February 26 Update -- Still Time to Sign Up

Hello Everyone -

Sorry about the temporary suspension in communications about the Bulgaria trip (it got a little hectic around here the last few weeks. But we are caught up again for a while.)

So, here is what we know so far:

Last fall, 32 persons expressed an interest in going. As of last week, the following have plane reservations:

Gary & Sue Dixon
Wanda Wood
Ileta Rutherford
Jerry, Debbie, Lauren & Evan Dixon
Harold, Kathy , Jessica and Travis Dixon
Dawn (Hart) Christensen
Debbie (Hart) Blair
Keena Sandlin
Jana (Belcheff) Adams

Three more persons have recently said they are interested and plan to make reservations -- but we haven't heard the details yet:

Carl Comba
Kim and Jim Dixon

And a few others have said that they may try to go at the last minute.

What you need to know is that it is not too late to still plan on going! We have spoken with our friend, Vania, who will make the hotel reservations. She has confirmed the dates with a bus company and they are allowing her to wait until March 7 before finalizing the exact plans. (The cost for the bus + driver will run around $2000 for the week. So the cost per person would be proportionately less, as more people decide to go -- (that's supposed to be incentive for more to sign up!)) Also, FYI -- Wanda and Ileta were able to make reservations through BTC 2000 travel agency (212) 252-9277 from Dallas, round trip, for $1316.00.

Debbie Blair noticed that one govt. website recommended a Hepatitis A and B shot. You may want to check on your medical records and ask your doctor if you personally need these shots.

Most exciting is that Jerry received a response from the young cousin who lives in Sofia. Paulie is a senior in highschool and speaks very good English. She said that she spoke with the family in Popovo and they are all amazed about the trip and look forward, very much, to meeting everyone. She did mention that one of the family members - Rusin - whom we meet in 2006, has since passed away. We were so sad to hear of this news. He was a very kind man. Paulie also mentioned that unemployment is extremely high in Popovo and that many in the family do not have jobs. So when Vania sets up the arrangements, she will reserve a hotel in which we can host the meals and gathering at the hotel and not put any undue pressure or expense on the Bulgarian families. But, of course, we will still go their home so that we can all see where Grandpa Belcheff was born and raised.

************ So if any of you were uncertain, but really want to go -- now is the time to make your final plans. It's going to be a great trip. We need to know no later than March 7, and then Vania will begin making final arrangements.

Please call or email if you have any questions at all.

Chow,
Jerry and Debbie (505) 345-7008