BRANDEMIC EXPEDITION!

I made up the word "Brandemic" to describe the concept of Branson during a pandemic.  Hence, the phrase "Brandemic Expedition" describes my adventure there last month.  While in Branson, I had the enjoyable experience of staying in a "castle", in this tourism mecca of southern Missouri.  Its individually-laid,  stone archway alerts the visitor they are in for a trip back to the time of the Renaissance!

The Stone Castle Hotel and Resort Center was originally built by two brothers from Wisconsin.  They saw a story about the booming tourism industry in Branson, Missouri, that was aired on the Sixty Minutes television show, so they set about to be a part of that boom, by building a very unique resort, that was not like the many franchise, "cookie cutter"-type hotels around the USA. 

Although the  two Wisconsin brothers no longer own the hotel, their legacy endures in the architecture, and decorations related to "Knights in shining armor, riding on a big white horse"!  Since my visit was in October, 2020, the knight that guards the entrance, had the additional help of two seasonal "scare crow" mannequins to assist his endeavors of protecting the guests!

As I entered the hallway leading to my room, I encountered yet another "knight in shining armor", who also had taken on an additional "helper" to keep guests safe.  That helper was an automatic dispenser of hand sanitizer, which guests were able to use each time they passed by.  As soon as I saw the metal armored suit, I thought about my First Place 4 Health ( www.FirstPlaceforHealth.com ) memory verses from Ephesians 6:10-11 that say, "Be strong in the LORD and in His mighty power.  Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes."  At the time of my visit, Branson---and the entire world---was "standing against"  the COVID19 pandemic, and I (like most people!) wanted to take every precaution available, to keep the virus from taking up residence inside my body!  Therefore, I was glad there was another type of "armor" against transmitting illness---the clear, plexiglass shields between the guests who were registering, and the hotel employees behind the desk.  For those who had not already done so, tickets to various entertainment venues were available for purchase at the front desk.  Also, if you go to the hotel website at www.BransonStoneCastle.com, you will see that there are several money-saving "show ticket/hotel lodging" packages available.  You can also phone them (toll free) at 1-800-677-6906. 

The lobby where I checked in was spacious, with plenty of room for staying six feet apart.  There were masks available at the front desk (in case a guest forgot theirs), as well as sanitizer dispensers available on the counter.  Likewise, a floor-model dispenser was adjacent to the front desk.  A sign on the front door as I entered, reminded me that all entering were asked to put on masks. 

Another nice amenity the hotel provided, was luggage carts, that were conveniently placed in the hallway, that led to my room. 

My room was spotlessly clean, and equipped with a flat-screen tv, alarm clock-radio, phone, free wi-fi, mini-fridge, hairdryer,  iron, ironing board,  luggage rack, and the very important, in-room COFFEE maker! 

The freshly-sanitized remote control, set on top of a laminated document that listed the dozens of television channels available to watch.

This is a photo of the framed painting that was above my bed.  It reminded me of the story my husband liked to tell of the "sword ceremony" he had, when he presented his youngest teenage daughter with her first-ever credit card to carry in her wallet.  The story goes that he had her kneel on a cushion, while lit candles flickered in the dimly-lit room, where she was told to keep her eyes closed until told she could open them.  When she opened them, her father was holding a real Samari-type sword, with the shiny new credit card balanced atop it.  When you think about it, a double-edged sword is an appropriate delivery method for a "double-edged" piece of plastic that can both save and destroy, depending on how it is used!

Although many hotels have suspended their free breakfast offerings during the pandemic, I was pleased to see that the Stone Castle Hotel had made modifications to their breakfast service, so that it could safely continue.  The photo shows that they have sneeze guards above the steam tables holding scrambled eggs, sausages, hot oatmeal, biscuits, and gravy.  A hotel foodservice employee, equipped with protective mask, disposable gloves, and very cheerful greeting, was there to serve the guest whichever food items they chose.  The photo also lets you peek into the professionally-equipped commercial kitchen, that has the necessary ovens and cooktops, and cooking utensils,  to safely and correctly  prepare the food they were serving.  In addition to the cooked cereal, they also have dry cereals available for guests.  Since I was in BRANson, I chose BRAN flakes every morning!  (I jokingly told some fellow travelers that the popular dry cereal got its name of "bran flakes", because they were first made in BRANson!)

I enjoyed seeing the autumn-themed decorations on the serving area, and on my last morning there, I was also was able to see them in the process of putting up their Christmas decorations. 

 

I was staying at the hotel as a part of a group tour, to showcase various Branson attractions.  Our group traveled around town in a motorcoach, but before we were permitted to board, the group leader took our temperature, as one of many precautions being used, to reduce the risk of contracting the virus. 

The Stone Castle Hotel is very group friendly, as shown by the fact that the motorcoach is able to pull right up to the front doors, and guests load on a flat (versus sloping hillside!) driveway.  The Thompson motorcoach we were using, also was equipped with a hydraulic elevator, to enable lifting a guest who was in a wheelchair.  It was brand new and freshly sanitized with a disinfectant "fogging" machine, to be sure every surface was clean.  There was a bottle of hand sanitizer at the top of the stairs for each guest to use as they entered.  The vehicle also was equipped with overhead sound system/microphone, wifi, phone charging stations at each seat, video screens, and a toilet. 

Another great thing about the staff and facilities at the Stone Castle Resort, is their flexibility.  When circumstances beyond anyone's control caused the cancellation of the full production of one of our theatrical music and dance shows that we were scheduled to attend, the staff at the resort arranged for their large Stonehenge Conference Room to turn into a temporary "theater" for a private concert by popular performer, Clay Cooper.  That took some flexibility, not only on the part of the resort, but also on the part of a very gracious and sincere STAR of the Branson hospitality industry---Clay Cooper, who found a "perch" on the makeshift stage to sing and play whatever requests came out from our group!  It was also touching to hear his story about how he and his family had survived during the early days of the pandemic, when they were spending countless hours refunding money to people who had bought tickets to shows that had to be cancelled.  He laughingly said he phoned his pastor, and cried with him, for a long time, about how he was going to press on, in spite of having to lay off about 90 employees.  That led him to tell a funny story about when that same pastor baptized him in a lake, in front of a waterfall, at nearby Dogwood Canyon.  (He said it seemed to him that the pastor held him under the water a little bit longer than he had held down other members of his congregation, who were also baptized there that same day!)

 

 

 

 

 

 

On previous trips to Branson, I have been able to see the full production of the Clay Cooper show, and can vouch for its outstanding entertainment value!!  You can find out more by phoning them, toll-free, at 1-888-222-8910 or via their website at www.claycoopertheater.com .

Clay Cooper set himself apart as an authentic musician and entertainer that night, because he was able to hold the group's attention by his vast repertoire of songs, using only his voice and his guitar.  His talent was remarkable!

 

Even though we did not get to see his dancers and back up singers, the next night, our group was able to visit the interior of the Clay Cooper Theater, because it was the location of another outstanding Branson show we were able to enjoy---The Haygoods.

The Haygoods have been performing as a family since 1993, and their show never disappoints!  They not only play over 20 different instruments, but their aerial stunts, laser light show, robotics, and innovative choreography, create an experience you will always remember!  In regards to COVID19 precautions, the theater does not sell every single seat---rather they are operating at reduced capacity so that guests can be spaced throughout the theater---and not all "jam-packed" tightly together.  Hand sanitizer is available at the entrance, gift shop, bathrooms, and at the back of the theater.  Guests are required to have on a mask before entering the theater.   For more information about their show, phone 1-417-339-4663, or visit their website at www.thehaygoods.com .

Stone Castle Resort is not only close to popular theaters, but also close to some scenic nature areas, as it backs up against a forest.  In fact, these deer were headed for that forest, as I pulled out of the parking lot of the hotel!

Just down the hill from the hotel towards the west, you can do some photography at the very scenic area around Fall Creek, where this photo was taken.  Our group went to supper at the Fall Creek Steak and Catfish House, before one of the shows.  Once inside the spacious restaurant, guests will have the tough choice of gazing out the window, enjoying views of Fall Creek, or keeping an eye out for the kitchen staffer bringing out a freshly-baked batch of hot rolls.  They are known as the "Home of the Tossed Rolls", so instead of keeping your "eye on the ball" to be successful, a guest needs to keep their "eye on the roll" flying through the air towards them!  It is a fun and delicious place for a meal, and you can find out more by phoning 1-417-334-0754 or visit www.bransonsbestrestaurants.com .   Since folks in the Ozarks may not be traveling long distances this Thanksgiving to be with relatives far away, it is good to know that the three restaurants operated by Branson's Best Restaurants  enterprise WILL be open on Thanksgiving!  Guests can dine inside, or get carry out.  Reservations are not required. 

Just a few blocks east of Stone Castle Hotel, you will find the Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area.  It is a 140-acre nature park, right in the heart of Branson.  The large wooden log archway, with columns made of native stone, welcome the visitor as they enter the parking lot.  There is no fee to enjoy the abundant outdoor activities available here!

Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area has 5.3 miles of trails, with a waterfall, picnic tables, pavilion, restrooms, playground, and views overlooking Lake Taneycomo.  When I hiked the trails in late October, the beautiful autumn colors of the leaves, caused me to be constantly stopping to take photographs of the trees, such as the one shown in this picture.  For more information, and maps of the hiking trails, visit their official website at www.BransonMO.gov .

 

 

 

My visit to Branson, Missouri, was made possible by some dedicated professionals in the tourism industry, who want to not only see their beloved city survive the COVID19 pandemic, but indeed to thrive!  They want to show that tourists can travel responsibly, and do their part to help our economy recover after the devastation brought on by the pandemic.  It is one reason I titled this blog post, "BRANDEMIC EXPEDITION!", because it is about my visit to  Branson during the pandemic.  Even before the pandemic, a 100% risk-free vacation could not be guaranteed, so it is pointless to wait to start living your life, until there are no risks.  THERE WILL ALWAYS BE RISKS!!  This is exemplified by one of my First Place 4 Health ( www.FirstPlace4Health.com ) memory verses from Ephesians 6:10-11 that says, "Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.  Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes."  Did you know, the Word of God is the only OFFENSIVE weapon listed in the Ephesians 6 description of spiritual armor?  Ephesians 6:17 says, "And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."  Therefore, I was very thankful to see, that a Gideon Bible ( www.gideon.org) was available in my guest room!

So, get out there!!---Wash your hands, sanitize your surfaces, and put on the spiritual armor, described in Ephesians 6.  I did that, and I am very thankful I made this trip, because it gave me "MILES OF SMILES!"  (Even if they were covered up by my face mask!)   Tricia

 

FRENCH LICK/WEST BADEN EXPEDITION!

This group of 4 colored wrist bands, represent four days of "COVID19 screening test victories" that I am very thankful I was able to wear, while a guest at the magnificent French Lick Springs Resort.  At a time when the tourism industry was in a free fall, due to the COVID19 Pandemic, French Lick Springs Resort, hosted a tourism convention, that was the first of its kind in the U.S., since the pandemic was recognized in March, 2020.  The resort management, and the organizers of the convention ( grouptravelfamily.com ), wanted to take every necessary precaution to ensure a safe gathering:  this included a virus health screening and temperature check, each day a guest was on the property.  Getting approved each day for a new colored bracelet, was as valuable to me at the time, as a solid gold bracelet would be!

This photo shows the magnificent wrap-around porch that adorns the front of the French Lick Springs Hotel, located in the town of French Lick, Indiana.  This hotel is part of a 3,000 acre complex that includes two hotels, 3 golf courses, riding stables, 30 miles of hiking trails, a rail trolley, health spas, a bowling alley, volleyball/badminton courts, casino, and numerous restaurants.  

This photo shows the entrance to the second hotel on the property---the West Baden Springs Hotel.  As an explanation of the phrase "Carlsbad of America", at the time the archway was built, Carlsbad was a famous European spa.  The purpose of the advertisement was to show that Americans did not need to travel to Europe for their health spa experience, it could be found in southern Indiana.  The name "West Baden" was chosen because it sounds like the name of the German town of Weisbaden.  Notice the black metal gates preventing driving onto the resort.  They have been erected since the start of the pandemic, when the resort was forced to completely shut down during spring, 2020.  It only reopened to guests in June, and the conference I was attending was the first one they had hosted since pandemic precautions were enacted .

Everyone entering any of the buildings first had to be screened with a health questionnaire, and a temperature check of their forehead, by a "no contact" battery-operated digital thermometer.  If you passed this screening, you were given a colored wrist band, that was good only for that day.  Also, the numerous entrances onto the property were locked, so that everyone was required to go through the entrance where the health screener was located.  

The slight inconvenience of these entrance requirements were MORE than worth it, when one was inside the atrium of the West Baden Springs Hotel!  This 200 foot dome had the title of world's largest free-spanning dome, when it was built in 1902.  It remained the largest dome in U.S. until completion of the coliseum in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 1955.  Besides being on the list of National Registry of Historic Places, and National Historic Landmark, it is also designated as a Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.  As you can see from the spaciousness of the seating arrangements, it was very easy to do the "six foot social distancing" the CDC guidelines were recommending.  It is not surprising that this dome space was once named the "Eighth Wonder of the World."  The entire resort complex has undergone an amazing transformation, following a $560 million restoration project.  It was the largest historic restoration project in Indiana history, and one of the largest privately funded preservation projects in the United States!

All the French Lick employees were wearing masks when they were inside, and this employee is holding the digital thermometer she used to check the temperature of those entering the building.  Only those who were overnight guests of the property could come inside.  This is another precaution implemented during the pandemic, as normally, visitors are welcome to walk through the historic hotel lobbies to observe their priceless decor.  

When I got checked into the hotel, and made it to my room, I was delighted to see there was a Gideon Bible in the bedside table!  There is an old country music song that says, I only want to stay in a hotel where that man---Gideon---has left his book, and I feel the same way!

The towns of French Lick and West Baden have a small population of about 2,400 residents, and the resort employs about 1,700 of those residents! (pre-COVID19)  One of the most famous of the area's former residents is NBA legend, Larry Bird.  There is a bust of his likeness at his high school Alma mater:

The resort employees were very visible, frequently disinfecting surfaces that were high-touch areas---doorknobs, faucet handles, toilets, light switches, etc.,  Plus, there were dispenser bottles of hand sanitizer on just about every counter or table throughout the hotel!  The employees seemed happy to be back on the job, because many had been furloughed during the initial shutdown of the hotel.  

There are many ways to explore the French Lick Resort campus.  This photo shows the resort manager, Joe Vezzoso, (Director of Operations) taking a phone call outside, beside the four-person pedal "Surrey Bikes" that are available to guests.  Mr. Vezzoso is to be commended for agreeing to his property being the site of the conference, because it was a "last minute" choice, when two previous cities in other states where the conference was scheduled to be held, were forced to withdraw their invitation, due to state-mandated restrictions on travel and tourism.  So a big THANK YOU to Joe Vezzoso!  He and his staff did a MAGNIFICENT job of facilitating a smooth-running conference location!

Another way to get around the resort property ( as well as trips into the nearby downtown ) is the motorized trolley.  Of course, one needed to have their mask on to ride the trolley.

Yet another way to get around the resort is the railroad car trolley that makes the one mile trip between the French Lick Springs Hotel and the West Baden Springs Hotel.  This is the type trolley where the conductor simply changes locations between front and back, depending on which direction the trolley is going.  As you can see from the photo below, I was the only one riding the trolley on this day!  (It had only recently resumed operation, being completely shut down during the Phase 1 of pandemic precautions)

The rail trolley dates from around 1924, and underwent a complete restoration to make it suitable for resort guests.  Another way to get around the resort is via bicycle.  The gazebo logo on all the bikes represents the gazebo over Pluto Springs, that is located in the gardens behind the French Lick Springs Hotel.  

This lovely brick-covered street, lined with carefully tended flowers,  provides an impressive entrance to the West Baden Hotel.  A pedestrian does not need to be concerned about dodging motorized vehicles on this section, because it is currently closed off to that type of transportation.

Throughout the resort complex, there are placards that give historical tidbits about the resort's history. For example, this placard claims the hotel restaurant is the "Birthplace of Tomato Juice".  That is because tomato juice is said to have been served for the first time at the hotel in 1917, when chef Louis Perrin ran out of orange juice and needed an alternative. 

The photo below shows the Pluto Spring House gazebo, that serves as the graphic design for the resorts logo.  Water from this spring was bottled, and called "Pluto Water".  It was a best-selling laxative of the first half of the 1900's. However, production of Pluto Water ceased in 1971 after lithium, a naturally occuring mineral in the water, became classified as a controlled substance to treat bipolar disorder.  Other active ingredients of Pluto Water were sodium and magnesium sulfate---the same ingredients in the infamous bowel-clearing prep, given to patients before a colonoscopy.

The expansive banquet room at the French Lick Springs Hotel was just what was needed so that attendees could spread out, and maintain social distancing.  Another change from previous conferences I have attended is that there were only four people per round table, instead of the usual eight per table.

Another section of the conference center served as the location for appointments between buyers and sellers of tourism-related services.  Plexiglass shields, hand sanitizer wipes, and six foot spacing , made appointments comply with COVID19 precautions.  Because this facility did such an outstanding job of handling our conference, I would recommend you visit their website, ( frenchlick.com ), to plan a trip to their outstanding location!

I am using the photo of the cross atop this church in downtown French Lick, as the visual aid to help me learn one of my First Place 4 Health ( firstplace4health.com ) memory verses that says, "From now on, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus."  Galatians 6:17   As we go forward in light of the COVID19 Pandemic, we can be sure it will cause some (economic) bruises that will make a "mark".  But if we can look at those marks as "battle scars" against obstacles that we have fought and overcome, we can claim the hope that Jesus' death on the cross assures us.  He took the penalty for our sins, and through belief in Him, we can get through whatever the future holds.  Having this promise from God, gives me "MILES OF SMILES"!