|
|
|
Bus Trips Descriptions
Eagles N More
Monday–Tuesday, February 18–19, 2013
Leader: Rick Ahrens
BACK BY POPULAR REQUEST! This interesting and fun trip to view birds in the Klamath Basin is a great winter outing. Local naturalist and fellow Obsidian, Rick Ahrens always makes the trip more enjoyable by sharing his vast knowledge of the natural world. Plus, he is an expert at sighting and identifying birds. While we can’t guarantee just what birds you will see, here are a few highlights from previous trips: Thousands of snow geese flying in at dusk, turning the ground white and filling the air with sound; Eagles on the ice at Klamath Lake and
hunting in the snow covered fields; A large flock of night herons roosting in the trees along the Link River; Hundreds of tundra swans floating on the water, looking like a huge white island; Large numbers of ducks, geese, birds of prey and perching birds. Who knows what special sights this year will bring!
Cost of trip includes: Transportation in a luxury motor coach with experienced driver; two lunches at Applebees; overnight accommodations & continental breakfast at Best Western Olympic Inn Klamath Falls. Monday night dinner will be on your own. Dress warm; bring your camera, binoculars & spirit of adventure.
Cost: Members $170.00; Non-Members $174.00
$50 deposit due at time of signup (no online signup). Balance due by February 4
For reservations call: Liz Reanier 541-687-1925
Mail payments to: Liz Reanier, 853 Ascot Drive, Eugene, OR 97401
Byways By Bus Rally
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Leader: Liz Reanier
Trip leaders will share details of 2013 bus trips and registration will open. Ten trips are scheduled, the year will conclude with our third annual Holiday Luncheon at the Lodge in December.
Some of the fun trips planned for this year are: Eagles & other birds, Klamath Falls; High Tea at Lovejoys, Florence; The cheese, beer & wine making facilities at OSU; Crystal Springs Rhododendron Gardens & The Grotto, Portland; Waterfalls of the North Umpqua; Coos Bay Historical & Maritime Museum; Birds & mammals of the Oregon Coast; The Ashland Shakespearean Theater; Late summer BBQ at Paradise camp ground on the McKenzie River; Annual Fall Color Trip; Oregon Hatchery Research Center, Alsea.
The extended bus trip, August 5-10, includes the Oregon Trail Interpretative Center, Baker City; the Wallowa Mountains & Mt Howard Tram; Enterprise, Joseph, Clarkston WA; jet boat ride on the Snake River; Whitman National Historic Site, Walla Walla; Pendleton Underground and more.
Our luxury motor coach is high enough for great views as we travel the highways and byways. The experienced drivers are always pleasant and helpful. It’s a great way to travel!
A complete schedule with trip details will be available at the Rally. Please join us.
For more information call:
Liz Reanier 541-687-1925 or Sharon Cutsforth 541-746-4929
Tea at Lovejoy’s
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Leader: Verna Kocken
Tea at Lovejoy’s. We will leave Shopko at 8:00 am, travel to Philomath and west to Newport, then south to Florence with a coffee stop on the way. Lovejoy’s will serve us a light tea. The light tea features one tea sandwich (4 crust less triangles). English scone with preserves and Double Devon cream, a petite dessert and, of course, tea. To accommodate our numbers, we will split into two groups, one served at 11:30 and one at 12:30. When not at your tea time, enjoy the sights and sounds of Old Town Florence- museum, shops, (antiquing?) and the view of the estuary. At 2:00, the bus will load and we will go south to Reedsport, then east, stopping at Dean’s Creek Elk viewing station. We will also stop at Elkton to check out the progress on Ft. Umpqua. At the same site is the Butterfly Pavilion and a community library. Home by 5 pm. Limit for the trip is 30. Please dress for the weather.
Cost: Members $52; Non-members $54; due Feb. 26
RESERVATIONS AND CHECKS TO: JANET SPEELMAN
More Food
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Leader: Mary Ellen West
This Obsidian bus trip will focus on the Junction City – Corvallis area. We will visit Camas Country Mill, the Arbuthnot Dairy Center at OSU, the OSU Food Science Department’s brew house & winery, Deck Family Farm and stop to sample Lochmead Dairy ice cream. Lunch (on your own) at New Morning Deli in Corvallis or brown bag at nearby park.
Along the way we will learn about grain milling; cheese, beer & wine production; healthy farm grown meats. All producers will have items for sale.
Reservations to: Barbara Payne 541-746-1964
Crystal Springs
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Leader: Ray Jensen
CRYSTAL SPRINGS, RHODODENDRON GARDEN AND THE GROTTO
After a rest stop on I-5, we should arrive at Crystal Springs by 10:30, where rhodies, azaleas, and various water fowl should be at their best. An extensive trail system up and down will require somewhat strenuous walking. About 12:00 noon depart for lunch (picnic areas not available at the Garden or the Grotto), so probably a sit down lunch in East Portland TBA- not included. Arrive 1:30 or so at the Grotto, a 62 acre Catholic Sanctuary, the grotto itself is on the ground level. The elevator to the upper level is $4.00 per person- $3.00 age 65 or older, cost included. Located here are the gardens, a chapel, the monastery, a statue of St. Francis, plus a great view. Leave about 3:30 or so on I-205. In Eugene before 6:00 pm.
COST: MEMBERS: $49; NON-MEMBERS: $51; DUE APRIL 17
RESERVATIONS AND CHECKS TO: MARY LEE CHEADLE
North Umpqua Waterfalls
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Leader: Verna Kocken
We will leave Shopko at 8:00 am, stopping for coffee and a break at a rest area on I5 south. Stops include Glide’s Whistlers’ Bend Park, Glide Colliding Rivers (North Umpqua and Little River, and at Steamboat Inn. Bring a sack lunch. We plan to visit and view points and waterfalls. There will be opportunities for some short hikes. Take layers of clothing, mosquito repellant, good shoes and possibly rain gear.
Cost: Members $40; Non-members $42; DUE JUNE 1
RESERVATIONS AND CHECKS TO: MARY LEE CHEADLE
The South Coast
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Leader: Mary Ellen West
Beautiful scenery, flowers, marine animals and history are the focus of this Coos Bay area trip. The updated Coos Historical and Maritime Center will introduce us to the history and culture of the region. A leisurely visit to Shore Acres State Park will allow time for lunch (on your own) and wandering the extensive gardens and shore. Our final stop will be at Cape Arago State Park. Its offshore island rocks and reef are part of the Oregon National Wildlife Refuge. Expect to see marine mammals. Rick Ahrens will be our naturalist guide.
Cost: Members $48; Non-members $50; DUE JULY 10
RESERVATIONS AND CHECKS TO: JANET SPEELMAN
NE Oregon, SW Washington
Monday–Saturday, August 5–10, 2013
Leader: Sharon Cutsforth
Spectacular scenery, Oregon Trail history and thrilling adventure await on this six day/five night trip to the Wallowa Mountains and Snake River areas. Our trip begins traveling the McKenzie Highway and across central Oregon to Baker City, where we spend the first night. In Baker City we will visit the impressive Oregon Trail Interpretative Center with full size displays of life on the trail. Other places of interest in Baker City will be: The Baker Heritage Museum, housing a 2,000 piece rock, fossil & mineral collection plus period clothing; the fully renovated and restored 1889 Italianate Adler House; US Bank, home of the 80.4 ounce Armstrong gold nugget. Leaving Baker City, we travel back roads to Enterprise, pausing in Union to see the stately Victorian homes along Main Street. After a night in Enterprise, we will visit Wallowa Lake; take the Tram ride 3,700 ft. to top of Mt. Howard for views of the Eagle Cap Wilderness; spend some time exploring the shops and viewing bronze sculptures in Joseph. Heading north on scenic Hwy. 3, there will be amazing views of Joseph Canyon before arriving in Clarkston, WA, where we spend the next two nights. Our hotel here is located on the banks of the Snake River. There will be early morning and evening time for leisurely walks along the river. On day four we take a five hour, narrated jet boat tour into Hells Canyon via the Snake River. We will stop along the way for wildlife viewing and see the 2000 year old petroglyphs. At Heller Bar Lodge we will enjoy a BBQ chicken buffet lunch (included) before returning to Clarkston. Following our second night in Clarkston we will travel west on Hwy 12 with stops along the way. One will be at the Whitman Mission National Historic Site near Walla Walla. Our last night will be in Pendleton. Here we tour the Pendleton Underground and visit the Pendleton Round Up and Happy Canyon Hall of Fame. Travel home via I-84, Hwys 97 & 126, arriving around 7 pm. Complete itinerary available upon request. Questions- call Sharon 541-746-4929. Bring: Interagency Pass (Golden Eagle/Senior Pass); layered clothing, camera, binoculars, sunscreen, sun glasses, water bottle, sturdy walking shoes.
Cost Members $730; Non-members $742; DEPOSIT DUE NOW: $150; $300 DUE MAY 15; BAL DUE JULY 1
RESERVATIONS AND CHECKS TO: BARBARA PAYNE
Shakesperean Theater, Crater Lake
Tuesday–Wednesday, September 10–11, 2013
Leader: Verna Kocken
ASHLAND SHAKESPEREAN THEATER, CRATER LAKE
Depart Shopko at 8:00 am, coffee stop at I5 rest area, lunch on your own in historic Jacksonville. We will check into the Best Western Motel in Medford to stow luggage and then board the bus again to Ashland, on your own for dinner. Attend the free show “on the (theater) green” and performance of Midsummer Night’s Dream ($60 tickets included) in the Elizabethan theater. Return to the hotel overnight with an included continental breakfast or breakfast on your own at the nearby Black Bear Restaurant. Load the bus at 9:00 am. Return via Crater Lake- lunch on your own there. Leave Crater Lake by 2:00 pm to be back at Shopko by 5 - 5:30 pm.
Cost: Members $190; Non- members $194; DUE AUG 7
RESERVATIONS AND CHECKS TO: LIZ REANIER
Barbecue
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Leader: Barbara Beard
END OF SUMMER BARBECUE
Paradise Campground along the McKenzie River. Load the bus at Shopko parking lot at 7:40 am, leave at 8:00 am for a trip on the McKenzie River with destination Paradise Campground for a full BBQ with all the trimmings, hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken and ribs with fabulous salads, desserts, chips and dip and of course, s’mores. Our trip will take us along the McKenzie View Drive to Hayden Bridge, stopping at Hendrick’s Bridge along the way for a view and on to Leaburg Lake with a coffee break at the EWEB park. We will make several stops along the river before we arrive at our destination of Paradise Campground and our BBQ lunch. There will be plenty of time to sit around the campfire in your folding chair (provided by you) or a stroll or hike along the river while the Beards prepare the BBQ. After lunch we will travel the 5 mile distance upriver to Belnap Hot Springs for a bit of a walk across the McKenzie to stroll the beautiful gardens located just above the Hot Springs. This is a great place to walk off some of the BBQ. Bring your favorite folding chair, a friend, and a big appetite. All costs are included in your fees. LET’S HAVE A GREAT TIME.
Cost: Members $60; Non-members $62; DUE SEPT 10
RESERVATIONS AND CHECKS TO: BARBARA PAYNE
Fall Color
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Leader: Ray Jensen
Oregon Hatchery Research Center and the Oregon Coast
Through Alsea and the Coast Range (fall color?) to the new fish hatchery complex, a unique place working toward salmon restoration. On to Waldport for lunch (bring your sack goodies or sample the town’s eateries- your cost.) During the afternoon we will enjoy the coast, then stop at Florence for ice cream. Back to Eugene by 6:00pm.
Cost: Members $46; Non-members $48; DUE SEPT 20
RESERVATIONS AND CHECKS TO: MARY LEE CHEADLE
Obsidian Lodge for the Holidays
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Leader:
We will celebrate the end of our 2012 season at the Obsidian Lodge from 11 am- 3 pm with a holiday theme of renewed friendships, fun, food prepared by Obsidians Hospitality Committee, door prizes, and entertainment. This is also a chance for Obsidians to come and check us out and an opportunity for non-members to get acquainted. Table service and plates will be provided. (Proceeds donated.)
Cost Members $5; Non-members $10; DUE NOV 29
RESERVATIONS AND CHECKS TO: JANET SPEELMAN
PLEASE NOTE: Prior to boarding the bus on each trip you will be asked to sign the liability waiver – sign in sheet. The liability waiver reads as follows:
RECOGNITION OF RISK AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY
I, THE UNDERSIGNED, am aware that outdoor/bus activities can be dangerous and present occasional hazards not encountered in everyday life. I am prepared to deal with and accept all risks of this trip and associated activities as my own responsibility. I am responsible for providing my own equipment, including first aid supplies and medicines.
In consideration of OBSIDIANS, INC. sponsoring and granting permission for me to participate in this trip, I release OBSIDIANS, INC. , its officers, agents and members from all claims on account of my death or injury resulting from any act, or failure to act, even if negligent, during my participation in this trip, including travel to and from trail-heads and any associated activities.
Bus Trips - Details Of Participation
GENERAL INFORMATION: Your trip fees include transportation, lodging and taxes, museum fees, admission charges, donations in lieu of admission fees, the tip for the driver and the daily trip fees. Meals are not included, except where specified in a trip write-up. Personal expenses are not covered. Bring your own sack lunch and non-alcoholic beverage. We schedule frequent rest stops and usually lunch at wayside parks. Be sure to check write-ups for details. Wear your name tags at all times. Wear sensible walking shoes and bring your Golden Age pass. We also always carry water.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE: Any Obsidian may sign up for these trips. Non-members must be accompanied by an Obsidian host and are welcome to join us. The trip leader has the authority to exclude anyone who may present a danger to the group or to him/herself because of physical, medical or emotional conditions.
TRANSPORTATION: We charter buses from MTR Western/OC&W Coachways which are modern, safe, clean, comfortable, air-conditioned and have an on board toilet facility. Drivers are experienced and well trained to insure enjoyable traveling.
LOADING SITE-ALL TRIPS: We will load at Shopko on Coburg Road near the bus stop on Coburg Road. It is the south end of their garden shop in the summer.
LOADING INFORMATION: Usually we load at 7:30 a.m., departing promptly at 8:00 a.m. and return between 5 and 6 p.m. These times are subject to change so always check the monthly Obsidian Bulletin and any trip descriptions for details. On extended trips we encourage you to arrange private transportation to the loading site. We suggest that you do not leave your car overnight. Also please notify the trip leader, or Liz Reanier 541-520-2854 if you must cancel at the last minute.
COSTS OF TRIPS: Costs are estimated far in advance. Trip Leaders anticipate the number of riders, transportation costs, entrance fees, tips, donations, etc., lodging (2 persons, 2 beds) and the daily fee to the Club. The leaders volunteer their time and pay the same as all other riders. Please carry your Golden Age Pass and any other membership card that gives you free admission to an attraction. Please notify the leader that you have them as it sometimes reduces our fees. Passport or passport card required for Canada. PAYMENT: Make a SEPARATE CHECK FOR EACH TRIP, payable to the OBSIDIANS BUS TRIP ACCOUNT. Please observe the due dates for payments, especially when advance deposits are required. Priority on trips is based on the dates you paid in full.
WAITING LIST: A waiting list will be maintained if a trip is over subscribed. Only persons sincerely interested in participating should sign up. If your interests or availability changes — please inform the reservations person and/or the leader. The leader makes the ultimate selection based on the vacancy.
LODGING FOR OVERNIGHT TRIPS: Room costs are based on booking for non-smoking, 2 persons, 2 beds. You are requested to select your roommate. Sometimes the leader or reservations person can assist you in that selection. The final selection is the rider’s responsibility. If you need special considerations, let the leader know. Frequently there are no elevators, so pack luggage you can carry up a flight of stairs. Be sure your luggage is labeled. POLICY FOR SINGLES: We encourage the single traveler to participate. Occasionally, we can provide a single room, at a much higher rate. Our basic policy is based on 2 persons, 2 beds in order to minimize cost of the trip. We will assist you in finding a roommate.
CANCELLATIONS: CAUSE PROBLEMS. Leaders frequently must make guarantees and large payments 30 days in advance. Often motels require room lists 4 weeks in advance. If you must cancel, inform the leader IMMEDIATELY. Sometimes we are unable to recover costs, therefore you would be expected to pay them. If you are able to find a possible replacement that is appreciated but it will still be the leader’s ultimate selection, subject to the approval of the roommate. Persons on the waiting list have priority. . . It is difficult.
REFUNDS: There will be no refunds on one day trips unless the leader is notified in advance, as there is sometimes a waiting list. On multi-day trips partial or full refunds may be made after the trip, if cancellations are made at least one week in advance of the trip. Any refund is also contingent upon recovery of lodging costs, fees prepaid, admissions, etc. Refunds will only be made if a trip has generated a surplus; such refund will be determined after the trip when all financial data has been examined.
REBATES: Sometimes rebates may be awarded at the end of our trip season, if a trip has a substantial excess in revenue. We annually donate excess funds to Obsidians, Inc.
INSURANCE: Our charter bus companies carry the required liability and accident insurance. All riders are expected to provide their own medical, liability and accident insurance. Obsidians, Inc. requires each rider to sign a release prior to each trip. In addition, the Bus Committee requires that you fill out a medical information form that will be carried in a sealed envelope on all trips you participate in. This form will be used in the event of an emergency, thus the data must be updated annually. It will be held confidential. If you have serious updates during the season, please file a new form. Notify the reservations person if you do not have the form. Read trip descriptions, talk to the leaders and determine if you will be able to participate in planned activities.
SIGN UP: Signing up for a trip shows interest in taking the trip and your intent to pay the costs by the due date. Keep track of trips you sign for so you can pay on time and also keep the leader informed if you must cancel. Leaders use the rally sign-up to determine if a trip must be canceled and also use the list to make the detailed, special arrangements that make our trips special. We welcome additional riders, so check with reservations and/or leader if interested at a later date. New non-Obsidian riders are to be sponsored by an Obsidian rider.
WEARING FRAGRANCES: The Federal Disabilities Act states that one should refrain from using scented deodorant, perfumes and heavy aftershaves in consideration of those who have allergies and related illnesses. Our close proximity of riders on the bus makes this very important. Please be considerate.
FINAL NOTE: Dates, itineraries or boarding sites may be changed so watch the monthly Obsidian Bulletin for updates. A waiting list will be maintained if a trip is over subscribed. Above is a description for each of our this year's offerings. Multi-day trips have detailed descriptions nearer to the departure date. We hope you will find the trips appealing and will join us for an enjoyable experience.
ONLINE SIGN UP IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR BUS TRIPS. TO REGISTER FOR TRIPS, PLEASE CALL THE RESERVATIONS PERSON LISTED FOR THAT TRIP.
BUS COMMITTEE: Liz Reanier - Chairman, Sharon Cutsforth - Secretary, Barbara Flanders - Treasurer, Lenore McManigal - Auditor, Rick Ahrens, Ethel Allen, Bill Arthur, Barbara Beard, Paul Beard, Mary Lee Cheadle, Dennis Flanders, Ray Jensen, Verna Kocken, Barbara Payne, Don Payne, Janet Speelman, Richard Speelman, Mary Ellen West.