Stay Safe as You Travel
By Joseph O’Donnell
Pittsburgh Branch 20 Legislative Chair
Finally, we are having our 67th NAPS National Convention, postponed from 2020 due to COVID-19. A lot has changed since our previous national convention in 2018. In this column, I will discuss some things to help ensure you have a safe and delightful trip to Grapevine, TX, and that you enjoy your stay there.
Most of us will be flying to Dallas. Because of the pandemic, some procedures are in place to which we may not be accustomed. Remember to bring your ID. Your driver’s license or passport is acceptable. The requirement for being REAL ID-compliant has been extended to May 2023.
Federal law requires each person to wear a mask at all times while in the airport and using public transit, during boarding and deplaning and for the duration of the flight. Those who have received COVID-19 vaccinations still are required to wear masks.
Passengers are allowed to lower their masks while eating or drinking on board the plane. Meal service on planes may be limited to snacks; check your airline to be sure. If your flight is longer than two hours, I suggest you get a meal before you board.
According to the Gaylord Texan, there currently is no shuttle service from the airport to our hotel. It is, however, expected to restart before our arrival. Uber and Lyft are available. In late August, the temperature in Grapevine usually is in the mid-80s to low 90s. However, because of climate change and the current heat wave affecting this part of the country, expect temperatures to be higher. Make sure you drink a lot of water and keep yourself hydrated, especially if you are going to be outside.
One of the best sights to see while in the Grapevine area is The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, site of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, at 411 Elm St., Dallas. The museum’s phone number is 214-747-6660; tickets can be purchased in advance at jfk.org.
There also is the SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium at entrance 5 of the Grapevine Mills Mall, 3900 Grapevine Mills Parkway. Call 469-444-3050; tickets can be purchased in advance online at www.visitsealife.com/grapevine. There is no public transportation to either of these sites from the Gaylord Texan. You will need to use a car, cab, Uber or Lyft.
Stay safe and enjoy your time with friends. Enjoy the opportunity to meet other NAPS members.
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