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Shows andEntertainment
page 14
Faith-Based Tourspage 18
Union County, Ohiopage 22
Volume XXXV, Number 6 • May/June, 2015
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����������The beautiful Shrine of Our Lady ofGuadalupe in La Crosse, Wiscon-sin, brings the faithful from all overthe country to worship, pray and reflect in a serene environment. BOB
METCALF/BOB METCALF COMMERCIAL
PHOTOGRAPHY. COPYRIGHT: SHRINE OF
OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE, LA CROSSE,WISCONSIN.
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 3
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Be sure to include a show or two foryour group to enjoy. They are a greatway to kick back and be entertained.
� ������� ���������The rapidly growing niche market ofreligious tourism is something youcannot ignore. Your group can beinspired by these and other faith-based attractions.
�� ��������������������������Check out the latest on your favoriteattractions and learn about some newones.
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Enjoy some Southern hospitality andenchanting attractions when you driveyour bus away to Dixieland.
�� ����������!������This central Ohio county is full of sur-prises, hidden gems, friendly folks andunique attractions.
contents MAY/JUNE2015
55 5(
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Oregon Tourism Commission Relaunches 7 Wonders
of Oregon Campaign
The Oregon Tourism Commission is encouraging visitors to dis-
cover “The 7 Wonders of Oregon.” The 7 Wonders campaign features
seven iconic natural wonders of Oregon as the focus of destination
travel: the Oregon Coast, Mt. Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, Crater
Lake, the Painted Hills, the Wallowas and Smith Rock.
"When we launched the 7 Wonders campaign, our primary objec-
tive was to positively impact the state's economy and job numbers,
something we always strive to do in our work at Travel Oregon," said
Todd Davidson, Travel Oregon CEO. "Due to the resounding success
of the campaign, we believe we'll see even greater economic impact
. . . in the coming years."
Visitors are invited to share their photos on social media using the
hashtag #traveloregon. The best of these images will be showcased
on Travel Oregon content channels (TravelOregon.com, Facebook
and Instagram) to inspire others long after the paid media portion of
the campaign concludes. In 2014, people tagged more than 86,000
photos with the #traveloregon hashtag.
Brinton Museum to Open Forrest
E. Mars Jr. Building
The Brinton Museum will open its new state-of-the-art Forrest E.
Mars, Jr. Building June 15, according to Ken Schuster, chief curator
and executive director. Located on the 620-acre historic Quarter Cir-
cle A Ranch in Big Horn, Wyoming, just 12 miles south of Sheridan,
the new 24,000-square-foot $15.8-million, eco-conscious building
will house one of the most significant and extensive Western and
American Indian Art collections in the Rocky Mountain West. It will
also house the new Brinton Bistro, which offers indoor and outdoor
dining and 180-degree views of the Bighorn Mountains that are among
the most picturesque in the state.
Climate-controlled galleries display works from Remington to
Russell and Borein to Reiss, along with the largest Hans Kleiber col-
lection in the world and the returning Gallatin Collection: more than
100 historic treasures of American Indian art and artifacts. Recently
gifted to The Brinton Museum, the Gallatin Collection has been on
loan to the Art Institute of Chicago for the last 40 years. More fre-
quent and extensive contemporary exhibits also now have a home
on the third floor of the new building, near the bistro.
Boots, Brushes, and the Bighorn Mountains will be one of the inau-
gural exhibitions celebrating The Brinton Museum’s new Forrest E.
Mars, Jr. Building. It includes works by nationally- and internation-
ally-recognized artists of the late 19th and early 20th centuries –
including Thomas Moran, Frederic Remington and Charles Russell,
as well as important loan material and paintings and prints from the
permanent Brinton collection. The third-floor reception gallery will
feature a new 46-piece collection of vibrant impressionist paintings
by contemporary western artist Gregory Packard. Both inaugural
shows will open June 15 and go on until September 7, 2015.
The Brinton Museum is inspired by Bradford Brinton’s original col-
lection of American Indian and Western art and artifacts assembled
in the early 1900s. For the full Brinton Museum experience, guests
are invited to tour Bradford Brinton’s original ranch house, where
most of his original collection continues to be displayed as he intended.
“The museum sits on a historic ranch that offers an authentic view
into the life and lifestyle of Brinton, a western gentleman and art col-
lector,” said Schuster. “Since 1961, the Brinton Museum has endeav-
ored to become one of Wyoming’s top cultural institutions – showing
some of the most celebrated art depicting the beauty and culture of the
West. Our new Forrest E. Mars, Jr. building allows us to better show-
case our extensive collection of American Indian and Western Art pieces,
along with our newly expanded collections and contemporary exhibits.”
The new museum will open to the public on June 15. Hours will
be 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 4 p.m.
on Sundays. Tickets are available by phoning (307) 672-3173. Visit
thebrintonmuseum.org to learn more.
4 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
Buzz on the BusNews and notes for bus tour planners
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 5
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Meet Real Amish Country
Housewives
Television fads come and go, but actual Amish ways have existed
for centuries. Groups can put aside the whims of what they see on TV
and meet real Amish Country housewives in northern Indiana. Groups
travel along the nationally-recognized Heritage Trail and byways to
meet interesting women who do household chores without electrical
appliances, run home businesses without modern technology and do
it all with finesse and conviction
to their beliefs.
At the tidy Jones’ family farm-
stead on the outskirts of Mid-
dlebury, Indiana, groups meet
Elaine who greets them warmly.
Elaine is widely known among
her Amish neighbors for her
prowess as a baker – especially
cinnamon rolls. The fragrance
of cinnamon laced delights
wafts through the room as they
learn her secrets to baking ten-
der cinnamon rolls. Of course,
sampling these treats is always the most anticipated part of the visit.
Watching Carolyn Yoder busily preparing an original Amish “Haystack”
lunch makes it easy to appreciate that she is an expert in the kitchen as
well as running her Yoder's Homestyle Dining in-Home meal business. As
groups sit down and prepare to eat, she shares the story of the “Haystack”
that is a favorite among the Amish for fundraisers and community sup-
pers. Ingredients can be as varied as diners’ palates as they build a
“Haystack” from the bottom up with the items they enjoy.
The next stop, Sonshine Baskets, is just a few miles away. Hand-
woven baskets for almost every purpose pack this shop located on
a family farm. Here Anna Yoder expertly explains the process of turn-
ing plain reed into something of beauty and function as she and her
family members demonstrate the techniques. Anna is philosophical
about her family business and often comments, “We weave our way
through life one day at a time.”
Time seems to roll back nearly a century when the motorcoach
pulls up to a white clapboard Amish schoolhouse with a buggy hitched
outside. A cheery Amish woman bustles out to invite group mem-
bers inside to sit at desks arranged in tidy rows facing a black chalk-
board. The Amish woman is the teacher who talks about the daily
school routine and how she efficiently manages to teach multiple
grades in one room. If group members behave, she may even reward
each with a whoopie pie as an after school treat.
“Real Amish Country Housewives” is a unique, step-on guided
tour that offers groups plenty of memorable experiences. At the end
of the tour groups go home with a renewed respect for the Amish
women in northern Indiana who may live a simple life, yet they are
anything but simple.
To find out more or plan a personalized itinerary phone Sonya
Nash, CTIS, Elkhart County, Indiana Convention and Visitors Bureau,
at (800) 262-8161 or e-mail [email protected].
Michael Jackson Tribute Show,
MJ LIVE, Opens in Las
Vegas’ Stratosphere Theater
MJ LIVE, the world’s most successful Michael Jackson tribute show,
opened at its new home in the Stratosphere Theater on March 30.
Shows are performed seven nights a week at 7 p.m. Tickets, priced
at $49.95, $59.95, $69.95 and $79.95 plus tax and applicable fees, can
be purchased online at lvticketsnow.com, at StratosphereHotel.com,
at the Stratosphere Ticket Center, or by phoning (702) 380-7777.
MJ LIVE is the number one Michael Jackson tribute show in the
world showcasing the energy, excitement, spectacle and pure joy of
this legendary superstar and his music. Experience this awesome,
theatrical stage production with its powerful sound, spectacular light-
ing, visual effects, team of dancers and live band on stage taking audi-
ences back to when the King of Pop ruled the charts – along with the
Michael Jackson tribute artist’s spot-on breathtaking impersonations,
performed by rotating impersonators Justin Dean, Jalles Franca and
Tony Kouns.
Sing along to many of Jackson’s biggest hits presented all on one
stage, including “Bad,” “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” “Dangerous,” “Smooth
Criminal,” “Black & White,” “Thriller,” “Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough,”
and many more. MJ LIVE also includes a Jackson 5 segment (“I’ll Be
There,” “I Want You Back”), inspired by the iconic television show Soul
Train.
San Francisco Ferry Building
Once Again Adorned in
Lights As It Was in 1915
One of San Francisco's most treasured landmarks “the Ferry Build-
ing ˆ is once again adorned in lights with the numbers "1915" boldly
illuminated on its tower, another special event as part of the centen-
nial celebration of the 1915 Panama Pacific International Exposition
(PPIE100).
Several hundred World's Fair admirers, dignitaries and historians,
many dressed in 1915 attire, were entertained by San Francisco rag-
time singers as the Ferry Building Tower was re-lit in March to appear
as fairgoers would have seen it in 1915 when arriving in San Fran-
cisco, many by ferry, to attend the World's Fair.
"The Ferry Building at the Port of San Francisco is a shining jewel
welcoming visitors and residents to our city and our world-class water-
6 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
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Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 7
CASH INCENTIVES
NEW FOR 2015...
MAKE
“NOLA bucks”IN NEW ORLEANS
There is something to discover every day of the week in New Orleans. To help groups discover the city from Sunday through Thursday, the New Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau has
launched the NOLA Bucks Group Incentive Program.
Qualifying bookings* of 10 or more rooms can be eligible for cash back.
*Cash incentive applies to new groups of 10 rooms or more, staying minimum of two nights. Incentive payment will not apply to Friday or Saturday nights. Black-out dates may apply.
Program subject to change.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON REQUIREMENTS, VISIT
NEWORLEANSCVB.COM/NOLABUCKS
H INCW FOR 20
CW
AENEEWEW
ASH IN
...15
C001
CENTIVES
VisitWisconsin’s
#1 MustSee Live
Attraction!
Bus Tours Are Our Specialty.Dancing Horses
Open YearRound!
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front," said Mayor Ed Lee. "As part of the cen-
tennial celebration of the San Francisco
Panama-Pacific International Exposition, we
celebrate the Ferry Building's important role
in welcoming millions of visitors who arrived
in San Francisco by ferry for the World's Fair."
The lights will illuminate the Ferry Build-
ing tower through December 4, 2015, the day
the World's Fair closed a century ago.
"Through the generosity of fair admirers
and supporters we are thrilled to bring a piece
of the World's Fair back to San Francisco in
such a spectacular way," said Donna Ewald
Huggins. "This shining beacon will be a con-
stant reminder to visitors and residents of
the many amazing centennial events and
exhibits they can experience throughout the
year."
Bay Area philanthropist Tad Taube added,
"The 100th anniversary of the 1915 Panama-
Pacific International Exposition ̃ which was
a citywide commemoration that put San
Francisco on the world map ̃ is cause for cel-
ebration, and we are doing just that with light
and splendor across our beautiful city. Our
work with Bay Lights inspired us to also
become involved in the Centennial festivi-
ties of lighting the Ferry Building and Palace
of Fine Arts."
The World's Fair celebrated San Francis-
co's recovery from the 1906 earthquake and
its emergence as a center of world trade. Built
in 1898, the Ferry Building was one of the
few structures that amazingly did not suffer
seriously damage during the 1906 earth-
quake. In 1915, the Ferry Building served as
a vital transportation hub, helping welcome
more than 19 million people who came to
San Francisco to attend the World's Fair.
Throughout the Exposition, its tower was
festooned with lights and a beacon pro-
claiming "1915" to visitors on both sides of
the Bay.
In conjunction with the February 20th
Centennial anniversary of the 1915 World's
Fair opening, Mayor Lee kicked off a year-
long celebration of PPIE by officially re-
opening the doors of the Palace of Fine Arts
to the public during PPIE100 Community
Day, which drew more than 10,000 visi-
tors. Inside the Palace, which is open to the
public throughout the year, is Innovation
Hangar, a unique social innovation space
designed to be a place where thinkers,
doers and critics can come together under
one roof to facilitate connections, ideas
and investments in a way that simply can-
not happen in the virtual world. The Cali-
fornia Historical Society is also featuring
a 10,000-square-foot exhibit City Rising:
San Francisco and the 1915 World's Fair that
shares the rich and remarkable history of
the PPIE.
Just a few blocks from the Ferry Building,
visitors can also experience the amazing his-
tory of the World's Fair with the California
Historical Society's full City Rising exhibition
at its 678 Mission Street headquarters. Open
through January 2016, the exhibition is a
stunning jewel-box show, highlighting the
Fair's history, beauty, complexity, that
includes many artifacts, memorabilia and
film from the World's Fair. �
8 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
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Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 9
Day One - Mississippi River bridge - Maple Island Park with a dam nestled in the center of downtown - Linden Hill Historic Mansions tours - Rosenmeier Home Historic tours - Pine Grove Zoo - Charles A. Lindbergh Historic Site
Day Two - MN Military Museum (Camp Ripley) - MN Fishing Museum - Vintage Courthouse tours Little Falls is Located Two Hours North from the Twin Cities Area on the Bank of the Mississippi
For personalized tours please contact:Little Falls Convention and Visitors Bureau606 1st Street SE | Little Falls, Mn 563451.800.325.5916 | www.littlefallsmn.com
Little Falls is the Heart of Central Minnesota…Where the Mississippi Pauses
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Step back in time and visitAdsmore, a living house
museum. Leave the presentbehind and enter into an era of
top hats and fans, graphophones, lavender scented
sheets, elegant china and crystal, and button shoes.
Adsmore, meticulously restored,reflects the lifestyle of the
prominent Smith-Garret family atthe close of the “Golden Age.”
Guided ToursTuesday-Saturday 11 AM to 4 PM
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General Jackson Showboat
At 300 feet long, the General Jackson
Showboat is one of Nashville’s most visible
and popular attractions. Offering year-round
cruises that include first-class entertainment,
delicious meals and views of Nashville not
found anywhere else, thousands of visitors
make General Jackson a part of their Music
City experience each year.
Named after President Andrew Jackson,
whose historic home, the Hermitage, is only
10 minutes from the dock, the General Jack-
son is a highly group-friendly vessel. With
four massive decks that allow for outside or
inside experiences, the boat hosts not only
show cruises, but is also a highly sought-after
venue for group events. Additionally, special
event cruises for Valentine’s Day, Mardi Gras,
Tennessee Titans football games, Halloween
and even New Year’s Eve make the General
Jackson a popular choice for people looking
for a safe, memorable time.
Experiences aboard the General Jackson
include delicious meals, prepared by skilled
chefs. Midday cruises feature a delectable
Southern buffet, while guests aboard evening
cruises will enjoy an elegant three-course
dinner. Whether dining al fresco on the outer
decks or inside the beautiful Victorian The-
ater, guests will no doubt remember their
dining experiences.
The General Jackson Showboat, built by
Jeffersonville, Indiana-based Jeffboat, was
launched April 20, 1985 and was christened
July 2, 1985. The boat can hold 1,200 pas-
sengers and 157 crew members. The pad-
dlewheel riverboat stands 77 feet tall, mak-
ing it one of the country’s largest showboats.
The paddlewheel itself is 36 feet long, 24 feet
wide and weighs 36 tons. Two Caterpillar
3512 engines, each with 1050 horsepower
and 880 kilowatt generators, are responsi-
ble for powering the boat, which has a max-
imum speed of 13 miles per hour.
For more information on bringing your
group to the General Jackson Showboat, visit
generaljackson.com or call (615) 458-3900.
Stay and Play in Shreveport-
Bossier: Louisiana’s Other Side
Located in beautiful northwest Louisiana,
Shreveport-Bossier offers a mix of Cajun atti-
tude and the open spirit of Texas. The unique
blend of cultures goes beyond Southern hos-
pitality. There is a sincere desire to make sure
groups have a great time while experiencing
the musical heritage, riverfront entertain-
10 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
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General Jackson Showboat
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 11
Discover Norfolk’s vibrant waterfront city filled with cultural attractions, breweries, beaches, live music, and mouth-watering, coastal culinary dishes – all in a walkable downtown. With so much to see and do, the possibilities are endless. For outstanding group rates and personalized itineraries, visit us online or contact Melissa Hopper, Associate Director of Tour & Travel.
Planning a tour is easy at visitnorfolktoday.com/reunions. 1-800-368-3097
DISTINCTL
LY ORLYY NO FOLK
K
Planning a tour is easy at visitnorfolktoday
, Associate DirMelissa Hopperoup rates and personalized itineraries, visit us online or contactoutstanding gr
downtown. With so much to see and do, the possibilities arbeaches, live music, and mouth-watering, coastal culinary dishes – all in a walkable
s vibrant waterfrDiscover Norfolk’
eunions..com/rt visitnorfolktodayy.
ravel.our & Tector of TTo, Associate Diroup rates and personalized itineraries, visit us online or contact
downtown. With so much to see and do, the possibilities arbeaches, live music, and mouth-watering, coastal culinary dishes – all in a walkable
ont city filled with cultural attractions, brs vibrant waterfr
eunions.
oup rates and personalized itineraries, visit us online or contacte endless. Fordowntown. With so much to see and do, the possibilities ar
beaches, live music, and mouth-watering, coastal culinary dishes – all in a walkableeweries,ont city filled with cultural attractions, br
1-800-368-3097
beaches, live music, and mouth-watering, coastal culinary dishes – all in a walkableeweries,
1-800-368-3097
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ment, fun attractions and mouth-watering
cuisine in Shreveport-Bossier. With six new
group experiences available, your group is
sure to have a great time. They include:
• All About the Roses: Engage your senses
and experience the world of roses at the
American Rose Center. Booking contact –
Carol Spiers; (318) 938-5402, ext. 223;
• Backstage Music Tour at the Municipal
Memorial Auditorium: Take a backstage tour
of Shreveport’s most iconic performing arts
venue, the Municipal Memorial Auditorium.
Booking contact – Teresa Micheels; (318) 429-
0628; [email protected].
• Music History Tour of Shreveport: Dis-
cover why Shreveport is the center of “The
Magic Circle,” and how music legends like
Elvis Presley and Hank Williams began their
careers in northwest Louisiana. Booking con-
tact – Johnny Wessler; (318) 393-3274;Shreve-
• The Perfect Pair – Wine and Chocolate
Tasting: Tantalize your taste buds with a
unique pairing of wines and fine chocolate in
the middle of paradise at Margaritaville Resort
Casino. Booking contact – Ashley Davis; (318)
752-1455; [email protected].
• Red River District and Sightseeing
Cruise: Experience Shreveport-Bossier’s his-
tory and city sights in this all-inclusive tour
of the Red River District. Booking contact –
Catherine Kennedy; (318) 673-5100; Cather-
• Science is Fun: Let Sci-Port: Louisiana’s
Science Center engage you in fun
experiences that debunk the myth that sci-
ence is scary and only for students. Booking
contact – Anne Lutz; (318) 424-8697;
Norfolk, Virginia
Bus groups can find something to cele-
brate year round in historic Norfolk, Virginia
– the heart of the Virginia waterfront. Nearly
100 events take place in Norfolk annually,
most of which occur in Town Point Park, the
city’s outdoor festival venue located on the
Elizabeth River. Some of the most popular
group-friendy events include Harborfest,
the bi-annual Virginia Wine Festival (occurs
in May and October), Bayou Boogaloo and
Cajun Food Festival, Jazz Festival and Vir-
ginia Beer Festival, to name a few. Bus
parking for most events is available at Har-
bor Park, the city’s baseball stadium.
For more information on Norfolk, phone
(800) 368-3097 or visit the Web site at
visitnorfolktoday.com. �
12 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
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Shreveport Skyline
Harborfest Norfolk
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 13
SEE IT. BET IT. TASTE IT.Shreveport-Bossier, Louisiana
shreveport-bossier.org/groups
Book New Group Experiences:
Erica Howard, group tour sales manager, will help you plan the perfect itinerary and select a hotel based on your budget. Call her today at 800-551-8682 ext. 104 or [email protected]
• All About the Roses• Backstage Municipal
Auditorium Tour• Musical Legends & Legacy Tour
• Red River District & Sightseeing Cruise
• Science is Fun• Wine & Chocolate Tasting
grandhotel .com1-800-33GRAND
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Your groups will be memorized and
entertained by the pure energy that
only a live performance can create. Be
it music, drama, dance, stand up comedy,
poetry, storytelling, or performance art from
around the world, seeing a show in person is
so much better than watching it on a screen.
Many live performance venues cater to bus
groups and would love to see your motorcoach
pull up to their door. Remember, many shows
have a limited run or are only presented on
specific dates, so you will want to be sure you
keep your eyes open for upcoming show
schedules. Many venues will be happy to keep
you up to date with their planned performances
and can assist with making your group book-
ings easy and your visits memorable experi-
ences for all.
The Musical Instrument Museum
Phoenix, Arizona
Looking for live entertainment for your
next tour? The Musical Instrument Museum
(MIM) in Phoenix is the answer. MIM is the
world’s only global musical instrument
museum. With more than 6,000 instruments
and associated objects on display, guests
can travel the world through music. How-
ever, a museum dedicated to celebrating
musical instruments would be incomplete
without live music. That is why MIM brings
music to life with performances during its
monthly “Experience” series and in its stun-
ning and acoustically superb music theater
MIM’s Experience series transports guests
to unique and fascinating geographic
regions for one weekend each month. The
celebration entertains guests with live
musical performances, dancing, story-
telling, workshops and more. This fall the
Experience series will showcase The Andes,
Italy, Germany and Scandinavia. Perfor-
mances are included with paid museum
admission and guests can take advantage
of fun group activities like MIM’s photo
booth. Additionally, MIM’s on-site restau-
rant, Café Allegro, prepares cuisine inspired
by the selected region and lunch options
can be included in a tour package.
With just 300 seats, the MIM Music The-
ater provides an intimate space in which to
feature dynamic performances of the finest
traditional, contemporary, instrumental and
vocal music worldwide. With only 75 feet
separating the front of the stage from the
back of house, every seat is incredible. MIM
hosts more than 200 concerts each year,
featuring both emerging and established
artists. On any given night, the museum
presents performers who range from Mon-
golian throat singers and Indian tabla play-
ers to Celtic fiddlers and Hawaiian ukulele
stars. They do not stop there. The roster of
talent extends to Judy Collins, Jimmy Webb,
Branford Marsalis, Lucinda Williams, Lyle
Lovett and many other American legends
who have made their own musical imprint
on the MIM Music Theater. Tickets to con-
certs in the MIM Music Theater are sold sep-
14 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
All the World is a Stage
Musical Instrument Museum
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 15
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Guided, self-guided, and behind-the-scenes tours are available. Motorcoach parking is free.
For group tour information and rates, e-mail us at [email protected].
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For more information about tour and live entertainment options
at MIM, e-mail [email protected] or visit MIM.org.
Lyric Opera of Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
If you love powerful music, classic tunes, gripping drama, exquis-
ite comedy and theatrical spectacle, then you and your bus group
should attend Lyric Opera of Chicago during their exciting 2015-2016
season.Lyric's 61st season offers bus and tour groups the opportu-
nity to be swept away by nine sensational productions, all of which
are new to Chicago.
Lyric rolls out the red carpet to groups and offers everything you
come to expect when you see a live performance – group discounts,
superior customer service, complimentary tickets for group leaders
and complimentary bus parking.
This season your group will enjoy Mozart's classic The Marriage
of Figaro (October 2015), the charming Cinderella (October 2015), the
electrifying Romeo and Juliet (March 2016) and Rodgers & Hammer-
stein's beloved musical The King and I (May, 2016) Superstar soprano
Renée Fleming sings the title role in select performances of the hilar-
ious The Merry Widow (November 14 to December 13, 2015) – perfect
for the Holidays. Be sure to ask about free pre-opera talks, local din-
ing options and weekday matinees. The complete 2015-2016 season
is available at LyricOpera.org.
Lyric performs in the beautiful Civic Opera House in the west loop
of downtown Chicago. Built in 1929, the opera house is available for
backstage tours where your group can marvel at the striking archi-
tecture, gorgeous costumes and take a stroll on a catwalk over the
stage.
You do not need to be an opera aficionado to enjoy a trip to Lyric. If
an opera is performed in a foreign language, Lyric always projects
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16 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
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Lyric Opera of Chicago
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English translations above the stage so you
will not miss a moment of the story. Also,
groups always enjoy trying new and unique
events; perhaps your group has an opera per-
formance on their "bucket list.” The group
sales team at Lyric is always happy to help
you find the best performance with your
group (and keep it in your budget, too).
It is never too early to make reservations
for the 2015-2016 season. The spectacle, the
emotion, and the thrill that Lyric can provide –
it is all there for your bus group. For more
information phone Joel at (312) 827-5927 or
e-mail [email protected].
Timber Lake Playhouse
Mt. Carroll, Illinois
In 1961, Timber Lake Playhouse was
established as a professional, non-profit sum-
mer theater company. The mission of Tim-
ber Lake Playhouse is to provide the best
expression of theater arts to the regional
community by presenting creative works that
entertain and inspire.
Since its first opening night on June 28,
1962, the Playhouse has presented more than
350 plays and musicals and nearly 4,000 per-
formances. TLP presents a challenging com-
bination of material each year: a mix of large-
scale musicals, new plays and contemporary
classics. The theater hosts annual educa-
tional workshops for children and teens in
conjunction with the Magic Owl Children’s
Theater’s productions of plays and musicals
for young people and their families. The Res-
ident Company consists of 35-40 perform-
ers, technicians and musicians selected by
interviews and auditions in cities across the
country. Numerous guest performers, direc-
tors and choreographers supplement the res-
ident company each season.
This summer’s season includes Hairspray,
The Big Meal, Peter Pan, Greater Tuna, Big Fish
and Big River. Contact the Timber Lake Play-
house Box Office at (815) 244-2035 for more
information or visit the Web site at
timberlakeplayhouse.org.
Timber Lake is proud of its national rep-
utation for excellence as a professional
summer stock theater. The theater has
served as launch pad for theater artists of
all kinds who have gone on to excellence
in film, television, on Broadway and stages
all over the world. �
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 17
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Timber Lake Playhouse
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Faith-based tours are becoming one of
the most popular niches in the tourism
industry and entire bus tours are often
dedicated to the subject of religion and spir-
ituality. Groups come to these attractions to
pray, meditate, learn and just enjoy the
expression of their faith.
The Shrine of Our Lady
of Guadalupe
La Crosse, Wisconsin
The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe wel-
comes tens of thousands of visitors annu-
ally, including individuals, families and orga-
nized pilgrimage groups. As a religious
pilgrimage destination, the Shrine is a place
of thanksgiving for God’s many blessings,
offering solace and strength to the physically
and spiritually afflicted and providing a place
of rest and renewal for the weary.
Their Pilgrimage coordinator can assist you
in the organization of pilgrimages for a vari-
ety of groups: senior citizens, men’s and wom-
en’s organizations, First Holy Communion and
Confirmation candidates, school children, as
well as groups desiring a spiritual retreat.
The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe is
located on the south side of La Crosse, offer-
ing ample free parking for buses, campers, cars
and motorcycles. There is no admission fee,
but free-will offerings are gratefully accepted.
At the Pilgrim Center, the Shrine has a gift
shop with a variety of religious articles and sou-
venir items; a café which offers breakfast items
and lunch meals, afternoon desserts and cof-
fee; and, an Orientation Room where visitors
can watch a 25-minute video about the Shrine
and about who is Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Along the outdoor trail, visitors can pray
at a variety of devotional areas, including an
outdoor Stations of the Cross, an outdoor
Rosary Walk and the Memorial to the Unborn
plaza. Within the Votive Candle Chapel, pil-
grims will find the largest candle rack in the
United States, and locally crafted stained-
glass windows. The top of the trail opens up
onto the church plaza, bringing visitors to
the doors of the Shrine Church.
A guided tour of the church is available
daily. Sunday Masses are at 9:30 a.m. (Latin),
11 a.m. (Hispanic) and 1 p.m. (English).
Weekday Masses, Monday through Saturday,
are at 12:15 p.m. The Sacrament of Recon-
ciliation is also available daily. Information
about events throughout the year and about
making arrangements for visiting can be
found at guadalupeshrine.org. You can con-
tact the Shrine by phoning (877) 799-4059.
Baha’i House of Worship
for America
Wilmette, Illinois
A stunning marvel of architecture, the
Baha’i temple located in Wilmette, Illinois is
a masterpiece of both style and serenity. The
temple truly stands out in the landscape – a
towering nine-sided building with exquisite
arches, windows and columns topped by a
glorious dome that looks as though is was
fashioned after intricate lace patterns. Added
to the structure are beautiful gardens, foun-
tains and landscaping. It truly is a place for
reflection, prayer and quiet contemplation.
The Baha’i faith was founded in the 19th
century in Persia and believes in the unity of
God, the unity of religion and the unity of
18 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
�������������
Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe
humanity. The Baha’i Temple offers prayer
services daily at 9:15 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
These services are open to people of all faiths
and all are invited to recite, chant and enjoy
acapella singing. Guests are also invited to
stroll the peaceful grounds and auditorium.
For those who wish to learn more about the
Baha’i faith, a video presentation is offered
on Sundays at 1 p.m. In addition, the temple
has a welcome center and a book store.
The temple is one of only seven of its kind
worldwide. Pilgrims and visitors come from all
corners of the U.S. and world to visit, worship,
pray or just enjoy the architecture and beauti-
ful grounds. There is no charge to visit the tem-
ple. Donations are not requested or accepted.
Buses may load and unload on Sheridan
Road at the northwest corner of Linden Avenue
and Sheridan Road, with the buses coming
from the north, stopping at Linden and Sheri-
dan facing south. For more information phone
(847) 853-2300 or visit bahai.us.
Wycliffe Discovery Center
Orlando, Florida
At the Wycliffe Discovery Center you can
get a global view of Bible translation with-
out ever crossing an ocean. See the world
in a day. Visit Africa. Gaze at the exquis-
itely-carved image of a FareFare man.
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 19
�������
Baha’i House of Worship for America
Examine the authentic clothing provided by the FareFare people
of Ghana as you listen to a recording of John 3:16 in their language.
Trek across Europe. Explore the stories of heroes from the past –
people like Franzisco de Enzinas who believed that no sacrifice
was too great for spreading God’s Word.
Track the lives of the people who made the Bible available in the
language that you speak. Set sail for the Orient. Interact with the
unique sounds and symbols of languages that challenge linguists and
computer software developers. Pause in the shade of the language
tree and visualize the millions of people who do not have a Bible in
the language they speak best.
Then culminate your world tour with a glimpse of heaven. Imag-
ine with the closing exhibit what worship will be like when people
from every nation, tribe and language gather around the throne to
praise God together. Bring your family, students, Sunday school class,
youth group and church leaders. Expect to be changed. As you engage
in the films, interactive computer programs, hands-on exhibits and
ethos of the Wycliffe Discovery Center, you will not only discover
more about languages and Bible translation, you will also expand
your appreciation and awe of God, Himself.
At the Wycliffe Discovery Center you may explore the world
without crossing an ocean, but your experience does not end there.
After your tour through this gallery, you will be inspired to get
involved. Become a partner in what God is doing to speak His
words of love to the millions of people still waiting to hear in their
own language.
The Wycliffe Discovery Center is open Monday through Friday
from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch and snacks are available at Café Wycliffe
from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Village Shop features exotic and unique
gifts from around the world. Reservations are required for groups of
10 or more. For information on tours and group activities, Phone (407)
852-3626 or visit wycliffe.org/discoverycenter.
The Living Word Outdoor Drama
Cambridge, Ohio
The Living Word Outdoor Drama, presented in a beautiful south-
eastern Ohio amphitheatre, is preparing for its 41st season, which
begins Friday, June 19 and runs through Saturday, September 26. The
Living Word Out-
door Drama was
founded in 1974 by
Biblical Dramatist
Frank Roughton
Harvey. This nation-
a l ly- recognized
drama brings to life
the passion of Jesus
Christ. The 400-foot
set was researched and designed by the founder – making it an authen-
tic representation of Old Jerusalem.
The Living Word Outdoor Drama is approximately 2½ hours, with
a 20-minute intermission. Concessions and the gift shop open at 6:30
p.m. A Behind The Scenes Tour is available at 6:30 p.m. The Front
Set Tour begins at 7 p.m. and is included with admission. Showtime
is 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors or AAA mem-
bers, and $6 for children (4-12).
Special events also take place at the amphitheatre. Examples of
their special programming include shows for children, mainstream
musicals (The Music Man will be performed during their 2015 sea-
son) and special productions like the Jerusalem Experience, planned
for August 29, 2015, which will be a multi-sensory day of costuming,
carpentry, games, food and animals.
The Living Word Outdoor Drama encourages you to come and be
a part of their mission. For more information, phone (740) 439-2761
or visit LivingWordDrama.org. �
20 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
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Wycliffe Discovery Center
The Living Word Outdoor Drama
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 21
A religious pilgrimage destination -offering rest and renewal for body and spirit along your journey.
Confessions, Mass, devotions daily | café and gift shop open 9a-4pCall (877) 799-4059; email [email protected]; visit,
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Union County has the unique and perfect combination of agri-
cultural and industrial bus tour stops that will entertain any
group. Located just 30 minutes from downtown Columbus,
Ohio, Union County, it is an ideal hub and spoke location for attrac-
tions in central Ohio. It is easily accessed, yet is far from the ordinary.
Come stay and play in Union County, the perfect home base for your
next central Ohio tour.
Agriculture Destinations
Some of the favorite agricultural destinations include Mockingbird
Meadows, Mitchell’s Berries, three local wineries, distinctive farms and
the Leo Berbee Bulb Company.
Mockingbird Meadows (mockingbirdmeadows.com), which was
recently featured in the national magazine Mother Earth News, is a
small, family owned and operated farm located outside of Marysville.
The farm grows central Ohio’s only Medicinal Herbs (Community
Supported Agriculture) providing shares of their farm products, raw
honey and fresh healing herbs. Mockingbird Meadows also raises
honey, teaches workshops on traditional foods and natural healing,
and provides herbal consultations. Farm tours are also available.
Located near Plain City, Mitchell’s Berries (mitchellsberries.com)
provides visitors with a variety of premium home-grown produce
and a down-on-the-farm experience. Visitors can pick their own
berries from three acres of black raspberries, one acre of red sum-
mer and fall raspberries and one acre of strawberries. Be sure to check
out Mitchell’s Berries signature 1954 Chevy 3100 truck when you stop
by the farm.
Union County is lucky to have two unique and noticeably different
wineries in the county. Located in Plain City, Eldchrist Winery (eld-
christ.com) is housed in a restored farmhouse built in 1863. With six
grape varieties, Eldchrist provides 18 different wines to Union County
and surrounding areas. The winery offers tours, which include time in
their tasting room, and holds special events. Just eight miles north of
Marysville, Bokes Creek Winery (bokescreekwinery) grows and har-
vests their own fruit to produce a variety of wines. Bokes Creek spe-
cializes in semi-sweet to sweet wines featuring blackberry, pear, mul-
berry, concord and many more. Live music concerts occur every Friday
night at Bokes Creek. Located near Mount Vernon, Ravenhurst is ded-
icated to traditional methode champenoise champagne and hand-
crafted wines. Their award-winning wines are made from vinifera
grapes grown in Mount Victory.
Rainfresh Harvest and Fresh Harvests are farms embracing a new
approach to growing produce. Rainfresh (rainfreshharvests.com),
located outside of Plain City, uses a variety of green farming tech-
niques to produce the freshest food possible. Raised beds are used
to grow fresh herbs, and the green growing practices regenerate the
soil and preserve natural resources. Organic fertilizers are used while
rainwater is collected throughout the entire year to produce green-
house crops using aquaponics. Greenhouse tours are available on
select dates. Fresh Harvest (freshharvestfarmllc.com), in Richwood,
combines aquaponics and hydroponics to produce tomatoes, sev-
eral varieties of lettuce and herbs. Visitors of the farm will learn about
aquaponics, how it works and what can be grown using aquapon-
ics.
Another unique agriculture destination to check out in Union
County is KG Agricultural Products Inc. Located northwest of
Marysville, KG Agricultural Products processes an estimated 32,000
acres of non-genetically modified food-grade soybeans and 1,300
acres of organic soybeans for Japanese customers.
Fulton Creek Dairy (fultoncreekjerseycheese.com) is the perfect
place to learn about the dairy industry. The grain farm sits on 840
acres, 50 of those acres are dedicated to pasture where happy cows
and flocks of chickens earn their keep. Visitors can tour the farm, pur-
chase fresh items from the farmstead store and enjoy the serenity of
the land while walking around the farmstead.
Leo Berbee Bulb Company sells and ships the finest bulbs and
perennials all over the world. This is a family-owned and operated
company dating back to 1972, when Henk Berbee traveled to the
United States to open a wholesale distribution center for the parent
company in Holland. The bulb company supplies bulbs to a variety
of famous U.S. destinations including the White House, Michigan
22 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
Unique Charm
Union County, Ohio
Bluegrass Music
Avenue in Chicago and The Ohio State University. Tour the whole-
sale distribution operation, as well as their retail store, the Dutch Mill
Greenhouse. For tour information contact Marjolein Berbee, opera-
tions manager at (937) 642-0511, Ext. 12.
Other favorite agritourism stops include the MAiZE at Darby Creek
(mazeandberries.com) and Leeds Farm(leedsfarm.com). Like its name
alludes to, the MAiZE at Little Darby Creek is located along Little Darby
Creek and is just 10 miles south of Marysville. The MAiZE is a family-
owned, 125-acre farm complete with a corn maze and U-Pick berry
patch. The farm also has a petting zoo, hayrides, pedal carts and so
much more. Open during the fall and summer, the MAiZE provides
something for all ages throughout the central Ohio area and beyond.
With numerous barnyards and outdoor activities, Leeds Farm is the per-
fect fall destination. With hayrides, pumpkin patches, mountain slides,
straw forts, corn boxes, pig races, zip lines and more, everyone is sure
to have fun at Leeds Farm. Educational school tours and private par-
ties are available. Leeds Farm is located near Ostrander.
If visitors are interested in taking a break on the water, Wakeopolis
(wakeopolis.com) is the perfect destination. Wakeopolis is central Ohio's
first wakeboard cable park, where riders are pulled across a private lake
by an overhead electric cable system instead of a boat. All visits must
be reserved in advance. They offer special packages and pricing for
groups. Contact [email protected] for more information.
Industrial Destinations
Whereas there are plenty of agriculture stops visitors will want to
see, Union County is home to several large industrial corporations includ-
ing Honda of America. The Honda Heritage Center (ohio.honda.com)
in Marysville is Union County’s newest attraction. This museum offers
visitors a unique glimpse into the innovative history and growth Honda
has achieved throughout the past 55 years. Power equipment, auto-
mobiles, aviation equipment and robotics are some of the great variety
of Honda products displayed in the museum. The museum also honors
new Honda technologies such as a replica of the humanoid robot ASIMO
and the Hondajet.
Along with Honda, Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and a Nestle
Research and Development Center call Union County home. The Scotts
Miracle-Gro Company was founded in 1868 by O.M. Scott in Marysville.
Scott, a Civil War veteran, felt strongly about farmers having weed-
free fields; thus he formed Scotts as a premium seed company for the
U.S. agricultural industry. The company grew in the 1900s when it
began a lawn grass seed business for homeowners. More recently, in
1995, Scotts, the leading lawn care brand, with Miracle-Gro, the lead-
ing gardening brand, merged to create The Scotts Miracle-Gro Com-
pany. Today, Scotts Miracle-Gro Company is still headquartered in
Marysville and is recognized as the leader in home and garden prod-
ucts. The Nestle Product Technology Center in Marysville focuses on
ready-to-drink beverage development. It also has major programs in
coffee, instant beverages, ice cream coatings, confectionery, non-
dairy creamers and milk modifiers. More than 220 employees are based
there, providing expertise in beverage science, packaging and tech-
nology.
History and Art in Union County
Union County also has a rich history, and the county has been hon-
ored to have 17 Ohio historical markers, which identify and honor
important places, people and events that have enriched Ohio’s his-
tory. The first Union County marker was erected in 2003. The Union
County Historical Society (historyohio.com) is the perfect place to
learn more about the history of the county. It was established in 1949
and serves as the county
organization responsible
for the collection and
preservation of objects
relating to the history of
Union County, Ohio. Tours
through the society’s
museum are recom-
mended. During a tour vis-
itors can learn about Noah
Orr, the Union County
Giant and the Ohio Giant.
He toured the U.S. as a per-
former, standing nearly 8
feet tall, from the 1850s to
1882. He appeared with many leading circuses, shows, and muse-
ums. From 1878 to 1882, Orr traveled with the Lilliputian Opera Com-
pany, a group of dwarf actors and one giant who performed musical
comedies. Sadly, Orr’s career and life came to an end in 1882 when
he became ill. An Ohio Historical Marker was erected in 2009 at Orr’s
residence in Marysville. Currently, one of Orr’s chairs is on display in
the museum. Directly beside the museum is the Weller Log House
from the 1830s. The cabin, with frame addition, has been restored
and is furnished, as it would have been in the early 19th century.
Union County’s art scene is another must-see while visiting the
area. Housed in the historic Houston House, the Marysville Art League
(marysvilleartleague.org) is the perfect stop for the artsy person and
is sure to be enjoyed by all who visit. Visitors can walk around the
house to see paintings of the famous fashion designer, Lehman Eugene
Snively. Guests can also browse the gallery of local, talented artists’
work, take a canvas class with an instructor and receive a gourmet
cupcake or shop in the gallery. White Feather Gallery Boutique is
another local artistic favorite. The White Feather (whitefeathergar-
denevents.com) showcases exceptional artists from around the state
of Ohio. Guests can browse through the quaint rooms of a renovated
1930s space to view original paintings, one-of-a-kind sculptures and
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 23
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Mr. and Mrs. Reuben Partridge
other unique items such as jewelry, candles and hats. White Feather
is the perfect location for a garden party with more than 3,500 square
feet of lovely garden area.
Dining in Union County
While visitors are discovering all Union County has to offer, they
are sure to work up an appetite. There are a variety of different din-
ing options to savor. Local restaurant favorites include Uptown Steak-
house, Hinkley’s, Cork Wine and Dine, Boston’s, Benny’s Pizza, and
Der Dutchman. Der Dutchman Restaurant is a fixture in Plain City and
a popular gathering spot for both the residents and people passing
through. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, you are sure to dine
on wholesome, delicious home cooking. Before or after your meal,
make sure to stop by Carlisle Gifts, conveniently located beside Der
Dutchman. The gift shop has a little bit of everything from handbags
to soap. You are sure to find something for your home or family and
friends when shopping at Carlisle Gifts.
For a unique dining experience, visitors can enjoy lunch on one
of Union County’s covered bridges, the Pottersburg Bridge. The Pot-
tersburg Bridge is home to the Union County Covered Bridge Blue-
grass Festival
held annually
during the third
weekend of
September. The
festival captures
the alluring
sights, sounds,
flavors and aro-
mas of bygone
days when cov-
ered bridges
were more than
a way to cross
over water. Visitors of the festival can experience an elegant sun-
set dinner on the Pottersburg Bridge, breakfast on the bridge, blue-
grass music, horse-drawn wagon rides, old-fashioned kids’ games
and activities, bridge tours, The Marketplace with a wide array of
antiques and art, pie baking contest and auction, demonstrations
of 19th century craftsmanship, a community church service and so
much more.
The Pottersburg Bridge is just one of eight covered bridges in Union
County. Five of these bridges are five historic bridges all built in the
late 1860s and 1870s. This is well above average for the state of Ohio.
Four, excluding the Pottersburg Bridge, are still in use as a part of the
county highway system and are currently well maintained by the
Union County Engineer.
For a customized tour of Union County’s Covered Bridges, con-
tact Tina Knotts at the Union County CVB at (937) 642-6279.
Connecting the Covered Bridges of Union County is a part of the Ohio
Scenic Byway. The Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway is 40 miles of spec-
tacular views. When traveling on the byway, covered bridges are not
the only stop. The Big Darby Creek, parks, nature preserves, century
farms, cemeteries and historic homes can all be accessed from the
byway. When traveling on the Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway, visitors
can piece together Union County’s past to gain a more knowledgeable
understanding of its historic and agriculture importance by following
the byway signs.
Convention and Visitors Bureau
All are encouraged to discover, explore and savor Union County. It
is truly a place where small town charm, agriculture, industry and his-
tory come together. The staff at the Union County CVB is knowledge-
able, friendly and can assist you with planning a bus tour that will be
fun and engaging to your guests. They offer complimentary itinerary
planning services and can direct you to the best dining, attractions and
activities for your group in Union County, as well as hub and spoke ideas
for Columbus and other central Ohio locations. Step-on guides are avail-
able for a fee of $75 per bus. For more group tour information, log on
to unioncounty.org or contact the Union County Chamber of Commerce
at (937) 624-6279. There are one- to three day-itineraries as well as
prepackaged options on the group tour section of the CVB’s Web site.
You can also find downloadable group tour information and an inter-
active on-line visitors guide.
Where to Stay
• Comfort Inn – Marysville; (937) 664-0400
• Hampton Inn – Marysville; (937) 642-3777
• Holiday Inn Express – Marysville; (937) 738-7710
• Super 8 – Marysville; (937) 644-8821
24 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
������������ �����
Bridge Dinner
Pottersburg Bridge
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 25
Let us entertain you.Whatever the age or interest
of your group–dining, history.
architecture, festivals or simply
enjoying the beauty of the parks–
Kankakee County has it all and more.
Let us help plan a tour for your group.
815.935.7390www.visitkankakeecounty.com
COUNTYCONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
“I had a great time in Kankakee
County!”
“I really enjoyed this trip–and I
plan to return!”
Let us entertain you.
of your group–dining, history.
Whatever the age or interest
Let us entertain you.
of your group–dining, history.
Whatever the age or interest
Let us entertain you.
of your group–dining, history.
Whatever the age or interest
815.935.7390
Let us help plan a tour for your group.
Kankakee County has it all and more.
enjoying the beauty of the parks–
architecture, festivals or simply
of your group–dining, history.
815.935.7390
Let us help plan a tour for your group.
Kankakee County has it all and more.
enjoying the beauty of the parks–
architecture, festivals or simply
of your group–dining, history.
Let us help plan a tour for your group.
Kankakee County has it all and more.
enjoying the beauty of the parks–
architecture, festivals or simply
of your group–dining, history.
p return!”
joyth trith
p and Iplan to ret
“Ijoytrip–andlan t
”
yeII
edye
www.visitkankakeecounty.comwww.visitkankakeecounty.com
COUUNTY
Cot
937-642-6279 [email protected] unioncounty.org 227 East Fifth Street, Marysville, Ohio 43040
Group Guides
Planning Assistance
Group Friendly Dining
Bus Parking
Souvenir Gifts
Reception Hospitality
Hotels
Tina Knotts, Tourism Director
Union CountyOHIO
Welcome to Union County, where small town charm and history come together with contemporary interests: covered bridges, wineries, festivals, hands-on agricultural tours, and more along the breathtaking Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway.
Minutes from Columbus. Miles from the Ordinary.
tknotts@unioncounty937-642-6279
unioncountyg .or tknotts@unioncounty
ifth Str 227 East Fg .or unioncounty
, Ohio 43040svilleeet, Maryifth Str
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Stuhr Museum
of the Prairie Pioneer
Grand Island, Nebraska
by Annette Felho
Just off Interstate 80, between Lincoln and
North Platte, Nebraska in Grand Island, is
Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer. In the
summer, era-appropriate historical inter-
preter pioneers walk the streets. Railroad
Town welcomes travelers from every age
group, and on Memorial Day, Civil War sol-
diers replay history in front of visiting com-
rades. Grand Island’s hometown boy, Henry
Fonda’s house was moved here, years after
the Pony Express stopped in Grand Island.
Touring the grounds, there is a tranquil feel-
ing of greenery, quietness and embracing of
past pioneers, architecture and artifacts.
The 200-acre museum has a multi-facial
view of what once was with its special areas
including The Hornaby Family Arbor, Pawnee
Earth Lodge, Farm Machinery Building
(including a threshing machine), Fonner
Rotunda and Log Cabin. The Stuhr Museum
Building recently completed a $7.5 million
renovation bringing the building up to cur-
rent code and reopening the building in 2015.
Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer is
open seven days a week, all year round with
the exception of January, February and
March when it is open five days per week.
This museum is located a few minutes
north of Interstate 80 at the intersection of
highways 34 and 281 at 3133 West High-
way 34, Grand Island, Nebraska 68801.
Take Exit 312 from I-80, travel north on
highway 281 to highway 34, then turn right
onto Tech Drive.
For information regarding Stuhr Museum
of the Prairie Pioneer group tours, contact
(308) 385-5316. Boxed lunches for groups
and group rates are available with a sched-
uled reservation. Additional information and
a calendar of events are available at
stuhrmuseum.org.
Miromar Outlets
Estero, Florida
Miromar Outlets has been voted “Best
Shopping Mall,” “Best Shopping District in
Southwest Florida” and “Best Factory Outlet
Shopping Center” for 15 years in a row, mak-
ing it the premier destination for group tour
shopping and dining. It is conveniently
located off Interstate 75, Exit 123 between
Naples and Fort Myers.
Your group members will find an unpar-
alleled collection of more than 140 top
designer and brand name outlets at Miromar
Outlets, with savings of up to 70 percent off
retail prices. Find great savings on top names
including Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH,
Neiman Marcus Last Call, Bloomingdale’s
The Outlet Store and many more.
Mediterranean architecture, majestic foun-
tains, koi and duck ponds, courtyards, lush
landscaping and covered walkways are the
perfect Florida environment for a shopping
experience not to be missed while visiting
southwest Florida. Helpful services include
an ATM, gift cards, complimentary wheel-
chairs, stroller rentals, an on-site BP station,
Bank of America and Wells Fargo Bank.
A lakeside restaurant piazza offers full-ser-
vice or casual dining indoors or outdoors and
there are several other dining options through-
26 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
������������ �����������
Pawnee Earth Lodge at Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer
out the mall. Meal vouchers are available at an advance purchase price
of $8 and can be used at any of their participating restaurants.
If you notify in advance, friendly staff will greet you upon arrival
and provide your group with VIP bags including the latest discount
coupons and a store directory. They also offer special incentives for
you, the group
tour leader and
driver with
groups of 30 or
more and a min-
imum stay of
two hours.
Expand the
unique shop-
ping experience
for your group
by visiting Miromar Design Center, the only design center in south-
west Florida and one of only 19 major design centers in the nation.
It is the premier destination for design professionals and con-
sumers. The 45 furniture stores feature a worldwide collection of
the most desired names in furniture, fabrics, flooring, lighting,
kitchen and bath products, art, accessories and wall coverings.
For more information or planning assistance, contact Annette
White at (239) 390-7727 or e-mail [email protected].
Shreveport-Bossier Highlights
`The Louisiana Office of Tourism and the Shreveport-Bossier Con-
vention and Tourist Bureau released a new group tour itinerary enti-
tled “Louisiana IS Happy!” to showcase the unique combination of
people, cultures and things to do that contributed to Louisiana being
named the happiest state in the United States. According to the study
released by The Wall Street Journal’s Market Watch, Shreveport-Bossier,
located in beautiful northwest Louisiana, is the third happiest city in
the United States.
The Shreveport-Bossier itinerary includes stops at fun and engag-
ing attractions, picturesque shopping and flavorful opportunities to
taste local beers and traditional cuisines. The itinerary can be accom-
panied by stops in other neighboring happy cities such as Houma,
Lafayette, Lake Charles, Monroe, Alexandria and Baton Rouge. Most
attractions are free of charge.
Groups start their visit by taking a historic journey from World War
I to present at the Barksdale Global Power Museum. The museum
features uniforms, dioramas, a barracks exhibit dating from World
War II and 25 aircraft and vehicles. Next, the group enjoys lunch and
unique shopping and entertainment at Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets
situated along the Red River.
Then groups stop at Shreveport’s first local brewery since Prohibi-
tion. Great Raft Brewing has a tasting room serving up its flagship beers
and free weekend tours. Following, groups tour the R.W. Norton Art
Gallery. The museum of American and European art spans four cen-
turies and is the Southwest’s largest permanent collection of American
Western art by Frederic Remington and Charles Russell. Succeeding the
museum, groups take a historic drive and tour of Shreveport-Bossier
with a local step-on guide to learn about downtown attractions such
as riverfront casinos, Red River District, Sci-Port: Louisiana’s Science
Center and the Once in a Millennium Moon Mega Mural.
` Afterward the tour stops in the oldest church in Shreveport. Holy
Trinity Catholic Church boasts Romanesque-revival design with its
main altar featuring Italian marble and more than 60 stained glass
windows with a European cathedral feel. It is on the National Regis-
ter of Historic Places. After checking into a local hotel, groups dine
at Ralph and Kacoos and enjoy a variety of Cajun cuisine—shrimp,
crab and crawfish platters; charbroiled fish and steaks.
For hotel rate information and more details, contact Erica Howard,
group sales manager at the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist
Bureau, at (800) 551-8682 ext.104 or [email protected].
Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
Douglas Druick, president, and Eloise W. Martin, director of the
Art Institute of Chicago, announced recently that Chicago attor-
ney Irving Stenn Jr. has given the museum more than 100 draw-
ings from his exceptional collection of seminal works produced in
the 1960s. The drawings, by a who-is-who of contemporary artists,
represent a foundational period in the history of drawing when the
way works on paper were made, used and appreciated was under-
going radical change.
The gift includes works by Mel Bochner, Sol LeWitt, Brice Marden
and Fred Sandback, as well as pieces by Agnes Denes, Jasper Johns,
Donald Judd, Nam June Paik and Ellsworth Kelly. The 105 drawings
not only showcase Stenn's personal taste, vision and passion as a
collector but also offer a window into an era when artists reconsid-
ered and reinvented the medium of drawing. This gift is one of the
most significant and collection-enhancing bodies of contemporary
works on paper ever given to the museum.
“Irv has a discerning eye for art and tremendous stamina for search-
ing it out, and this makes his generous and enlightened support of the
museum especially potent," said Druick. "His remarkable gift greatly
enriches our holdings of contemporary prints and drawings and will
animate the Art Institute's galleries for many years to come."
Stenn began building an impressive collection of contemporary
painting and sculpture with his wife, Marcia, in 1971. Determined to
continue adding to the collection after Mrs. Stenn's death in 1999,
he shifted his focus to drawings, which can illustrate an artist's course
of thought and method of work. The sense of process and intimacy
they suggested greatly appealed to Stenn, as did their relatively small
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 27
������������ �������������������
Miromar Outlets
scale, which allowed him to display his entire collection on the walls
of his home.
Over his years of collecting, Stenn developed close personal rela-
tionships within the artistic community – including a long friendship
with Mel
Bochner – which
provided him
with a deep
understanding
of the broader
sweep of art his-
tory. Though he
did not set out
with strict para-
meters for the
collection, he
was drawn to works from the 1960s that had an organic connection
in style and content.
"I am so grateful to the people who have helped me by provid-
ing advice and introducing me to artists I might not have found
on my own," said Stenn. "The collection has benefited enormously
from the guidance and friendship of Art Institute curator Mark
Pascale, from dealers I have worked with – Donald Young, Rhona
Hoffman, and others in Chicago and New York – as well as from
friends and collectors, such as Gerry Elliot, Stefan Edlis and Lew
Manilow. I might never have put these works together if not for
their input."
The resulting body of work makes visible a definitive shift in
artists' approach to drawings. While continuing the early modern
practice of making drawings as artistic expressions in their own
right, innovators of the 1960s employed drawing in ways previ-
ously not considered art – as diagrams, instructions for fabrica-
tion, caprices suggesting movement in performance, or markers
of space and time. A selection of these types of drawings, which
enabled spatial and tactile perception to be recorded and concep-
tual concerns of a larger project to be explored, are among the
items in the Stenn collection.
German American
Heritage Center
Davenport, Iowa
The German American Heritage Center in Davenport, Iowa lies at
the foot of the Centennial Bridge, Route 67 that links Iowa to Illinois.
More 15,000 cars pass this corner daily; however, this museum has
been at the crossroads of local, regional and national history for more
than150 years.
The museum building is a four-story restored hotel, which served
German immigrants as they docked and came ashore from the steam-
boats that settled the area in the mid to late 1800s. Dozens of promi-
nent German citizens helped to build Davenport and its neighbors,
and their descendents in Scott and Rock Island counties still make
up more than 40 percent of the population.
Today their focus is telling the stories of these early pioneers –
men and women who endured tragedy and triumph, hard work
and rich rewards, success and disappointment. There is no seg-
ment of American culture that was untouched by this major eth-
nic group. In music, theater, sports, politics, art, architecture, edu-
cation, innovation and commerce the foundations they built for
succeeding generations are available now and housed here to be
traced and treasured.
Easily accessible by river cruise, car or chartered bus, their friendly
staff is eager to greet you and introduce you to the museum’s award-
winning exhibits and year-round public programming. They welcome
individual travelers, family groups
and entire tours and can link your
visit to other attractions in the
Quad Cities, including farm and
agricultural tours. They also offer
a fourth floor social room with gor-
geous river views, which is avail-
able for group use. You can even
return home with authentic Ger-
man products from the gift shop
to remember your visit.
Visit gahc.org for current
exhibit information and program
notes or phone to arrange your
visit at (563) 322-8844.The center
is open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday 12-4
p.m. and closed Monday.
Barefoot Landing
North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
If a trip to the Myrtle Beach area is your future, you will love Bare-
foot Landing, a place where your group can enjoy some great shop-
ping, dining and entertainment. Barefoot Landing combines the tra-
ditional retail functions of a shopping venue with attractions and
other leisure amenities to deliver an outdoor-centric recreational
experience. Its unique seaport-style architecture and 27-acre lake
combine to create a charming coastal seaside village atmosphere.
Boardwalks and bridges weave through the 100-acre nature-friendly
complex and its 100 specialty and retail shops, waterfront restau-
rants, and entertainment venues. More information about Barefoot
Landing is available by phoning (843) 272-8349 or logging on to
bflanding.com.
28 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
������������ �������������������
Art Institute of Chicago
German American Heritage Center
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 29
When Bob Dylan came to Nashville to make his classic album Blonde on Blonde, he brought unprecedented attention to the city’s ultra-talented musicians. Johnny Cash did the same with his network television show. This exhibit looks at the impact those events had on Music City and its Nashville Cats.
STEP INSIDE This HouseDowntown Nashville • 615.416.2001Visit CountryMusicHallofFame.org
#DylanCashExhibit@countrymusichof
PRESENTED BY:
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Several new merchants, as well as an amusement area coming
to this North Myrtle Beach attraction just in time for the busy sum-
mer season.
The Dockside Village section of Barefoot Landing is getting some new
merchants and
seeing some of its
store renovated
and refreshed.
New merchants
iinclude:
• E a r t h -
bound Trading
Company, which
offers earth-
themed wom-
en’s clothing, footwear, and home décor, plus hand-crafted ethnic
and nature related gifts;
• Best Gift Ideas Ever, which enables its guests to create their own
unique pieces of personalized art through the use of photographs resem-
bling letters;
• Beef Jerky Store, which features a variety of jerky flavors for the
beef lover;
• The Stuffed Animal Store (opening soon), which carries children’s
favorite plush toys
• A Sliver Shack (relocating to Dockside Village from Boardwalk
Shops), which features current and fashionable silver jewelry from around
the world.
The Waterway Shoppes now has an artist collective boutique with
various works from local artists on display and for sale. It is called
the Innovations Artists’ Emporium.
New merchants coming to the Boardwalk Shops include:
• Carolina Hat Company, which showcases all types of headwear
including sporty, casual and sophisiticated;
• Tara Grinna Swimwear, which has been a respected name in
swimwear industry more than 25 years and is known for its unique
use of gorgeous prints and vibrant and exciting color palette
• Pepper Palace, which features hot sauces and flavorings rang-
ing from mild to hot, exotic to everyday.
The Lakeview Courtyard, a new shop and rides are joining Bare-
foot Landing:
• Colette’s Popcorn, which offers a large election of flavors to the
popcorn enthusiast;
• Barefoot Amusements, which will feature five family-style rides
and games.
In addition to new merchants joining Barefoot Landing, renova-
tions or remodeling have been done at Tassa Canbana, Designer Sun-
glasses, Sunglass Hut, Johnny Rockets, Bully’s Pub and Grill, and
Smokin’ Hot Grill and BBQ.
Country Music Hall of Fame
Nashville Tennessee
Put some music in your Music City visit. Whether your group is
filled with aspiring songwriters, ardent fans of music or history buffs,
the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum is a must see desti-
nation for those with even the most casual interest in music. Not only
do the galleries provide a unique learning experience but an array of
hands-on tour experiences expand the story told in the museum’s
exhibitions.
A number of group tour programs provide a behind-the-scenes
look at the music industry. For example, Star For a Day begins on
Nashville’s famed Music Row with a tour of Historic RCA Studio B.
Following a guided tour, groups will gather around the legendary
microphone for a recording session with a professional sound engi-
neer. The experience concludes with lunch at the Wildhorse Saloon
where the group can kick up their heels and dance to their newly
recorded song.
Nashville is home to country music, delicious Southern cooking
and great hospitality. These three traditions come together in Leg-
ends, Lunch and Lyrics. This quintessential Music City experience
offers guests a classic Southern “Meat n’ Three” lunch while they are
entertained by songs, stories and writing insight from one of
Nashville’s most accomplished songwriters.
Stories Behind the Songs offers guests a peek behind the song
in a private session with a Nashville songwriter. The writer demon-
strates to the group how a song is created from concept to hit.
Sharing the Art of Songwriting allows an opportunity to write
your own song with the writer. Both sessions are followed by an
a u t o g r a p h
signing.
For the his-
tory buff on the
tour, the nearly
1 3 5 - y e a r - o l d
Hatch Show Print
is not to be
missed. The
group will see the
presses at work
and learn about the history of Hatch. They will also see the colorful,
centuries-old posters that put the shop on the map – as well as recent
works for their favorite entertainers. The tour concludes with an oppor-
tunity to get hands on with some of the tools of the trade as they print
their own keepsake poster.
To learn more about these programs and other one-of-a-kind
experiences, visit countrymusichalloffame.org. �
30 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
������������ �������������������
Barefoot Landing
Sharing the Art of Songwriting
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 31
Number 7 of a Series
“The Curious Tour Planner” is a questionand answer column that provides simpleanswers to simple questions involvingbus and group tours. It is patterned aftera very successful similar column in oursister publication, NATIONAL BUS TRADER,that has run for about 20 years with morethan 200 installments. We will accept rea-sonably simple technical or operating his-torical questions on bus and group toursand their operations by letter, fax, e-mailor telephone. Unless otherwise indicated,the simpler questions will be answeredby our editor, Larry Plachno, who hasowned buses and planned tours for morethan 50 years. If our staff is unable toanswer them, we will call upon our panelof experts. Names and addresses shouldbe submitted with your questions, butwe will withhold names from publicationon request. We reserve the right to modifyquestions to make them more useful toour readers.
Q. What are the most important thingsthat people are looking for in a lodginglocation?
–– Reader in Canada
A. My own experience over the years isthat most tour planners avoid both thehigher priced lodging as well as the leastexpensive motels. However, I have seenprices drop rapidly when the expensivehotels have empty rooms.
Beyond that, there was a recent survey onFacebook that suggested that traveler pri-orities are changing. For years “FriendlyService” topped the list. Today the top pri-ority overwhelmingly is free, reliable highspeed Wi-Fi in the guest rooms. Most busand group tour passengers today carry atleast one electronic device and some mayhave two or more.
Second on the list is breakfast. Over theyears we have found a wide range in thequalify of hotel and motel breakfasts. Thecold breakfast, similar to the traditionalEuropean style, is less likely to please trav-elers than a hot breakfast that mightinclude eggs and some type of meat andpotatoes.
Third and fourth on the Facebook list arefitness centers and lobby bars. While I per-
sonally would suspect that fitness centersare less important for bus tour passengers,I would tend to agree with the lobby bars.My own past experience with driving andescorting tours is that many of the passen-gers head to the bar after arrival to “getthe road dust out of their throats.”
Q. How close are we to autonomous driving and driverless cars?
–– Several Readers
A. The best sign to watch is where thebig corporations are putting their moneyand effort. That suggests we are closerthan we think.
Accident avoidance systems for buseshave already reached the point wherethey can fully stop a bus if the car in frontstops.
ZF already has an electronic parking sys-tem for trucks with two trailers that is con-trolled by a driver with a pad device stand-ing some distance away.
The ZF acquisition of TRW should be com-pleted by mid-year. This involves a lot ofmoney and one of the major reasons givenfor this merger is developing technologyfor autonomous driving. Do not forget thatZF is a major supplier of components forbuses and trucks.
There already have been studies on pro-gramming autonomous cars. One of themore interesting suggests thatautonomous cars could improve traffic butprobably will not. The reason is becausedrivers are more willing to drive fasterthan passengers are comfortable with.Hence, driverless cars will probably beprogrammed to drive slower to help keeppassengers comfortable.
One of the more telling situations is thatthere has been a little bit of falling outbetween Uber and Google. Uber’s smart-phone apps for riders and drivers arebased on Google Maps. Back in August of2013, Google Ventures invested $258 mil-lion in Uber and put more money into Ubera year later. As a result, Google’s chief legalofficer joined the Uber board of directors.
Uber was working towards developing itsown autonomous vehicle technology.Google is already testing a ride-hailing
service with employees it developed, pre-sumably in conjunction with its driverlesscar project. This would put the two hugecompanies in direct conflict.
All of this tends to suggest that this tech-nology is coming and big companies areputting in a lot of money and research intothis area.
Q. Are you aware of any operations ortours that have equipment beyond a sim-ple galley to provide meals on board?
–– Bus Operator
A. This kind of thing does happen but isrelatively rare. We did hear about a touroperator in Alaska who served meals ona long, articulated bus that I understandmay have involved driving through aremote area.
We are also aware of bus operators inEurope that have transformed the lowerlevel of a Neoplan double-deck coach intoa bistro-type arrangement complete witha bar. At one point, Setra in Europe offeredan on-board vending machine, but thatwould have been limited to snacks anddrinks.
Longer distance scheduled service busesoften plan a brief stop at a location wherefast food is available. Passengers simplybring their food back to the coach and eatit there.
Q. If you were planning an advertise-ment in BUS TOURS MAGAZINE to attractbus and group tours, what would youinclude in the ad?
A. Location, Location, Location. The firstthing tour planners will look for is yourlocation to find out whether you arelocated where they are currently runningtours or where they are planning tours forthe future.
Second is to direct the ad specifically tobus and group tours in words and photos,and include a special offer if you can. Third,with today’s modern technology I wouldinclude a Web site with a response formor some way for the tour planner torespond using e-mail.
Answers not credited to other individualsare provided by Larry Plachno, Editor. �
THE CURIOUS TOUR PLANNER
32 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
20 Tips For Bus Tour Planners
by: Dr. Charleen Jaeb
20 Tips for Teaching and Training
From the time we are born until the time
we die we are teaching and learning. The pur-
pose of this column is to help you enjoy and
become better at both.
Individuals learn by reading, writing, lis-
tening, watching, doing, memorizing, prac-
ticing, questioning, discussing, and making
mistakes. Even very bright people can excel
in one way but fall short in others, so it is up
to the trainer to teach using a combination of
teaching methods. The 20 tips will give exam-
ples of them and will address situations that
affect bus tour planners, group leaders, tour
escorts, drivers as well as bus and tour com-
panies. Similarities to the ways college stu-
dents and trainees in the bus business learn
are discussed.
The information comes mainly from my
experiences after 40. I earned an AA, BA, MBA,
M.Ed., and JD and taught business classes 15
years at Cleveland State University, Baldwin-
Wallace College and Cuyahoga Community Col-
lege. Prior to entering college at age 39, I was
a stay-at-home mother and area sales manager
for World Book, selling encyclopedias, hiring
and training sales representatives. After retir-
ing from teaching I became a group tour plan-
ner then joined Lakefront Lines as group leader,
tour escort and marketing associate and
became a columnist for BUS TOURS MAGAZINE.
When addressing large groups such as stu-
dents in the classroom and passengers on the
bus, I usually use the advanced organizer
method; e.g. l tell them what I will tell them,
tell them, then tell them what I told them. The
first part on the bus includes a welcome, intro-
ducing driver and myself, previewing the day
and showing a safety video. Reminders come
when they exit the bus and find out when to be
back on it and what will happen between times.
1. Be prepared. Professors come to each
session with a list of the people signed up for
class, handouts with the information to be
covered such as grading and attendance poli-
cies (syllabus), lecture notes and include time
for questions. Bus tour planner trainers pro-
vide similar information plus give out bus
company catalogs, homework assignments,
job description, company policies, procedures,
company history and often give a walkabout
tour of the company facilities.
2. Do not assume all students or trainees
are prepared. Not all of them bring proper IDs,
writing instruments, know where and when
to show up and are qualified to be there. Con-
firmations are strongly recommended. A pro-
fessor once told me to consider how assume
is spelled to realize why you should not do it.
3. Qualifications for bus tour planners: Tour
planners who are group leaders learn mostly
from their predecessors, other group leaders
and bus tour planners at the companies they
work with. They require little formal training.
Bus tour planners who work for bus or travel
companies should be high school graduates
(college preferred) have experience working
with customers, be computer and software
literate, have a good appearance, references,
and excellent written and oral communica-
tion skills.
4. Bus tour planner training: New hires are
usually trained by the group or retail tour man-
ager assisted by tour planners they will work
with or replace. They learn by the methods
mentioned in the second paragraph. Great Day
Tours, the largest bus tour operator in Ohio,
has a customized software program designed
especially for training their tour planners.
5. Qualifications and training for bus trip
escorts: Prospective tour escorts should be
intelligent, dependable, healthy, enthusiastic,
love travel and helping people. Allen Kenney,
president of Great Day Tours, has 25 tour
escorts who accompany all their bus tours with
the exception of express runs. They are required
to dress professionally in blue jackets and com-
plete in-house training which includes CPR and
how to use a defibulator, company policies and
procedures, safety rules and dealing with the
public. They ride on a Great Day tour observ-
ing an experienced trip escort. Then they escort
a bus tour being observed by an experienced
escort. Trip escorts are often former group lead-
ers or educators.
6. Qualications for commercial bus drivers:
Before being hired in the United States they usu-
ally need a CDL license, good driving record
(ideally on a bus), pass DOT physicals, back-
ground checks and drug screening and be able
to obtain a passport to cross Canadian borders.
7. Commercial bus driver training: Large
bus lines often require several months of in-
house training. Greyhound’s average train-
ing takes a minimum of five weeks in three
stages. First stage is orientation where they
meet above requirements as well as com-
puter based training and a mastery test on a
competitive basis. If they pass that, they go
to Phase II Driving School which includes 13
days of intense classroom instruction and
behind-the-wheel training, logging more
than 40 hours of driving time and learning
professionalism in both behavior and dress.
Phase III students become Greyhound
employees by learning policies and proce-
dures, interacting with passengers, includ-
ing 70 additional hours of behind-the-wheel
driving under the guidance of a professional
Greyhound Motorcoach Operator. Chris
Goebel, President of Lakefront Lines, Ohio’s
largest motorcoach operator, told me they
have 102 motorcoachs and about 75 other
mini buses, school buses and vans. They do
their own bus maintenance and repairs and
require extensive pre-trip bus inspection
training, explained in tip 16.
How People Learn
8. Learn by reading. Just as professors fur-
nish students a syllabus with dates, subjects
discussed, grading and classroom policies,
office hours and how to contact them, bus
company trainers furnish information about
the company, their job description, tour books,
competency tests, and application forms.
Informed individuals usually read bus and trade
magazines, newspapers, instruction manu-
als, contracts, legal and tax forms and books.
9. Learn by listening. Trainers should
make sure they can be heard. Easiest way
to find out is ask your audience if they can
hear you, whether you are speaking on a
bus microphone or in a class. If your voice
cannot be heard, order a microphone. Con-
sider those with problems hearing to move
closer or make sure outside noise is not
competing.
10. Learn by writing. If you have poor
handwriting, learn to type or print. Take notes
while in training. Bus tour planners should
study bus catalogs and flyers from destina-
tions to see how trips are described. Be pre-
pared to write flyers for group leader’s trips,
and correspond with customers, vendors,
management, write press releases and com-
pose group and send out bulk e-mails to
group leaders and prior individual customers.
You cannot believe how much I have learned
writing and doing research for this column.
11. Learn by watching demonstrations.
Tour planner trainees watch company tour
planners on the job setting up trips online and
on the phone, making suggestions to group
leaders for destinations, accommodations and
events, handling people, composing trip con-
tracts and flyers for group leader trips on the
computer, watching how filing is done, and
observing tour planners interview vendors to
determine who to visit, list in their tour cata-
log and approach for FAM trips.
12. Learn by practice and repetition. Top
athletes, musicians, performers in any field
will admit the secret of their success is prac-
ticing regularly. I learned typing and short-
hand in high school. After graduation I
worked five years as a secretary. Those skills
have remained with me in future endeavors,
although my speed has slowed.
13. Learn by mnemonics. These are mem-
ory devices that help learners recall larger
pieces of information, especially in the form
of acronyms, songs, steps, stages, parts,
phrases, and rhymes. For example, children
learn the alphabet by singing the ABC song
and the states in alphabetical order by singing
the 50 Nifty United States song. They learn
phrases like “Stop, Look and Listen” and
acronyms EGBDF (Every Good Boy Does
Fine) for lines in music. Adults learn by
acronyms like SWOT (Strengths, Weak-
nesses, Opportunities, Threats) in analyzing
products, FAST (Face drooping, Arm weak-
ness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911) for
recognizing signs of a stroke. Rhyming
phrases such as “Arrive alive. Don’t text and
drive” and “Take the bus. Leave the driving
to us” are easy to remember. Creative train-
ers and students can make up their own.
14. Learn by asking questions. Students
and trainees should be encouraged to ask
questions either during or after the lesson
(depending on size of group and choice of
the trainer.) Ask them immediately or before
the next session. If it is not feasible to ask the
teacher, ask others in the class. There are no
dumb questions, only dumb answers.
15. Learn by making mistakes. College
students make mistakes by not attending
class, especially the first day of class. Employ-
ees make mistakes by being absent or tardy
from work or by not following instructions.
If your mistake calls for an apology, give it,
agree it was wrong and offer a way to recitify
it. Try not to make it again. There is an old
adage that says “Fool me once, shame on
you, Fool me twice, shame on me.”
16. Learn by making checklists. Many
mornings I make a list of six things I want to
accomplish that day. As a trip escort and
group leader I went over a one page check-
list which I read before leaving home for trips
and before and after boarding the bus. Tour
planners use a checklist in gathering infor-
mation to keep in their records from places
to visit to publish in their tour catalogs.
Employers use check lists when hiring
employees. The most comprehensive check
list I have seen is the one Lakefront Lines
uses when training their approximately 250
motorcoach drivers on a Pre-Trip Inspection
of their bus before leaving on each trip. It
includes 62 items to check in four areas:
Engine Compartment, Bus Exterior, Driver
Area, and Bus Interior. The form must be
signed and dated by the trainer and the
trainee acknowledging the trainee has
learned how to perform them.
17. Evalations: College students are
evauluted by attendance, attitude, test results,
completion and quality of assignments, and
following rules. Bus tour planners are eval-
uated similarly as well as on appearance,
communication skills, making wise deci-
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015 • 33
�������
sions, and human relations with customers
and colleagues. Persistance, determination,
integrity, and respect of others are qualities
for the success of college students, bus tour
planners, trip escorts and drivers.
18. Evaluators: Bus escorts are evaluated
by passengers, drivers and supervisor. Bus
drivers are evaluated by their passengers,
escorts, and supervisor. Bus tour planners
are evaluated by group leaders, vendors, col-
leagues and managers. College students are
evaluated mainly by their instructors and to
a lesser degree by their fellow students.
19. Rewards for group leaders and bus
company employees: Group leaders can
travel free when and where they go and who
goes with them, take FAM trips, receive train-
ing, and inviations to bus company annual
events. Bus escorts also receive the oppor-
tunity to travel to many locations, get paid
for it and can work part time. Full time salary
or hourly employees are rewarded with pay
checks, raises, promotions, benefits, bonuses
based on profitability and discount for bus
travel.
20. Rewards for college students. Students
who learn the “game of school” enhance their
college experience. They generally win schol-
arships, get good grades, make lifetime
friends, learn more than they ever thought
possible but realize how little they know,
desire to learn more and encourage their chil-
dren to attend higher education. They meet
a diverse group of people, learn their cul-
tures, travel overseas, get a good job that
pays well and give back to, and improve life
on earth.
As the first person in my family to gradu-
ate from college, I was surprised and hum-
bled to receive an Outstanding Senior Award
from Baldwin-Wallace and the Besse Award
for Teaching Excellence as Cuyahoga Com-
munity College. What I learned was shared
with my college children and grandchildren,
and freshman college students. Since many
readers may be college students or have them
in their families, I would like to hear what you
or they learned that made your or their col-
lege years successful. I am planning to write
some tips on making your time in college and
afterward more meaningful. I will incorpo-
rated them an article about succeeding at the
“game of school” and e-mail you a copy of it
in appreciation of your comments when I fin-
ish it this year. Contact me with your sugges-
tions at [email protected]. Thank you.�
With degrees from four universities, Dr.
Charleen Jaeb has been a business pro-
fessor at Cuyahoga Community College.
After her retirement in 2000, she became
a trip planner for the CCC retirees and Mid-
dleburg Heights Women’s Club, filling as
many as 15 buses each year. Jaeb and her
husband escorted trips for Lakefront Lines
in Cleveland, Ohio. She says, “It was won-
derful and somewhat unbelievable in
retirement to be able to do what you love
to do and get paid for doing it.”
34 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2015
�������
Adsmore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Algoma Central Railway . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Atlantic City CVA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Boys Town USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Cabarrus County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Columbia Gorge Interpretive
Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Cornwell’s Turkeyville U.S.A. . . . . . . .15
Country Music Hall of Fame . . . . . . . .29
Dancing Horses Theatre, The . . . . . . . .7
Durbin & Greenbrier
Valley Railroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Elk City CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Fair Oaks Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Galesburg CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
German American Heritage Center . .29
Grand Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Hampton Inn by Hilton . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Holiday Inn Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Little Falls CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Living Word Outdoor, The . . . . . . . . . .21
Maumee Bay Lodge
& Conference Center . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Mid-Lakes Navigation Co. . . . . . . . . . .29
Miromar Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Musical Instrument Museum . . . . . . .15
New Orleans CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Presque Isle Downs & Casino . . . . . . . .2
Shreveport-Bossier Convention
& Tourism Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe . . . .21
Starved Rock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Turkey Hill Experience . . . . . . . . . . . .15
U.S. Army Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Union County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Visit Kankakee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Visit Norfolk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Wild Horse Saloon/
General Jackson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Advertiser’s Index������������ ������������������
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