That's the headline in the Sunday June 25th edition of the Chico, CA, Enterprise/Record.

Chico is a small city in northern California that was founded in the 1840s by one of the most noted Bidwells - General John Bidwell. More than 100 Bidwells, spouses and friends met for three days of reunion, fun, food, visiting and all-around companionship. Since the temperature was over 100 ° F. every day, ducking in and out of air-conditioned spaces was a high priority. Of course, there was a certain amount of serious stuff, including a board meeting and a general membership meeting. These meetings reviewed the financial state of the BFA (good), administrative details, and most importantly, the status of the project to revitalize the creation of Volume II of the Bidwell Family History that was interrupted by the tragic death of our beloved Joan Bidwell. A course of action was decided upon which will proceed. This will be reported on as it develops.

Following the annual meeting, a brief presentation of some of John and Annie's letters from her book "Dear General" was presented.

Also of great interest was the "unveiling" of the newest Bidwell book, a compilation of all Bidwells in the world outside the United States. This massive effort was carried through by member Frank Bidwell. Copies of this book are for sale by Frank who can be contacted at fbidwell@comcast.net.

The two major points of interest to the Bidwells was a tour of the Bidwell Mansion, an historic landmark built by John in the 1860s in the center of Chico. The Mansion is now part of the State Historic Park system. Bidwell Park, a natural open area of 3600 acres within the city limits was another stop on our tour. The park area was donated to Chico by John's widow, Annie, in 1918.

The annual banquet and auction were held Saturday evening. Speaking, after dinner was Michael J. Gillis, co-author of John Bidwell and California, The Life and Writings of a Pioneer. Mr. Gillis provided new insight into one of our most famous "cousins".

On Sunday the group attended services at the Bidwell Presbyterian Church, founded by Annie. A bus trip to Bidwell Bar, an old gold-mining town about 20 miles east of Chico and the Chinese Temple ended the day and the reunion.

Thanks to Bernie Bidwell of Spokane, WA, and to Judy Crain for organizing such a fun and educational reunion! Judy is a former director of the Bidwell Mansion. Her knowledge of John & Annie's life in Chico added a great deal to the weekend.

2007 Reunion to be held in Asheville, NC June 22 - 25. More details later!