09Muster

Rig for Reunion

Branson, Missouri is awaiting the crew of the USS Sea Fox (SS402). We will celebrate our reunion during the week of May 10, 2009. Ron and Penny Athey (58-60) are honored to be your hosts. Please indicate "Sea Fox Reunion" on any mailings or on the Email subject line. If you have any questions, comments or suggestions please share them. Contact information is given above.

Our reunion headquarters will be the Branson Settle Inn. Click on the link above for specific information about the Branson Settle Inn. Nightly charge will be $65 per night plus tax and this price is good for 3 days prior to, during, and 3 days after the reunion. Reservations can be made by calling: 1-800-677-6906. Mention the Sea Fox (Group #SF5109).

The Branson Convention and Visitors Bureau have their "2008 Vacation Guide" and welcome package available. To get your complimentary copy just call 1-800-214-3661 and mention that you are planning on attending the Sea Fox reunion.

At this time the pricing and scheduling information on many of the shows and attractions are not yet available. As soon as Ron has that info he will get a reunion application to you. The 2009 reunion is still a work in progress.

Where is Branson? It is in the South West corner of Missouri. If you check your map or atlas where the States of Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma come together, and look just to the East, you'll see Branson, just north of the AR border. For those of you who choose to fly in, the area is served by the Springfield/Branson Airport in Springfield, MO. For those who choose to drive I would suggest the following routes. From the Southwest travel I-40 to Oklahoma City, North on I-44 (toll) to Springfield. From the Northwest I-70 to Kansas City and South on I-71 to I-44 then North (East) to Springfield. From the Northeast I-70 to St. Louis and South (West) on I-44 to Springfield. Once you reach Springfield travel South on I-65 about 30 miles and you are in Branson. For those of you coming from the Southeast try I-40 to Little Rock and then about 6 hours North on I-65 through the rural Arkansas countryside.

What is There To Do?

The Shows: Jim "Spiders and Snakes" Stafford, Paul Harris, Yakov "What-a-Country" Smirnoff, Shogi "Don't Eat the Bait" Tobguchi just to start the list. Variety, comedy, 50/60s country etc, something for every taste.

Shopping: Several outlet malls with literally 100 of outlet stores. Antique and craft stores and shops abound in the area. in the "Old Town" area of Branson is the newly opened "Branson Landing" which contains upscale stores and a Bass Pro Shop store.

Food: Fast food, ethnic, upscale, you name it and it is probably here. Of course the area abounds with buffet-style eating. Remember when the "All You Can Eat" places locked the doors when they saw a pair of dolphins approaching?"

Attractions: The "Branson Belle", a stern-wheel riverboat offers dinner and show cruises on the lake. Or you can dine and catch the show at the "Dolly Parton Dinner Theater". There is "Silver Dollar City" an 1890s theme part, folk art and handcraft center. Of course these are just a few of many.

Money: I think most of you will be surprised at how far your buck will go here. I know that I have been pleasantly surprised. Of course, I moved here from the San Francisco Bay area.

The Natives: They are friendly! I have found the people in this area to be very patriotic and appreciative of our service to our country and to them. No "Dogs and Sailors Keep Off the Lawn" signs here.

The Weather: May should be comfortably warm and dry. Maybe a sweater or jacket in the evening.

Information regarding RV parking can be obtained from Ron. There is a nearby KOA campground.

A specific daily schedule will be published when confirmed.

If you plan on attending the reunion, please contact Ron Athey and George Arnold. Please let us know the names of guests also.