I agree with you that no one should be "bumped" cause someone wants to extend their stay, at the last minute.
hoever,I think that you need to know that your requests are NOT guaranteed, either. (I do suggest "linking" your reservations, although I'm not sure that can be done when you are staying at 2 dif. resorts).
your dad is apying for a preferred room, right? and you requested 70's lake view. that would be very close to the bridge. but, just so you know, he could also pay for a preferred room and ahva a room in the 50's section, furthest away from the lake 4th floor. yes, those are preferred rooms. jsut want you to be aware.
a suggestion. if you have 3 requests, they wil make a point to fulfill at least 1. that's why I try to put in as few requests as possible, and put down the most important one.
in your case, since he is paying for preferred location, I would ONLY put lake view (not 70's) . this last stay we were in a 50's bldg on the lake side very close to the bridge. when he checks in, have him ask (even if the room isn't ready) "about where is it?" they will draw a circle on the map of the approx. location of the room. if he doesn't like it, have him ask.. "gee I know 50's 3rd floor is a preferred room, but have you got anything closer to the lake? my family is staying there. I'm willing to wait if the room isn't ready."
always works for us. remember, even requests a year ahead of time are not guaranteed. they don't "assign" the rooms until 3 days ahead of time. good luck!