Mary Jo Fletcher Cave Reunion trip

Mary Jo Fletcher Reunion and Cave Trip - March 5 -6, 2010 This was a special event for the Central Oklahoma Grotto. We were asked by the Niece and Daughter of Mary Jo Fletcher to help lead family members who would be in the area for a reunion though the Mary Jo Fletcher Cave. Mary Jo was a member of COG way back in the 70's and this was the last cave she visited before cancer took her. Her niece made arrangements to have a Fun Run in Woodward dedicated to Mary Jo and then a cave trip for family members. John and Sue Bozeman and Steve Beleu went up to Woodward on Friday evening to chat about caves, safety, and what to expect. Saturday, the remaining members who volunteered to help out came out to assist in this endeavor. Whereas we were expecting 6 to maybe 10 people, we were surprised with 34 people making it to the cave entrance. Seven actually got past the squeeze to enter the cavern proper (Even some of us COG'er's weren't able to do that!) <grin> A very pleasant trip and hopefully long lasting memories for both the families and COG crew. Click on any photo to see an enlarged version.
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Saturday Morning - Getting Ready...	Good morning Anne!!	Lil and Dale made it from Altus too!
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The gang (minus picture taker Dale Town). L to R - John, Sue, Lil, Steve (on sign), Anne (below sign), Dale A, and Duane.	As everyone came down the long road from the cars, we settled above the cave to get organized with the family members.	They were stoked up and ready to go!!
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Here niece of Mary Jo (Rhonda) tries on Mary Jo's original carbide (and working) helmet.	Thirty four members of the reunion made it into the cave entrance.	At the crack that leads into the cave passages proper, the hat and a red rose were left (ceremonially) to pay tribute to Mary Jo Fletcher.
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The squeeze tested out want-a-bees and self selected skinnies to make it through.	Seven actually squeezed though and got a full tour of the cave. A very pleasant experience for all.
Click on any photo to see an enlarged version.

Last updated: 4/4/10