FAQs
FAQs
Who is SERA?
We are the State Employees Recreation Association. (Just Call us "SERA")
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What is SERA?
SERA is a non-profit organization comprised of volunteers who, for the benefit of all Pennsylvania Commonwealth employees, active or retired, their family and friends, sponsor travel trips, one to three day excursions and trips to theatre and athletic events.
SERA is solely responsible for its own affairs and is completely independent of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania State Government.
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What does SERA do?
The purpose of SERA is to plan and promote leisure recreational activities for its members. It's Council Members and Committees meet during non-scheduled work hours to plan and schedule a yearly calendar of trips. Some of the activities include travel vacations (air/cruise), one to three day excursions (bus) and trips to theatre and athletic events.
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Who belongs to SERA?
All Pennsylvania Commonwealth employees are automatically members of SERA.
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How much does it cost?
There is no cost or membership fee.
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How can I contact SERA?
You can contact SERA or any of its Council representatives by writing to the following SERA address: SERA, PO Box 796, Federal Square Station, Harrisburg, PA 17108-0796. All inquiries received at the post office box are disseminated to the Council representatives coordinating the various activities. The coordinator will respond to the inquiry.
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Does SERA have an office or telephone number?
No - SERA does not have a telephone number or office. Because the SERA Council are volunteers who have full time jobs, they cannot accept telephone calls at their location of employment during scheduled work hours.
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Who can participate in SERA's trips?
Any Pennsylvania Commonwealth Employee, active or retired, members of their family and friends.
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How can I get a SERA flyer or calendar?
Why does SERA request a self-addressed, stamped envelope?
Because we are a non-profit organization, SERA does not have a budget to cover mailing costs to fill requests for flyers/calendars or reservation acknowledgements. If you are interested in receiving flyers on a specific trip(s), SERA needs from you a business sized, stamped, self-addressed (to your home) envelope for each flyer you wish to receive. Write the specific trip requested on the lower left hand corner of the envelope. The information will be mailed to you when the trip is finalized, and the flyer is printed. Requests received without a properly stamped/self-addressed envelope will not be honored.
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Where do I send my reservation?
All reservations are filled on a first-come, first-served basis by the US postmark on the envelope. Complete the reservation form, enclose the payment due, include a self-addressed stamped envelope, and send it to the SERA address shown on the flyer. Requests received without a properly stamped/self-addressed envelope will not be honored.
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How do I know if I am on a trip?
The SERA Trip Coordinator will send you a letter advising you that you are on the trip and giving you your bus assignment. Acknowledgements are held until SERA has the minimum reservations needed to operate the trip. Trip confirmations are sent by US Mail only.
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What discounts/promotions are available through SERA?
For a list of SERA Promotions, write to SERA Promotions, PO Box 796, Federal Square Station, Harrisburg, PA 17108-0796. Remember - you must include a self addressed stamped envelope. Or visit our Promotions page.
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How can I find out who my SERA representative is?
Contact your personnel office.
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When will I get my trip confirmation?
Why does it take so long to get my confirmation letter?
Why does it take so long to deposit my check?
Acknowledgements and checks are held by the SERA representative coordinating the trip until SERA has received the minimum number of reservations needed to operate the trip. Trip confirmations are sent by US Mail only.
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Is smoking or drinking alcoholic beverage permitted on SERA buses?
Smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages is not permitted on the bus.
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Does SERA assign bus seats?
No. Please arrive early, the seats are filled on a first come first served basis. The seats you choose when you arrive are yours for the entire trip.
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How long will SERA wait before the but departs?
SERA representatives will delay departure time no more than 15 minutes for late arrivers. Please be prompt.
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You are a courteous SERA traveler when you...
- wait in a calm, orderly fashion to board the bus, avoiding the temptation to push and shove your way to the front.
- are prompt prior to all departure times; not abiding by the notion that "Oh well, if I'm late, the bus (and everyone else) will wait."
- keep your seat. It's so much nicer than playing musical bus seats after each stop!
- talk quietly on the bus. While we hope you've had a day so wonderful you want to shout it from the roof tops - not everyone on the bus will share this feeling!
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