Executive Director’s Report:
2007 Reunion Update

Reunion Update

We expect that well over 3,000 Tailhookers will meet in Reno in September, so I suggest that you call John Ascuaga’s Nugget today to make your hotel reservations. It won’t be long before all of the rooms have been spoken for. If you’re on active duty, make sure to let the reservation desk know that you qualify for the active-duty rate when you call.

Don’t miss this opportunity to set up a booth, visit the professional displays or see old friends. Register with Tailhook headquarters and make your reservations today.

With every reunion we make changes based on your recommendations. The biggest changes this year will be at the “Bug” Roach mixer. We are attempting to eliminate, or at least reduce, waiting in line by serving prepared food. Heavy hors d’oeuvres will replace the carving stations, and all food will be served in Rose A and Rose B ballrooms.

Additional tables and chairs will be available in the Rose A ballroom. Food tickets have been eliminated, and we will use hotel security and wristbands to control access to the ballrooms. We also will extend the drink ticket time from two to three hours. The valid time will be printed on each ticket.

As you see from the enclosed reservation form, we have added a fun run and tennis tournament. Both of these events are returning from the 1980s, and we expect a great turnout. These are opportunities to exercise and see the scenery around Reno. If you would like to volunteer to help with either of these events, please contact our reunion coordinator, Marc Ostertag at (800) 322-4665.

In an effort to reduce the noise level during the symposium, we are moving all refreshments into Rose A ballroom along the west air wall. We will close the south air wall panels as well and place signs in the hall noting that the symposium is in session. If you are in the entrance area to the symposium, please keep your conversations quiet.

There is a small change in the schedule on Saturday morning. We will end the morning session earlier. Lunch will begin 30 minutes earlier than normal. This leaves more flexibility during the awards luncheon, and we can start the afternoon symposium Flag Panel sooner.

Registration has been available online since 1 May, by mail or by calling the Tailhook office at (800) 322-4665. However you register, plan to be there to enjoy yourselves and to learn about the achievements and future of our Navy. We’ll see you in Reno!

Tailhook Association Growth

2006 was good for the Tailhook Association. We improved the content of The Hook magazine, added additional merchandise to our sales inventory and benefited greatly from a successful reunion. As we continue to prosper, we are carefully investing for the future and donating additional income to the Tailhook Educational Foundation scholarship fund.

Membership

Our Life Membership Endowment is healthy and growing with more than 2,200 Life members. Many choose to become Life members to show their support for the Tailhook Association and to ensure the future of our organization. They appreciate knowing that they are part of a core of individuals whose support of carrier aviation is clearly evident, and they take pride in an organization that is at the forefront of ensuring that carrier aviation remains a vital part of our nation’s defensive capability.

For those younger than 60, the cost to become a Life member is $705. Part of your payment will be invested for the future, and part goes into the general operating fund. Payments can be made over 15 months. Active-duty members can pay over four years. For members over age 60, we have established a reduced price and payment schedule. Please check elsewhere on this Web site or call Patty at (800) 322-4665 for details.

Headquarters Contacts

Hook 2006 Reunion Coordinator (Marc Ostertag): (800) 322-4665

Tailhook Educational Foundation (CFC #2965): (800) 269-8267

The Tailhook Ship's Store: (800) 322-4665

Tailhook Web site: http://www.tailhook.org or http://www.tailhook.net

e-mail: thookassn@aol.com