tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6231484460666060192024-03-08T12:14:51.995-06:00Toukoul Adoptive Families Reunion 2014 - Disney World June 27th - July 5thOur goal is to bring families together who have shared the common bond of adoption through Le Toukoul and to continue the bond our children share through their time living at Le Toukoul.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.comBlogger85125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-48711359935205820752013-09-10T17:26:00.001-05:002013-09-10T17:26:11.548-05:00Announcement<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">TAFRU 2014 - Disney World has been changed</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">It is now</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"> TAFRU 2014 - Disneyland</span></strong> </div>
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The TAFRU planning committee members have dedicated a lot of time and energy into planning this event each year. Because most of the committee members have family commitments over the next year that is pulling them away from planning and possibly attending TAFRU, we had to look at other options. As a result, we felt it best to move the venue to a location nearer to committee members that could dedicate their time to TAFRU 2014. Since TAFRU 2014 - Disney World was already underway and the Disneyland location would be much easier to plan, the decision was made to change the location from Florida to California.</div>
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To those who are unhappy with the change of venue, we sincerely apologize and hope to plan a future reunion at Disney World. </div>
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We appreciate your understanding and will work hard to make TAFRU 2014 - Disneyland a truly memorable and magical event.</div>
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Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-51801372670251864692013-08-23T12:12:00.000-05:002013-08-23T12:12:17.851-05:00TAFRU 2014 - Disney WorldYes, the TAFRU planning committee has been working on arrangements for TAFRU 2014 - Disney World and are very excited about the plans. Accommodations will be at one of the Disney World Resorts and once the agreement has been received and signed, that information will be announced so families can begin making reservations.<br />
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Another big change to TAFRU 2014 are the dates. Instead of a weekend event, we are extending TAFRU 2014 for an entire week. While we would love to have families stay and participate all week, we realize this isn't feasible for most. However, by making this a week long reunion, our hope is that more families will be able to attend at some point during the week.<br />
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The goal for TAFRU 2014 is a smaller agenda and a more relaxed event that allows families to gather in a fun location. It's a wonderful opportunity to socialize and get to know each other in person instead of via Facebook or adoption forums. Most of all, it will provide our children the chance to spend time together and build friendships with each other.<br />
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Please mark your calendars for June 27th - July 5th, 2014 and check back regularly for more details on TAFRU 2014 - Disney World. You can also click on "Join this site" in the right hand column to receive updates.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-51936318055063619852013-07-31T21:28:00.000-05:002013-07-31T21:28:01.213-05:00What's New for TAFRUThanks again to all who participated in the TAFRU 2014 Cruise poll. The planning committee was happy to see that there was interest in doing something a little different next year. Unfortunately, to get the benefit of a group cruise, we need a minimum of 8 staterooms. With only 6 votes for the winning cruise, it doesn't appear we will have enough participation to move forward with a group cruise at this time. <br />
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Having skipped TAFRU 2013, we are committed to making sure that TAFRU 2014 happens.<br />
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While no definite plans have been made, we are working very hard on a reunion that we think families will be very excited about attending. <br />
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Details will be posted once we have everything confirmed.<br />
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We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to make TAFRU 2014 a fun and memorable event for all.<br />
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Thanks.<br />
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Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-44084111583579576612013-07-29T13:57:00.001-05:002013-07-29T13:57:25.934-05:00Winner!Thank you to those who participated in the poll to select the winning cruise.<br />
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And the winner is . . . . . .<br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong>Royal Caribbean 7-Night Alaska Sawyer Glacier Cruise</strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The planning committee will be working with the cruise lines and details will be posted here, so stay tuned.</span></span>Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-64540494614463881662013-07-25T09:23:00.000-05:002013-07-25T09:23:23.728-05:00Only Two More Days to Cast Your VoteWe had some good participation in the poll that gave us the top 4 cruise choices. Now we ask that you please participate in the final poll to assist in selecting the cruise for TAFRU 2014.<br />
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Even if your family isn't sure you'll be able to cruise next year, we ask that you still participate in the selection process to help determine which cruise is of most interest.<br />
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You can read more information about each of the cruises <a href="http://tafru.blogspot.com/2013/07/top-4-cruises_21.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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You can read more about each of the cruise lines <a href="http://tafru.blogspot.com/2013/07/where-do-you-want-to-cruise.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Thanks to all for your participation as we make plans for TAFRU 2014.<br />
Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-57954971843521708252013-07-21T08:52:00.001-05:002013-07-21T08:52:31.725-05:00Top 4 CruisesThank you for participating in our "Where Do You Want to Cruise" poll. <br />
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Your votes provided us with the Top 4 Cruise choices and now we are asking you to place your vote in one last poll to select the winning cruise.<br />
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The Top 4 Cruises are listed below. To review the cruise details, click on the links and then go to the "Top 4 Cruises" poll in the right hand column and make your selection for the TAFRU 2014 Cruise. <br />
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The poll will be open this week only and the winning cruise will be announced next Sunday, July 28th.<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Norwegian Cruise
Lines 3-Night Bahamas Cruise<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">June 20th - 24th<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">$349 - $989<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">June 19th - 23rd<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Royal
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">$549 - $1169<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=VI05W040&sailDate=1140628&selectedCurrencyCode=USD"><span style="color: #a32823; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=VI05W040&sailDate=1140628&selectedCurrencyCode=USD</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Royal
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">June 20th - 27th<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">$809 - $2099<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=RH07A104&selectedCurrencyCode=USD"><span style="color: #a32823; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=RH07A104&selectedCurrencyCode=USD</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-26461020720429820122013-07-10T22:15:00.002-05:002013-07-10T22:15:43.516-05:00Where Do You Want to Cruise?The planning committee has been busy gathering information and looking at cruise options for the last few weeks. We have narrowed down our choices and would like to now present all the information to you so you can help choose our TAFRU 2014 Cruise.<br />
<br />
Our two choices of cruise lines are Royal Caribbean and Norwegian. Our reasons for selecting cruises from these two lines were simple - committee members have cruised with them before and have had enjoyable experiences. In addition, they have prices more reasonable than some other cruise lines and we wanted to keep costs down as much as possible in each cruise category.<br />
<br />
This post will provide you information regarding group services on the two cruise lines and a choice of 8 different cruises along with links to the cruise information. After looking thru all the information, please participate in the poll on the right hand side of the page. The poll is broken up into 2 separate polls (4 each). You can choose up to 3 cruises total between the 2 polls. Please vote no later than July 20th.<br />
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If anyone has any questions or would like to leave a comment, please click on Comments in the gray area at the end of this post. We will be checking comments on a regular basis and will respond.<br />
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So, let's sail right along with the information now!!!<br />
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<u><strong>Norwegian</strong></u><br />
<br />
- For every 8 staterooms booked, the 16th passenger price will be credited back to our group.<br />
- 7 Day cruises require a $250 deposit per passenger<br />
- Cruises shorter than 7 days require a $100 deposit per passenger<br />
- Reservations must be made 120 days prior to sailing<br />
- Final cruise payment on 7 day cruises are due within 75 days prior to sailing<br />
- Final cruise payment on cruises under 7 days are due within 60 days prior to final payment<br />
- Until final cruise payment is due, passengers can make payments in any amount or make no additional payments at all until the final due date<br />
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To get more information about programs and services on Norwegian Cruise Lines, click <a href="http://www.ncl.com/" target="_blank">here.</a><br />
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<u><strong>Royal Caribbean</strong></u><br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
- For every 8 staterooms booked, the group will receive a credit for the price of 1 passenger <br />
- Cruises 1-5 days in length require a $200 deposit<br />
- Cruises 6 days or longer require a $500 deposit<br />
- To lock in the price, reservations must be made within 30 days of the group being set up<br />
- A full refund will be given to any passenger that cancels prior to the final payment being made<br />
- Discounts are given to the 3rd and 4th passenger in a stateroom<br />
- Final payment is due 69-75 days prior to sailing<br />
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To get more information about programs and services on Royal Caribbean, click <a href="http://www.royalcaribbean.com/home.do" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<br />
<strong>Cruise Choices</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
Following are 2 choices each of 3-Night, 4-Night, 5-Night and 7-Night Cruises, including the cruise dates, price range and a link to the website to view all details about the cruise. <br />
**Please note, the two 5-Night Western Caribbean Cruises sail to different destinations. Please click on the link to see details.<br />
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<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 367px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 13421; mso-width-source: userset; width: 275pt;" width="367"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl67" height="21" style="background-color: #ddebf7; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 275pt;" width="367"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Norwegian
Cruise Lines 3-Night Bahamas Cruise</strong> <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 133px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 4864; mso-width-source: userset; width: 100pt;" width="133"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="21" style="background-color: #ddebf7; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 100pt;" width="133">June
20th - 24th<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 101px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 3693; mso-width-source: userset; width: 76pt;" width="101"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="21" style="background-color: #ddebf7; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 76pt;" width="101">$349 -
$989<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 1790px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 65462; mso-width-source: userset; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="21" style="background-color: #ddebf7; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"><a href="http://www.ncl.com/vacations?loc=undefined&date_from=06%2F14&date_end=07%2F14&dur=N%3D8051%26Ne%3D12%26Nf%3Dp_Sail_Date_Epoch%257CGTEQ%2B1401580800%257Cp_Sail_Date_Epoch%257CLTEQ%2B1406851199%26Nr%3DAND%2528p_Record_Type%253AI%2529%26Nu%3Dp_Key%26q%3Dquery&from=undefined&ship=undefined&qs=N%3D8051%26Ne%3D12%26Nf%3Dp_Sail_Date_Epoch%257CGTEQ%2B1401580800%257Cp_Sail_Date_Epoch%257CLTEQ%2B1406851199%26Nr%3DAND%2528p_Record_Type%253AI%2529%26Nu%3Dp_Key&older=no&latitudes=no&location_select=Where+do+you+live%3F&location">http://www.ncl.com/vacations?loc=undefined&date_from=06%2F14&date_end=07%2F14&dur=N%3D8051%26Ne%3D12%26Nf%3Dp_Sail_Date_Epoch%257CGTEQ%2B1401580800%257Cp_Sail_Date_Epoch%257CLTEQ%2B1406851199%26Nr%3DAND%2528p_Record_Type%253AI%2529%26Nu%3Dp_Key%26q%3Dquery&from=undefined&ship=undefined&qs=N%3D8051%26Ne%3D12%26Nf%3Dp_Sail_Date_Epoch%257CGTEQ%2B1401580800%257Cp_Sail_Date_Epoch%257CLTEQ%2B1406851199%26Nr%3DAND%2528p_Record_Type%253AI%2529%26Nu%3Dp_Key&older=no&latitudes=no&location_select=Where+do+you+live%3F&location</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 367px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 13421; mso-width-source: userset; width: 275pt;" width="367"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 275pt;" width="367"><strong>Royal
Caribbean 3-Night Bahamas Cruise</strong><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 133px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 4864; mso-width-source: userset; width: 100pt;" width="133"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 100pt;" width="133">June
20th - 24th<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 101px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 3693; mso-width-source: userset; width: 76pt;" width="101"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 76pt;" width="101">$369 -
$759<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 1790px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 65462; mso-width-source: userset; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"><a href="http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=MJ03S043&sailDate=1140620&selectedCurrencyCode=USD&state=NA">http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=MJ03S043&sailDate=1140620&selectedCurrencyCode=USD&state=NA</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 367px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 13421; mso-width-source: userset; width: 275pt;" width="367"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 275pt;" width="367"><strong>Royal
Caribbean 4-Night Western Caribbean</strong><br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 133px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 4864; mso-width-source: userset; width: 100pt;" width="133"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 100pt;" width="133">June
19th - 23rd<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 101px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 3693; mso-width-source: userset; width: 76pt;" width="101"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 76pt;" width="101">$439 -
$969<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 1790px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 65462; mso-width-source: userset; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"><a href="http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=VI04W019&sailDate=1140619&selectedCurrencyCode=USD">http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=VI04W019&sailDate=1140619&selectedCurrencyCode=USD</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 367px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 13421; mso-width-source: userset; width: 275pt;" width="367"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 275pt;" width="367"><strong>Royal
Caribbean 4-Night Bahamas Cruise</strong><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 133px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 4864; mso-width-source: userset; width: 100pt;" width="133"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 100pt;" width="133">June
23rd - 27th<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 101px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 3693; mso-width-source: userset; width: 76pt;" width="101"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 76pt;" width="101">$449 -
$929<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 1790px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 65462; mso-width-source: userset; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"><a href="http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=MJ04S097&sailDate=1140623&selectedCurrencyCode=USD">http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=MJ04S097&sailDate=1140623&selectedCurrencyCode=USD</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 367px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 13421; mso-width-source: userset; width: 275pt;" width="367"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 275pt;" width="367"><strong>Royal
Caribbean 5-Night Western Caribbean</strong><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 133px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 4864; mso-width-source: userset; width: 100pt;" width="133"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 100pt;" width="133">June
23rd - 28th<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 101px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 3693; mso-width-source: userset; width: 76pt;" width="101"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 76pt;" width="101">$549 -
$1169<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 1790px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 65462; mso-width-source: userset; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"><a href="http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=VI05W041&sailDate=1140623&selectedCurrencyCode=USD">http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=VI05W041&sailDate=1140623&selectedCurrencyCode=USD</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 367px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 13421; mso-width-source: userset; width: 275pt;" width="367"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="21" style="background-color: #ddebf7; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 275pt;" width="367"><strong>Royal
Caribbean 5-Night Western Caribbean</strong><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 133px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 4864; mso-width-source: userset; width: 100pt;" width="133"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="21" style="background-color: #ddebf7; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 100pt;" width="133">June
28th - July 3rd<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 101px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 3693; mso-width-source: userset; width: 76pt;" width="101"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="21" style="background-color: #ddebf7; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 76pt;" width="101">$549 -
$1169<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 1790px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 65462; mso-width-source: userset; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="21" style="background-color: #ddebf7; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"><a href="http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=VI05W040&sailDate=1140628&selectedCurrencyCode=USD">http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=VI05W040&sailDate=1140628&selectedCurrencyCode=USD</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 367px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 13421; mso-width-source: userset; width: 275pt;" width="367"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 275pt;" width="367"><strong>Norwegian
Cruise Lines 7-Night Bermuda Cruise</strong><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 133px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 4864; mso-width-source: userset; width: 100pt;" width="133"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 100pt;" width="133">June
22nd - 29th<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 101px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 3693; mso-width-source: userset; width: 76pt;" width="101"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 76pt;" width="101">$1179 -
$3249<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 1790px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 65462; mso-width-source: userset; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"><a href="http://www.ncl.com/VACATIONS?N=4294963125&Ne=11&Ns=p_Itinerary_Featured%7C1%7C%7Cp_Itinerary_Featured_Weight%7C0%7C%7Cp_Duration%7C0&Nu=p_Key#tab_detail">http://www.ncl.com/VACATIONS?N=4294963125&Ne=11&Ns=p_Itinerary_Featured%7C1%7C%7Cp_Itinerary_Featured_Weight%7C0%7C%7Cp_Duration%7C0&Nu=p_Key#tab_detail</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 367px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 13421; mso-width-source: userset; width: 275pt;" width="367"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 275pt;" width="367"><strong>Royal
Caribbean 7-Night Alaska Sawyer Glacier Cruise</strong><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 133px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 4864; mso-width-source: userset; width: 100pt;" width="133"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 100pt;" width="133">June
20th - 27th<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 101px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 3693; mso-width-source: userset; width: 76pt;" width="101"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 76pt;" width="101">$809 -
$2099<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 1790px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 65462; mso-width-source: userset; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"></col>
<tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px black; height: 15.75pt; width: 1343pt;" width="1790"><a href="http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=RH07A104&selectedCurrencyCode=USD">http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cruiseDetails/itineraryAndPricing.do?packageCode=RH07A104&selectedCurrencyCode=USD</a><br />
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></colgroup></table>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></colgroup></table>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></colgroup></table>
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</tbody></colgroup></table>
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We hope to have everything set up by next month so everyone who wants to sail along at TAFRU 2014 will have plenty of time to plan.<br />
<br />
Please vote now.<br />
<br />
Thanks!!!<br />
<br />
<br />
Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-20836962045133218462013-06-30T18:04:00.000-05:002013-06-30T18:04:14.551-05:00Cruising in 201463% of those who voted, are in favor of a TAFRU 2014 Cruise. <br />
<br />
A new poll will be posted soon so those who are interested can vote on potential cruises. <br />
<br />
We hope to have plans solidified quickly so you can begin making plans for next summer.<br />
<br />
Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-64371873461183535552013-06-19T15:54:00.000-05:002013-06-19T15:54:21.127-05:00To Cruise or Not to CruiseThat is the question in our newest TAFRU poll.<br />
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The planning committee thought it would be fun to try something different for TAFRU 2014 and take the reunion from land to sea.<br />
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Before we move ahead with arrangements for next year, we need to make sure we have enough families interested. <br />
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While there are no definite plans made at this time, we do know this will be a summer 2014 cruise. The cruise lines provide a credit to groups. The amount of credit is based on the number of staterooms booked, so the more rooms booked, the higher the credit.<br />
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We are not asking for a commitment, but are simply requesting that families participate in the poll so we can determine if there is enough interest for us to move ahead in planning.<br />
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Please vote yes if you are interested in a TAFRU 2014 Cruise. Vote no if you are not interested in a TAFRU 2014 Cruise. The poll will close in 10 days.<br />
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Thank you!Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-62349783210601637892013-06-19T12:46:00.002-05:002013-06-19T12:46:33.566-05:00TAFRU 2014 In ProcessAs the committee began discussing plans for TAFRU 2013 we began to discover that interest was waning. Maybe it was the location. Maybe it was economy. Maybe it was lack of interest. Ultimately, we decided to skip TAFRU 2013 and recently began discussing plans for 2014. We would like to shake it up a bit for next year and will be putting a poll on this blog very soon. <br />
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Check back for more details.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-63949515725333066832012-04-02T19:39:00.002-05:002012-04-02T19:44:13.681-05:00Registration and Exciting News About TAFRU 2012.Hello fellow TAFRU attendees!!!!<br />
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Registration for TAFRU 2012 - Washington D.C. is now open. Here are the instructions for accessing the form.<br />
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1. Click this link: <span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://skydrive.live.com/?cid=1c82dcade88d77b0&id=1C82DCADE88D77B0%21822" target="_blank">TAFRU Registration Form</a></span><br />
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2. Click "Download" on the right side of the screen to download the form to your computer to print out later or you can print and complete by clicking the print icon on the page.<br />
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The fees for the reunion include the Friday night Meet-n-Greet and dinner; fees for our Ethiopian Cultural event on Saturday; lunch on Saturday; and an Ethiopian dinner Saturday night. <br />
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Once your registration form and fees have been received, you will be sent an email confirmation along with a copy of the agenda for TAFRU 2012 - Washington D.C. A printed agenda will be provided to each family upon arrival at the Meet-n-Greet on Friday evening of TAFRU.<br />
**Please note, registration forms and fees must be post-marked by May 25, 2012. Registrations and fees will be accepted after Mary 25, 2012 with a $25 late fee.**<br />
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We are very, very, very excited about TAFRU this year and are thrilled to share the news that we will have a surprise guest from Toukoul in attendance. It is someone that many of you have met and love. We hope to have a big turn-out to welcome our surprise guest and thank them for flying in to attend. A small portion of this year's fees are going to our surprise guest who will be speaking to us Friday evening during our Meet-n-Greet.<br />
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Our surprise guest is also going to bring some items from the Toukoul gift shop for purchase. In addition, we are trying to make arrangements for families to place orders for Ethiopian clothing that our guest will bring from Ethiopia for purchase at the reunion. Please stay tuned for more information.<br />
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We are also doing something a little different this year. Over the past 2 years we have created a TAFRU directory which included participant's names, addresses, email addresses and/or phone numbers. This year we would like to include a family photo with the information. Instructions are included on the registration form. <br />
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For those who are not able to attend TAFRU this year, but would like to have their information included in the directory, please feel free to complete that section of the registration form and we will e-mail you a copy of the directory. <br />
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Another thing we would like to do is put together a Toukoul photo album/scrapbook for our surprise guest to take back to Toukoul and share with all of the nannies who so lovingly cared for our children during their stay. Instructions for submitting photos for the photo album/scrapbook are included on the registration form as well. <br />
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If your family is not able to attend TAFRU but would like to submit photos, please follow the instructions on the registration form.<br />
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We will continue to post more information between now and the reunion, so keep checking in for more information.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-71147763981269222882012-03-19T21:20:00.002-05:002012-03-19T21:20:28.029-05:00TAFRU 2012 Attendees!!!We just found out that all the rooms we set aside have been booked!!! This is wonderful and exciting news! But don't fret, we are booking more!Charhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352894630461346340noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-1696117480575591812012-03-09T16:18:00.003-06:002012-03-09T16:18:58.589-06:00TAFRU AddendumPlease note that if you are going to be staying at the hotel an extra day or two, you will have to call them to make reservations so that you can get the discount for those other days!!!Charhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352894630461346340noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-38149010154418003172012-03-08T17:58:00.000-06:002012-03-08T17:58:42.368-06:00BOOK YOUR HOTEL FOR TAFRU 2012!!!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You are now able to book your hotel room for this summer's reunion! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Go to: http://www.grandwashington.hyatt.com/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #2a2a2a; line-height: 17px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">When you go to the hotel website, you'll see a reservations window. Families can enter the dates where the calendar is and then this code under "Corporate/Group #." If families are planning on staying longer, they will have to call to make their reservations as the group number online does not allow extended stay reservations. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #2a2a2a; line-height: 17px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #2a2a2a;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The code is: G-TOUK</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #2a2a2a;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Happy Booking and can't wait to see you/meet you there!!!</span>Charhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352894630461346340noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-4667395539156424312012-02-16T11:11:00.002-06:002012-02-16T11:11:34.611-06:00Hotel Booked for Reunion!!!<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;">I am thrilled to let you know that we have been successful in solidifying a contract with the Grand Hyatt in Washington, DC for the reunion this year. As such, NOW IS THE TIME to reserve your rooms! </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;">The dates are June 22-24th, in Washington, DC. We will have a Meet-N-Greet dinner at the Hyatt on Friday, June 22nd. We’ll provide you with more details about that in the coming weeks. There will be a few events scheduled for Saturday and a farewell “soiree” on Sunday! The deal with the hotel this year is a bit different than in years past. We actually have a contract that holds us financially responsible if the minimum is not met. As a result we have blocked off fewer rooms. We can add to them if we need to, but there is an expiration date on that! So sign up and </span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;">sign up soon! Here is the info:<br /><br />The hotel we have selected is the Grand Hyatt Washington. <a href="http://grandwashington.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>grandwashington.hyatt.com/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>hyatt/hotels/index.jsp</a><br /><br />The guest room rates are as follows:<br />Single occupancy $129 per night<br />Double occupancy $129 per night<br />Triple occupancy $154 per night<br />Quadruple occupancy $179 per night (A GREAT deal for families who want to room together!)<br />Regency club is an additional $60 per room per night based on availability<br /><br />Note: Occupancy is based on the number of adults in the room.<br /><br />The rates are GREAT given the typical DC rates and the hotel itself! It is a great location that has a metro stop (The Blue Line) right in the hotel lobby! The Blue Line on the Metro provides transportation from Reagan Airport. He location of the hotel is also excellent as it is only a four blocks from the White House and just a few more to the National Mall!<br /><br />Because of the special arrangements this year, we strongly encourage families to reserve their rooms sooner rather than later. You can do this beginning Wednesday, February 15th. I will send out an email reminder with specific instructions. There will be a way for you to take care of it online with a Group ID number. You can also call the hotel directly.<br /><br />While this reunion began as a reunion for families whose children were adopted through Toukoul Orphanage, Adoption Avenues and Tree of Life has changed their policy and are not using Toukoul Orphanage for the moment to complete their adoptions. As such, we want to extend the invitation of participation to all families of Adoption Avenues, Tree of Life, and Dove adoption agencies. The more, the merrier!<br /><br />We are really excited about this year’s reunion! It is sure to be rich with Ethiopian and American culture; and more importantly, a wonderful opportunity for our children to celebrate all that they are!<br /><br />All the best~<br />TAFRU Planning Committee<br />Debbie, Lori, Char, Diana, & Jenna</span>Charhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352894630461346340noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-16159723495623771232011-10-19T22:50:00.002-05:002011-10-19T22:50:50.008-05:00More details coming soon!!! Promise!!!Hi friends! We are wrapping up the details for hotels and whatnot! We hope to have all this information to you soon! Be on the lookout! Charhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352894630461346340noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-10298735780980236132011-10-02T19:11:00.001-05:002011-10-02T19:11:26.793-05:00Hi Friends,<br />
I just wanted to see if anyone had questions about TAFRU?!<br />
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The committee is working to solidify information and once we have that--rest assured that you will have it as well!!! <br />
<br />We can't wait to see everyone June 22-24! It's going to be a blast!!!Charhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352894630461346340noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-82396401771768800772011-08-17T11:04:00.000-05:002011-08-17T11:04:39.888-05:00We Now Have Dates for TAFRU 2012TAFRU 2012 - D.C. will be held June 22nd - 24th<br />
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Mark your calendars and begin making plans for a trip to D.C. next summer!!! Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-21796867565477470762011-08-03T08:38:00.000-05:002011-08-03T08:38:55.322-05:00TAFRU 2012 - D.C.A poll was posted on our Toukoul Adoptive Families Facebook group. We had a total of 70 votes and with only 1 vote separating the top two, D.C. was the winner.<br />
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Now it's time to choose a date for TAFRU 2012. Because Facebook polls only allow one choice and because families typically have more than one date that will work for them, I have created a poll here on the blog which will allow everyone to choose multiple dates. The poll is located on the right hand side of the blog page. Choose the date(s) that are best for your family and cast your vote(s). <br />
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The poll will close on August 17th, so let the voting begin.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-64946685462951678122011-05-08T14:51:00.001-05:002011-05-08T14:52:12.111-05:00Registration TimePlans for TAFRU 2011 - Chicago are mostly made and here is what we have planned.<br />
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<span style="color: #660000;"><strong>- Friday night Meet-n-Greet at Gino's East</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><strong> - Saturday morning - Music, dance, writing in Amharic and games with the Ethiopian Community Association of Chicago (ECAC) </strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><strong> - Saturday lunch @ Ethiopian Diamond</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><strong> - Saturday dinner - still working on the details</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><strong> - Sunday - Gathering at Millennium Park (weather permitting)</strong></span><br />
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Because the plans are mostly made and there are only 9 weeks left to TAFRU, it's time to get registration started. <br />
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The registration fees include dinner Friday night, lunch and dinner Saturday, and money to ECAC for their services to our group Saturday morning. <br />
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Unfortunately, I'm having a little trouble getting the registration form link to work so I'm asking those who plan to attend TAFRU to please send me an email asking for the registration form and I'll email the form to you. My email address is <a href="mailto:debweeks@mchsi.com">debweeks@mchsi.com</a>.<br />
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Also, I want to let everyone know that we have a few hotel rooms left. Reservations must be made by June 23rd to get the reduced room rate of $89 per night and the reduced parking rate of $12 per night. Please see the February 15th post <a href="http://tafru.blogspot.com/2011/02/hotel-is-ready-for-reservations.html">here</a> for more detail.<br />
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As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask. <br />
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Hope to see many of you at TAFRU!Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-27916537907848636382011-04-05T16:13:00.000-05:002011-04-05T16:13:04.316-05:00An Exciting OpportunityThe Ethiopian Community Association of Chicago (ECAC) has offered to provide assistance in planning some fun events for our children during TAFRU this year.<br />
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Before we can move forward in making more definite arrangements with ECAC, the planning comittee needs to get a more accurate count of how many children will be participating in TAFRU and their ages.<br />
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If you are part of the Toukoul Adoptive Families Facebook page, a note was already sent out requesting this information and if you responded via FB, please do not respond here as well. However, for those who are not part of the Facebook group, could you please leave a comment here letting us know if you plan to attend TAFRU and the ages of your children. ECAC has requested this information to help us plan activities for the kids and what a great opportunity for our kids.<br />
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Thank you so much for your assistance.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-36471839660450346522011-03-12T15:58:00.000-06:002011-03-12T15:58:25.350-06:00Hotel Reservations and More TAFRU InformationFamilies have started making their hotel reservations for TAFRU and I'm excited to see how things are coming together.<br />
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Every two weeks I receive a reservations list from the Marriott. It was discovered this week that one family who made their reservations were not included on the list and I wouldn't have known of the discrepancy if the family had not informed me that their reservations had been made. This leaves me a bit concerned that other families have reserved rooms that are not showing up on our group list which means they are probably not getting the group rate either. Therefore, I'm asking families to either leave a post on the Facebook TAFRU events page or email me - <a href="mailto:debweeks@mchsi.com">debweeks@mchsi.com</a> when hotel reservations have been made. I don't need a lot of detail, just a quick note telling me you made reservations and how many rooms you reserved. Also, if any family reserves a suite at the Marriott Suites, please let me know that as well.<br />
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As I'm sure all of you know, putting together an event like this costs money. The planning committee is trying to keep costs as low as possible. After all, we don't want our own families to have to spend more than is absolutely necessary. Once we have finalized all the plans for the reunion, we will make registration forms available. We do know that the fees will include the cost for the Meet-n-Greet Friday night, which will include dinner; dinner Saturday night; lunch Sunday; and any group outing on Saturday. We hope to have all the plans finalized, fees tallied and registration forms available within the next 6 weeks and will post the information here when available.<br />
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If anyone has any questions, please do not hesitate to leave a comment here, post something on the Toukoul Families FB page or email me.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-36136765343546035522011-02-16T11:45:00.001-06:002011-02-16T11:46:05.553-06:00A Couple Pieces of InfoTo make reservations at the Marriott, you can also click on this link - <a href="http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/chiap-chicago-marriott-ohare/?toDate=7/17/11&groupCode=taftafa&fromDate=7/14/11&app=resvlink">Marriott</a> - and make your reservations on-line. Of course you can also call the phone numbers listed on the <a href="http://tafru.blogspot.com/2011/02/hotel-is-ready-for-reservations.html">February 15th post</a>. All other details can be found on the <a href="http://tafru.blogspot.com/2011/02/hotel-is-ready-for-reservations.html">February 15th post</a> as well.<br />
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Also, I need to make a correction to yesterday's post. Cancellations do not need to be made by June 23rd. You have until 6:00 p.m. the day of your arrival to cancel without penalty.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-21070660327504755442011-02-15T16:42:00.002-06:002011-02-15T18:57:19.558-06:00Hotel is Ready for ReservationsWe finally have everything at the hotel set up and ready for reservations. Here are the details.<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">Chicago Marriott O'Hare</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">8535 West Higgins Road</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Chicago, IL</span><br />
<a href="http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/chiap-chicago-marriott-ohare/">http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/chiap-chicago-marriott-ohare/</a><br />
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We currently have a block of 15 rooms set up for TAFRU. The rate is $89 per night and $12 per night parking fees. <br />
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Reservations should be made directly with Marriott reservations by calling:<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">1-800-228-9290 or 773-693-4444</span><br />
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When making your reservation, tell the you are part of the TAFRU group. <br />
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Reservations must be guaranteed with a major credit card, but no charges to the card will be made until your stay. You will have until 5:00 p.m., June 23, 2011 to make your reservation and any cancellations must also be completed by 5:00 p.m., June 23, 2011. There will be no charges for cancellations.<br />
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Any rooms remaining in the block will be released for general sale at the regular room rate. We are encouraging families who plan to attend TAFRU to make their reservations as soon as possible. Not only will you be assured room availability, but it will also assist us in determining if additional rooms need to be added to the block.<br />
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The rooms are being made available for the evenings of July 15 and 16. However, any family who wishes to extended their stay in Chicago can reserve their room for 3 days prior or 3 days after the event for the negotiated rate of $89 per night and $12 per night parking fee. The additional nights are based upon availability, so we again encourage you to make your reservations in advance if you plan to extend your stay.<br />
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For those families requiring or wanting more space, you can contact the following hotel:<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">Chicago Marriott Suites O'Hare</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">6155 North River Road</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Rosemont, Illinois</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">1-800-228-9290</span><br />
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Unfortunately, due to the booking requirements of the Marriott Suites, we were unable to obtain a group rate. If, however, we have at least 10 families confirm their stay at the Marriott Suites, we can approach the hotel and request a lower group rate. Therefore, if you do book a room at the Marriott Suites, please let one of the planning committee members know so we can keep an eye on the number of reservations made. We again ask that you make your reservations as soon as possible as this is strictly based on availability.<br />
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Also, there is free shuttle service between the Chicago Marriott O'Hare and the Chicago Marriott Suites O'Hare, so transportation between the two hotels will not be a problem. <br />
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For those traveling to TAFRU by air, the Marriott will provide free shuttle service from and to O'Hare International Airport.<br />
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Another note about the hotel location - There is an El station just across the parking lot from the Chicago Marriott O'Hare. It is about a 30 minute ride into downtown Chicago and tickets can be purchased at the station. So for those wanting to extend their stay in Chicago to take in the sights, you will not need a vehicle and we would recommend that you take advantage of the wonderful public transportation system in Chicago during your stay.<br />
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If anyone has any questions, please leave a comment and one of the committee members will respond asap.<br />
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We are working on some exciting things for TAFRU this year and hope to meet many of you this summer.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-623148446066606019.post-40436185112704531052011-01-07T14:04:00.000-06:002011-01-07T14:04:18.108-06:00Chicago Marriott O'HareI know I haven't been passing along a lot of information to the group lately, but wanted to let you know that although it's been quiet, there is work being done behind-the-scenes. Fortunately, we are making progress and starting to put some things in place so I wanted to give you a little update on what's happening.<br />
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I have been working with the Chicago Marriott O'Hare since October and am happy to say they have given us a pretty good rate of $89 per night. For those who live or have stayed in Chicago, you know that parking can be pretty expensive as well. For a matter-of-fact, I know of no hotel in the Chicago area that doesn't charge parking fees which can really add up. The Marriott is no different, however, they have agreed to reduce their self-park fees from $24 per night to $12 per night for our group. Again, a pretty good rate.<br />
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Also, the Marriott will be offering this rate to TAFRU families for up to 3 days prior and 3 day after TAFRU for any family who would like to extend their stay in Chicago.<br />
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Another nice feature of this hotel is location. <br />
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For those flying into O'Hare to attend TAFRU, the hotel offers complimentary shuttle service from and back to the airport. <br />
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For larger families who plan to attend TAFRU but need more room, there is a Chicago Marriott Suites O'Hare about 2 miles down the road. Complimentary shuttle service is offered between to the two hotels. Unfortunately, the Marriott Suites has a requirement that we were unable to fulfill at this time. However, if there are families that would like to book a room at the Marriott Suites, please let me know as soon as possible by leaving a comment here or contacting me via Facebook. If there are enough families who want/need the additional space provided at Marriott Suites, I will go back to the sales team and try to get it set up. <br />
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Chicago offers a great public transportation system, however, hotels out by the airport don't always have easy access to the system. The Marriott is an exception as one of the El stations is about a 3 minute walk across the parking lot. It is a wheelchair accessible station, which also means those who have children in strollers can easily access the El. Score!<br />
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A sales agreement is being sent to me and once the Marriott receives the signed agreement their events team will get our group finalized and we can begin making reservations. I will post the details here once received. In the meantime, if you want to check out information on the hotel, you can click on the photo in the right had column of the blog page.<br />
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Also, if you are a member of the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=114628571718">Toukoul Adoptive Families Facebook page</a>, please go to the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=114628571718&v=app_2344061033">events page</a> and take a minute to let us know if you will be attending, may be attending or won't be attending TAFRU. This information is so very helpful to the planning committee as we make decisions regarding TAFRU.<br />
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If you are not a member of the Toukoul Adoptive Families Facebook page, please feel free to leave a comment here.<br />
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As always, please stay tuned for more information. Thanks.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02757167867152501195noreply@blogger.com0