2005 Reunion - "Connecting Generations"
Saturday, July 30, 2005
"Old Deseret Village" Social Hall in Salt Lake City, UT
Click here to view family photos taken at the reunion.
We had a terrific reunion this year. Lots of food, family and fun! Hopefully we'll get a better write-up than this by someone who excels in writing (I'm asking for a volunteer here!), but in the meantime here's the scoop by someone who just wants something quick on the website!
People started gathering about 9:00 AM and had muffins and juice waiting for them. People enjoyed renewing acquaintances and family ties, while others met family for the first time. There was a lot of interest in the family keepsakes which were offered for sale, as well.
 Ten o'clock rolled around. The wonderful husband-wife team, Bob and LaMoyne Bunting, made a return visit. They have been tour guides at both Nauvoo and Carthage, Illinois, and got the children quickly involved in pioneer games and activities.
There were also some crafts by Bonnie Wakefield, which generated some fun hats made out of paper sacks.
We also got the family program underway upstairs in the Social Hall. There was some terrific music presented by David Fairbanks and his family, which got everyone in a foot-stomping mood. We had a sing-along, with James Fairbanks and Georgia Fairbanks giving some great vocal help. Then was a presentation given by Tom Fairbanks, giving highlights of the Fairbanks Family Website. Next was a presentation of the 2005 Art Contest Winners.
Nola Larkin, who is in the David Fairbanks line, came from Connecticut for the reunion. She delighted us with stories of her grandfather, Ralph Jacobus (Dad) Fairbanks, and his wife. With her artistic flair, she brought them to life and it was a treat to have her share their stories.
The big surprise, at least for Jim and Fonnie Cope, was a presentation in word and song given in their honor by their children and grandchildren. What a remarkable life they have lived, and what a marvelous posterity they have. Fonnie is the last surviving child of John B Fairbanks, the artist.
A financial report was presented by David Poulsen, our Treasurer. This was followed up with a computerized slide presentation set to music. At least one picture of every family in the Fairbanks in the West book was shown, which gave a visual impact to us of the strength in numbers of our wonderful family. We have a great heritage, and reunions such as this enable us to strengthen familial ties outside our immediate families, and to be in remembrance of those who have gone before.
We were also privileged to have fabulous artwork brought to the reunion by Mike Hall, Aaron Yorgason, and Jonathan Fairbanks. We certainly have reason to appreciate their sharing of their immense talents, as it was like having our very own art show.
The official portion of the reunion ended with a lunch featuring rolls, deli meats and cheeses, salads, chips, and cake. Ruth Challis, daughter of Leah Poulsen, headed up the food for the reunion and did an outstanding job. The cakes were made by our very own Maha Barrani, daughter of Carolyn and Omar Barrani.
Families then were able to wander the other homes in the Village, and view life as it may have been long ago.
We are very grateful to the Board Members for their tireless planning and organizing of this event. If you would like to express your appreciation for them, send the webmaster an email and it will get forwarded to them.
We look forward to 2006, which will be the best reunion ever! We hope to see you there!
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