BUS TOURS Magazine Volume XLI, Number 6 • July/August 2020

Volume XLI, Number 6 • July/August 2020

Patriotic Tours page 12

Regional Roundup page 16

Matt Daus on COVID-19 page 20

Be Inspired.

Learn about the sovereign First Nations who share geography with North Dakota and have deep connections to these plains. You’re invited to come and get to know the history, culture and modern life of the approximately 30,000 Native American people of our state.

Visit us online to start planning your next tour itinerary.

NDtourism.com/grouptravel

contents 16

JULY/AUGUST 2020 Volume XLI, Number 6

12

4

STAFF

Editor & Publisher . . . . . . . . Larry Plachno Business Manager . . Nancy Ann Plachno Bookkeeping . . . . . . . . . Melanie L. Beilke Typesetting/Page Layout . . Sherry Mekeel Website . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jake Ron Plaras Editorial Assistant . . . . . . . Melissa Stanek Bus Tours Magazine 9698 W. Judson Road Polo, Illinois 61064-9015 (815) 946-2341 Fax: (815) 946-2347 Web site: www.bustoursmagazine.com Advertising

Central/International West

bill@busmag.com – (262) 729-2629

20 Guides 12

PATRIOTIC ATTRACTIONS Impress your bus tour passengers with a walk though the paths of history at the West Point Military Academy and at Patriot’s Point Naval & Maritime Museum in South Carolina.

16

Specials 20

WHAT THE IATR AND TRANSPORTATION REGULATORS ARE DOING TO RESPOND TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Matthew W. Daus, Esq., partner and chairman of Windels Marx Transportation Practice Group provides a report and review on transportation regulators across the country and elsewhere in the world. Included are specifics on what they are doing to respond and deal with the COVID-19 Pandemic in regard to transportation in their own local areas.

Features 4

BUS TOURS NEWS In this issue we offer an expanded news section primarily highlighting sev-

eral popular bus tour attractions that have reopened for business in May and June. Included are notes on their new features and activities as well as some information on their health and safety guidelines.

REGIONAL ROUNDUP Included are Belingrath Gardens and Home in the Southeast and three great locations in the Midwest Including Sable Point Lighthouse Keepers in Michigan, Anderson and Madison County in Indiana, and the popular Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

And More 27 28 30

SOCIAL MARKETING FOR TOURISM

Secrets to Social Relationship Building

by Catherine Heeg

20 TIPS FOR TOUR PLANNERS

Getting Bus Tours Running Again

by Larry Plachno

ADVERTISERS INDEX

Midwest

adv@busmag.com – (815) 946-2341 Northeast

midwest@busmag.com – (815) 946-2341 Southeast

adv@busmag.com – (815) 946-2341 steve@busmag.com – (215) 284-8787

COVER PHOTO

One of the more popular attractions for bus tour groups, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, reopened on June 13. Passengers are transported behind historic steam locomotives on a scenic line through the Rocky Mountains that dates back to earlier days when railroads were the expected way to travel. CUMBRES & TOLTEC SCENIC RAILROAD. BUS TOURS MAGAZINE (ISSN 0199-6096) is published six times annually by National Bus Trader, Inc., 9698 W. Judson Road, Polo, Illinois 61064. Subscriptions, $15 (in US funds) annually, Canadian & International $20 (in US funds). Printed in U.S.A. Periodicals postage paid at Polo, Illinois 61064 and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to BUS TOURS MAGAZINE, 9698 W. Judson Road, Polo, Illinois 61064.

Change of Address: Please send old mailing label (or old address and computer number) as well as new address.

Advertising: Display advertising rates sent on request. Advertising deadline is the last day of the second month preceding publication.

Founded in 1979, BUS TOURS MAGAZINE is the oldest independent magazine in the bus and group tour market. Circulation includes bus and group tour planners in the United States and Canada regardless of affiliation or whether commercial, private or corporate or group leader.

The contents of this publication may not be reproduced either in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.

The name BUS TOURS MAGAZINE and the logo incorporating the passengers, bus and destinations are trade marks of National Bus Trader, Inc.

Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020 • 3

Bus Tours News Grand Hotel

A Grand Welcome Grand Hotel has been welcoming guests to Mackinac Island for 134 consecutive seasons and this year will be no different. We are excited to announce that we will be welcoming guests this summer, beginning June 21st.

America’s Summer Place is your home away from home - a place where valued traditions and unforgettable experiences remain a constant. We look forward to you experiencing the splendor of sunrises and sunsets from the World’s Longest Porch, admiring the untouched natural beauty and historic sights of Mackinac Island and hearing the familiar clip clop of horses passing by.

As we open this season, the wellbeing of our guests and staff is our first priority. We know you may have questions as you plan your next trip to Grand Hotel and have prepared an FAQ page to help answer them. We also encourage you to visit our site and learn

The historic steam railroad, twice voted

more about the health and safety measures

North America’s most scenic train by the

we are taking in light of the current environ-

readers off USA Today, will follow a modified

ment.

schedule:

We welcome you to visit our site for Spe-

• Beginning Saturday, June 13, 2020 there

stop at Osier Station, following the traditional C&TSRR schedule.

• If you need to cancel your reservation this season, you will get a full refund if you cancel at least 48 hours prior to your trip.

cials & Packages and look forward to seeing

will be departures out of Antonito, Colorado

• The 2020 schedule is subject to change

you back at Grand Hotel.

only. Trains will leave from Antonito, Col-

and passengers will be required to follow all

orado and stop at historic Osier, Colorado

current federal and state safety precautions.

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

for a delicious lunch, included in the ticket

Passengers are encouraged to check the

Launches 2020 Season

price before returning back to the Antonito

website for the most up-to-date information.

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

station. Trains will run out of Antonito on

• “People were riding this railroad before

(C&TSRR) will launch its 2020 season on Sat-

Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sun-

the Statue of Liberty was built or the first

urday, June 13 with its first train of the season

days.

National Park was opened,” noted Bush.

departing from Antonito, Colorado and a

• Departures from Chama, New Mexico

“This railroad has steamed through our coun-

modified schedule of departures from only

have been temporarily suspended due to

try’s great history, in both challenging and

Antonito.

COVID-19 restrictions in New Mexico. Once

prosperous times. We are grateful to continue

restrictions have been lifted, the railroad

our tradition of showcasing the untamed

intends to add departures from Chama.

beauty of the Rocky Mountain West as it has

“We are hopeful that we will have permission to run trains out of Chama, New Mexico soon,” noted John Bush, president/CEO of

• There will be no departures on Mon-

been for centuries. These modifications were

the C&TSRR. “Because the train operates in

days, Tuesdays, Thursdays and no half-day

made to safeguard our passengers’ safety

two states, we have to follow the guidelines

rides.

and the viability of the railroad during these

of each state. The town of Chama, only 50

• From September 12 – October 18, two

minutes from Antonito, is open for business

trains are expected to depart daily and run

The first official appearance of historic

and welcomes visitors.”

between Antonito and Chama with a lunch

engine No. 168 has been postponed. The

4 • Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020

unprecedented times.”

Bus Tours News #168, one of only two locomotives of its class left in the world, has been completely

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

restored to its original 1883 brilliance and was slatted to return on Opening Day in 2020.

Plans for the historic reintroduction of the storied #168 have been placed on hold. The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad will announce a new launch date as soon as possible.

With the abbreviated schedule, many rides on the C&TSRR, especially September fall color departures, will sell out well in advance.

With historic equipment, it is not always possible to add additional cars to meet demand.

To ensure that there are seats on the dates you want to ride, the railroad advises to please make reservations in advance at

ing its economy, numerous attractions, casi-

Louisiana Downs, and on Wednesday, May

www.cumbrestoltec.com.

nos, restaurants and retail shops in Shreve-

20, Boomtown Casino and Hotel reopened.

port-Bossier are prepared to welcome guests

Under phase one guidance, casinos may only

back with public health and safety restrictions

reopen at 25 percent capacity with slot

in place.

machine banks and table games spaced to

For complete information, visit: cumbrestoltec.com or call 1-888-286-2737.

Numerous Attractions, Casinos Reopen in Shreveport-Bossier As Louisiana enters phase one of reopen-

Three casinos reopened on Monday, May

allow for social distancing. Non-gaming

18 including Margaritaville Resort Casino,

casino amenities, such as restaurants, spas,

Horseshoe Bossier City, and Harrah’s

and ticketed live music events, will be

Book The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad!

Come and see how glaciers carved, and volcanoes formed the Authentic West. With 64 Steam-driven miles of untouched history, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad transports you back in time to 1880. Don’t miss your chance to see the 700’ deep gorge, cross 100’ tall trestles, see the light at the end of our tunnels, and enjoy the splendor in between.

Group Rates Available ~ Includes Lunch ~ Group Friendly Facilities Trains Run Daily out of Antonito, CO and Chama, NM Memorial Day Weekend Thru Mid-October www.cumbrestoltec.com/groups * 1-877-890-2737

Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020 • 5

Bus Tours News phased-in as is appropriate. Live thoroughbred racing at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs will

Louisiana Boardwalk

resume, initially without spectators, on Saturday, June 6.

Local attractions are also welcoming guests back in a big way. Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets reopened with abbreviated hours on Friday, May 15. The new Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets hours of operation are 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday through Saturday and 12-6 p.m. on Sunday. Some of the lifestyle center’s national retailers will remain closed at this time.

“We will have hand sanitizers throughout our property, a staff that will go around each hour and wipe down all handles, benches, and vending machines, and all of our staff will be in face masks while on-site,” said Ashley Davis, marketing manager for Louisiana

Shreveport Aquarium reopened with

Port Discovery Center will reopen on Friday,

social distancing restrictions on Monday,

June 5, including the all-new, 12,000-square-

Gators and Friends Adventure Park

May 18. The popular downtown attraction

foot “Gallery of Intrigue” exhibit.

reopened on a limited basis on Friday, May

has announced extensive measures put in

For more information about Shreveport-

15. Alligator feedings and zip-line tours

place for public health and safety. All tickets

Bossier, visit www.Shreveport-Bossier.org

resumed on May 15. The popular attraction’s

must be purchased online, face coverings

or call 1-800-551-8682.

current plan is to reopen Gator Raceway –

are mandatory for employees and guests,

the facility’s high-speed go-kart track and

and tactile exhibits – such as exhibits where

Reasons to visit the Tennessee

adjoining arcade – during phase two of

guests can touch sea jellies and stingrays –

Aquarium as it reopens to the public

Louisiana’s reopening. For the time being,

will not be available (guests can still see these

One of the aspects of the Tennessee

the portions of the park that resume opera-

animals, but may not touch them). Salt Café

Aquarium that makes repeat visits so appeal-

tions during phase one are limiting their days

will remain closed for the time being.

ing is that it’s constantly changing.

Boardwalk Outlets, via e-mail.

of operation to Wednesday through Sunday.

Sci-Port Discovery Center will reopen

From witnessing new behaviors and

R.W. Norton Art Gallery reopened their

Louisiana’s only IMAX Dome Theatre on Fri-

admiring recently renovated exhibits to

40-acre botanical gardens on Saturday, May

day, May 29, with restrictions in place for

exploring entirely new galleries, each trip

16, with new hours of operation and some

social distancing. Only 40 tickets per IMAX

through the River Journey and Ocean Journey

changes to entrances and exits.

screening will be sold. Other areas of Sci-

buildings offers unique experiences that make return visits practically a must.

The doors reopen to guests on June 18, and visitors will discover exciting changes that have taken place while they were away.

Whether they are long-time fans or fresh faces, here are five fun, new Aquarium additions visitors can look forward to when the doors reopen to the public: • The Turtles of the World gallery – With the Aquarium open once again, visitors

Tennessee Aquarium 6 • Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020

will finally have the opportunity to experience this whirlwind exhibition of turtles from all over the world.

Bus Tours News This collection of habitats places partic-

• Fuzzy arrivals in Lemur Forest –

Two Red-collared Brown Lemurs now call

ular emphasis on “hotspots” of diversity in

Since opening in 2017, Lemur Forest has

this towering gallery home. Like all lemurs,

the Southeastern U.S. and Southeast Asia.

delighted guests with the acrobatic antics of

this tree-dwelling species is only found in

The gallery’s adorable, beating heart of cute-

its conspiracy of Red-ruffed and Ring-tailed

Madagascar, but unlike most other lemurs,

ness is a working turtle nursery where guests

Lemurs. These agile mammals have won

Red-collareds display visible differences

can see dozens of toddling turtle hatchlings,

over countless visitors with their natural

between males and females. Visitors will

many representing critically endangered

beauty and charisma. Now, they have new

have no difficulty telling the Aquarium’s male,

species.

roommates.

Tennessee Aquarium

John, apart from his aunt, Jessie, thanks to his fluffy white muttonchops.

• Disco jelly light show – Boneless Beauties is usually kept pretty dim to ensure the comfort of light-sensitive animals like the Giant Pacific Octopus. Lately, however, the gallery has started looking ever so slightly psychedelic thanks to newly installed color changing LED lights on the quartet of tanks housing Moon Jellyfish. The jellies’ ghostlike, translucent bells take on the color of these lights as they cycle, making for a truly hypnotic display that’s sure to entrance guests.

• Touchable newcomers in the Bay – Stingray Bay is the Aquarium’s most massive touch tank and home to numerous species of tropical fish, swooping stingrays, miniature

Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020 • 7

Bus Tours News sharks and tank-like Horseshoe Crabs. Dur-

wide range of habitats from the mountains

Self-Guided Garden Tour. While the Estate

ing the closure, aquarists introduced even

to the seas. Guests will also thrill at the

has offered garden tours throughout its his-

more amazing animals to this exhibit, includ-

opportunity to revisit (or to discover) the

tory, the reimagined outdoor tour will be a

ing a Japanese Horn Shark and a trio of strik-

speedy underwater “flights” of Gentoo Pen-

completely touchless experience featuring

ingly patterned Fiddler Rays.

guins, the imposing leviathans in the River

20 stops throughout four acres of the beau-

Fiddler Rays are a species of guitarfish –

Giants tank, the toothy napping of American

tiful Victorian Gardens. Guests will be pro-

a cousin to sharks and rays – possessing

Alligators and the playful romping of North

vided with a link to the audio guide and dig-

shark-like tails but ray-like flattened heads

American River Otters.

and mouths on the underside of their bodies.

The Aquarium’s phased reopening plans

ital map accessible on their own devices upon check-in.

Although quite docile, the Japanese Horn

include numerous changes to the visitor

Tours will be offered Thursdays through

Shark feeds primarily on shellfish and Sea

experience made in the interest of safeguard-

Sundays and must be pre-purchased prior to

Urchins, a tough-bodied diet made possible

ing guests and staff members. These include

arrival. Tickets are available online only at

due to a bite with more power, for its size,

limited daily attendance, timed-entry ticket-

winchestermysteryhouse.com. All Garden

than any other shark species.

ing, daily staff health screenings and numer-

Tour tickets holders will also receive a 50%

• Here there be (sea)dragons – Long-time Aquarium fans will undoubtedly recognize and delight at the return of Weedy

ous adjustments to exhibits to encourage

discount to return when the Winchester Mys-

physical distancing.

tery House resumes mansion tours.

Timed-entry tickets are now available on

“We are thrilled to begin welcoming

Seadragons, last seen in the Seahorses:

the Tennessee Aquarium’s website:

guests back to Sarah Winchester’s Estate

Beyond Imagination temporary gallery in the

https://www.tnaqua.org/welcomeback

with a phased approach focused on the safety

River Journey building. Now on display in

In response to visitor feedback, the Aquar-

and comfort of our guests and employees,”

Ocean Journey’s Boneless Beauties gallery,

ium will be offering expanded “Early Bird”

said Walter Magnuson, Winchester Mystery

these unusual animals are classified, like sea-

hours when all guests must wear masks

House general manager. “As springtime blos-

horses and pipefish, under the Syngnathidae

every day from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. All guests,

soms abound, the Victorian Gardens sur-

family of fish. Found in kelp forests off the

ages three and up, are strongly encouraged

rounding Sarah’s mysterious home have

coast of Southern Australia, the Weedy Sead-

to wear face coverings when visiting the Ten-

never looked more beautiful. We are happy

ragon’s bizarre, leaf-like fins help them to

nessee Aquarium.

to offer an opportunity for guests to enjoy

become nearly invisible to predators.

These new additions further enhance the

them with a zero-contact, self-guided tour Winchester Mystery House Reopens

Aquarium experience, an expansive journey

Winchester Mystery House reopened on

encompassing thousands of animals and a

Friday, May 15 with The Winchester Estate

Winchester Mystery House

complimented by informative visuals and educational sound clips. The strongest precautions are being taken to ensure the safety and health of our guests and employees, in accordance with city, county and state guidelines and protocols.”

All guests and employees will be required to practice social distancing and wear face masks. Additional precautions include hand washing and sanitizing stations throughout the property and enhanced cleaning of the estate.

Grand Rapids Public Museum Announces July Reopening The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) announced that it will officially reopen to the public on Monday, July 6.

The Museum will be extending the Bodies Revealed exhibition to Sunday, September 27, and has shifted Sean Kenney’s Wild Con8 • Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020

nections Made with LEGO® Bricks exhibition to open in November this year. Museum

Grand Rapids Public Museum

Bus Tours News

guests will need to purchase tickets in advance using the Museum’s online ticketing system to ensure contactless entry to the Museum upon arrival. Visitors may purchase tickets online at grpm.org.

“We look forward to welcoming our community back to our space after nearly four months of being closed,” said Dale Robertson, president and CEO of the Grand Rapids Public Museum. “Our team has taken many steps and precautions to limit risks associated with COVID-19 transmission in our spaces.

Visitors will see new procedures, including at the Museum’s entry, and throughout our exhibition spaces.”

The GRPM visitor experience will look different in many ways, including capacity limits. While visitor favorites will continue, the Museum has temporarily removed high touch point areas and experiences. Touch screen and virtual reality experiences will not be available immediately following re-opening.

Come experience all of our amazing attractions in York, Nebraska!

York County Visitors Bureau

601 North Lincoln Avenue, York, NE 68467 Bob Sautter: yorkcountyvisitors@gmail.com | 402.362.4575 Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020 • 9

Bus Tours News Signage has been added for entrance into

for the day,” explains Ed Shaffer, general

To help guests remember these new pro-

the Museum, as well as throughout the build-

manager for WonderWorks in Pigeon Forge.

tocols, they will be welcomed back with

ing to remind guests about maintaining a six

“We’re in this together.”

reminders and signage from WonderWorks

foot distance from other groups.

WonderWorks Pigeon Forge conducted a

two mascots – Professor Wonder and Orbit.

Cleaning efforts have been increased in

survey, asking their followers when they

“We want our guests and staff to feel com-

accordance with health department sugges-

would feel comfortable visiting once allowed

fortable during their time at WonderWorks,”

tions and regulations. The GRPM has also

to reopen. The survey results showed:

added Shaffer. “As we planned our reopen-

added hand sanitizing stations and are imple-

Summer- 48%

ing, we made that a priority, and we are

menting more frequent and detailed cleaning

ASAP- 21%

ready.”

protocols to the already comprehensive

Fall- 14%

cleaning schedule. GRPM staff and guests

Next Year- 6%

35,000 square feet of “edu-tainment” oppor-

will be asked to wear face masks, unless an

Indefinitely - 11%

tunities, billing itself as an amusement park

WonderWorks in Pigeon Forge offers

individual is medically unable to tolerate a

The survey showed that 69% of those who

for the mind. It offers over 100 hands-on

face covering. Locally-made face masks and

took the survey plan to visit within the next

exhibits covering natural disasters and space

hand sanitizer will be available for purchase

couple of months. The survey also asked peo-

discovery, an imagination lab, a physical

at the Curiosity Shop. The Museum Cafe will

ple what would make them feel more com-

challenge zone, a far out art gallery, and a

reopen on July 6 with pre-packaged snacks

fortable about visiting. The information gath-

light and sound zone. WonderWorks is open

and beverages and capacity limits. The

ered from that survey was used, along with

daily from 10:30 a.m. until 6:30.

Curiosity Shop will also reopen on July 6, fol-

CDC guidelines, to put new safety measures

lowing retail guidelines with limited capac-

into place for guests.

Battleship North Carolina Reopened to the Public on May 26

Safety protocols that have been adopted

ity.

include reduced capacity and hours,

The Battleship North Carolina reopened

WonderWorks Pigeon Forge

enhanced cleaning efforts, social distancing

to visitors on May 26, 2020, with new proce-

Reopened on May 22

measures, hand sanitizer stations, employee

dures in place to help ensure the safety of staff and visitors, including:

After being closed for two months, Won-

health screenings, and employee personal

derWorks Pigeon Forge reopened on May 22,

protective equipment (PPE). The attraction

2020. “We are ready to welcome our guests

also has a few interactives closed for the time

back, it’s been a difficult time for many people

being, including the ropes course and the

and we hope to help by providing family-fun

rock wall.

WonderWorks Pigeon Forge

• Installing hand sanitizer and hand washing stations.

• Increasing the frequency of cleaning high-touch public areas and restrooms.

• Using protective barriers at sales desks.

• Welcoming only non-cash (credit card) payments.

• Limiting the number of visitors allowed in the gift shop and on the Ship itself, and closing the visitors center.

• Reconfiguring the tour route to include only the Ship's main deck and above, and offering only self-guided tours.

Adult admission will be reduced to $10, with all visitors offered the group, child, military or ADA rate as applicable. Operating hours will be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the week.

Visitors are encouraged to follow the “Three Ws” as outlined by the N.C. Dept. of Health and Human Services – WEAR a cloth face covering; WAIT at least six feet away from others, and WASH hands frequently or

10 • Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020

Bus Tours News Battleship North Carolina

use hand sanitizer. If you are experiencing symptoms of illness, we ask that you postpone your visit.

Keep up to date with our plans by visiting our website at BattleshipNC.com or following us on social media. We look forward to seeing you soon.

The Battleship North Carolina is self-supporting, not tax supported, and relies primarily on admissions to tour the Ship, sales in the Ship's Store, rentals, donations and investments. No funds for its administration and operation come from appropriations from governmental entities at the local, state or federal levels. Located at the junction of Highways 17/74/76/421 on the Cape Fear River, the Battleship is open daily. Visit www.battleshipnc.com or follow us on Facebook.com/ncbb55, Twitter.com/battleshipnc and Instagram.com/battleshipnc for more information. The Battleship North Carolina

55

55

5

55

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is a historic site within the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

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nancy@busmag.com Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020 • 11

West Point Tours

Patriotic Attractions Walking the Paths of History The United States Military Academy at West Point

A

visit to the United States Military

West Point is situated in the scenic Hud-

ates of West Point commanding both sides?

son Highlands overlooking the Hudson River.

Along the way your expert guide will explain

Your tour starts from the Fred V. Malek Vis-

the workings of the Academy, the cadet expe-

itors Center located just outside the Thayer

rience, how West Point uses its expertise in

Gate.

leadership, a skill it has been honing for over

Academy at West Point is a must

A West Point Tours step-on guide boards

200 years, to select and guide cadets through

stop on any tour of the Hudson Val-

your bus, you drive onto the post and your

four years of a rigorous academic and military

ley. This storied Academy has played a part

tour begins. Most of your visit is spent walk-

education.

in the history of our country from its very

ing the magnificent grounds such as historic

You will also get a feel for the human story

inception to the present day. Some of the

Trophy Point where cannon captured in battle

of famous figures such as why Eisenhower

most famous, even infamous names in

during the wars that shaped our nation from

would not have included his membership in

America’s story have walked its grounds;

the Revolution to the Spanish American War

the “Century Club” on any resume. A visit to

George Washington, Benedict Arnold,

are displayed. One highlight is Battle Mon-

the United States Military Academy at West

Ulysses S Grant, George Custer, Douglas

ument, dedicated to the regular U.S. Army

Point will enrich any tour program to the

MacArthur and Dwight Eisenhower to name

who perished in the Civil War. Did you know

Hudson Valley.

a few.

that 55 major battles in that war had gradu-

12 • Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020

Guide: Patriotic Tours West Point Tours

West Point Tours offers a variety of tours of West Point with lengths ranging from 1 to 3 hours with several different themes. For a complete description and pricing see their website at www.westpointtours.com or call 845-446-4724. They will be happy to answer any questions.

Walk in the Steps of Heroes Patriots Point, Mount Pleasant, SC

A visit to Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is an adventure that you won’t forget, creating a lifetime of memories. We feature more than 1,000,000 square feet of exhibit space over three ships, including the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown, destroyer USS

Before you arrive at our Museum, you can

through local waters, including manatees,

Laffey, and our immersive three-acre Vietnam

see the USS Yorktown moored proudly on

Experience. It is challenging to experience

Charleston harbor. The aircraft carrier is just

dolphins, egrets and redfish.

Reaching the hangar bay of the Fightin’

all of it in one day. And If you do not have a

one of many things to explore. As you walk

Lady, the USS Yorktown, you will find some

whole day to spend here, we want you to

down the pier to the ships, take in the fan-

of the most significant aircraft that flew in

have the best experience possible, so we

tastic view of Charleston Harbor and Ravenel

the World War II era, including the F6F Hellcat

have created this general itinerary to help

Bridge. Sometimes the view will include

and SBD Dauntless. Climb into the cockpit

you make the most of your time.

active sightings of the wildlife that pass

of the TF-9J Cougar, the plane that the famous

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bush41.org

The

George Bush Presidential Library and Museum 979.681.4000 1000 George Bush Dr W College Station TX, 77845

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ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME: Louder Than Words March 2, 2020 thur January 3, 2021

These programs are made possible in part through the Hotel Tax from the city of College Station through The Arts Council of Brazos Valley.

BACKSTAGE PASS: Baron Wolman and the Early Years of Rolling Stone March 2, 2020 thru January 3, 2021

Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020 â&#x20AC;¢ 13

Guide: Patriotic Tours Blue Angels flight team used during the late

here by interacting with this state-of-the-art

the Brown Water Navy support base and see

1940s and 1950s. In addition to her active

exhibit.

one of the last River Patrol Boats in existence.

battle career during WWII, Yorktown also

Disembarking from the Yorktown, the

These vessels patrolled the rivers of Vietnam,

played a pivotal role in the Space Race, recov-

destroyer USS Laffey is only steps away. Laffey

frequently coming under intense fire, sup-

ering the Apollo 8 astronauts after they

is one of three surviving vessels that sup-

ported by some of the helicopters that are

became the first men to circle the moon.

ported the D-Day invasion, which began the

displayed through the exhibit. As you head

Relive the historic mission in the Apollo 8

liberation of Europe during WWII. Aboard

further into the support base you will pass

Capsule.

When you’re “back on earth,” head up to

this valiant destroyer, climb into the Mount

through a tunnel that leads to a replica of a

53 Experience and learn about the historic

U.S. Marine Corps artillery base. You will hear

the Flight Deck. Walk through Yorktown's

battle of Okinawa where Laffey survived six

realistic mortar fire in the distance, enter the

Combat Information Center and see how the

kamikaze attacks, four bombs, and earned

shed for a one-of-a-kind exhibit evoking the

crew tracked planes and suspicious ships.

the nickname “The Ship that Would Not Die.”

fire and fury of the Battle of Khe Sanh, one

Emerging on the Flight Deck, take in the mag-

The next stop is near the bow of the ship in

of the most intense battles of the Vietnam

nificent view of Charleston Harbor from sev-

the Combat Information Center. Feel the ten-

War.

eral stories above the water. The Flight Deck

sion of the Cold War as Laffey patrols the

By the time you finish your time in the

is home to a number of the most important

Mediterranean for Soviet submarines. Then

VNE, you will be ending the two-hour tour

aircraft that have served since World War II,

head back up the pier where you can journey

of Patriots Point. Be sure to browse The Ship

including the F-14A Tomcat, as seen in the

to a southern Vietnam Naval Support base

Store before you leave to pick up a memento.

movie “Top Gun.” While you can spend a lot

in the three-acre Vietnam Experience.

Many visitors return a second or third time

of time on the Flight Deck, we recommend

Upon entering the Vietnam Experience

to experience everything the Museum offers.

(VNE), you will be in the Quonset Hut, home

Group rates and itineraries are available.

Head down to the Hangar Bay. Descend

to several exhibits that explain the history of

For more information about booking a group

20 minutes, if time is limited.

into the bowels of Yorktown on a tour route,

the Vietnam Conflict, as well as how the U.S.

visit, please contact Group Sales Manager

where you can experience the Engine Room.

Army Special Forces trained the indigenous

Kevin Sutton, kevin.sutton@patriotspoint.org

Learn what it was like for those who served

people of Vietnam in combat. Venture into

or 843.881.5976

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum 14 • Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020

.p

Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020 â&#x20AC;˘ 15

Regional Roundup Belingrath Gardens

Southeast Bellingrath Gardens and Home Mobile County, Alabama

Step out of time at Bellingrath Gardens and Home, where guests may visit a vibrant estate Garden and the historic Bellingrath Home, built in 1935 and filled with the original antiques and collections of founders Walter and Bessie Bellingrath. The 87-year-old Gardens first opened to the public on April 7, 1932.

Bellingrath Gardens and Home offers blooms and beauty every day of the year.

November and December are particularly beautiful, with the Fall Outdoor Cascading Chrysanthemums display and the dazzling Magic Christmas in Lights holiday show, a walking tour with three million lights set out in 15 scenes across the 65-acre estate.

The Bellingrath Home, designed by

and numerous water features. At the heart

Hours: Bellingrath Gardens and Home is

renowned architect George B. Rogers, fea-

of the Gardens is a Monolith, commissioned

open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (closed only

tures handmade bricks and cast-iron galleries

by Walter Bellingrath in 1950 as a memorial

on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s

salvaged from historic homes and buildings

to tell the story of Bellingrath Gardens. The

days).

in downtown Mobile. Rogers described the

naturalistic, three-sided monument, made

Getting there: Bellingrath Gardens and

eclectic architectural style as “English Renais-

of red granite from Missouri, stands more

Home is in south Mobile County on the Fowl

sance.” Flagstone terraces, a slate roof and

than 11 feet in height and weighs 18,000

River. The property is a 30-minute drive from

figural copper downspouts join with a central

pounds. It features three bronze plaques.

downtown Mobile and a 20-minute drive

courtyard, balconies and covered galleries to give the Home a Gulf Coast flair.

It’s easy to make a day of it at Bellingrath!

Lunch is served daily in the Magnolia Café,

from Dauphin Island, which also offers ferry service to Fort Morgan and Gulf Shores.

Gardens highlights include the award-

which has room for up to 80 guests, from 11

winning Rose Garden; the Riverfront with its

a.m. to 2 p.m. The well-stocked Gift Shop is

bellingrath@bellingrath.org. Phone: 251-973-

picturesque Grotto; the Rockery; Mirror Lake;

open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

2217.

16 • Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020

Website:

bellingrath.org.

Email:

Feature: Regional Roundup

Midwest

Sable Point Lighthouse Keepers Western Michigan

White River Light Station

Sable Points Lighthouse Keepers invites you to come and explore and climb one of our four iconic Lake Michigan Lighthouses in the Western Michigan Area. They are Big

Station and Museum is located in Whitehall,

The two lighthouses that are the most

Sable Point Lighthouse and the Ludington

MI. All within a 60 mile radius. Our mission

accessible for bus tours are Little Sable Point

North Breakwater Lighthouse in Ludington,

is to preserve, promote and educate the pub-

built in 1874 and the White River Light Station

MI. Little Sable Point Lighthouse is located

lic and make our lighthouses accessible to

and Museum built in 1875. The other two are

in Silver Lake, MI and the White River Light

all.

a little more challenging. The Ludington North Breakwater Lighthouse built in 1924 is a three-quarter mile walk on the Ludington North Breakwater wall out into Lake Michigan while the 152 year old Big Sable Lighthouse is nestled among jack pines and dunes, just a short two mile walk along a breathtaking trail through the Ludington State Park.

On certain days throughout the summer we do offer special bussing through the dunes to Big Sable. For those who ride the bus we collect an extra $5.00 per person to help our organization pay for the buses.

Our lighthouses are open to the public 10 am to 5pm daily for touring and climbing.

Our lights are manned by volunteers who come and stay to work at the lighthouses for a week or two weeks at a time. These vol-

Blooms and beauty every day of the year.

unteers take real pride in making sure that each guest to the lights will be fully informed and have an enjoyable experience. Lighthouse specific gifts shops are located at all

Open Daily 8 AM - 5 PM (Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas & New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Days)

four of our locations as well. Group tours are available at each light.

800.247.8420 / 251.973.2217 bellingrath.org Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020 â&#x20AC;˘ 17

Feature: Regional Roundup Good’s Candy and Ice Cream Shop

For groups over 20 each who register with the SPLKA office the price is discounted to $3.00 per person instead of standard $5.00 per person. Tour operators are admitted free of charge and receive a 20% discount at all of our gift shop locations. Contact Rachel at 231-845-7417 or splkaoperations@gmail.com to reserve the group rate. Our web site address is www.splka.org.

Anderson and Madison County, Indiana

We invite you to experience the warm, friendly atmosphere of Anderson and Madison County, Indiana. The Paramount Theatre and Ballroom located in downtown Anderson is one of a few existing atmospheric theatres designed by national architect, John Eberson. This theatre has been the centerpiece of arts and culture for more than eight decades. Almost set for demolition in 1989, a group of individuals rallied together to save the theatre. The Paramount has been restored to its natural splendor, featuring a magical night sky complete with hundreds of twinkling stars. It is also home to one of three Grand Page Organs remaining in the United

States.

http://andersonparamount.org Bring your sweet tooth to Anderson as Good’s Candy & Ice Cream Shop has been making candy since the 1940s. You can view Good’s making their finest chocolates, ice cream – both hand dipped and soft serve, popcorn and “Randy’s Root Beer.” The madein-house root beer is great by itself or with their homemade ice cream for the perfect

ber of replicas from museums throughout

Winding your way through Madison

root beer float. Randy’s Mission: “To make

the world, including Istanbul Museum, Lou-

County and getting hungry? Look no further

the lives of our friends, guests, associates

vre and Cairo Museum. Continue your tour

than 30 local restaurants listed on our web-

and business partners just a little sweeter,

and view the Warner Sallman Collection of

site

one piece of chocolate at a time.”

140 works of art. The collection includes oil

http://www.indianafoodways.com – all of

http://goodscandyshop.com

paintings, pastels, watercolors, pen and ink

your cravings will be satisfied whether it’s

drawings of Christ. Sallman’s best known

breakfast, lunch, dinner or snack.

The Jeeninga Museum of Bible and Near

and

on

Eastern Studies at Anderson University

works include the “Head of Christ,” “The Lord

Enjoy live Standardbred racing and casino

includes original artifacts from Egyptian,

is my Shepherd” and “Christ in Gethsemane.”

action! Harrah’s Hoosier Park & Casino takes

Roman, Greek, Babylonian, Assyrian and

https://anderson.edu/galleries/warner-sall-

great pride in being the luckiest, the friend-

Israelite Periods. The museum houses a num-

man/collection/

liest and most fun destination in Indiana.

18 • Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020

Feature: Regional Roundup http://caesars.com/harrahs-hoosierpark There are specialty shops all through Madison County. Check out Open Gate Design and Décor, Simple Goodness Soaps, Oakley Brothers Distillery and more. Downtown Historic Pendleton’s Main Street features a variety of antique stores, gift shops, coffee shops and great dining options. http://www.visitandersonmadisoncounty.co m The Anderson/Madison County Visitors Bureau, our attractions, restaurants and hotels are following health and safety protocols and we ask that you check directly on questions. We encourage all visitors follow CDC social distancing guidelines.

For a tour of these attractions and more,

Frederik Meijer Gardens

contact Maureen Lambert, CTIS at the Anderson/Madison County Visitors Bureau, 765.643.5633 or maureen@visitamcvb.com

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Grand Rapids, Michigan

days from 9 am to 5 pm. Behind-the-Scenes

Ai Weiwei and Jaume Plensa, among others.

tours are also available.

Indoor galleries host changing sculpture exhi-

The 158-acre main campus features

bitions with exhibitions by Ai Weiwei, Pablo

Michigan’s largest tropical conservatory; one

Picasso, Edgar Degas, Mark di Suvero,

of the largest interactive children’s gardens

Jonathan Borofsky, Alexander Calder, Jim

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

in the country; arid and Victorian gardens

Dine and others. In June 2015, the eight–acre

promotes the enjoyment, understanding and

with bronze sculptures by Edgar Degas and

Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden at

appreciation of gardens, sculpture, the nat-

Auguste Rodin; a carnivorous plant house;

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

ural environment and the arts. One of the

outdoor gardens; and a 1900-seat outdoor

opened. Created by renowned designer

world’s most significant botanic and sculp-

amphitheater, featuring an eclectic mix of

Hoichi Kurisu, the garden features sculpture

ture experiences, Meijer Gardens welcomed

world-renowned musicians every summer.

by Anish Kapoor, Jenny Holzer, David Nash,

670,000 visitors in 2019 and was recently

The internatonally acclaimed Sculpture Park

George Rickey, Masayuki Koorida, Zhang

listed in the top 30 most visited museums in

features a permanent collection including

Huan, Guiseppe Penone, among others. More

the United States by The Art Newspaper, the

works by George Segal, Claes Oldenburg &

information regarding tours is available at

leading publication in global art news. Self-

Coosje van Bruggen, Henry Moore, Barbara

www.MeijerGardens.org/plan/adult-

guided and docent-led tours for groups of 10

Hepworth, Richard Serra, Louise Bourgeois,

groups/

p

or more are available. Guided indoor tours are offered by well-trained docents, and take approximately 45 minutes. The narrated outdoor tram tour runs seasonally, March 1 through December 31, and lasts approximately 45 minutes. Please plan at least two to three hours with your group in order to enjoy a guided or self-guided tour with time enough to spend in the Meijer Gardens Café and Gift Shop. To book an adult group visit or for more information, please call the group tour office toll-free at 1-877-975-3171 weekBus Tours Magazine / July, 2020 • 19

What the IATR and Transportation Regulators are Doing to Respond to the COVID-19 Pandemic

By Matthew W. Daus, Esq.

O

ver the past several months, the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the global transportation economy

by keeping billions of people around the world at home and decimating transportation ridership across all facets of the industry.

Municipalities across the world are facing the same problems, as adequate cleaning methods, personal protective equipment distribution, and virus transmission prevention mechanisms have become priority items of government and private organizations around the world. Deciding where the government regulator needs to step-in to mandate new public health and safety requirements is a question on everyone’s mind in the ground transportation industry. The most effective help for transportation providers and drivers right now is financial relief and

tors (“IATR”) www.iatr.global has under-

Information including resource guides from

assistance, yet unfortunately, many trans-

taken many initiatives to assist its govern-

the United States Equal Employment Oppor-

portation agencies do not even have the

ment regulator members and the licensed

tunity Commission, the Centers for Disease

power to solve some of these pressing issues,

ground transportation industry since the

Control, and the World Health Organization

such as obtaining grants and loans, or insur-

onset of the pandemic, including the follow-

provide detailed information regarding clean-

ance premium refunds. Most regulators,

ing:

ing procedures, seating restrictions, passen-

however, can lend a helping hand to waive

• IATR COVID-19 Regulator Survey:

fees and reduce costly red-tape and cumber-

Transportation Policy & Resiliency: A

• IATR’s Daily COVID-19 Email News

some licensing processes; and some regu-

comprehensive survey was undertaken

Blasts: As a service to our members, the

lators have gone outside their typical licens-

detailing responses to the COVID-19 pan-

IATR instituted and continues to provide daily

ing and enforcement roles to help distressed

demic, including the sharing of best regula-

COVID-19 news blasts since March 23, 2020

licensees secure business through innovative

tory practices, innovations, and response

to provide a more comprehensive briefing of

food and package delivery programs.

mechanisms to service delivery, licensing,

recent updates. To sign up, please email

fees, insurance, and enforcement from their

info@iatr.global

It is important that government transportation regulators, especially at a time of crisis, share their approaches and best prac-

respective jurisdictions.

• IATR’s COVID-19 Resource Page

ger boarding protocols, and more.

• The IATR COVID-19 Task Force: A working group comprised of our committee

tices with their peers, as well as communi-

(http://iatr.global/covid-19): An online

chairs and select advisory board members

cate effectively with their licensees. To facil-

resource with updated guidance from trans-

(http://iatr.global/bod) to develop and draft

itate this dialogue, the International

portation and health organizations to help

Emergency COVID-19 Transportation

Association of Transportation Regula-

all regulators and operators stay informed.

Model Regulations.

20 • Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020

• The IATR Webinar: “What Are Transportation Regulators Doing to Respond

The survey results are set forth in the listing below.

cant minority of agencies responded that they have discouraged group riding, with some

to COVID-19?” A 3-hour webinar was held

• 73% of respondents indicated their

on April 30, 2020, featuring leading regulators

offices had closed, allowing employees to

• 60% of agencies reported that they have

from around the world as well as national

work from home. As agencies closed their

not discouraged, banned, or limited group

and international industry trade group lead-

offices, licensing procedures become increas-

riding or ridesharing services;

ers, which is available on demand at

ingly difficult to manage;

https://vimeo.com/417285017

• 64% of respondents reported relief measures for licensees, including measures taken

IATR COVID-19 Regulator Survey:

for licensing, which included the extension

Transportation Policy & Resiliency

of licenses, online license renewals, and ter-

officially banning such practices:

• 7% have officially banned ridesharing; and • 33% of agencies have discouraged it.

Driver Health & Safety

mination of municipal licensing services durThe results from the IATR’s regulator sur-

ing the pandemic;

vey, which included almost every major city

• 45% of agencies also deferred fees to

and/or state in the United States and Canada,

provide relief to licensees in their respective

Finally, regulators reported measures that licensed drivers are taking to stay safe during the pandemic:

provided much-needed context to the actions

jurisdictions. Enforcement, however, has

• 87% of agencies reported that licensed

taken by agencies. This extensive survey cov-

drastically decreased throughout the entire

drivers are cleaning vehicles before and after

ered many areas, but the key findings involve

industry;

trips, or in-between trips; and

operational changes made at administrative agencies, safety and health related measures

• 37% of respondents indicated they have suspended all enforcement measures;

(emergency rules and enforcement), as well

• 17% of agencies have stopped enforce-

as government relief measures and innova-

ment measures taken concerning insurance;

tive programs to help provide new lines of

• 18% of agencies reported increased

business for the industry that also helps the public during the pandemic.

• 27% reported increased enforcement of “clean vehicle” rules.

and COVID-19 Task Force

The IATR is drafting best practices and regulations that act as a guide for regulators around the world to implement in response

Shared Mobility Initially, regulators provided insight into

respective agencies:

IATR Model Regulations

enforcement on overcharging; and

Operational Relief Measures

operational relief measures taken by their

• 80% of those reported that drivers are bringing their own cleaning supplies.

to the COVID-19 pandemic in their respective jurisdictions. Our organization has already

In terms of shared mobility for vehicles,

drafted model regulations for smartphone

due to social distancing concerns, a signifi-

apps and accessible transportation with success, and we currently have model regulation projects in the works for autonomous vehicles, safety equipment, soft meters, digital advertising on taxicabs, transportation data access & privacy, and non-emergency medical transportation (“NEMT”) certification.

Our model regulations outline the accepted practices carried out by operators throughout the industry and provide language that can be drafted into applicable rules and regulations. Our most recent project, IATR Model Regulations for COVID-19 Health, Safety & Resiliency, will address scenarios that create contingency plans for future crises and prepare the industry for a second wave of COVID-19, should that present itself. In order to collect the best data, regulatory and policy information, and opinions of regulators from Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020 • 21

different areas of the world, the IATR formed

to the CDC guidelines regarding vehicle

a COVID-19 Task Force comprised of the

U.S. Department of Transportation’s

cleanliness, face coverings, and temperature

chairs of our IATR committees. Representa-

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Adminis-

checks and not issue its own guidance – no

tives from the Technology & Innovation,

tration (“FMCSA”)

final decision has yet been made yet. The

Safety, Canadian Regulator, Accessible

FMCSA national directive addressing COVID-

Transportation, and TNC Regulator commit-

As the lead federal government agency

19 ended on Friday, May 15, and the FMCSA

tees will discuss the potential long-term

for safety and oversight of commercial motor

announced the Motor Carrier Safety Assis-

implications of current regulations, and adapt

vehicles, the FMCSA’s mission is to reduce

tance Program on May 22, which amends

them to present a plan that addresses the

crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving large

two of the Agency’s financial assistance pro-

needs of all industry operators in the short-

trucks and buses. Hon. Jim Mullen, Acting

grams. The program adopts a new funding

and long-term.

Administrator of the Federal Motor Car-

formula, effective for fiscal year 2021, and

rier Safety Administration (“FMCSA”), dis-

includes changes that reduce redundancies,

cussed the measures his agency has been

requires the use of three-year commercial

“What Are Transportation Regulators

taking to help the bus, limousine and motor-

vehicle safety plans, and aligns the financial

Doing to Respond to COVID-19?”

coach industries – which have been, and con-

assistance programs with FMCSA’s current

tinue to be, some of the hardest hit sectors

enforcement and compliance programs.

IATR Webinar:

On April 30, 2020, hundreds of regulators

in the ground transportation industry. Elec-

and industry members from around the world

tronic Logging Device (“EDL”) requirement

attended the IATR’s COVID-19 webinar,

exemptions are extended to drivers who use

including most every trade group, other gov-

short-haul, timecard exemptions, drivers

ernment membership groups, and universi-

conducting a drive-away-tow-away opera-

appointed Commissioner/Chair of the

ties. Speakers included leading international

tion, and drivers of vehicles manufactured

New York City Taxi & Limousine Com-

regulators from jurisdictions that are COVID-

before the model year 2000. The FMCSA has

mission (the “TLC”), spoke about the TLC’s

New York City

Aloysee Heredia Jarmoszuk, the newly-

19 hotspots who are responsible for over-

been working with the Federal Emergency

actions taken to address the needs of

seeing taxicabs, limousines, buses, motor-

Management Agency (“FEMA”) and United

licensees. Most notably, the TLC has coordi-

coaches, transportation network companies,

States Department of Homeland Security

nated a massive informational campaign,

paratransit (NEMT), food and package deliv-

(“DHS”) to distribute 1 million cloth masks

assisting licensees with applications for NYC

ery and other forms of ground transportation,

to drivers at state rest areas in the U.S. and

small business assistance programs and pro-

shared/micro-mobility, and public transit.

directly through the largest motor carriers.

viding them with information on other public

As states or regions begin to reopen, the

assistance programs, including food assis-

These leading transportation professionals presented their experiences and offered

FMCSA may issue declarations that are

tance, unemployment, and mental health

their perspectives on what is being done,

regional or statebased, but will likely defer

programs. The TLC also created an innova-

what should be done next, and what postCOVID-19 regulations may be considered on an emergency or permanent basis relating to health, safety, and resiliency. The concluding portion of the webinar consisted of a panel of national and international trade group leaders from the ground transportation industry, who reported on how business owners, drivers, and passengers have been impacted, what the future may look like, and what government officials could be doing to better assist the industry and the riding public moving forward.

Below is a summary of the various initiatives taking place around the world as detailed in the IATR’s webinar.

22 • Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020

tive TLC food delivery program called “Get Food NYC,” which has recruited drivers for food delivery services at $53 per delivery route ($40 for the 6 food deliveries in each route, plus $13 for fuel). The program has helped provide income to struggling drivers through public service and has coordinated the delivery of more than 9 million meals as of April 30.

District of Columbia

In Washington D.C., David Do, the Director of the D.C. Department of For-Hire Vehicles (“DFHV”), indicated that taxi trips are down 96%, and TNC trips are down 84%, since March 2020. To combat the massive dip in ridership, the DFHV has focused on

menting financial support specifically geared

providing income to struggling drivers. The

towards wheelchair accessible transportation

DFHV repurposed its microtransit program

services, and eliminated the passenger por-

Canadian COVID-19 Response

to provide trips to hospital workers in part-

tion of all paratransit taxicab fares as a way

Sylvain Tousignant, Directeur général

nerships with taxi companies and Via for a

to encourage ridership. Of note, BACP

adjoint Bureau du taxi de Montréal, Que-

$3 fare. The DFHV also coordinated with

demonstrated its service to the public by part-

bec, Canada, discussed emergency actions

Uber to donate 20,000 free rides to hospital

nering with Uber and Lyft to provide free rides

taken by Canada to address the pandemic.

workers, and bolstered the agency’s para-

to victims fleeing domestic violence.

At its early stages, the Canada/US border

transit services by updating the “Transport DC” same-day service to include grocery

was closed to all non-essential travelers, and Los Angeles, California

store trips. Similar to NYC, the DFHV is facil-

all non-essential travel outside of the country was suspended almost immediately, forcing

itating more work for struggling drivers by

Jarvis Murray, Esq., Policy & Enforce-

all travelers to Canada to selfisolate for 14

allowing them to sign-up with commercial

ment Administrator for the Los Angeles

days upon entry. The Canadian government

food delivery companies while collaborating

Department of Transportation (“LADOT”)

has taken action to provide federal relief to

with the D.C. Department of Health and the

spoke of his agency’s focused response on

struggling transportation organizations by

D.C. Department of Aging and Community

NonEmergency Medical Transportation

immediately increasing online services,

Development to subsidize their food delivery

(“NEMT”) Taxicabs, as well as dockless scoot-

extending licenses, and maximizing com-

programs with more drivers.

ers and bikes. Assisting those with medical

munication with taxi companies. Increased

Chicago, Illinois

and physical needs has been a priority for

requirements for social distancing measures,

many agencies during the pandemic; LADOT

partition installments, promotion of touchless

has taken action to streamline vehicle addi-

payment methods, and disinfection measures

In Chicago, Rupal Bapat, the Deputy

tions and driver permitting for Ambulance

have been at the forefront of the Canadian

Commissioner of the Chicago Depart-

Companies in order to ensure adequate ser-

Urban Transit Association’s (“CUTA’s”)

ment of Business Affairs and Consumer

vices are being provided to those who must

response. In terms of funding, cities have

Protection (“BACP”), discussed the emer-

attend crucial appointments. Companies in

announced financial aid packages specifically

gency assistance provided by the City of

this sector have remained busy, but employee

designed to support the taxi and transporta-

Chicago to struggling businesses. A $100 mil-

retention has been a struggle during the pan-

tion industry. For example, the City of Mon-

lion loan program was started by Chicago,

demic. Additionally, in response to the dock-

treal announced a $260,000 financial assis-

which provided relief to small businesses

less micro-mobility trend involving scooters

tance program that facilitated access to

affected by the pandemic. Additionally, the

and bikes, LADOT updated required cleaning

preventative equipment, including partition

city took quick action to help the most vul-

protocols for these services and is actively

installment, acquisitions of cleaning prod-

nerable populations in Chicago by imple-

monitoring vehicle deployment.

ucts, and offering a dry-steam eco-friendly Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020 • 23

decontamination center to the city’s taxi dri-

several countries – such as India, the Philip-

Other noteworthy examples include

vers. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan imple-

pines, Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand – have

Taipei (Taiwan), which has launched a tai-

mented a delivery service for food, prescrip-

deemed taxi and ride-hailing services as non-

lored 'epidemic-prevention taxis,’ which look

tions, and other items that charges clients

essential and therefore stopped services alto-

like ordinary cabs, but are catered only for

similar fares to taxi service. This innovative

gether. In Dubai, fares have been reduced by

those only going to/from hospitals. The vehi-

program utilized existing dispatch and app

30% to keep the industry afloat. In London,

cles are disinfected after each trip and are

infrastructure to charge clients similar fares

the ubiquitous black cabs have partnered

not allowed to take passengers. Drivers are

to taxi service, allowing smaller/new taxi

with the National Health Service to transport

paid an additional TW$116 per day to dis-

companies to compete.

Europe, Asia, Middle East & Australia

There is no doubt that COVID-19 has dec-

patients for free, allowing passengers with

courage them from taking other passengers.

vital medical appointments to continue treat-

Drivers must, importantly, go into self-quar-

ment and implemented guidelines to help

antine (along with their vehicles) for 14 days

prevent the spread of the coronavirus. In Italy,

after one month. Their vehicles must be

strict policies that do not allow more than 2

parked in a designated area and be GPS-

imated the global transportation economy.

passengers to enter a vehicle have been

equipped to allow surveillance. In Moscow,

Jaspal Singh, representing The Interna-

implemented. In Spain, policies have been

Mosgortrans, a main operator of ground

tional Association of Public Transport

put in place to prioritize transportation ser-

urban transport, has launched an initiative

(“UITP”), a sister group and member of the

vice for health care workers. In terms of

to recruit taxi drivers (who have lost their

IATR’s Advisory Board, explained the effects

financial assistance, Singapore has provided

jobs during the crisis) to work as bus drivers.

of the global pandemic in countries outside

$197 million to taxi and private-hire car dri-

Many taxi drivers are applying for the posi-

North America, including Europe, Asia, Aus-

vers for 3 months, with an additional $25 mil-

tions. The only problem encountered is that

tralia and the Middle East.

lion in private funding from the industry. The

applicants often have bad driving records.

In general, revenue is down by 80-90% in

City of Delhi in India has created a one-time

The compensation (wage + social package)

these countries, and very few cities are giving

financial assistance package of $75 to every

is the same as for all Mosgortrans drivers. If

direct compensation to the drivers. Most

holder of a PSV Badge for taxi and tuk-tuk

they do not have a special bus category

cities are relaxing permit fees and statutory

vehicles. In Australia, a total of AU$14.2 mil-

license – they are trained to meet the licens-

levies over a period of 6 to 9 months. Key

lion was devoted to the taxi industry in met-

ing standards.

measures taken so far include the installment

ropolitan areas across Southern and Western

of plastic shields, vehicle sanitization and

Australia to support the taxi and on-demand

barcode scanning for passengers. In Asia,

transport industry.

Transportation Trade Associations’ Response to COVID-19

For the IATR webinar, we were fortunate to be joined by the leaders of 3 of the largest transportation trade associations in the United States, including Peter J. Pantuso, President of The American Bus Association (“ABA”), Robert M. Alexander, President of The National Limousine Association (“NLA”), and Thomas Arrighi, President of The Transportation Alliance (“TTA”). As the various hardships of each respective industry were presented, two matters surfaced as prudent issues applying to all: changes need to be made to the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loan requirements, and personal protective equipment (“PPE”) mandates should not be allowed.

While loan programs, such as the PPP and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (“EIDLs”), provide transportation businesses with 24 • Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020

needed cash to cover expenses, it does not make sense for companies to bring back their employees if the businesses are not generating revenue due to the shutdowns. As a result, the business leaders want Congress to extend the 8-week window to hire back employees for the PPP to allow more time for ridership to recover, extend the payback period for the PPP loans as well to give operators a more realistic window to generate enough revenue to pay back these loans, and open the EIDL program again for new applicants. With the possible imposition of PPE for transportation providers, the industry would face additional costs – assuming the availability of PPE – at a time of limited revenue while these companies are trying to return to the same business operation levels prior to the pandemic.

President Pantuso outlined the effects of

navirus

Recovery

Toolkit

annually as a result of tourism activities stem-

COVID-19 on the motorcoach industry. The

(https://www.busesmoveamerica.com/op

ming from motorcoach travel. Prior to the

ABA has been a major resource for motor-

erator-resources/) on its webpage to assist

pandemic, motorcoaches provided approx-

coach companies around the United States

all its members in the crisis. The motorcoach

imately 600 million trips annually, while air-

due to its efforts to provide updated informa-

industry has a massive economic impact in

lines provide 700 million. Currently, almost

tion to its members; the ABA created a Coro-

the United States – $236 billion is generated

every motorcoach company in the United

Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020 • 25

States is either temporarily closed or perma-

Additionally, the NLA has assisted its

to work as soon as possible. The TTA is push-

nently closed. Industry members were hoping

members with information regarding the PPP

ing for certain regulatory changes that would

for federal relief from the third round of stim-

and EIDL programs, ensuring that smaller

cut costs for companies in the for-hire vehicle

ulus funding, but it did not come; $76 billion

operators are able to survive by accessing

sector; for example, operators are harmed

was allocated to airlines, transit buses, and

these programs. The organization has hosted

by the costs with paying their insurance pre-

Amtrak, but zero funds were dedicated

webinars outlining strategies to cut costs and

miums without their vehicles/fleets operat-

towards motorcoaches. Industry leaders are

keep operators afloat while facing the

ing. So, the industry is seeking regulatory

asking Congress for a total of $15 billion in

immense ridership decline. President Alexan-

changes for insurance rules that allow fleets

aid; $10 billion in grants, and $5 million in

der discussed certain regulatory changes that

to cut costs by stopping insurance payments

long-term, low-interest loans. As the motor-

could allow limousine operators to recoup

for vehicles not in use. The TTA also asked

coach industry operates at only 25% of its

lost revenue, such as out-of-state licensing

that their member-companies should not be

regular capacity, this money would support

regulations; these licensing restrictions limit

required to surrender license plates in order

these companies until tourism begins to

limousine operators’ operational capacity,

to avoid insurance payments; reforming

recover. The motorcoach industry held a rally

which, during a time of crisis, would provide

these regulations would provide much-

at the U.S. Capitol on May 13 to express their

much needed flexibility for providers to sur-

needed cost reductions to transportation

unified call for congressional action and

vive.

companies that have been devastated by the

equal treatment for assistance that is similar

President Arrighi discussed the challenges

to what the federal government provided for

presented by COVID-19 to the taxi, executive

the airline industry.

sedan and shuttle industries, focusing on the

Contact: mdaus@windelsmarx.com

sanitizing procedures of providers. As a result

156 West 56th Street

President Alexander reported that the

pandemic.

p

NLA’s member limousine companies are

of travel stopping on a worldwide basis, rid-

New York, NY 10019

struggling due to a sharp decrease in their

ership is at an all-time low throughout the

T. 212.237.1106 | F. 212.262.1215

two largest sources of revenue: corporate

industry. Many transportation providers are

travel and tourism. As businesses continue

attempting to make their vehicles safe for

Matthew W. Daus, Esq., is partner and

to keep the majority of their employees at

travel by installing plastic shields between

chairman of the Transportation Practice Group

home and air travel continues to remain low,

drivers and passengers, including the NEMT

at the Windels Marx law firm in New York City,

luxury limousines are challenged to earn the

providers. The TTA created a private work

president of the International Association of

revenue necessary to continue operating.

app dedicated to its fleet operators where

Transportation Regulators, and transportation

The NLA is actively helping its members

members can collaborate and share ideas

technology chair at the City University of New

through informational campaigns, including

with one another in order to facilitate the

York’s transportation research center at the City

its Covid-19 info page for its members

best, unified response to the pandemic and

College of New York.

(https://www.limo.org/page/COVID-19) .

ensure that transportation providers return

Staff at Transportation Practice Group

Matthew W. Daus 26 • Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020

Social Marketing for Tourism by catherine Heeg

9 Secrets to Social Relationship Building Now that the recovery phase of the COVID pandemic has started, we have new opportunities to continue building relationships, see old friends and meet up with colleagues.

How do you stay in touch and keep these relationships strong? While our social marketing during the pandemic switched to aspirational rather than actionable, staying top of mind with clients was key.

Now during the transition to better times, networking takes the front seat once again.

Secrets to Social Networking Let us start with the platform most of us consider for building business relationships, LinkedIn. As you are looking through your files and past contacts: 1. Dig out your business cards and connect with each person on LinkedIn. Remember to include a personalized note along with each invitation to connect.

2. As you are connecting and strengthening relationships, check out what LinkedIn groups each person belongs to. If suitable, join the group yourself.

3. Write a LinkedIn article showcasing your efforts before, during and after COVID. How about mentioning the benefit your clients are most intrigued by, newest attraction, update or feature of your company.

4. Remember to follow the industry association company pages for the latest updates. Remember to like, comment and share the posts. Then take that up a notch and connect with others in the group whom you know.

5. While you are logged in to LinkedIn, create a video post about your recovery and transition efforts. Remember to use @ to provide a shout-out and #.

Build Better Relationships Keeping up with your contacts and colleagues is easy on Facebook. During this period of rebuilding it is valuable to: 1. Send friend requests to your list of contacts.

2. Post your transition tactics on your profile and in groups that are geared to our industry. a. Remember to share videos, create albums, build slideshows and tag people.

3. If you manage your company page, consider profiling your recovery efforts to build credibility and professionalism. a. Update the “services” section on your company page to showcase your niche. Here is how: http://bit.ly/2lFEgy5 4. Create a Facebook and Instagram story for your connections.

Frequency Matters While we do not have all day to network, a strategy of several posts over a week is usually manageable. Keep in mind that all of your connections will not see every post you make.

To maximize your exposure and time, create a blog post, Facebook Note and/or LinkedIn Article. (Is it worth your time? https://bit.ly/3bFFCwM ) These options give your content a more evergreen effect. Get the

here: roadmap repurposing http://bit.ly/338JhQu Do not forget about the power of email, the phone and video conference follow-up!

While old school traditional marketing may not seem as sexy as social, it has the power to cement relationships.

Strong relationships are the foundation of our industry. Do not let your hard-earned relationships wilt or stack of business cards collect dust on your desk. Keeping these bonds strong takes some effort, but that is made easier by q our social savvy.

Catherine Heeg, international speaker and trainer, focuses on social media marketing strategies for the tourism and hospitality industry. Join the conversation and connect with her at cmsspeaking.com and socially.

Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020 • 27

Tips For Bus Tour Planners by: Larry Plachno Getting Bus Tours Running Again

the better as they ease. But state and local

itizer and or sanitary wipes available at spe-

requirements may vary from location to loca-

cific locations or how will they be made avail-

tion. Hence, the reader is still required to mon-

able? Have you established procedures to

ment among our bus tour planner readers. By

itor requirements and regulations as they

reduce or limit contact between staff mem-

far the most popular question being asked is

apply locally or along your route.

bers?

It seems as if there is some strong agree-

“When can we start running tours again?”

We were lucky enough to get some input

• Signage and Communication – Do

Most everyone is aware that the major bus

from a couple of experts. Here are some sug-

you have signs promoting social distancing?

tour attractions have started to reopen. If you

gestions on what you should look at or do in

Can you redirect traffic to reduce contact

look through the “News” section in this issue

order to get your bus tours running again.

it is obvious that some of the larger and more popular attractions were already reopening

between staff members? Is there a communication plan for employees and clients?

1. Return to Work Safety Plans

in May and June. They may require face masks

• Mask Use and Disposal – Do you have a procedure in place for the use and dis-

and social distancing but as we go to press,

The best and most logical place to start is

tribution of masks for staff and visitors or cus-

we are finding more and more places where

with a “Return to Work Safety Plan” for your

tomers? Is there a procedure for the proper

masks are no longer required. It is also obvi-

office or company. It should deal with or pro-

disposal of masks? Can masks be removed

ous that as we get into the summer months,

vide a policy on several different topics and

for various reasons? Note that Amtrak allows

many of us are aware that we should be plan-

questions. It should also conform to guidance

the removal of masks when in a private com-

ning for spring and summer 2021 bus tours.

from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC),

partment or somewhat isolated from others.

No one wants to see the Spring and Summer

the Equal employment Opportunity Commis-

• Screening – Are you screening staff

of 2021 arrive without bus tour activity.

sion EEOC) and the Occupational Safety and

and others entering for a fever? Note that the

You could start planning bus tours today

Health Administration (OSHA). Matthew W.

EEOC has indicated that employers are not to

but you need to comply with the applicable

Daus, Esq. from Windels, Marx, Lane & Mit-

conduct virus antibody tests. Is the staff

restrictions and requirements including the

tendorf, LLP has suggested including the fol-

required to complete a questionnaire prior to

CDC and any local or state guidelines. The

lowing topics:

leaving for work? What guidelines do you have

good news is that as the guidelines move into

• Social Distancing – This can start out

if a staff member feels sick while at work?

new phases and are less restrictive, you can

with maintaining a six-foot distance between

• Contact Tracing and Disinfection –

increase the number of people on your tour.

your staff. You can also consider changing

What procedures do you have in place to keep

If you are reluctant right now, you can always

schedules to reduce the number of staff at the

common areas clean including restrooms,

monitor the situation and jump in when you

same time or even adding protective shields

conference rooms and other gathering places?

feel comfortable.

or barriers at counters, desks and worksta-

Do you have a plan to disinfect offices, desks

tions.

and workstations? Do you have similar plans

We do need to add in a disclaimer that we can not provide details on what you need to

• Cleaning and Hygiene – Are you

for vehicles? Will your business and staff com-

do. Not only are the requirements and regu-

making sure that your staff complies with

ply with contact tracing and disinfection

lations in a state of change – sometimes for

cleaning and hygiene guidance? Is hand san-

requirements?

28 • Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020

Tips for Bus Tour Planners These guidelines are available on the internet. If you feel that you need help, Attorney Matt Daus provides a free consultation.

You

can

e-mail

him

at

mdaus@windelsmarx.com.

2. Motorcoaches

hygiene, sanitation and even keeping the bus clean would be very appropriate.

5. Information and assistance

• Cleaning and Disinfecting Buses – There are guidelines for cleaning and disin-

Here are suggestions on organizations

fecting buses on the CDC Website. Guidelines

that are available to provide information or

suggest cleaning and disinfecting commonly

assistance:

touched surfaces at the beginning and end of each shift and in the event you have a pas-

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Most likely, the restrictions for motor-

senger who is visibly sick. The CDC provides

(CDC)

coaches will be the biggest limiting factor for

guidelines for cleaning seats, arm rests, door

www.cdc.gov

your tours. If you charter your buses, most

handles, etc. There are also guidelines for

of the responsibility for the buses will fall to

wearing gloves and PPE while cleaning and

the bus operator. However, you should be

the disposal of gloves and PPE equipment or

tration (OSHA)

aware of these restrictions because it is your

cleaning of clothing afterwards.

www.osha.gov

Occupational Safety and Health Adminis-

tour. Here are three major areas to consider: • Masks and Social Distancing –

3. Bus Tour Stops

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

Most of the regulations in this area come from the CDC although there could be state

This would include attractions, restau-

guidance on maximum group size or other

rants, lodging and other stops planned on

limitations. If masks are required (recommended by CDC) you will have to make sure

your tour. We note that some of the popular 5 7 bus tour attractions started reopening as

that they are worn and disposed of properly.

early as May and more opened in June. Each

You may also need a supply of masks for

may have their own guidelines for various

those without.

reasons including state restrictions and their

Signage, decals and floor markings should

own unique situations. Restaurant seating

be provided to remind people of social dis-

capacity may vary according to state and

tancing and other requirements. Social dis-

local guidelines while hotels and motels may

tancing will limit your bus capacity and hence

also have limitations.

the number of people on your tour. There are

Note that these guidelines may change

coaches that have been outfitted with plex-

and may differ from place to place. Hence,

iglass shields around each seat pair that can

you should monitor them or ask them to

bring capacity up to about 50 percent if that

notify you of any changes.

www.eeoc.gov

77

Attorney Matthew Daus 77 7 77 7 mdaus@windelsmarx.com

is allowed. Containers of hand sanitizer would be expected.

4. State and Other Guidelines

A major problem might be checking passengers for a fever prior to boarding. As with

In addition to federal guidelines, you

any other medical situation, a passenger get-

should also monitor state, local and any other

ting sick while on the tour is a serious prob-

guidelines that might apply. There may be

lem. I would recommend that you have a pro-

limitations on the size of groups, use of

cedure in place in the event something like

masks, social distancing, business closures

this happens.

or limitations and other things.

• Staff – Special attention should be

As we go to press we note that some

paid to your staff which includes the bus dri-

states are reimposing stricter requirements

ver and a tour guide or escort. You can get a

where people have failed to follow recom-

plexiglass shield that can isolate the driver

mended guidelines. Following those guide-

to some extent. Masks and even gloves can

lines will help in reducing the virus and bring-

be provided. A special training session cov-

ing bus tours back faster.

Social Distancing And Masks Help Everyone And Get Buses Running Quicker

ering the virus, dealing with passengers, Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020 • 29

C

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30 • Bus Tours Magazine / July, 2020

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Visit mcicoach.com to learn more.

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