling pianos’ –
I guess that venue is still ’hot’ – not much interest in that anymore – thought
it went out of vogue 20 years ago with the loss of Lucille’s downtown Milwaukee. This was a band – drums, bass, 2 pianos but one of the piano
players played guitar – more than just ‘dueling pianos.’ Two drink tickets – got there early enough to
have food – beers were $9 each after that . . . crossed the hall to the New England
States event – noisy – boom-boom-boom – recorded
music – could have heard that on the street – didn’t even stay for a drink –
went back to the live music – took the People Mover back to the Marriott.
MONDAY August 26, 2024
WEATHER: supposed to
be up to 92 and humid today
National Guard
Association of the United States -
146th General Conference & Exhibition
1000-1045 ARMY SEPARATE
SESSION - Grand Riverview Ballroom
Presiding Officer: Maj. Gen. Jimmie Cole, Tennessee - Vice
Chairman-Army
Gen. James E. Rainey - Commanding General, Army Futures Command – a soft talker or
it was my ears or the PA – at any rate – BORING – didn’t even bother taking a
picture of him – at least I heard the words “electronic warfare” “robotics” “we
are one Army” “ Rockets Rockets Rockets we’re probably not going to build a new
Paladin” “connectivity” “electro-magnetic survivability” - for
a four star, this guy said nothing new – nothing of substance
Lt. Gen. Mark H. Landes - Commanding General, First U.S. Army – at least I could hear this guy – so he starts out “after 20 years things have changed and could not have been maintained without the Guard and Reserve” OK tell me something I didn’t know – all I picked up here was that in the ‘next war’ Divisions will be made up of the units ‘most ready to go’ – a mix of COMPO 1; COMPO 2, COMPO 3 (How I dislike those terms for Active Duty, Guard, Reserve) – “the next fight is going to be different, you will stay in contact, there will be hardship” – (Oh, they figured out that FOBs with Burger Kings and laundries and gyms and AC won’t be there) None of these guys are Vietnam War veterans - hope they at least read about it . . .
Went back to the main hall for awards presentations, close of
resolutions, nomination/election to the NGAUS board and saw BG Dave May give
the pitch for Wisconsin hosting the next Conference in Milwaukee next
year. He did a good job.
 |
| Kid Rock introduced Trump |
President of the United States
THIS WAS THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE CONFERENCE
The Retiree Caucus Luncheon/River Cruise was second, maybe its
communications today but the speakers don’t bring anything new to the forefront
– and say little or nothing of substance – just a voice box at a podium – could
have sent the tape and listened later – probably not worth the time – just hit
DEL
 |
| Tulsi Gabbard was there to endorse Trump |
BOTTOM LINE: - “Peace through Strength” I’ve got to believe that, of course only if Trump is elected. “Vanquish the corruption” Probably
easier said then done here and abroad.
To me - not a typical Trump speech – sure he took pot shots at
Kamala and Walz – but I checked my notes from 2016 and both he and Hillary were
trading barbs – just like today – nothing new except here, Trump had already served
as Commander in Chief – he faced the enemy – one on one – face to face with Putin and other 'bad guys' - "don;t do that" - he targeted his message to the military in terms the National Guard
could support and understand. Probably one
of his better speeches . . . . ‘an iron dome over America’ ‘ Space Force with the
National Guard as a combat Strategic Reserve’ ‘NATO
will pay its fair share – at least 3% of their GDP’ “VA Choice’
get rid of critical race theory’ - he wants nothing to do with WWIII
 |
| Trump |
1930-2100
States Dinner - Huntington Place
Convention Center The States Dinner and the post-meal entertainment is the final
event of the conference. The event began following the Chairman’s Head Table
Reception and No Host Cocktail receptions at 6 p.m. The dinner program is
scheduled to begin after 7:30 p.m. A special concert is set for 9 p.m.
Recommended attire is World War II era, both warfront and home front dress. I
didn’t stay or a special concert by Michigan natives Sadie Bass, Nashville
Country Music Singer-Songwriter and Jason Cross, Nashville Country-Rock
Musician at 9 p.m. – Few did.
Dinner was estimated at $60 a plate (salad, beef, chicken, mashed potatoes,
vegetables, dessert, coffee) – good service. There were no bars in the conference
hall.
TUESDAY August 27, 2024
WEATHER:
78 at 7 am; forecast high of 91 in Detroit – 98 in
Milwaukee
TRAVEL: Bus to the airport , DELTA LAV DTW 1211 EDT AR MKE 1222 CDT, took the shuttle to FastPark, stopped at Ray's on the way home
WEATHER: a nice day
TRAVEL: Burlington – Kenosha – Burlington – with a ESGR USCG Station Kenosha presentation prior to the forum.
GREAT LAKES CIVIL WAR FORUM - Kenosha Civil War Museum
Mr. Lincoln's Brown Water Navy - Dr. Gary Joiner, Director and Chair of the History Department, LSU Shreveport
Joiner was the only presenter who did not attend in person. His presentation was virtual via ZOOM. I don’t believe he is in good health – and like when I saw last him year with the Chicago Civil War Roundtable in Natchitoches, LA he doesn’t like to travel far. Not a dynamic speaker but I took a lot of notes - - - he named and covered the history of almost 30 ‘brown water navy’ boat/ships. These boats were meant for harbor defense or river service, not the open sea. ‘The naval war was won by the overwhelming superiority in numbers of the Union fleet’ There were iron iron clads, tin clads, rams, and cotton clads. I did find out that somewhere in the western rivers lie 4 vessels similar to the CSS Hunley - all were smaller one hatch affairs.
the USS Monitor Center
The Confederates had limited resources to counter Union ironclads
blocking Southern harbors and rivers. Matthew Fontaine Maury and others
developed torpedoes (mines) to block federal riverine movements. These weapons
dramatically damaged several Union vessels. Captain John Worden’s USS Montauk
struck a torpedo; yet his quick actions helped to save his ship enabling it
to fight another day. Other US Navy monitors were not so fortunate. USS Tecumseh
struck a torpedo during the Battle of Mobile Bay and sank in 90 seconds. He
gave an informative presentation of the Battle of Mobile Bay.
 |
| Battle of Mobile Bay - 5 AUG 1864 USS Tecumseh hit by a torpedo - goes down in 90 seconds USS Brooklyn is behind and stops David Dixon Porter in his flagship USS Hartford (sloop) says "damn the torpedoes, Full speed ahead" |
 |
| LTC Joseph Bailey |
Mr. Michael Goc, Acclaimed Wisconsin History Author
Joseph Bailey was a lumberman from Wisconsin
with a civil engineering degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana. He
started the Civil War as the Captain of the 4th Wisconsin Infantry Regiment.
The real break for Joseph Bailey was when he accompanied General Nathaniel
Banks on the 1864 Red River Campaign. The Red River Campaign was not successful,
and General Bank's army was in serious trouble and needed the 10 river gunboats
of Commander David Dixion Porter. However, the gun boats were stranded by low
water at Alexandria, and it appeared that the boats might be captured, and the
army surrendered. Bailey suggested a wing dam be built to raise the water level
of the river enough to allow the gunboats to pass Alexandria. Bailey had done
this in Wisconsin to get logs down rivers and was sure it would work. The
Bailey Dam worked as predicted and General Banks' army, and the gunboats were
saved.
 |
| Baileys Dam - Alexandria, LA on the Red river |
The Navy and Left-Armed Corps: Outstanding Service in War and Peace - Stephen A. Goldman, M.D., Author of One More War to FighT LFACLP, DLFAPA
Drawing
upon his study of a representative cohort of battle-hardened Union soldiers and
sailors who lost right arm function, research into the multifaceted impact of
war on survivors, and longtime work with modern-day combat veterans,
psychiatrist and author Dr. Stephen A. Goldman explored what he calls the Left-Armed
Corps. He linked the veterans’ uniformed service to their commitment to the
war’s “unfinished work”, as they battled for equality for all Americans through
Reconstruction, Jim Crow, and the Lost Cause. Goldman is a psychiatrist and his research is
directed toward PTSD. His presentation followed
the careers of several men who lost their right arms during the civil war. Most continued to serve and were very
successful.
TUESDAY October 1, 2024
WEATHER:
sunny – clear – high of 64 – windy in the open
TRAVEL: Burlington – North Kettle Moraine – West Bend - Burlington
Hike
44 miles. Visit 3 Trail Communities. During October.
I registered Kristin, Kaleb, Josie, Amy, Annabelle and myself as a team, i.e. miles and Community Visits can be pooled together. We did this last year.
HOW:
1. Hike, walk, skip, run 44 miles, visit 3 Ice Age Trail Communities and submit your completion form.
2. Accumulate 44 miles through hiking, walking, skipping or running PLUS BONUS MILES and submit your completion form.
3. Earn 44 BONUS MILES, visit 3 Ice Age Trail Communities and submit your completion from.
I did it the ‘hard
way’ in 2020 – I followed #1. It was difficult to schedule enough days with
reasonable weather to complete 40 miles. I did not walk in 2021. In 2022 I used a mix of hiking and bonus
miles. In 2023, the ‘team’ accumulated well over 43
miles with a mix of hiking and Bonus Miles.
The team last year also visited Cold Caches – with a goal of eventually reaching
Level 5 of the Cold Cache Awards (visiting 25 Cold Cache Sites representing t
least 20 different feature types. We (Josie,
Kaleb and I) achieved Level 3 last year (12 Cold Cache sites representing at least
9 different feature types)..
The Bonus Mile
system is helpful. However, 44 miles is still a lot to walk in possibly only 2 or 3 weekends for a family. So, there is
NO LIMIT TO THE NUMBER OF BONUS MILES you can earn.
10 BONUS MILES
to become an Ice Age Trail Alliance Member
10 BONUS MILES
Volunteer with the Ice Age Trail Alliance
10 BONUS MILES
Gift an Alliance membership or recruit a New IAT Alliance member
5 BONUS MILES
Visit a “NEW TO YOU” Trail Community
5 BONUS MILES Attend
a Mammoth Hike Challenge Event
5 BONUS MILES
Hike a segment with a glacial feature
5 BONUS MILES Check
out the Explorer Backpack at a Trail Community library
2 BONUS MILES
Take advantage of Trail Magic
2 BONUS MILES
Share a photo of you Trail Community experience on social media and use hashtag
#MammothHikeChallenge and tag @iceagetrail.org
It looks like
the Alliance’s emphasis is on Trail Communities this year and of
course you can buy your BONUS MILES with giving memberships. It may be hard to achieve the 44 miles this year
– unless you accumulate glacial features on separate segments. Every segment has at least one glacial
feature – usually many more. The Alliance
acknowledges that you can earn all of your miles as BONUS MILES.
 |
| Parnell Segment Map at Mauthe Lake trailhead |
Start: Mauthe
Lake Trailhead to CTH GGG and return 1.6
MILES
Total Route
Ascent: 95’ Total Route Descent: 82’
The Kettle
Moraine really isn’t moraine at all by most definitions. Its hills are composed mostly of stream
deposited sand and gravel instead of mostly till (sediment picked up, carried
and deposited closer to the ice margin).
South of Highway
67 the southern part of the Parnell Segment is in the Lake Michigan
Lobe side of the Kettle Moraine;
north of it is in the Green Bay Lobe.
 |
| Parnell Segment Mallard Hole Lake from the trail |
GLACIAL
FEATURES
Kettle Lake 5.0
BONUS MILES
Mallard Hole
Lake is on the eastern side of the trail between the Mauthe Lake trailhead and CTH GGG.
Kettle 5.0
BONUS MILES
A kettle is a
depression formed when a mass of glacier ice that is buried in sand and gravel
or till melts away. As the buried ice
block slowly melts, the sediment above collapses into he void and produces a
hole that may range from tens of feet to miles across. This process forms hummocky topography
Hummocky Sand
and Gravel 5.0
BONUS MILES
Sediment of all
sizes accumulates on the top surfaces of glacial ice. When the underlying ice melts out, the
sediments collapse into irregular hill (hummocks) and depressions (kettles).
HENRY
S. REUSS ICE AGE VISITOR CENTER
N2875 Hwy 67,
Campbellsport, WI
This is a
weekday in October, I didn’t expect the VC to be open, it’s closed Monday’s
thru Thursdays. I’ve been here before, but I did visit the rear deck which
overlooks an outwash plain and Dundee Mountain, a kame.
GLACIAL FEATURES
Outwash Plain 5.00
BONUS MILES
Outwash is a
term used to describe sediments deposited by water flowing away from a
glacier.
Moulin Kame 5.00
BONUS MILES
The word “kame”
has been used to describe hills . . . associating the word with “moulin” narrows its meaning. Moulins are vertical shafts through the
glacier that often extend all the way to the bed. They occur only where the ice is relatively
thin and where the glacier is at the melting point. Most hills in hummocky terrain are not
moulin kames. Typically moulin kames are more isolated and commonly surrounded by flat or rolling
topography.
End Moraine 5.00
BONUS MILES
Moraines are ridges of glacial debris. Thery form wherever till, sand and gravel are
piled up on or adjacent to the glacier margin.
End moraines are ridges that form at the end (edge) of the
glacier when debris is carried to the ice margin and released as the glacier
melts. The Ice Age Trail follows
moraine topography along most of it path across Wisconsin.
 |
| Dundee Mountain (kame) Outwash Plain End Moraine |
PARNELL
SEGMENT
CTH F to Cold
Cache CRACKS IN THE ICE and return 0.50
MILES
Ascent: 26’ 5.4%
grade
GLACIAL
FEATURES
COLD CACHE
Cracks in the Ice EL 1089 5.00 BONUS MILES
Crevasse
Fillings are short,
ridge shaped deposits formed in an open-to-the-sky crack in the ice. It is difficult to tell if a single short
ridge of sand and gravel is an esker or a crevasse filling. The ridges here are probably crevasse
fillings because there are several straight, parallel ridge. Eskers are generally undulating and gently
curving.
Start: parking lot along esker and
return 0.50
MILES
GLACIAL FEATURES
COLD CACHE Butler Kettle Lakes EL 1051
feet 5.00
BONUS MILES
COLD CACHE
Parnell Esker EL 1058 5.00 BONUS MILES
Eskers are long winding ridges of stream
sediment deposited in tunnels beneath the ice.
They from in warm glaciers where flowing water can melt upward into the
ice instead of downward into the bed as tunnel channel rivers do. Sometimes the stream flowing through the
tunnel fills with sand and gravel. When
the surrounding ice melts away, it leaves a long sinuous ridge called an
esker. Parnell Esker is over 4
miles long.
 |
| Parnell Esker - How eskers are formed |
 |
| Butler Lake (kettle lake) from atop the Parnell Esker |
 |
| How kettles are formed |
LA
BUDDE SEGMENT
Start: parking
lot to COLD CACHE bench and return 0.40
MILES
GLACIAL
FEATURES
COLD CACHE LaBudde
Creek: Visions of Its Past
EL 917 feet 5.00
BONUS MILES
Glacial
Stream Channel – the
LaBudde Channel was a glacial meltwater channel that was formed along the eastern
edge of the Kettle Moraine and the western edge of the Lake Michigan
Lobe. 10,000 years ago, there was a forceful river of meltwater from the glacier racing and
eroding from the northeast toward the southwest.
MILWAUKEE
RIVER SEGMENT
Start:
parking lot ton Ridge Rd to COLD CACHE and return 1.00 MILES
Ascent 49’ Descent 16’
GLACIAL
FEATURES
COLD CACHE Between
Here and There EL 964.9 feet 5.00
BONUS MILES
High Relief Hummocky
Terrain that retains
little of no original depositional surface. It has all collapsed. Rivers on top
of the ice deposited that debris and later collapsed. This moraine area is full
of kettles, eskers, and erratics.
 |
| Kewaskum Segment Map |
Start: parking
lot ton Ridge Rd to COLD CACHE and return 1.00
MILES
Ascent 52’ Descent 98’
GLACIAL
FEATURES
COLD CACHE Otten
Preserve EL 964.9 feet 5.00 BONUS MILES
The route took
you through high relief hummocky topography.
Hummock – a knob-like hump or ridge usually made
of sand or gravel.
Drumlins
I walked to a Leopold
Bench that was atop a hill and to the west was a view of the high
drumlins of
the Green Bay Lobe. A drumlin
is an elongate hill that forms at the bed of a glacier and flows in the
direction of the ice flow. Normally
described as a teardrop or inverted soon-shaped hill, a drumlin is steeper on
the the up-ice side, where the glacier ice was formed against the line and
gentler on the down =ice side where the ice was less erosive. These drumlins formed beneath the
eastern side of the Green Bay Lobe when the edge of the lobe was in the
area of the Kettle Moraine and bumping against ice from the Lake
Michigan Lobe. Ice flowed from
southeast or south-southeast.
1 of 3 - Visited West Bend as a Trail
Community. Dinner at Buffalo Wild
Wings.
Additionally, I
rejoined the Ice Age Trail Alliance for another year. The membership is now good through 11/2/25. 10.00 BONUS MILES
ADD ALL OF
THE ABOVE FOR A TOTAL OF 65.0 MILES (including
12 glacial features for 65 bonus miles and 5 hiking miles) + another 10 for
Alliance Membership. The team will next
go to Devils Lake.
 |
| This is the last strike of the 9th inning on October 2, 2024 where the Brewers won Game 2 of the Wildcard series Brewers 5 - Mets 3. Unfortunately, the Brewers lost Game 3 by a score of 3-2. It was a comeback win in the 9th by the Mets, where they got three runs off of Devin Williams. It reminded me of 2019 where the Brewers were in a similar situation. They lost the 3rd game to the Nationals in a comeback win. In October 2018, I was up in Rib Lake with my trailer walking segments of the IAT, the Brewers were playing the Rockies for the National League Division Championship. The Brew Crew won 3 games in a row. Then they played the Dodgers for the National League Championship - Brewers lost 4 games of 7. Just memories |
 |
| Erratic - on the trail leading to Bald Bluff from the parking lot |
MONDAY October 7, 2024
WEATHER: 63 at 3 pm
TRAVEL: Burlington – Kettle Moraine Golf Club – Palmyra - Burlington
2024 MAMMOTH HIKE CHALLENGE
BLACKHAWK SEGMENT 0.60 miles
COLD CACHE Bald Bluff EL 869.4 feet
Kettle Moraine - a glacial landform in Wisconsin with a varied topography that includes kettles, moraines, kames and eskers.
Erratic – a rock that has been transported by a glacier from it’s original location
WEATHER: 61at 10 am, windy, clear, sunny, rain in the afternoon
TRAVEL: Burlington – Kettle Moraine - Burlington
2024 MAMMOTH HIKE CHALLENGE
BLACKHAWK SEGMENT 2.0 miles
COLD CACHE Pioneer Lime Kiln EL 978 feet 5.00 BONUS MILES
Actually this Cold Cache is not on the IAT. Kaleb and I started at the Ole Oleson Pioneer Cabin just off Duffin Rd and hiked 1 mile to the Pioneer Lime Kiln on the Lime Kiln Trail. This trail intersects and follows the IAT for about only 50 yds.
 |
| Blackhawk Trail Map showing location of Ole Oleson Cabin off Duffin Rd and spur trail to the Lime Kiln |
 |
| Ole Olson Cabin |
 |
| Pioneer Lime Kiln |
WEATHER: clear and sunny all day - cool in the morning up to 70
TRAVEL: Burlington – Whitewater-Gibraltar Rock – Parfrey’s Glen – Steimke Basin – Sauk Point Segment (Ventifacts) Hwy DL – Devils Lake Loop – Baraboo - Merrimac Ferry - Gibraltar Rock - Burlington
2024 MAMMOTH HIKE CHALLENGE
GIBRAlTAR ROCK SEGMENT 1.20 miles
The Driftless Area of southwestern Wisconsin was not glaciated. This area has steeper valleys, hill slopes and narrower ridge tops than the landscape in most of the glaciated areas This area has many sandstone chimneys which were formed because slightly harder layers of rock (mostly in sandstone) protected the softer sandstone beneath the erosion. Instead of glaciers, weather and erosion shaped the Driftless Area for tens of millions of years.
COLD CACHE Gibraltar Rock is Really Lying Out There EL 937 feet
Rock Layer 5.00 BONUS MILES
From the parking lot of the Gibraltar Rock State Natural Area on CTH V to the view point you pass through 500 million years of geologic time. A great description follows but the parking lot was full to overflowing – we ended our day here on this segment starting at the other end of the trail.
The lower part of Gibraltar Rock is composed of late Cambrian sandstone deposited when the late Cambrian Sea covered much of the continent and what would become Wisconsin just south of the equator.
The two layers above it are or Ordovician Age. The first is Prairie du Chein dolomite that formed in a shallow sea about 495 million years ago. Abor that is whitish St. Peter sandstone deposited by wind and rivers during the Middle Ordovician Period when the sea was absent form this area. These rocks layers were raised by pressure during the Cambrian Period causing them form into a dome and arch throughout Wisconsin. The raised layers tilted and eroded to form escarpments at the heading of the harder layers. Gibraltar Rock was not a separate identifiable entity until erosion removed the layers around it.
As the glaciers advanced out of Canada, about 3 million years ago it rounded off part of Gibraltar Rock, left gravel on top of it and carved grooves (striations) in the direction of the ice movement. Then the receding glacier meltwater left many deposits in this area.
Rising 200 feet above the surrounding landscape, Gibraltar Rock is a flat-topped butte, an outlier of the Magnesian escarpment. With a thin Platteville-Galena dolomite cap over St. Peter sandstone, the butte offers panoramic views of the Wisconsin River Valley and Lake Wisconsin. Soils are thin, glaciated sandy loams. On the south is a sheer rock face overlooking a large leather-leaf bog and scenic valley.
.jpg) |
| Parfrey's Glen |
PARFREY’S GLEN STATE NATURAL AREA
Parfrey’s Glen is managed by the DNR and was designated as Wisconsin’s first state Natural Area in 1952. It is adjacent to the Ice Age Trail but is not part of the trail. But a 1.7 round trip walk to get there and back. I did not visit this area when I hiked the trail. Parking is just off of CTH DL on the southern terminus of the Sauk Point segment of the Ice Age Trail. We ended up parking on CTH DL. And actually the ‘maintained trail’ ends – it may be another ½ mile to the end of the gorge and the waterfall, Kristin stopped when we had to start crossing water – we got the tumbled boulder area.
SAUK POINT SEGMENT
Start: parking lot on CTH DL to COLD CACHE and return 2.3 MILES
GLACIAL FEATURES
COLD CACHE Parfrey’s Glen EL 856 feet
Conglomerate 5.00 BONUS MILES
 |
| Parfrey's Glen - Conglomerate layered between sandstone |
Hills. The glen walls were formed by Cambrian age sandstone which was deposited when the area was covered by a shallow inland sea 530 million years ago. Baraboo Quartzite is studded and sometimes layered throughout the Cambrian sandstone. This is a conglomerate of the two. Sea currents likely washed the quartzite to this area from nearby sources where it eventually itself into the sandstone . Later on glacial melts also played a part in bringing the quartzite to the glen, as well as, the actual cutting of the glen itself as meltwater poured through the area..
.jpg) |
| Parfrey's Glen |
.jpg) |
| Parfrey's Glen |
SAUK POINT SEGMENT
Start: parking lot on CTH DL to COLD CACHE and return 0.6 MILES
Ascent 0’ Descent 16’
COLD CACHE Ventifacts EL 1283 feet
Ventifacts 5.00 BONUS MILES
Ventifacts is a term derived from the “ventus”, which is Latin for wind made. They are wind-blown stones. Defined by their smoother, flattened or faced surfaces and sharp ridge or edges. They are stones that have one or more flattened surface that is highly polished. They are produced under arid conditions by windblown sand or ice crystals.
DEVIL’S LAKE SEGMENT
Start: Steinke Basin parking lot on CTH DL
GLACIAL FEATURES
COLD CACHE Steinke Basin EL 1205 feet
Steinke Basin 5.00 BONUS MILES
This is an extinct glacial lake basin that was drained by stream that flowed north before the glacier. The glacier blocked the flow north and dammed a lake in Steinke Basin. The water level rose until it was high enough to spill out the south end of the basin where it flowed westward to the northeast end of Devils Lake. Today this area is about 240 feet higher than the level of Devils Lake. When you look north you can see the Johnstown Moraine.
COLD CACHE Johnson Ponds EL 1218 feet
Johnson Ponds 5.00 BONUS MILES
This is a Earth science lesson. It is estimated, that in places, as much as 50% of the glaciers volume was composed of rock, sand and soil that was ultimately left behind when the glaciers melted and retreated north. Blocks of ice formed kettles. This is the largest concentration of kettles in the Baraboo area. Curing the short walk from the Steinke Basin Parking Lot there are five kettles. A major influence in their creation was a sub-glacial river running through a tunnel under the glacier that cut a channel into the surface and breached a portion of the Johnstown Moraine. As the blocks of ice dropped from the roof of the tunnel they were buried with sand and debris. After the climate warmed these buried ice blocks also melted and the surface collapsed, leaving a kettle.
DEVIL’S LAKE SEGMENT
Start: Steimke Basin parking lot on CTH DL
GLACIAL FEATURES
COLD CACHE Nature’s Cement EL 1205 feet
Nature’s Cement 5.00 BONUS MILES
A conglomerate is a rock formation made from large fragments of one type of rock held together by fine particles creating another type of rock (i.e. sandstone)
COLD CACHE Devil’s Lake EL 1433 feet
Access via S Shore Road to the IAT
Devil’s Lake 5.00 BONUS MILES
For 200 million years the tributaries flowing into it carried quartz sand grains which were deposited in layers and cemented together, creating sandstone.
A crustal disturbance occurred, just to the south of here about 1.65 billion years ago.
The immense heat and pressure cause the sandstone to meta morph into Quartzite and created the Baraboo Range, which includes Devil’s Lake. The layer of quartzite in this area is estimated to be over 4,000 feet thick.
As the uplift occurred the sea receded, but a river continued to flow through the gap, eroding the softer rock and creating the gorge between the east and west bluffs.
When the glaciers advanced, 60,000 – 15,000 years ago it altered Devil’s Lake again.
The Green Bay Lobe was diverted by the massive quartzite cliffs. The glacier wrapped around the bluffs and advanced into the north and south ends of the gorge.
When the glacier melted it left behind ridges of soil, gravel and rock. The ridges are called moraines, damned up both ends of the gorge creating the Devil’s Lake Basin.
When the glacier melted the basin was filled with water. A river once flowed through the gorge.
The Devil’s Lake Nature Center sits atop terminal moraine on the North Shore. A terminal moraine marks the spot where a glacier reached its maximum extent before retreating.
40.0 BONUS MILES October 19
4.1 HIKING MILES October 19
5.0 BONUS MILES October 13
2.0 HIKING MILES October 13
5.0 BONUS MILES October 7
.6 HIKING MILES October 7
50.0 BONUS MILES October 1
5.0 HIKING MILES October 1
111.7 MILES Well over the 44 needed to make the Mammoth Hike Challenge 2024
Trail Communities of West Bend, Baraboo, Whitewater
SUBMITTED CLAIM TO IATA FOR MAMMOTH HIKE CHALLENGE 2024 TEAM RECOGNITION
COLD CACHE AWARDS PROGRAM
· Level I: Snowflake. A water crystal that forms in the atmosphere and falls to the earth. Visit and log 3 ColdCache sites representing at least 2 different feature types.
· Level II: Blizzard. A long, severe snowstorm with intensely cold wind and fine snow. Visit and log 7 ColdCache sites representing at least 5 different feature types.
· Level III: Firn. Partially consolidated snow that has passed through one summer melt season, but is not yet glacial ice. Visit and log 12 ColdCache sites representing at least 9 different feature types.
· Level IV: Ice Sheet. A broad, thick sheet of ice covering an extensive area for a long period of time. Visit and log 18 ColdCache sites representing at least 14 different feature types.
· Level V: Glacier. An extended mass of ice, formed from snow falling and accumulating over years, that flows over a land mass. Visit and log 25 ColdCache sites representing at least 20 different feature types.
SUBMITTED CLAIM TO IATA FOR RECOGNITION – Dave
ICE SHEET - GLACIER – Visited a total of 27 Cold Cache Sites representing 24 feature types
SUBMITTED CLAIM TO IATA FOR RECOGNITION – Kaleb - Kristin
ICE SHEET – Visited a total of 20 Cold Cache Sites representing at least 20 feature types
ICE SHEET – Visited a total of 19 Cold Cache Sites representing 18 feature types
SUBMITTED CLAIM TO IATA FOR RECOGNITION - Amy-Annabelle
SNOWFLAKE- BLIZZARD – Visited 7 Cold Cache Sites representing 7 feature types
2023 Cold Cache (12)/Feature (12)
Atop A Long Steep Sided Esker - J&K
Extinct Glacial Lake Scuppernong - J&K
Brady's Rocks/Niagara Escarpment - J&K
Lapham Peak Observation Tower/Kettle - Moraine - J&K
Hartland Marsh - J&K&K
Monches Trifecta/terrace-hummucky terrain - J&K&K
Esker Its Irish and Its Our Emerald Isle - J&K&K
A Pilgrim's Sacred Home/erratic - J&K&K
Polk Kames - J&K&K
Esker's: Ancient Glacial Riverbeds - J&K&K
West Bend's Arteisan Wells/spring - J&K&K
West Bend's Extra Special Esker - J&K&K
2024 Cold Cache (15)/Feature (12)
Cracks In The Ice/crevasse fillings
Butler Kettle Lakes
Parnell Esker
LaBudde Creek: Visions of the Past/glacial stream channel
Between Here and There/high relief hummucky terrain
Otten Preserve/drumlins
Bald Bluff/kettles, moraine, extinct glacial lake, erratic
Pioneer Lime Kiln - K
Gibraltar Rock Is Really Lying Out There/driftless area - K,K,A,A
Parfrey's Glen/conglomerate - K,K,A,A
Ventifacts - K,K,A,A
Steinke Basin - K,K,A,A
Johnsons Ponds/kettles - K,K,A,A
Natures Cement/conglomerate - K,K,A,A
Devils Lake - K,K,A,A
This is most likely the last entry for Dave Gapinski’s Travels. Unless, of course, in 2025, I deem attendance at the January Serra Rally – Miami; April Chicago Civil War Roundtable – Shiloh (unable to golf in Crossville, TN -same time as Shiloh); June Serra International Convention – Kansas City; August National Guard Association of the United States – Milwaukee; worth writing about. Probably will. I may do the Mammoth Challenge Alone next year or with Amy and family – not sure the Ehlen’s have much interest in Wisconsin geography/geology.
Thursday November 21, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0658 Burlington, WI light snow and 30 degrees at 7 am. Sunset: 4:38 pm Bloomington, MN
TRAVEL: Travel by auto to General Mitchell Field, park at DELTA FLT 4887 LV MKE 1202 AR MSP 1327 Budget Rent A Car paid in advance. A black Dodge Charger, Florida plates, 59,000 miles.
Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark – Bloomington, MN . Stayed here on 3,393 points from Hilton Grand Vacations – one person two nights with no cash outlay was a better deal than paying for a hotel room and I didn’t want to stay at the retreat center. Great Wolf is less than a mile from the airport. The North Central Regional Serra Meeting is being held Christ the King Retreat Center, Buffalo, MN – about an hour’s drive to the northwest.
Not here to use the waterpark . . . lighting in the room reminds me of a Motel 6 (haven’t stayed in one of those for over 20 years) cold – stark, large enough room, no desk, table, 2 chairs, love seat 1 person hide-a-bed, sink outside the bathroom, small refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, queen bed – adequate. WIFI works. The hot water is scalding hot – be careful – the desk has no light above it – not work friendly . . . of course, it’s a water park.
Friday November 22, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0720 Bloomington, MN 33 degrees at 0700. Forecast high in upper 30’s cloudy. Sunset: 4:38 pm Bloomington,, MN
TRAVEL: Great Wolf Lodge, Bloomington, MN – Christ the King Retreat Center, Buffalo, MN – Great Wolf Lodge, Bloomington, MN. A 45 mile drive of about one hour, one-way depending on the traffic.
Christ the King Retreat Center, Buffalo, MN - located about an hour’s drive northeast of the airport. It may be possible to put all the travel into one day. Leave MKE at 6 am and return a little after 10 pm. Saves two nights in a motel but too long of a day. Probably still better to stay overnight. The retreat center may have been a less expensive choice and still a good experience – they did have WIFI.
This place is on a small bluff above Buffalo Lake. Multi-level – therefore lifts and ramps – run by the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate. Buffalo Lake itself is a town of about 5,000.
Serra USA North Central Regional Conference
The North Central Region consists of clubs in the Dakotas, Minnesota and Wisconsin. This is the first time I’ve ever received a invite, therefore I decided to attend. Debbie Koop, District Governor 7
0930 Registration – Charleen Zach
1000 Welcome, Introductions and Opening Remarks – Cathy Ahern
1015 Speaker: Fr. Mark Pavlak – Vocation Director, Archdiocese of St. Paul – just assigned in June – k-12 Catholic Education – an altar boy – seminary “I applied – I was accepted – I was ordained” – he recently met with 30 men in the current process of discernment – his job is to sort -some have recently come back to the faith, perhaps they need 1-2 years of prayer to really decide if the have the call – some a zealous converts – again maybe 2 years before they are ready for the seminary -some just need permission not to be a priest -some are just plain ready to begin the process of formation in the seminary
1045 Speaker: Fr. Nels Gjendahl - Formation, St. Paul Seminary – never went to a Catholic school but it was the Neuman center at college that gave him the question – as a ‘formator’ his job is to ‘accompany the seminarian as he journeys with God/Jesus’ - because ‘Jesus is the primary formator’. The levels are the same SPIRITUAL – INTELLECTUAL – PASTORAL – HUMAN. He said the obvious: ‘What was in the past is not what it is today: There are social changes in FAMILY – FRIENDSHIP – CULTURAL MORALITY. This guy said he now he works weekends – wears black and white – and also is the Chaplain for the Minnesota Vikings at home and away – yes he flys with the team – holds a mass the day before the game - tell me – tough life.
1115 North Central Region Club Reports – This item is perhaps the best reason for attending the Regional Conference – I represented the only club from Wisconsin although Milwaukee did send in a report – there was one club from Dakota. The rest were from Minnesota – mostly within an hour or two of Minneapolis/ St. Paul. I wonder if he gets free tickets for the seminarians?
· IDEA: use 7 Greats at monthly meeting – discuss use – a member can take the lead for each item
· IDEA: The St. Cloud club uses the parish directory together with those who attend daily mass to recruit first with an invite, a follow-up letter then a call
· TO SELF: ask Dick Miller if his prayer group could pray the Serran Prayer For Vocations each day after mass – likewise this could be a way to gain awareness – continue with other groups in the parish
· TO SELF: Attend parish Liturgy Committee meetings to get Holy Hour for Vocations and Stations of the Cross for Vocations on the calendar
· PRAYER IS THE FOUNDATION OF SERRA
· IDEA: Neumann Connection – get info to CCHS SRs before they graduate and last chance for BHS may be Confirmation in their JR year
· IDEA: Judy Cozzens is promoting a PSA regarding Serra by her son the Archbishop on Relevant Radio – call her to ask for script – this may be welcome by Milwaukee’s new archbishop
1200 Lunch (Dining Room)
1245 Speaker: Dr. Anne Roat – President, US Council of Serra International – proud of the Indiana Parish that had seven new priests in each of the last seven years ordained – Anne does vocations Workshops for parishes – Jesse will do them in Spanish – this expands support for Serra Clubs
1345 Speaker: Giovana Garcia Club Express – Administrative Assistant, US Council of Serra International – Club Express – a work in progress
1430 Break
1445 Continue North Central Region Club Reports – (see above)
1600 District Meetings 7 and 7S I attended District 7S led by Cathy Ahern. They have Regional dues – District dues – awards – I will send the California Missions PowerPoint to Cathy Ahern.
1700 Social and Visting Time (Coffee Room) – I left a 4:30 in order to stop by the post office and mail home a 36x36x4 box containing a table top Serra banner for the club.
A silent retreat at Christ the King Retreat Center followed on Saturday. The Retreat Mast is Deacon Joseph Michalak, Director of the Office of Synod Evangelization. Suggested donation was $250 for conferences, mass, Serra Memorial service, reconciliation, etc. I decided not to stay – Amy and I have tickets for Bach’s Christmas Oratorio, performed by the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. A retreat can almost always be enriching – I just attended a day retreat at the Redemptorist Retreat Center on October 26th. Attendance a Serra Rally or the Serra International Convention is a mini-retreat in itself. Didn’t really take any photos. This event was worth the visit.
Saturday November 23, 2024
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0721 Bloomington, MN cloudy and 34 degrees at 6 am. Sunset: 4:24 pm Burlington, WI
TRAVEL: Great Wolf Lodge – MSP – DELTA Flt 4963 LV MSP 1410 AR MKE 1530 - Burlington
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