REASONS TO REUNITE AT WOODLOCH: Dedicated staff Experienced coordinators Accommodates any size group Guest homes, hotel rooms, suites Various dining options Daily activity schedule Builds lasting memories!
SPRING 2020
A story about bringing families together.. WOODLOCH.COM/REUNITE 800.453.8263 OPTION #2
NEWSLETTER
W O ODLOCH AS SEEN IN... Welcome
In recent months, Woodloch has gained quite a bit of national notoriety despite its virtually unknown location in small town Hawley, Pennsylvania. The past year alone has brought impressive features in several major national media outlets, some of which we’ve showcased below. The icing on the cake was being voted the number one resort for families in the US by USA Today’s 10 Best Awards 2019, beating out international brands such Time. It’s the great equalizer, the destroyer, the paramount opportunist, the most truthful cliche, as Fourour Seasons, Disney, Fairmont, and Club Med. At their Woodloch vacations are built on bringing loved most taken granted for and most revered; time meanscore, everything. If there’s one thing we can ones together creating lifelong We those couldwe never without ourdon’t loyalknow guests all agree and on it’s we could spend memories. more time with love.do At this Woodloch, if you al- to whom we are ready, our purpose is to incredibly provide an environment families to spend quality time grateful andfor extend a very big THANK YOU!with each other.
“8 Awesome, All-Inclusive Resorts that You Don’t Need a Passport to Visit”
At this in the Poconos Mountains, guests receive three family-style meals each day. Families can also indulge in more than 30 daily activities on the property, including haunted hayrides, scavenger hunts, bakery wars and a petting zoo.
That’s what it’s all about and that’s what our main focus is.
The aforementioned point is especially noted in this issue of WLP Family. We go deep into some of the more fun numbers of woodloch that lend themselves to the generations of traditions we have. We look at “5 thePlaces exercisetoofHave takingYour the time bake with our children and how valuable that NexttoFamily Reunion” time spent together is. We explore the importance of family travel and how using vacation as a gift can represent more of a soulful reward for all. Most importantly we explore the story of a man who represented the soul of woodloch and glean the importance of spending time with family and how we can’t take that gift of time for granted.
“24 Last-Minute, Cheap Winter Vacation Deals to Book for 2020”
Woodloch Pines Family Resort offers a family atmosphere with activities everyone On Recognized to new and upcoming things,resort we’reinexcited to welcome final piece to will enjoy. as a top family the United States the by TripAdvisor, theour beach renovation project. Before memorial day weekend, a new, multi-level, all-ages playground will be installed resort has a staff dedicated to planning the perfect family festivities. Plan a boat and ready for fun. We’re also converting one of our escape rooms into a virtual reality game room ride, a golfing outindividual an evening show. can also create that willouting, featureor2 check bays for game playThe andhotel a tandem racing pod.personalized events such as hosting a cocktail reception or rehearsal dinner. We would be remiss without mentioning the current situation of the CoVID-19 crisis befalling the globe currently and how it’s impacting all of our lives, let alone global travel. At woodloch we are keeping a watchful eye and staying vigilant in our already rigid sanitation regimen. We pray for a swift solution, that the impact of this disease will be minimal and that none of you are affected.that “12 All-Inclusive Family Resorts
Vacationing a Breeze”
Make
We hope that this issue touches you in some way, brings you advice, helps you appreciate the time we all have together and remember you’ll always have those memories you make while on vacation with your family. Sincerely,
“This all-inclusive Poconos resort has plenty to keep the family busy. Activities include rock climbing, go-karts, and trivia contests, as well as nightly entertainment. Meals are served family-style, and always include a delicious dessert (the chocolate peanut butter pie is a favorite).”
The Woodloch Family
“Woodloch Pines, The Quintessential Family Resort for 60 Years”
The highlight of your stay may very well be the Broadway style show at night that always has a “G” rating. Guests can cap off the evening with a stage performance featuring precise choreography, pulsating music and very gifted performers. There are many New York City or Las Vegas shows that don’t boast this amount of energy on one stage, and the show is pure enjoyment from start to finish.
Named the #1 Family Resort in America by Trip Advisor, the all-inclusive Woodloch Pines is nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Poconos mountains and overlooks Little Teedyuskung Lake. While Woodloch is a four-seasons resort, winter is arguably the most magical time with a sledding hill (readied for action with snow guns if the weather isn’t cooperating), two skating rinks, ice fishing, ice hockey, and the Woodloch Winter Olympics with “competitions” in tubing, sliding, rolling, and more. Or you can choose to relax indoors at the resort’s world-class spa. During “Olde Fashioned Holiday Weekends in the Poconos,” you’ll enjoy reindeer races, Christmas caroling, a holiday scavenger hunt, eggnog, cookies, and a visit from the white bearded gent in red! Speaking of the big man himself, don’t miss these stories about meeting Santa that will fill you with the Christmas spirit.
“Top Lake Resort Vacations for Families in the U.S. and Canada”
Woodloch, an all-inclusive family resort in the Poconos, comes with a twist. Instead of kids-only daylong programs, Woodloch, in the town of Hawley, promotes a week of what it calls “togethering.” Like bunkmates at camp, you and your children join group activities batched for ages 3 to 6 or 7 to 10. Cheered on by the social staff, your team builds boats, constructs sand sculptures, shoots hoops, and plays soccer. For a respite from games, ride bumper cars and go-carts—or live the lake lifestyle and swim, fish, kayak, and water ski. Evening entertainment tends toward things kids like: magicians, jugglers, or a Broadway-style musical performed by staff. Operated by the Kiesendahl family since the resort opened in 1958, Woodloch has a friendly attention to detail. Accommodations include regular rooms and two-bedroom suites close the main dining room, plus a selection of rental houses.
W O ODLOCH AS SEEN IN... MT. RUSHMORE “8 Awesome, All-Inclusive Resorts that You Don’t Need a Passport to Visit”
In recent months, Woodloch has gained quite a bit of national notoriety despite its virtually unknown location in small town Hawley, Pennsylvania. The past year alone has brought impressive features in several major national media outlets, some of which we’ve showcased below. The icing on the cake was being voted the number one resort for families in the US by USA Today’s 10 Best Awards 2019, beating out international brands such as Four Seasons, Disney, Fairmont, and Club Med. At their core, Woodloch vacations are built on bringing loved ones together and creating lifelong memories. We could never do this without our loyal guests to whom we are incredibly grateful and extend a very big THANK YOU!
“5 Places to Have Your Next Family Reunion”
Woodloch Pines Family Resort offers a family atmosphere with activities everyone will enjoy. Recognized as a top family resort in the United States by TripAdvisor, the resort has a staff dedicated to planning the perfect family festivities. Plan a boat ride, a golfing outing, or check out an evening show. The hotel can also create personalized events such as hosting a cocktail reception or rehearsal dinner.
“12 All-Inclusive Family Resorts that Make Vacationing a Breeze”
“This all-inclusive Poconos resort has plenty to keep the family busy. Activities include rock climbing, go-karts, and trivia contests, as well as nightly entertainment. Meals are served family-style, and always include a delicious dessert (the chocolate peanut butter pie is a favorite).”
“Woodloch Pines, The Quintessential Family Resort for 60 Years”
The highlight of your stay may very well be the Broadway style show at night that always has a “G” rating. Guests can cap off the evening with a stage performance featuring precise choreography, pulsating music and very gifted performers. There are many New York City or Las Vegas shows that don’t boast this amount of energy on one stage, and the show is pure enjoyment from start to finish.
FOR MY BIRTHDAY
Choosing travel over toys leads to advanced brain development and open mindedness.
At this in the Poconos Mountains, guests receive three family-style meals each day. Families can also indulge in more than 30 daily activities on the property, including haunted hayrides, scavenger hunts, bakery wars and a petting zoo.
One afternoon, while cleaning out my home office, my 7-year-old daughter found my old beat up passport and flipped through the pages, asking about the stamps and their origins. She then paused “24 Last-Minute, Cheap Winter on the colorful, semitransparent Vacation Deals to Book for background photo of Mt.2020” Rushmore. “I want to go here, Mommy,” she said with conviction as she pointed out theby photo. Named the #1 Family Resort in America Trip Advisor, the all-inclusive Woodloch Pines is nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Poconos mounThere wasWhile no difference tains and overlooks Little Teedyuskung Lake. Woodloch isbetween a four-seawhen she gets a toy magazine and sons resort, winter is arguably the most magical time with a sledding hill points out all the things she wants (readied for action with snow guns if the weather isn’t cooperating), two there. She was making a leskating rinks, ice fishing, ice hockey,from and the Woodloch Winter Olympics with gitimate request, and since then, “competitions” in tubing, sliding, rolling, and more. Or you can choose to reshe’s made several more. Why can’t lax indoors at the resort’s world-class spa. During “Olde Fashioned Holiday we look at travel and experience Weekends in the Poconos,” you’ll enjoy reindeer races, Christmas caroling, a the same way we look at physical holiday scavenger hunt, eggnog, cookies, a visitsay fromwe theshould. white bearded gifts?and Experts gent in red! Speaking of the big man himself, don’t miss these stories about meeting Santa that will fill you with Child the Christmas spirit. Dr. Margot psychologist,
“Top Lake Resort Vacations for Families in the U.S. and Canada”
Woodloch, an all-inclusive family resort in the Poconos, comes with a twist. Instead of kids-only daylong programs, Woodloch, in the town of Hawley, promotes a week of what it calls “togethering.” Like bunkmates at camp, you and your children join group activities batched for ages 3 to 6 or 7 to 10. Cheered on by the social staff, your team builds boats, constructs sand sculptures, shoots hoops, and plays soccer. For a respite from games, ride bumper cars and go-carts—or live the lake lifestyle and swim, fish, kayak, and water ski. Evening entertainment tends toward things kids like: magicians, jugglers, or a Broadway-style musical performed by staff. Operated by the Kiesendahl family since the resort opened in 1958, Woodloch has a friendly attention to detail. Accommodations include regular rooms and two-bedroom suites close the main dining room, plus a selection of rental houses.
Sunderland wrote that vacations can boost long-term happiness and even make children smarter. “This is because on a family vacation, you are exercising two genetically ingrained systems deep in the brain’s limbic area.”
These two areas are the PLAY and the SEEKING systems. “The PLAY system is important for learning various emotional and cognitive skills,” writes famed neuroscientist Jaak Panksepp, the scientist who carved out the seven primary emotional systems during his career. “In humans, [the SEEKING system] may be one of the main brain systems that generate and sustain curiosity, even for intellectual pursuits,” Dr. Panksepp explains.
When these systems of the brain are stimulated, they contribute to the ability to play with ideas, the curiosity to learn, the initiative to pursue happiness, and much more. When polled by the Student and Youth Travel Association, 79% of educators considered it a priority to increase the cultural awareness of students. Surveyed teachers also said children who traveled tended to show more independence, confidence, respect, and openness to trying new things than their peers who had not traveled. The majority of these teachers also believe travel had an extremely positive impact on a student’s educational prospects, cultural awareness, and even their future careers.
HOW TO MAKE
it may cost more than a normal birthday gift and party, with FAMILY While TRAVEL EASIER
all of this evidence surrounding the benefits of travel, it seems to make sense that Mt. Rushmore for my daughter’s birthday is a We all know it’s coming and yet weinstill put it of until last minute. good investment her quality of flife andthe even in her future. And You know what we’rlking packingexcuses for a big vacation. besidesabout all the--technical to family travel, we’re doing The something the panic! whole family will enjoy to come. angst, the dread, the But we’re herefor toyears tell you it doesn’t have
to be that way! Here are a few of our top tips on how to make traveling Even if thegoing only thing daughter gains is curiosity and an open easier the next time you’re awaymy with the gang: mind, it is well worth the expense. After all, these are the things we need more of in our world.
Resources: 1. MAKE A LIST Panksepp, Jaak. Affective Neuroscience: The Foundations of Human and Animal Emotions Oxford University Press, New York, 1998. Student and Youth Travel Digest. https://syta.org/why-travel-matters/research/
This is definitely number one. Sometimes just writing ever ything down makes it seem less over whelming, and this cer tainly holds true when packing. A week before you leave for vacation, make a packing list of ever ything you may need. It is easy to forget essentials like diapers and wipes when you’re traveling with small children and feel like you need to bring EVERY THING.
2. CROSS-PACK This is another biggie considering how of ten luggage gets lost during flights these days. Just in case one family member’s bag doesn’t Some things to consider when deciding to choose travel over toys: make it to your final destination, be sure to pack an extra » It lasts longer. Children won’t outgrow memories. outfit or two in a co-traveler’s bag » Experience makes everyone wiser. » It’s a gift for the whole family – that benefits the whole family. so that each of you has something even ifgifts. not ever y bag gets » It doesn’t have to be every year. Pick milestone birthdays or swap out holiday where it needs to. and even pick » Independence and confidence will increase if you let your child help you plan the trip the destination! » Travel makes curious and conscious world citizens. » Learn flexibility and resilience when things don’t go as planned. » If you can’t bear not to offer a physical gift, have a photo book of your trip printed.
“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.” Mark Twain
3. BRING ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE TRIP The actual travel process can seem a whole lot longer when you’re straddled with bored kids who are complaining that they have nothing to do. Before leaving, be sure to pack a bunch of things that will keep the kids busy and the adults sane. Make it extra fun for you kiddos by packing a backpack filled with surprises, such as puzzles, coloring books, crayons, small board games, yummy snacks, and the iPad (if you’re not opposed), and give it to them at the beginning of the trip. We guarantee hours of enter tainment, which means a more peaceful trip for the parents.
4. GET COMFY
Car rides, plane rides, bus rides, train rides – let’s face it; none are the most comfor table. If possible, when you’re making your packing list, tr y to make some room to include pillows, blankets, and stuf fed animals for the kiddos. These days, there are a ton of great travel pillows and blankets that fold up to be ver y small and easily transpor table. These small touches can make all the dif ference in terms of getting some sleep or none...and making the kids feel more at home!
HAPPY
TRAVELS!
HOW TO MAKE FAMILY TRAVEL EASIER We all know it’s coming and yet we still put it of f until the last minute. You know what we’rlking about -- packing for a big family vacation. The angst, the dread, the panic! But we’re here to tell you it doesn’t have to be that way! Here are a few of our top tips on how to make traveling easier the next time you’re going away with the gang:
1. MAKE A LIST This is definitely number one. Sometimes just writing ever ything down makes it seem less over whelming, and this cer tainly holds true when packing. A week before you leave for vacation, make a packing list of ever ything you may need. It is easy to forget essentials like diapers and wipes when you’re traveling with small children and feel like you need to bring EVERY THING.
2. CROSS-PACK This is another biggie considering how of ten luggage gets lost during flights these days. Just in case one family member’s bag doesn’t make it to your final destination, be sure to pack an extra outfit or two in a co-traveler’s bag so that each of you has something even if not ever y bag gets where it needs to.
Stroll into our lobby, and you’ll see this quote adorned to our walls: “It is a happy talent to know how to play.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson. It is more or less the foundation of everything our business is about. Since we opened our doors way back when in 1958, our MO has been finding a way for our guests to take time- whatever time they are able to give us – and have them turn it into memories. And this is most easily accomplished by getting moms, dads, grandparents, kids, cousins and friends all together to forget about life’s stresses PLAY. 3.andBRING ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE TRIP Weactual do this travel in all sorts of ways. Maybe a laid back game of horseshoes or tennis. Perhaps BINGO or The process can seem a whole lot longer when you’re simple trivia is more your speed. some kiddos have the time their lives straddled with bored kids whoI’ve areseen complaining that they haveofnothing tosplashing around in Before 6 inchesleaving, of water in indoor splashapool. do. beour sure to pack bunch of things that will keep the kids busy and the adults sane. Make it extra fun for you kiddos by packButa what happens whenwith the simplest of amusements wears thin? Back to the drawing board for us! ing backpack filled surprises, such as puzzles, coloring books, crayons, small board games, yummy snacks, and the iPad (if you’re not Fortunately, we give have itantoincredible at Woodloch that is always proactively searching opposed), and them atteam the here beginning of the trip. We guarantee for “the bigtainment, thing.” hours of next enter which means a more peaceful trip for the parents.
4. GET COMFY
Car rides, plane rides, bus rides, train rides – let’s face it; “An idea can really come from the smallest and most subtle of places,” says Joey Ranner, Activities none are the most comfor table. If possible, when you’re Director of 37 years. “It might be something we see on a TV show, a simple game we play with our kids making your packing list, tr y to make some room to include at home, and even the slightest of suggestions from our guests.” pillows, blankets, and stuf fed animals for the kiddos. These days, there are a ton of great travel pillows and blankets On a whim, ideas will generally be something new and trendy that we haven’t done before. And they that fold up to be ver y small and easily transpor table. These are almost always family friendly- something everyone can enjoy. Then we decide to take it to the next small touches can make all the dif ference in terms of level. Sometimes we can buy supplies and equipment that we need, but more often than not, we have getting some sleep or none...and making the kids feel to build what we are trying to create from scratch. more at home!
HAPPY
TRAVELS!
When things need to be built, our carpenters, maintenance staff and activities teams sit down to discuss options and budget. If budget is high, we carefully consider if guest enjoyment would be worth the money and time. If all things look good, we start the process of “Imagineering” (no copyright infringement intended!) Our staff is filled with talent- woodworkers, engineers, electricians, painters, writers and more. They excel at taking ideas scribbled down on nothing more than notebook paper and bringing them to life! From new Olympic Games to cutting edge trivia contests, to Haunted Hayrides sets, escape rooms and beyond, we consider ourselves blessed to have such a multi-talented team!
Woodloch’s Chocolate and English Toffee Cookies
1) In a medium bowl, vigorously whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Set aside. 2) In a large bowl (or cuisinart), beat together the butter, brown and white sugars, and vanilla. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
Safety. Safety. SAFETY. Even when all things are considered and looking good, everything has to be safe for our guests. Our risk management team triple checks our new games to be sure that they can go off without a hitch- we’ll have thousands and thousands of participants using them, after all! We listen to what our guests have to say- what they like, what they don’t like, what we could possibly improve upon. And then... just as in “The Scientific Method”… the process is repeated. Over. And over. And OVER again. All said and done, we create approximately 50 – 60 new games and activities every year. Even events such as Olympics, Family Double Dare and Pool Games that are held every single year are updated for the new season. It’s a never-ending quest to entertain!
INGREDIENTS 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted softened butter 3/4 cup brown sugar 3/4 cup granulated sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 1/2 cups chopped Heath Bar pieces (About 6 - 1.4 ounce bars)
3) Spoon in the flour mixture, beating after each addition. Mix in heath bars. 4) Chill cookie dough for at least 30 minutes (better an hour or longer). 5) Preheat the oven to 350°F. On cookie sheets spoon out the dough in small 1.5-inch diameter balls. Make sure there is plenty of room between the cookie balls, and that the cookie balls aren’t too big. These cookies spread! 6) Bake at 350°F for 12-14 minutes, until the edges are just starting to brown. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Then transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
with
Kids
Woodloch’s Chocolate and English Toffee Cookies
I have a deep love for cooking. I find it not only physically satisfying but also a form of creative expression. I’ve never really been able to get my kids to follow my lead though, until we started baking. The difference between *my* cooking and baking is that baking is quite literally more measured and calculated. “Add one cup of flour” is much easier to grasp, at least for my children, than “add some diced ginger to the pan.” I believe that if I get my children to finally spend time with me in the kitchen, the benefits will be reaped in spades. • Helps develop a life skill! (That’s the obvious one) • Encourages becoming a more adventurous eater! (That’s the ultimate goal) • Teaches children a healthy diet • Aids in physical development (Think mad knife skills) • It’s a STEM project (3⁄4 cup + 1⁄2 cup = X) • The kitchen is the heart of a home and can build bonds when you cook together • It’s a GREAT confidence booster The end products were also an easier sell, obviously. When we compare a batch of chocolate chip cookies to a Coq au Vin, the reward of the cookie is much more enticing. So, cookies it shall be. The O’Fee children entered the kitchen to try their hand at Woodloch’s Chocolate and English Toffee Cookies. The 10 year old was on board early. Once I told the 6 year old he could smack candy bars with a rolling pin, he was convinced. Maybe my kids will cook with me now...
Chuck Russell AND THE TRUE SPIRIT OF THE WOODLOCH GAMES
We all have at least one of “those” friends. You know, the type of friend that seems to be comfortable almost everywhere you go, striking up new friendships with almost everyone they meet. The type of friend that’s willing and eager to try anything at least once. The type of friend that’s super passionate and possibly opinionated about things, but always quick for a hug when you’re down or need a boost of confidence. The ones that occasionally push you out of your comfort zone, for better or worse but with the best intentions. And how lucky we are to find these sorts of friends. Woodloch has had its share of “friends” like these over the years. One in particular was our good friend, Mr. Chuck Russell. Like many of our guests do, Chuck visited our resort every year with his family. And simply put, he got involved in pretty much EVERYTHING our resort had to offer. “The man was just EVERYWHERE,” says Joey Ranner, Social Director. “He quickly developed a bit of a reputation for being ‘that guy’- a true life of the party that had a certain magnetism about him. He whistled, cheered, and just had a great time everywhere he went. He was very competitive, but at day’s end, was always quick to shake hands in the true spirit of sportsmanship.” When Chuck’s company reassigned his job to Michigan, it still didn’t matter- year after year, the family still trekked to Woodloch to enjoy time with each other and their ever-growing crew of friends. He continued to make great vacation memories with his family and his newly found “Woodloch Family” for many years.
Experience shared by Rory O’Fee
55K
His daughter, Gina, remembers family vacations at Woodloch fondly. “I have SO many good memories of Woodloch- and early on how my Dad embarrassed me because he was everywhere and into everything so loudly. But if I could turn back time, I would in a heartbeat to watch him in his element. Woodloch was the one place he could totally let go, relax and enjoy each and every thing the resort had to offer. We still keep in touch with and enjoy catching up with our ‘Woodloch family’.”
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What we hope our “veteran” guests know, and our new guests will learn, is that the true spirit of the Woodloch games isn’t just winning. It’s about the fun you have along the way, and maybe even the joy you find in not winning. It’s about the laughs to be shared. It’s about the guests that arrive complete strangers and depart becoming lifelong friends (it’s happened too many times for us to count). It’s about taking what you learn about yourself in 5 days of “escaping the real world” and keeping that feeling with you until your next visit. THAT is the spirit of our resort.
SLICES OF COFFEE
ACCOMMODATIONS
SERVED EACH YEAR
In 1995, Chuck sadly lost the battle with cancer. “The Woodloch family was devastated,” says Joey. “We realized fairly quickly that we wanted to find away to not only remember Chuck but also the wonderful spirit of the Woodloch games that he so well embodied.” And thus, our Chuck Russell Award was born!
During each of our 9 weeks of summer, we would select one individual who seemed to carry the torch that Chuck ignited and recognize them at our weekly “Awards Ceremony” in the Nightclub. “It was a bittersweet kind of thing,” says Ranner. “We all truly missed Chuck, but it was rather warming to see so many of our guests keep that fire alive.” Over the years, this exclusive “club” grew and now is over 230 members strong.
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It’s hard to believe that 25 years have passed since we handed out our first “Chucky” trophy. So of course, we thought it would be more than appropriate to celebrate the “Silver Anniversary” of the award this year with a special weekend, May 1st – 3rd, 2020! In total, we will be inviting all honorees to our resort for a special weekend.
MILLION
“It’s going to be just a wonderful weekend at our resort,” says Ranner. “So much energy, so much love and so much FUN!” Whether you’re returning for your 50th Woodloch visit (we have several guests who have exceeded that plateau) or are just joining us for the first time, there’s no denying that the great spirit of what makes Woodloch so special will be, like our dear friend Chuck, EVERYWHERE.
WEB PAGE VISITS
80,000+
GUESTS THROUGH OUR DOORS
FAMILY TRAVEL TRADITIONS
WOODLOCH
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8Y THE NUM8ER5
ME RTI S E M E SUM PLOYE EM
Woodloch is a busy place all-year round! Here are just a few cool statistics about our resort we though you might enjoy!
187 DIFFERENT “MEDAL” GAMES
When two families become one, it can be difficult to decide whose traditions to adopt, and sometimes it’s easier to toss out the old and make room for the new. We usually think of traditions as what you do over the holiday season, what we celebrate during our birthdays, or even where to picnic during the 4th of July weekend. But sometimes we hold on to traditions that we didn’t even realize we had until we have kids, and our parents aren’t the ones planning our lives anymore. Maybe these traditions were a lake your family traveled to each summer or a camping trip or even a trip to visit family in another state or country. These travel traditions were likely an important focal point of your youth, and it’s normal to want to give your children the same experiences. So how do you even begin to create a travel tradition of your own with your family? Here are some tips for developing your own family travel traditions: Pick a place. Embrace a favorite spot as your annual holiday destination. Focus on a location that will be timeless regardless of your family members’ ages. It might take a few years to find the spot that fits your family. That’s okay! The journey to a tradition is just as important.
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Second and third generation traditions. Continue any travel traditions you had when you were young. If they are vastly different from one another, alternate between each family’s tradition or find some middle ground.
Don’t make it a chore. Traditions evolve over time. Be inclusive, flexible, and open to your tradition adapting as your family changes. This makes the tradition one that’s easier to keep since it doesn’t feel like something you have to do but rather something you want to do.
BONUS IDEAS FOR VACATION TRAVEL RITUALS
LAK
1,500
When it comes to tradition, history is just as important as future. You’ll want to find something that’s longstanding. Maybe it’s not an establishment but rather a specific beach or city. If you do choose a traditional vacation location, make sure it is a place that will withstand the test of time.
A book from every city. The bookish families can learn on the road. Pick up a book about your destination, and then continue to keep the memories alive each time you read it.
10,000
FLOWERS PLANTED BY GARDENING STAFF
Send yourself a postcard. We’re surrounded with digital souvenirs. We take hundreds of pictures and hours of video on each trip, but more and more, people are missing the memories they can touch. Buy a post card, fill it out with your favorite memory, have the kids doodle on it, and then send it to yourself. Parents can have fun too! Add a tongue-in-cheek, envy-inducing message to your out of office response while you’re away.
“TO-GO”
CRUMB CAKES SOLD AT OUR COUNTRY STORE
RESORT LAPS TRAVELED BY EACH SHUTTLE BUS EVERY
Grab a piece of nature. A rock or a shell with a nice smooth surface is a good place to start. Write your destination on it, have everyone sign their name, then find a special place for it in your home, even if it’s just a pretty travel shoebox.
Story chains. Find some time during your trip, whether you’re traveling, flying, or sitting around a camp fire, and get everyone in your group to tell a silly, adventurous, or scary story. Each person adds a few lines to the story and then the next person continues it. Designate a travel buddy. It’s the Flat Stanley of your family. Find a stuffed animal, a figure, or a superhero pop toy, give them a new name, and then bring them along on every family adventure. Custom tee shirts. Come up with a pun or a clever title for your trip, and put it on a t-shirt. This can make traveling easier and even safer with small children. The icing on the cake is you get a cute family photo in matching attire.
A Taste of Woodloch
Spring has arrived and along with it brighter colors and fresh flavors. Tammy Degrazia, head bartender, and Matt Gaeng, executive chef at the Clubhouse at Woodloch Springs have created some recipes for you to add to your Taste of Woodloch collection.
Fruity Olde Fashioned 3 oz. Bourbon 1 slice of orange 2 cherries 3 to 4 dashes of bitters 1 teaspoon of sugar Splash of club soda or water optional
Incorporate seasonal fruit like raspberries, blueberries, oranges, etc. Muddle fruit with sugar and bitters. Add ice and stir. Top with optional splash of club soda or water.
Pasta Bolognese (recipe for 4-6 people)
1 cup diced onion 1 cup diced celery 1 cup diced carrots ½ pound bacon diced or pancetta 4 oz white wine 1 cup heavy cream 1 Tablespoon tomato paste 12 oz marinara sauce 4 oz grated parmesan Pinch of oregano and thyme 1-1 ½ pound of prima porta sausage Garnish with fresh basil & cheese of choice (mozzarella, parmesan, asiago, ricotta) Cook sausage in a large sauce pan or rondeau, drain off grease and set aside. Crisp bacon/pancetta in pan on low heat. Once crisp, pull bacon out, set aside, and leave bacon grease in pan. Sautee onion, celery, carrots in bacon grease until tender. Put bacon and sausage back in pan. Then add tomato paste and simmer on low until slightly darkened. Remember to constantly stir during the process. Then add white wine and stir until combined then add heavy cream, thyme, oregano, grated parmesan, and marinara. Simmer on low for a few extra minutes. While the Bolognese is simmering on low, cook your favorite pasta and top it with the sauce or toss both together. Then garnish and enjoy!
A Taste of Woodloch
Spring has arrived and along with it brighter colors and fresh flavors. Tammy Degrazia, head bartender, and Matt Gaeng, executive chef at the Clubhouse at Woodloch Springs have created some recipes for you to add to your Taste of Woodloch collection.
Fruity Olde Fashioned 3 oz. Bourbon 1 slice of orange 2 cherries 3 to 4 dashes of bitters 1 teaspoon of sugar Splash of club soda or water optional
Incorporate seasonal fruit like raspberries, blueberries, oranges, etc. Muddle fruit with sugar and bitters. Add ice and stir. Top with optional splash of club soda or water.
Pasta Bolognese (recipe for 4-6 people)
1 cup diced onion 1 cup diced celery 1 cup diced carrots ½ pound bacon diced or pancetta 4 oz white wine 1 cup heavy cream 1 Tablespoon tomato paste 12 oz marinara sauce 4 oz grated parmesan Pinch of oregano and thyme 1-1 ½ pound of prima porta sausage Garnish with fresh basil & cheese of choice (mozzarella, parmesan, asiago, ricotta) Cook sausage in a large sauce pan or rondeau, drain off grease and set aside. Crisp bacon/pancetta in pan on low heat. Once crisp, pull bacon out, set aside, and leave bacon grease in pan. Sautee onion, celery, carrots in bacon grease until tender. Put bacon and sausage back in pan. Then add tomato paste and simmer on low until slightly darkened. Remember to constantly stir during the process. Then add white wine and stir until combined then add heavy cream, thyme, oregano, grated parmesan, and marinara. Simmer on low for a few extra minutes. While the Bolognese is simmering on low, cook your favorite pasta and top it with the sauce or toss both together. Then garnish and enjoy!
FAMILY TRAVEL TRADITIONS
WOODLOCH
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Woodloch is a busy place all-year round! Here are just a few cool statistics about our resort we though you might enjoy!
187 DIFFERENT “MEDAL” GAMES
When two families become one, it can be difficult to decide whose traditions to adopt, and sometimes it’s easier to toss out the old and make room for the new. We usually think of traditions as what you do over the holiday season, what we celebrate during our birthdays, or even where to picnic during the 4th of July weekend. But sometimes we hold on to traditions that we didn’t even realize we had until we have kids, and our parents aren’t the ones planning our lives anymore. Maybe these traditions were a lake your family traveled to each summer or a camping trip or even a trip to visit family in another state or country. These travel traditions were likely an important focal point of your youth, and it’s normal to want to give your children the same experiences. So how do you even begin to create a travel tradition of your own with your family? Here are some tips for developing your own family travel traditions: Pick a place. Embrace a favorite spot as your annual holiday destination. Focus on a location that will be timeless regardless of your family members’ ages. It might take a few years to find the spot that fits your family. That’s okay! The journey to a tradition is just as important.
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Second and third generation traditions. Continue any travel traditions you had when you were young. If they are vastly different from one another, alternate between each family’s tradition or find some middle ground.
Don’t make it a chore. Traditions evolve over time. Be inclusive, flexible, and open to your tradition adapting as your family changes. This makes the tradition one that’s easier to keep since it doesn’t feel like something you have to do but rather something you want to do.
BONUS IDEAS FOR VACATION TRAVEL RITUALS
LAK
1,500
When it comes to tradition, history is just as important as future. You’ll want to find something that’s longstanding. Maybe it’s not an establishment but rather a specific beach or city. If you do choose a traditional vacation location, make sure it is a place that will withstand the test of time.
A book from every city. The bookish families can learn on the road. Pick up a book about your destination, and then continue to keep the memories alive each time you read it.
10,000
FLOWERS PLANTED BY GARDENING STAFF
Send yourself a postcard. We’re surrounded with digital souvenirs. We take hundreds of pictures and hours of video on each trip, but more and more, people are missing the memories they can touch. Buy a post card, fill it out with your favorite memory, have the kids doodle on it, and then send it to yourself. Parents can have fun too! Add a tongue-in-cheek, envy-inducing message to your out of office response while you’re away.
“TO-GO”
CRUMB CAKES SOLD AT OUR COUNTRY STORE
RESORT LAPS TRAVELED BY EACH SHUTTLE BUS EVERY YEAR
Grab a piece of nature. A rock or a shell with a nice smooth surface is a good place to start. Write your destination on it, have everyone sign their name, then find a special place for it in your home, even if it’s just a pretty travel shoebox.
Story chains. Find some time during your trip, whether you’re traveling, flying, or sitting around a camp fire, and get everyone in your group to tell a silly, adventurous, or scary story. Each person adds a few lines to the story and then the next person continues it. Designate a travel buddy. It’s the Flat Stanley of your family. Find a stuffed animal, a figure, or a superhero pop toy, give them a new name, and then bring them along on every family adventure. Custom tee shirts. Come up with a pun or a clever title for your trip, and put it on a t-shirt. This can make traveling easier and even safer with small children. The icing on the cake is you get a cute family photo in matching attire.
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His daughter, Gina, remembers family vacations at Woodloch fondly. “I have SO many good memories of Woodloch- and early on how my Dad embarrassed me because he was everywhere and into everything so loudly. But if I could turn back time, I would in a heartbeat to watch him in his element. Woodloch was the one place he could totally let go, relax and enjoy each and every thing the resort had to offer. We still keep in touch with and enjoy catching up with our ‘Woodloch family’.”
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What we hope our “veteran” guests know, and our new guests will learn, is that the true spirit of the Woodloch games isn’t just winning. It’s about the fun you have along the way, and maybe even the joy you find in not winning. It’s about the laughs to be shared. It’s about the guests that arrive complete strangers and depart becoming lifelong friends (it’s happened too many times for us to count). It’s about taking what you learn about yourself in 5 days of “escaping the real world” and keeping that feeling with you until your next visit. THAT is the spirit of our resort.
SLICES OF COFFEE
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In 1995, Chuck sadly lost the battle with cancer. “The Woodloch family was devastated,” says Joey. “We realized fairly quickly that we wanted to find away to not only remember Chuck but also the wonderful spirit of the Woodloch games that he so well embodied.” And thus, our Chuck Russell Award was born!
During each of our 9 weeks of summer, we would select one individual who seemed to carry the torch that Chuck ignited and recognize them at our weekly “Awards Ceremony” in the Nightclub. “It was a bittersweet kind of thing,” says Ranner. “We all truly missed Chuck, but it was rather warming to see so many of our guests keep that fire alive.” Over the years, this exclusive “club” grew and now is over 230 members strong.
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It’s hard to believe that 25 years have passed since we handed out our first “Chucky” trophy. So of course, we thought it would be more than appropriate to celebrate the “Silver Anniversary” of the award this year with a special weekend, May 1st – 3rd, 2020! In total, we will be inviting all honorees to our resort for a special weekend.
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“It’s going to be just a wonderful weekend at our resort,” says Ranner. “So much energy, so much love and so much FUN!” Whether you’re returning for your 50th Woodloch visit (we have several guests who have exceeded that plateau) or are just joining us for the first time, there’s no denying that the great spirit of what makes Woodloch so special will be, like our dear friend Chuck, EVERYWHERE.
WEB PAGE VISITS
80,000+
GUESTS THROUGH OUR DOORS
with
Kids
Woodloch’s Chocolate and English Toffee Cookies
I have a deep love for cooking. I find it not only physically satisfying but also a form of creative expression. I’ve never really been able to get my kids to follow my lead though, until we started baking. The difference between *my* cooking and baking is that baking is quite literally more measured and calculated. “Add one cup of flour” is much easier to grasp, at least for my children, than “add some diced ginger to the pan.” I believe that if I get my children to finally spend time with me in the kitchen, the benefits will be reaped in spades. • Helps develop a life skill! (That’s the obvious one) • Encourages becoming a more adventurous eater! (That’s the ultimate goal) • Teaches children a healthy diet • Aids in physical development (Think mad knife skills) • It’s a STEM project (3⁄4 cup + 1⁄2 cup = X) • The kitchen is the heart of a home and can build bonds when you cook together • It’s a GREAT confidence booster The end products were also an easier sell, obviously. When we compare a batch of chocolate chip cookies to a Coq au Vin, the reward of the cookie is much more enticing. So, cookies it shall be. The O’Fee children entered the kitchen to try their hand at Woodloch’s Chocolate and English Toffee Cookies. The 10 year old was on board early. Once I told the 6 year old he could smack candy bars with a rolling pin, he was convinced. Maybe my kids will cook with me now...
Chuck Russell AND THE TRUE SPIRIT OF THE WOODLOCH GAMES
We all have at least one of “those” friends. You know, the type of friend that seems to be comfortable almost everywhere you go, striking up new friendships with almost everyone they meet. The type of friend that’s willing and eager to try anything at least once. The type of friend that’s super passionate and possibly opinionated about things, but always quick for a hug when you’re down or need a boost of confidence. The ones that occasionally push you out of your comfort zone, for better or worse but with the best intentions. And how lucky we are to find these sorts of friends. Woodloch has had its share of “friends” like these over the years. One in particular was our good friend, Mr. Chuck Russell. Like many of our guests do, Chuck visited our resort every year with his family. And simply put, he got involved in pretty much EVERYTHING our resort had to offer. “The man was just EVERYWHERE,” says Joey Ranner, Social Director. “He quickly developed a bit of a reputation for being ‘that guy’- a true life of the party that had a certain magnetism about him. He whistled, cheered, and just had a great time everywhere he went. He was very competitive, but at day’s end, was always quick to shake hands in the true spirit of sportsmanship.” When Chuck’s company reassigned his job to Michigan, it still didn’t matter- year after year, the family still trekked to Woodloch to enjoy time with each other and their ever-growing crew of friends. He continued to make great vacation memories with his family and his newly found “Woodloch Family” for many years.
Experience shared by Rory O’Fee
When things need to be built, our carpenters, maintenance staff and activities teams sit down to discuss options and budget. If budget is high, we carefully consider if guest enjoyment would be worth the money and time. If all things look good, we start the process of “Imagineering” (no copyright infringement intended!) Our staff is filled with talent- woodworkers, engineers, electricians, painters, writers and more. They excel at taking ideas scribbled down on nothing more than notebook paper and bringing them to life! From new Olympic Games to cutting edge trivia contests, to Haunted Hayrides sets, escape rooms and beyond, we consider ourselves blessed to have such a multi-talented team!
Woodloch’s Chocolate and English Toffee Cookies
1) In a medium bowl, vigorously whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Set aside. 2) In a large bowl (or cuisinart), beat together the butter, brown and white sugars, and vanilla. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
Safety. Safety. SAFETY. Even when all things are considered and looking good, everything has to be safe for our guests. Our risk management team triple checks our new games to be sure that they can go off without a hitch- we’ll have thousands and thousands of participants using them, after all! We listen to what our guests have to say- what they like, what they don’t like, what we could possibly improve upon. And then... just as in “The Scientific Method”… the process is repeated. Over. And over. And OVER again. All said and done, we create approximately 50 – 60 new games and activities every year. Even events such as Olympics, Family Double Dare and Pool Games that are held every single year are updated for the new season. It’s a never-ending quest to entertain!
INGREDIENTS 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted softened butter 3/4 cup brown sugar 3/4 cup granulated sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 1/2 cups chopped Heath Bar pieces (About 6 - 1.4 ounce bars)
3) Spoon in the flour mixture, beating after each addition. Mix in heath bars. 4) Chill cookie dough for at least 30 minutes (better an hour or longer). 5) Preheat the oven to 350°F. On cookie sheets spoon out the dough in small 1.5-inch diameter balls. Make sure there is plenty of room between the cookie balls, and that the cookie balls aren’t too big. These cookies spread! 6) Bake at 350°F for 12-14 minutes, until the edges are just starting to brown. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Then transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
HOW TO MAKE FAMILY TRAVEL EASIER We all know it’s coming and yet we still put it of f until the last minute. You know what we’rlking about -- packing for a big family vacation. The angst, the dread, the panic! But we’re here to tell you it doesn’t have to be that way! Here are a few of our top tips on how to make traveling easier the next time you’re going away with the gang:
1. MAKE A LIST This is definitely number one. Sometimes just writing ever ything down makes it seem less over whelming, and this cer tainly holds true when packing. A week before you leave for vacation, make a packing list of ever ything you may need. It is easy to forget essentials like diapers and wipes when you’re traveling with small children and feel like you need to bring EVERY THING.
2. CROSS-PACK This is another biggie considering how of ten luggage gets lost during flights these days. Just in case one family member’s bag doesn’t make it to your final destination, be sure to pack an extra outfit or two in a co-traveler’s bag so that each of you has something even if not ever y bag gets where it needs to.
Stroll into our lobby, and you’ll see this quote adorned to our walls: “It is a happy talent to know how to play.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson. It is more or less the foundation of everything our business is about. Since we opened our doors way back when in 1958, our MO has been finding a way for our guests to take time- whatever time they are able to give us – and have them turn it into memories. And this is most easily accomplished by getting moms, dads, grandparents, kids, cousins and friends all together to forget about life’s stresses PLAY. 3.andBRING ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE TRIP Weactual do this travel in all sorts of ways. Maybe a laid back game of horseshoes or tennis. Perhaps BINGO or The process can seem a whole lot longer when you’re simple trivia is more your speed. some kiddos have the time their lives straddled with bored kids whoI’ve areseen complaining that they haveofnothing tosplashing around in Before 6 inchesleaving, of water in indoor splashapool. do. beour sure to pack bunch of things that will keep the kids busy and the adults sane. Make it extra fun for you kiddos by packButa what happens whenwith the simplest of amusements wears thin? Back to the drawing board for us! ing backpack filled surprises, such as puzzles, coloring books, crayons, small board games, yummy snacks, and the iPad (if you’re not Fortunately, we give have itantoincredible at Woodloch that is always proactively searching opposed), and them atteam the here beginning of the trip. We guarantee for “the bigtainment, thing.” hours of next enter which means a more peaceful trip for the parents.
4. GET COMFY
Car rides, plane rides, bus rides, train rides – let’s face it; “An idea can really come from the smallest and most subtle of places,” says Joey Ranner, Activities none are the most comfor table. If possible, when you’re Director of 37 years. “It might be something we see on a TV show, a simple game we play with our kids making your packing list, tr y to make some room to include at home, and even the slightest of suggestions from our guests.” pillows, blankets, and stuf fed animals for the kiddos. These days, there are a ton of great travel pillows and blankets On a whim, ideas will generally be something new and trendy that we haven’t done before. And they that fold up to be ver y small and easily transpor table. These are almost always family friendly- something everyone can enjoy. Then we decide to take it to the next small touches can make all the dif ference in terms of level. Sometimes we can buy supplies and equipment that we need, but more often than not, we have getting some sleep or none...and making the kids feel to build what we are trying to create from scratch. more at home!
HAPPY
TRAVELS!
When these systems of the brain are stimulated, they contribute to the ability to play with ideas, the curiosity to learn, the initiative to pursue happiness, and much more. When polled by the Student and Youth Travel Association, 79% of educators considered it a priority to increase the cultural awareness of students. Surveyed teachers also said children who traveled tended to show more independence, confidence, respect, and openness to trying new things than their peers who had not traveled. The majority of these teachers also believe travel had an extremely positive impact on a student’s educational prospects, cultural awareness, and even their future careers.
HOW TO MAKE
it may cost more than a normal birthday gift and party, with FAMILY While TRAVEL EASIER
all of this evidence surrounding the benefits of travel, it seems to make sense that Mt. Rushmore for my daughter’s birthday is a We all know it’s coming and yet weinstill put it of until last minute. good investment her quality of flife andthe even in her future. And You know what we’rlking packingexcuses for a big vacation. besidesabout all the--technical to family travel, we’re doing The something the panic! whole family will enjoy to come. angst, the dread, the But we’re herefor toyears tell you it doesn’t have
to be that way! Here are a few of our top tips on how to make traveling Even if thegoing only thing daughter gains is curiosity and an open easier the next time you’re awaymy with the gang: mind, it is well worth the expense. After all, these are the things we need more of in our world.
Resources: 1. MAKE A LIST Panksepp, Jaak. Affective Neuroscience: The Foundations of Human and Animal Emotions Oxford University Press, New York, 1998. Student and Youth Travel Digest. https://syta.org/why-travel-matters/research/
This is definitely number one. Sometimes just writing ever ything down makes it seem less over whelming, and this cer tainly holds true when packing. A week before you leave for vacation, make a packing list of ever ything you may need. It is easy to forget essentials like diapers and wipes when you’re traveling with small children and feel like you need to bring EVERY THING.
2. CROSS-PACK This is another biggie considering how of ten luggage gets lost during flights these days. Just in case one family member’s bag doesn’t Some things to consider when deciding to choose travel over toys: make it to your final destination, be sure to pack an extra » It lasts longer. Children won’t outgrow memories. outfit or two in a co-traveler’s bag » Experience makes everyone wiser. » It’s a gift for the whole family – that benefits the whole family. so that each of you has something even ifgifts. not ever y bag gets » It doesn’t have to be every year. Pick milestone birthdays or swap out holiday where it needs to. and even pick » Independence and confidence will increase if you let your child help you plan the trip the destination! » Travel makes curious and conscious world citizens. » Learn flexibility and resilience when things don’t go as planned. » If you can’t bear not to offer a physical gift, have a photo book of your trip printed.
“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.” Mark Twain
3. BRING ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE TRIP The actual travel process can seem a whole lot longer when you’re straddled with bored kids who are complaining that they have nothing to do. Before leaving, be sure to pack a bunch of things that will keep the kids busy and the adults sane. Make it extra fun for you kiddos by packing a backpack filled with surprises, such as puzzles, coloring books, crayons, small board games, yummy snacks, and the iPad (if you’re not opposed), and give it to them at the beginning of the trip. We guarantee hours of enter tainment, which means a more peaceful trip for the parents.
4. GET COMFY
Car rides, plane rides, bus rides, train rides – let’s face it; none are the most comfor table. If possible, when you’re making your packing list, tr y to make some room to include pillows, blankets, and stuf fed animals for the kiddos. These days, there are a ton of great travel pillows and blankets that fold up to be ver y small and easily transpor table. These small touches can make all the dif ference in terms of getting some sleep or none...and making the kids feel more at home!
HAPPY
TRAVELS!
W O ODLOCH AS SEEN IN... MT. RUSHMORE “8 Awesome, All-Inclusive Resorts that You Don’t Need a Passport to Visit”
In recent months, Woodloch has gained quite a bit of national notoriety despite its virtually unknown location in small town Hawley, Pennsylvania. The past year alone has brought impressive features in several major national media outlets, some of which we’ve showcased below. The icing on the cake was being voted the number one resort for families in the US by USA Today’s 10 Best Awards 2019, beating out international brands such as Four Seasons, Disney, Fairmont, and Club Med. At their core, Woodloch vacations are built on bringing loved ones together and creating lifelong memories. We could never do this without our loyal guests to whom we are incredibly grateful and extend a very big THANK YOU!
“5 Places to Have Your Next Family Reunion”
Woodloch Pines Family Resort offers a family atmosphere with activities everyone will enjoy. Recognized as a top family resort in the United States by TripAdvisor, the resort has a staff dedicated to planning the perfect family festivities. Plan a boat ride, a golfing outing, or check out an evening show. The hotel can also create personalized events such as hosting a cocktail reception or rehearsal dinner.
“12 All-Inclusive Family Resorts that Make Vacationing a Breeze”
“This all-inclusive Poconos resort has plenty to keep the family busy. Activities include rock climbing, go-karts, and trivia contests, as well as nightly entertainment. Meals are served family-style, and always include a delicious dessert (the chocolate peanut butter pie is a favorite).”
“Woodloch Pines, The Quintessential Family Resort for 60 Years”
The highlight of your stay may very well be the Broadway style show at night that always has a “G” rating. Guests can cap off the evening with a stage performance featuring precise choreography, pulsating music and very gifted performers. There are many New York City or Las Vegas shows that don’t boast this amount of energy on one stage, and the show is pure enjoyment from start to finish.
FOR MY BIRTHDAY
Choosing travel over toys leads to advanced brain development and open mindedness.
At this in the Poconos Mountains, guests receive three family-style meals each day. Families can also indulge in more than 30 daily activities on the property, including haunted hayrides, scavenger hunts, bakery wars and a petting zoo.
One afternoon, while cleaning out my home office, my 7-year-old daughter found my old beat up passport and flipped through the pages, asking about the stamps and their origins. She then paused “24 Last-Minute, Cheap Winter on the colorful, semitransparent Vacation Deals to Book for background photo of Mt.2020” Rushmore. “I want to go here, Mommy,” she said with conviction as she pointed out theby photo. Named the #1 Family Resort in America Trip Advisor, the all-inclusive Woodloch Pines is nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Poconos mounThere wasWhile no difference tains and overlooks Little Teedyuskung Lake. Woodloch isbetween a four-seawhen she gets a toy magazine and sons resort, winter is arguably the most magical time with a sledding hill points out all the things she wants (readied for action with snow guns if the weather isn’t cooperating), two there. She was making a leskating rinks, ice fishing, ice hockey,from and the Woodloch Winter Olympics with gitimate request, and since then, “competitions” in tubing, sliding, rolling, and more. Or you can choose to reshe’s made several more. Why can’t lax indoors at the resort’s world-class spa. During “Olde Fashioned Holiday we look at travel and experience Weekends in the Poconos,” you’ll enjoy reindeer races, Christmas caroling, a the same way we look at physical holiday scavenger hunt, eggnog, cookies, a visitsay fromwe theshould. white bearded gifts?and Experts gent in red! Speaking of the big man himself, don’t miss these stories about meeting Santa that will fill you with Child the Christmas spirit. Dr. Margot psychologist,
“Top Lake Resort Vacations for Families in the U.S. and Canada”
Woodloch, an all-inclusive family resort in the Poconos, comes with a twist. Instead of kids-only daylong programs, Woodloch, in the town of Hawley, promotes a week of what it calls “togethering.” Like bunkmates at camp, you and your children join group activities batched for ages 3 to 6 or 7 to 10. Cheered on by the social staff, your team builds boats, constructs sand sculptures, shoots hoops, and plays soccer. For a respite from games, ride bumper cars and go-carts—or live the lake lifestyle and swim, fish, kayak, and water ski. Evening entertainment tends toward things kids like: magicians, jugglers, or a Broadway-style musical performed by staff. Operated by the Kiesendahl family since the resort opened in 1958, Woodloch has a friendly attention to detail. Accommodations include regular rooms and two-bedroom suites close the main dining room, plus a selection of rental houses.
Sunderland wrote that vacations can boost long-term happiness and even make children smarter. “This is because on a family vacation, you are exercising two genetically ingrained systems deep in the brain’s limbic area.”
These two areas are the PLAY and the SEEKING systems. “The PLAY system is important for learning various emotional and cognitive skills,” writes famed neuroscientist Jaak Panksepp, the scientist who carved out the seven primary emotional systems during his career. “In humans, [the SEEKING system] may be one of the main brain systems that generate and sustain curiosity, even for intellectual pursuits,” Dr. Panksepp explains.
W O ODLOCH AS SEEN IN... Welcome
In recent months, Woodloch has gained quite a bit of national notoriety despite its virtually unknown location in small town Hawley, Pennsylvania. The past year alone has brought impressive features in several major national media outlets, some of which we’ve showcased below. The icing on the cake was being voted the number one resort for families in the US by USA Today’s 10 Best Awards 2019, beating out international brands such Time. It’s the great equalizer, the destroyer, the paramount opportunist, the most truthful cliche, as Fourour Seasons, Disney, Fairmont, and Club Med. At their Woodloch vacations are built on bringing loved most taken granted for and most revered; time meanscore, everything. If there’s one thing we can ones together creating lifelong We those couldwe never without ourdon’t loyalknow guests all agree and on it’s we could spend memories. more time with love.do At this Woodloch, if you al- to whom we are ready, our purpose is to incredibly provide an environment families to spend quality time grateful andfor extend a very big THANK YOU!with each other.
“8 Awesome, All-Inclusive Resorts that You Don’t Need a Passport to Visit”
At this in the Poconos Mountains, guests receive three family-style meals each day. Families can also indulge in more than 30 daily activities on the property, including haunted hayrides, scavenger hunts, bakery wars and a petting zoo.
That’s what it’s all about and that’s what our main focus is.
The aforementioned point is especially noted in this issue of WLP Family. We go deep into some of the more fun numbers of woodloch that lend themselves to the generations of traditions we have. We look at “5 thePlaces exercisetoofHave takingYour the time bake with our children and how valuable that NexttoFamily Reunion” time spent together is. We explore the importance of family travel and how using vacation as a gift can represent more of a soulful reward for all. Most importantly we explore the story of a man who represented the soul of woodloch and glean the importance of spending time with family and how we can’t take that gift of time for granted.
“24 Last-Minute, Cheap Winter Vacation Deals to Book for 2020”
Woodloch Pines Family Resort offers a family atmosphere with activities everyone On Recognized to new and upcoming things,resort we’reinexcited to welcome final piece to will enjoy. as a top family the United States the by TripAdvisor, theour beach renovation project. Before memorial day weekend, a new, multi-level, all-ages playground will be installed resort has a staff dedicated to planning the perfect family festivities. Plan a boat and ready for fun. We’re also converting one of our escape rooms into a virtual reality game room ride, a golfing outindividual an evening show. can also create that willouting, featureor2 check bays for game playThe andhotel a tandem racing pod.personalized events such as hosting a cocktail reception or rehearsal dinner. We would be remiss without mentioning the current situation of the CoVID-19 crisis befalling the globe currently and how it’s impacting all of our lives, let alone global travel. At woodloch we are keeping a watchful eye and staying vigilant in our already rigid sanitation regimen. We pray for a swift solution, that the impact of this disease will be minimal and that none of you are affected.that “12 All-Inclusive Family Resorts
Vacationing a Breeze”
Make
We hope that this issue touches you in some way, brings you advice, helps you appreciate the time we all have together and remember you’ll always have those memories you make while on vacation with your family. Sincerely,
“This all-inclusive Poconos resort has plenty to keep the family busy. Activities include rock climbing, go-karts, and trivia contests, as well as nightly entertainment. Meals are served family-style, and always include a delicious dessert (the chocolate peanut butter pie is a favorite).”
The Woodloch Family
“Woodloch Pines, The Quintessential Family Resort for 60 Years”
The highlight of your stay may very well be the Broadway style show at night that always has a “G” rating. Guests can cap off the evening with a stage performance featuring precise choreography, pulsating music and very gifted performers. There are many New York City or Las Vegas shows that don’t boast this amount of energy on one stage, and the show is pure enjoyment from start to finish.
Named the #1 Family Resort in America by Trip Advisor, the all-inclusive Woodloch Pines is nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Poconos mountains and overlooks Little Teedyuskung Lake. While Woodloch is a four-seasons resort, winter is arguably the most magical time with a sledding hill (readied for action with snow guns if the weather isn’t cooperating), two skating rinks, ice fishing, ice hockey, and the Woodloch Winter Olympics with “competitions” in tubing, sliding, rolling, and more. Or you can choose to relax indoors at the resort’s world-class spa. During “Olde Fashioned Holiday Weekends in the Poconos,” you’ll enjoy reindeer races, Christmas caroling, a holiday scavenger hunt, eggnog, cookies, and a visit from the white bearded gent in red! Speaking of the big man himself, don’t miss these stories about meeting Santa that will fill you with the Christmas spirit.
“Top Lake Resort Vacations for Families in the U.S. and Canada”
Woodloch, an all-inclusive family resort in the Poconos, comes with a twist. Instead of kids-only daylong programs, Woodloch, in the town of Hawley, promotes a week of what it calls “togethering.” Like bunkmates at camp, you and your children join group activities batched for ages 3 to 6 or 7 to 10. Cheered on by the social staff, your team builds boats, constructs sand sculptures, shoots hoops, and plays soccer. For a respite from games, ride bumper cars and go-carts—or live the lake lifestyle and swim, fish, kayak, and water ski. Evening entertainment tends toward things kids like: magicians, jugglers, or a Broadway-style musical performed by staff. Operated by the Kiesendahl family since the resort opened in 1958, Woodloch has a friendly attention to detail. Accommodations include regular rooms and two-bedroom suites close the main dining room, plus a selection of rental houses.
REASONS TO REUNITE AT WOODLOCH: Dedicated staff Experienced coordinators Accommodates any size group Guest homes, hotel rooms, suites Various dining options Daily activity schedule Builds lasting memories!
SPRING 2020
A story about bringing families together.. WOODLOCH.COM/REUNITE 800.453.8263 OPTION #2
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