A Pocono Perspective ~ Woodloch's Blog

Riders of the Storm at Woodloch

  

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~Shared by J. Ranner

There's something to be admired about persistance in humans- not giving up on pursuing things that you desire, even if the odds aren't exactly in your favor. If we want something badly enough, we're willing to do whatever it takes to get it. Even outrunning the Storm of the Century.

Case in point- Ann Mirto and the Bethpage Senior Group. 

As Hurricane Sandy meandered up towards the Mid-Atlantic coast, businesses were closed and many were forced to evacuate. Even with all the craziness, Ann, the group's leader, was still determined to make it. She made the call around 5 AM on Monday, October 29th to Randy, their driver to pick them up and escort them to Woodloch. "I'll take my chances (with the weather)," said Ann. "When I say GO, we GO!" She was able to convice 16 of her friends to do the same.

The bus was among the last vehicles permitted through before city bridges were closed down. 

The "Bethpage 17" made it safe and sound to Woodloch. Though we had minor power outages across the region, our generators fired up and we had a somewhat normal (albeit breezy) midweek. "We enjoyed ourselves tremendously," says Mirto. In fact, the 17's kids made use of their vacated apartments in the storm's aftermath. Miraculously, their development was left mostly unscathed. In fact, many of their children and relatives retreated to their homes to escape the storm's wrath elsewhere. "We'll be back," said Ann. And I don't doubt her for a second. 

They even made commemorative shirts:

While this is a warming tale of determination in the face of danger, Hurricane Sandy left a vey devestating path of destruction throughout the Northeast and many are still in the need of help. There are plenty of ways in which you can make a difference; contact the American Red Cross today to see how! 

Holiday Recipes from the Woodloch Cookbook!

  

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~Shared by J. Ranner

Busy sidewalks, busy sidewalks (dressed in holiday style) are a reminder that the holidays are looming closer and closer with every waking minute. The air is filled with jingle bells, holiday cheer and of course, the smells of delicous holiday goodies permeating our senses, bracing us all for the inevitable weight that we will gain from consumption of said treats.

So, with that in mind, we've opened the Woodloch vault and cookbooks to share with you some of our favorite holiday recipes so you can, in turn, share them with those you love!

ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP (not necessarily holiday related- but it's a guest favorite!)

• 1 gal. well seasoned chicken broth
• 1 c. cornstarch
• 1 c. cold water
• 10 oz. frozen spinach, thawed
• 1 lb. ditiline pasta
• 1 lb. mini meatballs

Thicken broth with cornstarch and water. Bring broth to boil after starch is in broth. Add thawed spinach, pasta, and mini meatballs to broth. Cook according to pasta box directions.

RAISIN BREAD

• 2 tsp. salt
• 1 egg
• 3/4 c. sugar
• 2 c. skim milk
• 1 c. raisins
• 1/4 lb. shortening
• 1 tsp. cardamon
• 2 1/2 tsp. dry active yeast 
• 7 c. flour

Heat ingredients (except flour) to 120 degrees and put in bowl. Add 2 1/2 tsp. dry active yeast. Then add 7 cups white flour and mix until dough leaves sides of bowl. Let rise until at least 1 1/2 times original size. Divide into 3 equal parts, then pound and form a loaf. Place in greased pans. Let rise one hour until double in size and bake in 350 degree oven for apporx. 30 - 40 minutes until golden brown. Cool on wire rack. Yields 3 loaves. 

ICING!

Mix small amount of water and confectionary sugar to make a thick paste. When bread has cooled, paint top of loaf with icing and serve. 

CHICKEN MARSALA

• 2 lb. boneless chicken breast
• 4 oz. butter
• 4 oz. flour
• 1 tsp. fresh garlic
• 4 oz. mushrooms
• 1 oz. lemon juice
• 1/2 c. Marsala wine
• 12 oz. beef gravy
• salt & pepper to taste

Lightly flour chicken. Heat butter with garlic and saute chicken until cooked through. Take chicken out of pan; pour off excess butter. Deglaze pan with lemon juice and Marsala. Put in mushrooms and cook for 2 minutes, then put chicken and gravy in pan and simmer for 5 minutes. 

LEBKUCHEN (German Cookies)

• 1 c. molasses
• 1 c. sugar
• 1 c. strong coffee
• 3/4 c. shortening
• 2 tsp. cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp. nutmeg
• 1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
• 1 c. chopped raisins
• 1 c. waluts
• 7 c. cake flower

Mix ingredients together. Roll out and punch out cookies using gingerbread shaped cookie cutters (or shape of your choice!) Bake at 375 degreesfor about 5 miutes. Ice with butter cream frosting when cookies cool.

BUTTER CREAM ICING

• 1 lb. Dominos 10x powdered sugar
• 1/2 c. butter or margarine, softened
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 3 tbs. milk

In a large bowl beat ingredients until smooth. If necessary, add more milk until frosting is desired consistency. Spread before icing hardens. 

HOLIDAY PUNCH

• 8 c. hot water
• 7 strawberry - raspberry tea bags
• 16 oz. ginger ale
• 16 oz. cranberry juice
• 1 container of fresh / frozen raspberries
• champagne, optional ice

Brew all 7 teabags in the 8 cups of water and chill. Once cold, add remaining ingredients and serve.  

Coming Soon: "The Market at Woodloch"

  

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~Shared by Tammy Compton

A new convenience mart/gas station is slated to open in the former Rosemergy's Garage on Route 590 in Lackawaxen Township. Owned by the Genirs Family and Woodloch, "The Market at Woodloch" is expected to be completed by the fall of 2013. Woodloch will manage and operate the facility.

Located across the street from Woodloch Springs and about 1.5 miles from the all-inclusive family resort Woodloch Pines, the business will feature a gas station, groceries, full deli, Woodloch bakery items, coffee station, six-packs of beer, and some household items.

"We purchased the property to continue to enhance our local community, both asthetically and by offering a needed service. The convenience store will serve not only Woodloch guests but also the local community. Access to gas and some basic grocery-type supplies require residents in our area currently to travel a distance either direction. The facility will also be a welcome added service for Woodloch guests," said Woodloch Owner and family member Bob Kiesendahl.

Estimated hours of operation will be 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. during peak seasons and 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. during slower times.

"A significant portion of the project entails the Woodloch Real Estate, Construction and Woodloch Guest Home Reception Desk moving from the Clubhouse to the new facility. All three entities will benefit by having more of a public presence," Kiesendahl said.

Total cost of the project is $2.8 million, including the land purchase with existing buildings, gutting the original station, clean up, and the projected cost of new construction/site improvements.

The original home on the property, due to be torn down in the coming weeks, has been utilized by both Forest Volunteer and Central Volunteer Fire Departments for training drills.

Forest Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Treasurer Buddy Tascone said they were grateful for the opportunity. "It's invaluable because it provides us with hands-on training within a facility that is actual and real. It allows the firefighters to go into something that presents itself with a real-life situation." Much like entering a real structure fire, Tascone said, "You don't know where rooms are, which way to turn through hallways."

Central Volunteer Fire Chief Fred Gelderman said, "It's always nice if we can get a building that's donated prior to being torn down so we can practice. We all know that practice makes perfect." It's training that benefits the community and could ultimately save a life.

Gelderman said they held four training missions at the home. "We did some roof venting which is extremely important to allow smoke to penetrate up through the building and allow the firefighters to get in to fight the fire," he said. They also removed windows and window frames during their drills, a move that makes it easier for firefighters to enter or exit a burning building. It also makes for a safer passageway when removing victims.

Such intense training is what allows them to work as a well-oiled team in times of trouble.

Forest Volunteer Fire Chief Wayne Rosengrant said, "We always like to do training in an aquired structure like that." Though they have a brand-new, multi-million dollar training facility in Lords Valley for area firefighters, the opportunity to cut into the outside of a real house or roof is invaluable. Armed with vent saws and huge K12 circular saws, Forest Volunteer Fire Department spent a good four hours on scene.

Rosengrant explained that they can't actually light fire to the structure during training drills since firefighters have been hurt or killed in live burns in past.

Asked how he knows such training makes a difference, Chief Rosengrant said, "I've seen the difference. Personally, as a chief, I would rather have five guys that are properly trained over 15 untrained."

Both fire departments invite interested parties to contact them about volunteering. Volunteerism has plummented over the years.

Though they're 31 members strong, Chief Gelderman said only a dozen are active firefighters. "We rely alot on mutual aid fire departments, and they're in the same predicament. Volunteerism is way down. We would love to have 20 people who were really active and responding to every call. It would be phenomenal."

To contact Central Volunteer Fire Department, please call President Vince Albanese at 570-685-5605 or Chief Gelderman at 570-685-7340.

To contact Forest Volunteer Fire Department, please call Chief Rosengrant at 570-647-6136 or the fire station at 570-226-3491.

Woodloch Staff Share Their Christmas Favorites

  

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"It's the most wonderful time of the year."

~Shared by Tammy Compton

When it comes to Christmas, I wholeheartedly agree with that song sung by the late Andy Williams.

I don't know about you, but it just seems like the world gets a little brighter, people seem kinder, and patience and forgiveness prevail. It truly is the season of miracles. The birth of the Savior. A time of renewal and hope and the realization that the seemingly impossible is possible. There are so very many things that I love about Christmas . . .

A Christmas highlight for Woodloch employee Sue Nordenhold is, "Spending time with family and friends, enjoying their company." It's a time of sharing, filled with fun and joy, a time of attending church gatherings, children's' Christmas concerts, and the talented singing of the Wayne Choralaires under the direction of Pat Sporer, featuring fellow Woodlochians Susan Guccini, Jim Mould, Mary Haag and many more.

Asked about her favorite part of Christmas, reservationist Alexa Peregrim readily shouted, "Ravioli." Huh?

"What's up with the ravioli?" is the annual, ongoing question from her uncle and cousins leading up to the annual family Christmas party. "There had better be ravioli, or I'm not coming," is the usual retort.

Alexa's grandma used to make the best homemade ravioli. When she passed, the family was grateful to find a sweet, "little, old woman" in the neighborhood who had the same gift. She made them fresh from her home, and Alexa's family were faithful supporters. But alas, with the neighbor now in her 80s, she decided to turn in her apron. And so, with grandma's recipe to guide them, the Peregrim family began successfully replicating her homemade treats, making 600 to 700 at a time.

"There are many things I love about the Christmas season," said Woodloch Guest Relations Manager Chris Bower. "I love the parties, seeing staff members out of work and being able to relax with them. I love the Chinese Auction to exchange crazy gifts. I love the music. I start playing Christmas carols right after Thanksgiving (sometimes a few days before if my family does not threaten me). I work very hard during Christmas week and especially New Year's Weekend, but I love the guests that come year after year to Woodloch. I enjoy seeing them and catching up.

"I also love the decorations. Every year when I put up my Christmas tree with my family, there are so many memories. Our tree tells the story of our family. We have ornaments I owned before I was married, ones we received the year we got married, 'Baby's First Christmas' ornaments for our 4 children and even one of our grandchildren. There are hand-made ornaments that our children made in school, etc. It is always a trip down memory lane, and I enjoy looking at it the whole season," Chris said.

"There are two parts of the holidays that are not important to me are Christmas cards and presents. The real reason for the season is not about gifts and cards but keeping in touch, loving and helping one another and keeping Christ in Christmas," Chris shared.

"Christmas music is my favorite," said reservation supervisor Mariann Crandall. "I like serious songs, like Silent Night. But then I like silly songs too like Dominic the Donkey."

Does she wish radio stations started playing them sooner, or should Christmas music be relegated to two weeks before Christmas?

It's with honesty and a laugh Mariann replied, "I have them on my iPod, and I listen to them in July and August so pretty much all year 'round."

It's funny how the story comes full circle with the words of reservation manager Lynn VanBlarcom. "The music says it all. Listen to what this is saying," she exclaimed, referring to Johnny Mathis crooning overhead. "It's the most wonderful time of the year. The spirit is different, the caring, the compassion, and the music will tell this all to you if you'll just listen to the words. The music itself brings it all together from our beginning to where we are now. We are constantly striving for peace and forgiveness and hope. And that's what Christmas does."

The Holiday Road runs through Woodloch!

  

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~Shared by J. Ranner

For as long as I can remember, embracing the spirit of "family togethering" has been instilled into my moral fiber. Not that I had much of a choice.

I was lucky enough to be born to a father that is the living embodiment of Clark W. Griswold of Vacation fame (if you're unfamiliar with the movies, they've earned my seal of appoval). Anyway, my dad, despite his incredibly busy schedule, always set aside time during the holidays to both visit family and more recently have family and friends visit him. My parents always make this time not because of convenience (anyone who's ever hosted a holiday will agree) but out of necessitiy. Our lives are all crazy, and nobody can really ever tell what's going to happen from year to year. Nothing worse than regret. 

Because of this, my family congregates every Christmas Eve for the same rituals. I can only surmise that many of you do the same.

Some years run smoother than others. And then you really DO have Griswold years when nothing seems to go right. Holidays, while hopefully enjoyable and uneventful, can also be quite the opposite. Any sitcom ever made will tell you that.

Let's not forget the cooking, cleaning, and traveling that accompanies holiday visits. It can be so overwhelming that in the grand scheme of things, you just might forget what you had been celebrating in the first place . . .

So with that in mind, why not compromise and get the best of both worlds? Hang out with the people you love and bond with them while avoiding all of the not-quite-so-much-fun aspects of gathering. Woodloch is an outstanding place to gather with everyone special in your life for good times! And December just happens to be loaded with all types of great holiday activities!

• Hunt down our holiday "Yule Log" and bring good luck to all in 2013!
• Gather round' a crackling fire for spirited caroling, egg nog, and a special visitor from the North Pole (or a lump of coal...)
• Experience the magical illumination of our "Festival of Lights" wagon rides!
• Holiday one-stop shopping with our Craft Fair!
• Put your holiday baking skills to the ultimate test with our "Gingerbread Wars!"
• and much, much more!

What Does Black Friday Mean to You? Woodloch Shares...

  

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Shared by Tammy Compton

Who in their right mind gets up at 3 a.m. to go shopping?!?

You know who you are :)

I took an office poll in Woodloch's Reservation Department only to find that I work with some determined strategists. Of course, there were those who swore they'd never repeat the Black Friday experience, while others seemed to not only thrive on it, but actually embrace it.

Woodloch's Special Events & Lodging Coordinator Karen Worzel says it's best to have a list and bring your coupons. Oh, and don't forget extra bags and perhaps a baby carriage. "You need someplace to put your stuff. They'll be out of bags and carts," she says.

"Never dress too warm because the stores are always hot," she tacks on. "And take bottled water and snacks because lines are long.

"I don't know if I'm an expert, but I go out every year. I've perfected my madness," she says with a glint in her eyes.

She's not kidding. They gather around the Thanksgiving table following dinner and the war strategy begins.

"All of my aunts and cousins all sit at the dining room table after its cleaned from dinner and we go through all of the circulars and ads," she says.

Look for her pulling into the store parking lot around 4 a.m. and not returning home until around 2 p.m.

"We're pretty much successful, each and every year," she says. It's a fun family tradition.

Reservationist Sara Hoey smilingly shakes her head remembering a friend who spent four long hours on line for a Black Friday door buster - a discounted iPod. But the friend was thrilled to claim her prize and save $50 bucks in the bargain.

"I went Black Friday shopping once. I don't even remember what it was for. I wore reindeer antlers and I got on the news. They had pictures of me coming through the doors," Sara says. She remembers other shoppers making shooting noises at her choice of head gear.

Front desk and reservation employee Sam Postrion says she hasn't been Black Friday shopping in over a decade. Just watching the mahem on TV is enough. Many moons ago, she accompanied her sister-in-law to help find some much sought after Cabbage Patch Kids; but found that limited supply can sometimes bring out the worst in people. "That was the worst because those women were out for blood."

Unfortunately, there are those who push and shove to get the upper hand. And that's sincerely sad. But Black Friday can also be inspiring.

This year, Woodloch Pines is donating a portion of its Black Friday bookings to aid Hurricane Sandy victims and ongoing relief efforts.

"Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to those affected by the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. The Woodloch Family will be donating a portion of all of the proceeds from this Black Friday special to the American Red Cross and The Salvation Army," said John Kiesendahl (resort owner).

One Woodloch caller - exclaiming how wonderful it is that Woodloch throws its annual Black Friday booking sale on select vacation dates - commented how much easier it is to take advantage of Woodloch's Black Friday Sale from the comfort of your own office or living room.

However, that same caller did say when it comes to shopping Black Friday, it's no holds barred. It's a tailgate party, complete with a cooler full of turkey sandwiches and girlish giggles as she and her sisters head out for some "crack of dawn" bargains.

It's with a laugh that she admits that they usually end up buying things that could be bought "at a normal hour." But then again, it's still a blast.

Woodloch Aids in Hurricane Sandy Relief Efforts

  

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~Shared by T. Compton

So many people are still suffering.

Nearly two weeks without power, heat or hot water, some Hurricane Sandy victims are being told electricity may not be restored until Thanksgiving or later still. Others left homeless are struggling to find a speck of normalcy in a world all but turned upside down.

Superstorm Sandy goes down in the books as "the largest Atlantic hurricane on record" and "the second costliest Atlantic hurricane in history, surpassed only by Hurricane Katrina." That's according to Wikipedia.

"The devastation is just beyond anything you can imagine," said one Woodloch caller. Knocked off foundations, homes have been swept a block away. Towns near the coast are covered in sand so much so that it looks like it snowed she said . . . which it did. The Nor'Easter that pelted an already battered area seems to be the straw that is breaking the camel's back. "It's freezing," the caller said.

So many of our Woodloch employees have family and friends who have been affected by this natural disaster. "My brother is in Farmingdale, NY. He had no power from Monday night, October 29, until this past Wednesday, November 7. They are doing okay but still struggling to get gas," said Melissa Latsch, Woodloch's Human Resources Generalist and International Staff Coordinator.

"I have many friends and family still without power. I'm heading down to New York this Saturday to help a friend in need. I wanted to get in my truck last week and pick my brother and my niece up and take them away from the chaos," Melissa said.

It's difficult to watch the coverage on TV, she said, knowing that so many are still hurting. "I can't watch the news. I break down every time it's on; to watch these people without a home or heat makes me tear just writing this. I fear for my family and friends," she said in an email.

Woodloch has rallied, reaching out to the community for donations for the devastated areas. The drives, which originally started with Christina Acquavella, an employee at Woodloch's sister property, The Lodge at Woodloch, have been picked up by Melissa and Marketing Director, Rory O`Fee, who have broadcasted the need throughout the resort and local community.

"So far we have collected men's, women's and children's clothing, shoes, coats, formula, mattresses, food (non-perishable), cleaning items, toys, and baby items," Melissa said.

There have been four distribution drives so far with additional drives planned in the near future. "Woodloch has been generous to allow us to use one of the bakery trucks" for transportation, she said. So far they've gone to Rockaway Beach, Breezy Point and Long Island in New York as well as Sea Bright, New Jersey.

Special items are still needed for Hurricane Sandy victims. Donations are being accepted at Woodloch's Human Resources office. Items most needed include:

• Cleaning supplies (bleach, mops, buckets, rubber gloves, garbage bags etc.)
• Flashlights, batteries, and paper products
• Blankets, winter wear, socks
• Dog & cat food
• Items to keep children occupied (coloring books, pens/markers, small games etc.)
• Baby formula, baby food, diapers, wipes
• Non-perishable foods, water
• Personal hygiene items (towels, washcloths, soap, anti-bacterial cleaner, toothbrush/paste, lotions etc.)
  
  **At this time, clothing is not needed.

In closing, Melissa extends the following sentiment: "A big thank you to everyone at Woodloch and in our community, especially those who have volunteered their time to drive."

"Brighten" up your holidays at Woodloch!

  

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~Shared by J. Ranner

Our waterski boats no longer sit in Lake Teedyuskung. We spend a few extra minutes each day to defrost thin layers of ice off of our cars. And we all pine for that extra cup of coffee or hot chocolate. To quote Ned Stark, "Winter is coming."

Yet we find a way to get through these long nights. In the spirit of the holiday season, strands of lights are strung from eave to eave of our houses, providing a much needed glow when we crave it the most.

Holiday decorating has been a proud tradition for Woodloch Pines since opening in 1958. Our main lobby, dozens of trees, bannisters, shrubs and everything in between are instantly illuminated on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. That is also the debut weekend of our famous "Festival of Lights" rides along our mile-long nature trail.

From a staff standpoint, the most impressive part of all of the decorating is how much of it actually goes on behind the scenes. Weeks beforehand, my fellow co-workers are crafting wreaths, testing bulbs, building structures, and ascending skyward on lift trucks so that the tree lightings go off without a hitch. The prep work for the holidays begins just as soon as we begin our first Haunted Hayrides of the season in early October. It's a lot of work, but there's something to be said about smiles on everyone's faces in the warm glow of the lights.

Our Festival of Lights has steadily become bigger and better. In addition to thousands of lights, we now use pyrotechnics and computers to enhance guest experience. All in all, the experience amounts to about half-an-hour of illuminated joy through a dozen scenes on our nature trail. And if you're good boys and girls, Santa Claus just might show up . . .

This is really just the beginning of all the fun times that await you this holiday and winter season at Woodloch. Scavenger Hunts, snow tubing, walnut and yule log hunts and of course our Winter Olympics . . . we have it all! So bundle up, relax, and hang a shining star upon the highest bow. The holidays at Woodloch start right now! 

THANK YOU.

  

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Holiday Shopping Made Easy at Woodloch!

  

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~Shared by J. Ranner

It seems that we live in a world of opposites and stark comparisons. Day and night. Republicans and Democrats. Dreamers and realists.

And those who love shopping and those who can't stand it.

The holidays are soon coming up, and that means venturing out into the wonderful world of retail searching for that perfect holiday gift, whether you enjoy it or not. Some people enjoy flocking from outlet to outlet in search of something special, while others end up tired and frustrated. My mother could probably be a professional shopper while I tend to sympathize with those who soldier on through the motions. As a matter of fact, I do everything in my power to minimize my shopping trips.

But what if I told you that there was a way to keep everyone happy? Shoppers are content because of the wide variety and selection of products while the non-shoppers have the painless experience of minimizing the "back and forths." You would be able to do most of your shopping under one roof . . .

If this sounds at all appealing then you are in luck. In grand tradition, Woodloch Pines will be hosting their annual Craft Fair on Sunday, December 2nd and Sunday, December 9th from 10 AM to 3 PM. Held in the Heritage Club, more than 40 local vendors set up shop and proudly display all of their 100% homemade goods. I also like the idea of my holiday spending cash staying in the area and benefitting local artisans. 

The selection of crafts has become more and more varied over the years. There are items available for nearly everybody on your shopping list including:

• hand-crafted woodworks and carvings
• sculpted glass and pottery
• hand woven quilts, mittens, hats and sweaters
• toys
• food and wine accessories
• and so much more!

And as always, this event offers free admission and is open to the general public as well as our house guests. Meal reservations and overnight accommodations are also available. Why not make a day of it all?

So you can either join the legions of other shoppers, braving the elements to head to a crowded store, battling crowds to net possibly fruitless results, or you can head to Woodloch's Craft Fair, browse in a relaxed and stress-free environment where you are sure to find exactly what you need. To me, the choice is clear and easy. 

I will have my shopping complete (save for a trip to the coal mines for my poorly behaved friends) before I even miss a second of my 49ers game . . . 

Tis' the season. :)