QUINCY, Ill., June 16, 2006
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The Early Show's Dave Price surprises Judith Schneider of Quincy, Ill., with a "Great American Vacation," Friday, June 16, 2006 — days before the hospital pharmacy technician retires after 47 years on the job. (CBS)
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Friday morning, The Early Show's Winnebago, with Dave Price on board, stopped in Quincy, Ill., to surprise someone with a summer getaway.
Known as the "Gem City," Quincy has been twice recognized as an All-America City. It sits on the banks of the Mississippi River and was home to several Native American tribes.
As the largest city between the Quad Cities -- St. Louis, Springfield, and Columbia areas -- the Quincy area contains numerous architectural and historical destinations.
It's also home to the latest "Great American Vacation" recipient.
The Early Show received letters from 12 people at Quincy's Blessing Hospital about a special co-worker who embodies the spirit of giving and of the hospital.
Judith Schneider, a Blessing pharmacy technician, is retiring on June 30 after 47 years on the job. Her friends say this giving woman likes to gamble, so what better way to kick off her retirement than with a trip to Las Vegas!
The unsuspecting recipient of the latest "Great American Vacation" giveaway — No. 4 of 16 — had told Price that she plans to "do nothing" during her retirement.
Schneider will at least have to pack her bags, because she and a guest are headed to Las Vegas, where she'll enjoy front-row seats to Celine Dion's hit show, "A New Day," complete with autographed pictures and programs.
It's all part of four wonderful days planned for Schneider at the famed Caesar's Palace, with dinner at the hotel's Bradley Ogden restaurant and limo service to and from the airport.
American Airlines, a "Great American Vacation" travel partner, is providing air travel for this and all other domestic flights.
What makes Schneider so remarkable?
"Her years of service and dedication," says Blessing Hospital spokesperson
Jenn Drott. "She started at St. Mary's in high school — so it's actually 49 years of service and she expects to volunteer even after her retirement. So we count every day."
Schneider says she learns something new every day on the job. "It's never boring." She'll miss work, but is excited about her trip and taking a gamble on the slot machines!
On Wednesday, June 21, one of two Early Show Winnebagos that are crossing the country will pull into Minneapolis, Minn., where Dave Price will surprise another deserving viewer with a "Great American Vacation." Come out and see Dave at the Mall of America.
Check out our map: if you live in one if the cities we're visiting, tell us about the one thing we just have to see and about someone there who's deserving of a "Great American Vacation."
E-mail us at vacation@cbsnews.comWho knows... maybe we'll send them packing!
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