“Ode to Woodland Park”
By Jo Malone
JoJo’s July Jamboree
July 3-5, 1987
Here we all are in beloved Woodland Park
Traveling near and far – thanks to Mark.
The Whelans flew in from old San Fran
And the Goethals came driving their van.
With the Tinkers from Wichita and K.C.
The Malones have joined us from Houston and the Big D’s
And with the Roberts as our host family,
We’re all here to celebrate JoJo’s Jamboree!
The hands of time seem to fly so fast.
Can you remember when you were here last?
Was it a trip to Cripple Creek
Or the winding road to Pike’s Peak?
The choices were difficult — how we all know
Between Paradise Ranch and Thursday Bingo.
Was a visit to Cave of the Winds on your list
Or lunch at The Tavern you wouldn’t have missed!
Remember Indian dances were a traditional stop
And we always found something at Harris’ Linen Shop.
Patsy’s Taffy & Popcorn — what a delicious bite —
Do you really think that doll pulled that stuff all night?
There’s Royal Gorge, Trout Haven and Manitou Incline
And a picnic at Garden of the Gods — Oh, how sublime!
We could go on with a list of fun things
But what is important is the family spirit that brings
Us together to applaud this really great plan
And we tip our hat to Mark, a very special man!
Now comes a time to pay special tribute
To our JoJo, for whom we now root!!
Who with PaPa provided this place in the pines
So we could come together and celebrate good times.
Calling all family poets!
We are looking for an Ode for JJJJ 2015. Additional topics could include the Manitou penny arcade (Arcade Amusements), Pikes Peak Cog Railway, Ute Chief Springs (“Indian water”) at Manitou Avenue & Serpentine Road, the Air Force Academy, etc.
