Ode to Woodland Park

“Ode to Woodland Park”

By Jo Malone
JoJo’s July Jamboree
July 3-5, 1987

WoodlandIllustration

        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.

JJJJ1987biggerweb

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.

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