new orleans reunion trip report

[diamondheaded]

the check was signed on saturday and we raised upwards of $38,000 (100 percent paid in full directly to the make a wish foundation) by the time the weekend long party ended. after most parties, i just say "wow that was fun" after this weekend long party i also get to proudly say "wow look what WE cancuncare people did as a group"

how many showed up and participated? no clue, in fact is was so awesome of a parade i have already heard it said by some locals (who know a thiing or two about parades)

.........."it was the best parade the city of new orleans has ever had"

people on the street were even purchasing costumes and joining the parade - there is no way to count how many actually ended up being a part of this event.

thanks to cancuncare and all those who particpated in this weekend long life changing party packed wth tons of great purpose.

t and i are forever grateful to all involved. more pics in the next few days - got to get some sleep now

rob

keep on wishing

[rdubnpk]

rdubnpk
Our camera (as usual) died on us, so anyone and everyone who took pictures please e-mail us copies at rdubnpk@att.net. PK and I had such a great time! The parade and pub crawl on Saturday is a time we will never forget. And everyone we met were like people we have known all of our lives. I feel truly blessed to have been part of this event and hope that some of our new friends will consider a trip to Florida to spend some time and get to know each other better.

[Donna & John]

This Weekend was one that we will NEVER FORGET!!!!!! The memories, the friends we've met but most importantly Cameron the child that we granted the wish for, we ALL made it happen....and Who DAT....We THAT....of course we couldn't have made it happen without the volunteers as well, they were UNBELIEVABLE!!!!!! Rob and T, you too are two amazing people, thanks for letting us be a part of this AMAZING weekend.....let's all keep wishing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Donna & John
Connecticut Connection

[diamondheaded]

Originally Posted by rdubnpk

rdubnpk
Our camera (as usual) died on us, so anyone and everyone who took pictures please e-mail us copies at rdubnpk@att.net. PK and I had such a great time! The parade and pub crawl on Saturday is a time we will never forget. And everyone we met were like people we have known all of our lives. I feel truly blessed to have been part of this event and hope that some of our new friends will consider a trip to Florida to spend some time and get to know each other better.

was a pleasure meeting you guys

dont worry about the pictures there are literally thousands and kirby and i are working this week to round them all up. i have several great ones of you guys which i am sure you will enjoy.

i am asking all who took pictures to please round them up from your friends and others and get them to me via mail or computer by this weekend so that we can get them back out to all by the following weekend.

as donatina said,

"WE DAT" ?!



ROB/T

[B & B]

Thank you to everyone we met, reconnected with, hung out with, and most importantly, particpated in this great event.

Rob and T, thanks for making this happen, it was fantastic, it was a blast, it was a great party, and it was an overwhelming, touching, emotional weekend. The energy and efforts, the labour that you put into this had to have been probably draining, but very rewarding.

The people involved were awesome.

The meet and greet, the parade and pub crawl, the Sunday morning brunch, the checque presentation, the wish family, were all memories to be proud of and an honour to be involved with.

Borboun Street on a Friday night, Saturday night, Sunday was spectacular. The limo ride in, the taxi ride out, the hospitality of the locals, the hotel itself, the pubs we hit, the dinner we ate, the French market, the things we didn't get to do, the Natchez, the street car ride, the places we didn't get to eat at, these are things to want to make us come back.

Thanks so much for making all of this happen.

I also have to mention and I would be remiss if I did not. Our friends, everyone of them, on the trip home commented on what a great weekend they had, they enjoyed every bit of the weekend, four of them went to the Saints game, Cabos was mentioned and with everyone they met, they were already checking their calendars and considering Cabos before we were even home, thanks for providing this opportunity and having us include them. The build up over the last 6 months was really great, the event they contributed to I think really hit home for them this weekend and the full realization of what it is they were involved in was great, thanks for making them part of your extended friendship family.

To Rob and T
your friends and family (s)
The event
the sights,
so sobering and right

The festivities
the continuity
going to the bar "Live"
bourbon street,
Busy as a beehive

for the foundation
make a wish
eating some of that grouper fish
Rob and T, i'm running out of thigs that rhyme
so let me leave with this,
Can we do it one more Time

------------------------------

Who Dat!, Who Dat!
who dat says there gonna beat the Saints
Who Dat!, Who Dat!, Who Dat!!!!

[diamondheaded]

Originally Posted by Donna & John

This Weekend was one that we will NEVER FORGET!!!!!! The memories, the friends we've met but most importantly Cameron the child that we granted the wish for, we ALL made it happen....and Who DAT....We THAT....of course we couldn't have made it happen without the volunteers as well, they were UNBELIEVABLE!!!!!! Rob and T, you too are two amazing people, thanks for letting us be a part of this AMAZING weekend.....let's all keep wishing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Donna & John
Connecticut Connection

oh my i knew we would all hit it off but no idea just how well

ill keep everyone posted on cameron

for those who do not know cameron - cameron is OUR groups wish child and cameron will be going to disney world as OUR wish child. we granted his wish for him on sunday morning at the jazz brunch and he may in fact be the most precious child (outside of my own of course ) i have ever met.

and no donatina --------------> thank you guys for being a part of our life - knowing you has made t and i better people

also

will be sure to take extra care of rebecca now that she has moved to dallas. t and i will have her to join us on saturday night for the halloween party at brandon and kellye's

your friends

rob/t

also included this picture i was just sent of moose as shrek

[diamondheaded]

Originally Posted by B & B

Can we do it one more Time

lets make a deal guys

if you and barb promise to at least make a serious effort to join us in cabo and next year we get the kids more involved in the parade

having my son chris there with me was awesome and it hurt me that he could not do the pub crawl (he wanted to so bad lol) but he did send me this text after the parade

"you did a good thing dad
you changed my life from
thinking about doing good things
to doing good things"

as a parent - what more could you ask for in life?

seeing all those kids faces as the parade grew and camera crews showing up late in the parade to try and catch (you guys in the back may not have even noticed this lol) everything as word was getting spread about the parade through the quarter

one helluva a party and such a great cause

fyi i have copied what the monteleone just sent me within the hour

Hi Rob: It was a pleasure working with you, Tonya and the Make-a-Wish Foundation. I am so pleased to hear that everything went so well. I put through a check request yesterday for the 10% donation totaling $1452.50. You should receive it in the next few weeks.
All the best,
Eydie

Eydie Barber

Director of Catering/Convention Services
Hotel Monteleone
214 Royal Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
504-681-4450 Phone
504-681-4491 Fax
EBarber@hotelmonteleone.com
Sign up for Stash Rewards and start earning points for free nights
www.hotelmonteleone.com

[B & B]

Originally Posted by diamondheaded

lets make a deal guys

if you and barb promise to at least make a serious effort to join us in cabo and next year we get the kids more involved in the parade

having my son chris there with me was awesome and it hurt me that he could not do the pub crawl (he wanted to so bad lol) but he did send me this text after the parade

"you did a good thing dad
you changed my life from
thinking about doing good things
to doing good things"

as a parent - what more could you ask for in life?

seeing all those kids faces as the parade grew and camera crews showing up late in the parade to try and catch (you guys in the back may not have even noticed this lol) everything as word was getting spread about the parade through the quarter

one helluva a party and such a great cause

fyi i have copied what the monteleone just sent me within the hour

Hi Rob: It was a pleasure working with you, Tonya and the Make-a-Wish Foundation. I am so pleased to hear that everything went so well. I put through a check request yesterday for the 10% donation totaling $1452.50. You should receive it in the next few weeks.
All the best,
Eydie

Eydie Barber

Director of Catering/Convention Services
Hotel Monteleone
214 Royal Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
504-681-4450 Phone
504-681-4491 Fax
EBarber@hotelmonteleone.com
Sign up for Stash Rewards and start earning points for free nights
www.hotelmonteleone.com

Rob

That is fabulous, the text your son Chris wrote is very touching, I couldn't read it to Barb, I had to have her read it herself.

Los Cabos?, we will not commit, but we would like to go, March31 to April 6, we will keep checking back and forth and see if things align.

Next year? similar event, bring the kids, that might even push it beyond this year's event.

Rob, the media coverage, I have been searching WGNO and can't find anything, have you found any links?

The donation from the hotel is WOW!! we have a bit more to send down as well, our 50/50 draw from earlier this summer, we forgot to bring it, plus an airplane donation, that in itself was amazing, bnot a lot, but about 160 C$ to add to the total.

Thanks again

[diamondheaded]

Originally Posted by B & B

Rob

That is fabulous, the text your son Chris wrote is very touching, I couldn't read it to Barb, I had to have her read it herself.

Los Cabos?, we will not commit, but we would like to go, March31 to April 6, we will keep checking back and forth and see if things align.

Next year? similar event, bring the kids, that might even push it beyond this year's event.

Rob, the media coverage, I have been searching WGNO and can't find anything, have you found any links?

The donation from the hotel is WOW!! we have a bit more to send down as well, our 50/50 draw from earlier this summer, we forgot to bring it, plus an airplane donation, that in itself was amazing, bnot a lot, but about 160 C$ to add to the total.

Thanks again

will let jackie know to expect some more

one thing i love about you two by the way

your word is your word and you honor it - true blue

as much as we want you guys to join us - i appreciate that you are honest and say you are not able to commit today we will take that over a yes and a no show any day of the week my friend any day

definitely have to include the kids in the parade

will check and see abou tmedia

rob

[diamondheaded]

for those who cant wait to see some pics i have already found this one

Wishes, Wonders, & Who Dats! - WNOL

rob

[summerbum]

I'm so glad everything went so smoothly, and I hope that means you're going to do it again!

[B & B]

Originally Posted by diamondheaded

7
one thing i love about you two by the way

your word is your word and you honor it - true blue

as much as we want you guys to join us - i appreciate that you are honest and say you are not able to commit today we will take that over a yes and a no show any day of the week my friend any day


rob

Thanks for the kind words Rob. We try to stick to our word, we are not perfect but we do try, I truly believe that if I can leave any legacy to my kids, it is to be honest, your word is your honour. I think they are learning.

It is funny, after getting home and talking to the kids they told us a story about an event that transpired this past weekend.

My oldest who is 19, came home the other night while we were away and was driving too fast within the subdivision.

We have tried to teach them; "own up to your errors, take responsibilty for your actions", "Respect others if they earn your respect" (you do not have to respect an adult just because he/she is an adult, but if they respect you, respect them). "stand up for yourself".

So he was driving too fast through the subdivision and someone came up to yhr house. My 13 year old opened the door and greeted him outside.

--(angry neighbour)-- "Were you driving to fast through this subdivision"
--(13 year old son)-- "Do I look like I am old enough to drive"
--(Angry Neighbour)-- "Oh..., can you get the driver of the grey car"
--(13 year old son)-- "yes, just a minute"

--(19 year old son)-- "hello"
--(angry neighbour)--(comes on property, steps on porch and starts yelling at 19 year old) "Was that you driving so F%^$%ing fast through the subdivision"
--(19 year old son)-- "Yes it was"
--(Angry Neighbour)-- "Don't you realize their are f%^$ing kids and you could hit one"
--(19 year old son)-- "Yes, sorry, you are right and it won't happen again"
--(Angry neighbour)-- "Someone or their kid could have gotten hurt"
--(19 year old son)-- "I know and I apologize, it won't happen again, I am sorry"
--(Angry neighbour)-- "Well..., well, it better not"
--(19 year old son)-- "you are right sir, I am sorry and it won't happen again"
--(Angry neighbour)-- (Now subdued and leaving property), "well it better not "

So although my son was without a doubt, in the wrong, and he has been told numerous times that he drives too fast in the subdivision, he did own up to it, and diffused a potentially tricky situation. This isn't too say he won't do it again, and he is a 19 year old male that thinks nothing bad will happen (and hopefully never does), he did take responsibilty for his errors and stood his ground in a nature manner.

The 13 year old stood his ground, (he did make a bit of a smart alec comeback) but did not show fear, and got his brother who was responsible.

The angry neighbour, not sure if he was placated, but the bylaw officer did show up the next day and informed grandpa that he was parking too late on the street, we suspect angry neighbour was "getting back".

So anyway, I do believe they are learning.

[diamondheaded]

Originally Posted by rdubnpk

rdubnpk
Our camera (as usual) died on us, so anyone and everyone who took pictures please e-mail us copies at rdubnpk@att.net. PK and I had such a great time! The parade and pub crawl on Saturday is a time we will never forget. And everyone we met were like people we have known all of our lives. I feel truly blessed to have been part of this event and hope that some of our new friends will consider a trip to Florida to spend some time and get to know each other better.

like i said rick - no worries tons are starting to come in now - as soon as they all make it in will get them back out

rob

pam, rick, harold and bobbie (outside of lafittes on bourbon street)

[diamondheaded]

cameron and family
cameron is on the far right his dad standing behind him - more focused pics should be in soon

[diamondheaded]

rick faye and annette and bart


from left to right lil abner (kk's lover), chris and kk getting ready to lead the parade check out the cancuncare logo on the banner

[rdubnpk]

Originally Posted by diamondheaded

like i said rick - no worries tons are starting to come in now - as soon as they all make it in will get them back out

rob

pam, rick, harold and bobbie (outside of lafittes on bourbon street)

rdubnpk
My God!!! The guy on the left must have a corn cob up his ***!!!

[diamondheaded]

rick and faye (leggs2there) found these videos from free lance people on you tube (this was the start of the parade)

looks like we may have to do an encore next year guys

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIRZBBGXct4" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIRZBBGXct4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIRZBBGXct4" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIRZBBGXct4

[Bonez]

From those of us who had to cancel after several months of fund raising, Rob you are a gentleman for keeping us in the loop with all the updates.

We championed your idea right out of the box and are pleased that our small contributions were put to good use with those families.

It is truly amazing what good intentions can really do in these interesting times. If a second event happens I believe including kids is a great step. There is nothing like seat of your pants learning to get ready to step in for the next generation of fund raisers.

Surely with enough time and planning there ought to be a way to arrange a special event/parade for the kids themselves. Heck I will pull the "juice cart" to each bar if necessary just so they can say they did it.

Please keep us in the loop with any of the possible plans in the future!

Brad & Brenda

[diamondheaded]

Originally Posted by Bonez

From those of us who had to cancel after several months of fund raising, Rob you are a gentleman for keeping us in the loop with all the updates.

We championed your idea right out of the box and are pleased that our small contributions were put to good use with those families.

It is truly amazing what good intentions can really do in these interesting times. If a second event happens I believe including kids is a great step. There is nothing like seat of your pants learning to get ready to step in for the next generation of fund raisers.

Surely with enough time and planning there ought to be a way to arrange a special event/parade for the kids themselves. Heck I will pull the "juice cart" to each bar if necessary just so they can say they did it.

Please keep us in the loop with any of the possible plans in the future!

Brad & Brenda

thanks for the kind words guys it was nothing short of a herculean effort by all - and the results are quite clear with over $40,000.00 donated either directly by cancuncare people or indirectly by cancuncare people.

i am meeting with jackie (make a wish foundation of the texas gulf coast and louisiana) to go over tentative plans for an enhanced party for next year..........yes we will still do the parade (but make it better) and yes we will still do the pub crawl (and maybe add a stop or two) and of course we are going to need a larger location for the new orleans jazz brunch (as more people need to see how cool this is)

why?

because we we are going to have to .........as the CEO of the make a wish foundation was so inspired by cancuncare people that she has already committed to being a part of OUR event next year...........so cancuncare people be prepared for a major announcement in the coming days

ITS ON!!!!!!

great party great people great cause



rob

more pics but mainly just from bob (waiting on more to come in from others then will post all)

[diamondheaded]

what people are saying

"we had no idea whatsoever"
stewart and sondra

"this weekend was so amazing that i am having a tattoo done in memory of this weekend"
bill tabak

"One of the greatest things I have ever done. If you weren't there you can't even imagine the feeling"
mark e marx

"This is in my top 10 great life experiences, & those of you who know me well know I like to have fun!"
justine dachuna

"see mommy - i told you that shrek really was a real person"
random child along the parade route

[diamondheaded]

YES

there will be an encore



tentative dates october 19-21, 2012

the donation challenge for 2012 will be cancuncare (indirects and directs) vs local new orleans people

much more in the works for next year

larger parade
meet and greet dance with a great local band
aggressive goal for all of us to raise $100,000.00 in direct donations to make a wish

....and much more



information coming...........and details too........... but start setting aside funds and marking dates TODAY!!!

rob

[legs2there]

Thank you Rob & Tonya for inviting us to join....

I must say both Rick & I were thrilled to be a part of the 2011 Donation Challenge & Make A Wish Parade.... The feeling of being able to be part of helping to make a wish come true for an ill child is unexplainable....
We will be there for 2012 as long as these dates remain stable...Have already programed it to my i-phone.

So when does the challenge start???? Now!!! LOL

Hugs to all... See ya all soon!!
Faye & Rick

[diamondheaded]

Originally Posted by legs2there

Thank you Rob & Tonya for inviting us to join....

I must say both Rick & I were thrilled to be a part of the 2011 Donation Challenge & Make A Wish Parade.... The feeling of being able to be part of helping to make a wish come true for an ill child is unexplainable....
We will be there for 2012 as long as these dates remain stable...Have already programed it to my i-phone.

So when does the challenge start???? Now!!! LOL

Hugs to all... See ya all soon!!
Faye & Rick

lol on the challenge - we got that won baby !!!

i think our only challenge is to get these cancunare people who say they like to have a "good time"...... involved in this with us too this coming year so that they can all see what it is like to have a GREAT TIME..........a great time that lasts forever

certainly expecting a massive cancuncare turnout next year

ps

hope to see you guys in los cabos come march 31 - will be a blast - just make sure we all stay the same days this year - we are booking for march 31 april 8 with our private booze cruise on wednesday, april 4

[diamondheaded]

Originally Posted by legs2there

So when does the challenge start???? Now!!! LOL

Hugs to all... See ya all soon!!

december 1 - we are adding a month this year

rob

[Steve]

Great report Rob, and what a fantastic achievement.

Well done to all who took part!

[Bart/Annette]

Originally Posted by Steve

Great report Rob, and what a fantastic achievement.

Well done to all who took part!

Gonna sign up for 2012? Great time, and first class event.

[diamondheaded]

Originally Posted by Bart/Annette

Gonna sign up for 2012? Great time, and first class event.

agree would love to see steve/janet and the kids come up and will be working with others to make sure they can attend next year

would also be a great opportunity for all cancuncare people to be a part of this event going forward as it is just going to get better every year as it has the cancuncare stamp all over it

the reality is very simple...

were it not for this web site and the great people we have met here - then this life changing event would have never taken place - the great giving people who frequent this site and their friends contributed a staggering amount of over $40,000.00 in direct donations over 9 months.

as amazing as all that is ---------

dont kid yourselves here too much guys

WE STILL HAS ONE HELLUVA PARTY TOO that will only get better next year......

so go ahead and mark your calendars for next october 19-21 ish - details soon

rob

[Steve]

Originally Posted by Bart/Annette

Gonna sign up for 2012? Great time, and first class event.

We are maybe's at the moment. It's still a long way off so would prefer to wait until closer the date before committing.

I just noticed the proposed dates 19-21 October. 20 October is my birthday so that might well be a convenient excuse!

[diamondheaded]

Originally Posted by Steve

October. 20 October is my birthday so that might well be a convenient excuse!

very convenient indeed

btw

approxiamtely 600 of the pictures taken from multiple cameras ar to be found here (more to be added very soon)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/robandt...7627848687843/

rob