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A story about bringing families together..
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WINTER 201 8
NEWSLETTER
Welcome
As this issue hits newsstands, we’ll be smack in the middle of the holiday season, our favorite time of year. It’s that time when we all come a little closer together and we share in the warmth of our family and friends. The hustle and bustle between Thanksgiving and New Years can be exhausting at times, but that’s part of the charm, right? Through all the parties, all the shopping, the personalities, and the incessant consumerism, it’s important to remind yourself of the of the season. The holidays shouldn’t necessarily focus on60 the materialistic The bedrock Lodge at Woodloch, A Destination Spa Celebrating years of family, friends and FUN! gifts we give or how much we get; it should be about the gift of family and friendship.
Our family It’s resort was laurels ourgranted own. The of Pennsylvania Woodloch as “The #1 easy to not losewithout sight and takeoffor thestate connections we haverecognized through family. Place to Work in the State.” After being featured in magazines including Family Circle, Parents Magazine and Better Strengthening those connections and spending time with your Homes and Gardens, Woodloch received the ultimate honor ofisbeing named #1When Hotelyou for Families in America” family and friends the best gift “The of all. work at it, by TripAdvisor in 2015. For six years running, TripAdvisor has rated us as one of the top five hotels for families in the the benefit is felt by all. Family bonds produce an entire United States. incredible network of support, encouragement, and love. In 2018, Woodloch was humbled to celebrate 60th Diamond Anniversary. Though the celebration is just about For their Woodloch, it’s all about family, both immediate and ready to conclude as we enter 2019, we realize that life moves in only one direction: forward. A year of nostalgic extended. We try to work hard at it all year round - but have reflection will soon give way to starry-eyed aambition asdoing we continue to redefine what a family vacation ought to be. lot of fun it as well! Speaking of fun, we’re
excited to launch a new activity this winter called the It is hard to believe that seven decades have passed since Harry and Mary boldly venturedwe’ll into resort Woodloch Winterfest! Non-holiday Saturdays have aownership. While they are both dearly missed, their presence is still very much alive at our resort. You can see festival with a hot chocolate bar, carnival games, mini the heart of Aunt Mary every time a staff member goes out of their way to seebonfire a guestand smile. We rememberlive Uncle Harry every time an festival of lights, marshmallows, music employee switches out of an activities shirtand andmuch into amore! cocktail uniform. Stay tuned! The echoes of their love for each other and the
The 4th Generation
resort are heard through the winter’s cold and the summer sun.
Please take a moment to take a breath from all the craziness of the holiday season and be thankful. Maybe make a resolution to work at building those intangibles that are missing or lacking. Happy holidays, and we hope to see you at Woodloch again soon. God Bless,
The Woodloch Family
2019 THEME SHOW Preview - You’ll like the way we work this... no diggity. I don’t have the scientific data to back it up, and of course it’s all a matter of opinion- but for me, there was no better decade than the 1990’s. The music, the movies, the TV, and the fads (slap bracelets and flannel? YUP). I can’t speak for everyone, but I had everything I needed, and nothing that I didn’t. It was a HAPPY time. Cue Marky Mark and the Funky bunch, because for 2019, Woodloch is bringing “GOOD VIBRATIONS” and heading back to that magical decade with our “Welcome to the 90’s” Theme Show. “It’s hard to believe that the 90’s are almost 20 years past us now,” says Bradley Kiesendahl, Manager of Operations. “We all find ourselves fondly remembering this time- and if kids weren’t yet born, what a great decade for them to rediscover through the power of entertainment!” As with every Woodloch Theme Night, the evening will begin with characters greeting guests as they arrive for dinner, followed by the traditional parade. Then, we head to our Heritage Nightclub as the show is presented by Joey Casella and his troupe of performersprofessional dancers and singers alike! “We’ve got a great show coming your way in 2019,” says Joey. “Be on the lookout for great R&B songs, the rise of country
music, a salute to great television shows, a tribute to grunge rock, and of course, a battle of THE BOY BANDS. We look forward to bringing you one of our best shows EVER!” -J.Ranner
Catch Woodloch’s Theme Show Wednesday and Saturday nights all year long!
IT’S A
Jumble
The Story of Woodloch
Everything is mixed up! Unscramble the following “Woodloch” words- then decrypt the boxed letters to spell out a secet message!
When our tale last concluded, Woodloch had just hosted its largest house count ever as more than 1300 guests helped them ring in the year 2000 with a truly unforgettable bash in our Nightclub. When dawn broke, the sun not only rose on a new millennium but also on a new era in the history of Woodloch…
O UT THERE!
Be the first reader to submit a 100% completed puzzle to josephj.ranner@woodloch.com (scan or photograph) and WIN a special Woodloch prize pack!
1. IEEAKSDLHN
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2 . K AO C E S T D E O U H
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3. OPNSOCO
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4 . E K M R B AC C U
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5. STUKEUDEGNYU
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6. EIPSLINYWOCMRT
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7. S R E S E A R O H C
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8. THSHEWOME
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9. OLDHTOERGN
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10. CGEVUTNANHRSE
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CHAPTER IV
Time seemed to fly by quicker than anyone was able to keep pace with. In the blink of an eye, more than 40 years had elapsed since Harry and Mary had taken a chance with a 12-room boarding house. Through acquisitions and growth, the tiny campus had blossomed to over 1,200 acres. A small staff of just a few friendly faces was now an army of over 1,000 employees. And what began as Long Island’s best kept secret was no longer one - more than 40,000 guests were visiting the campus on an annual basis!
and beverage and became Food Service Director. Additionally, after battling leukemia, he established the Hope Cures Foundation, which has raised over $1 million in the fight against cancer. The organization hosts a 5k, golf tournament, and tricky tray, which grow by leaps and bounds every year. John’s wife, Patti, oversees both retail and decor at the resort and is instrumental in giving Woodloch that “homey” feeling. John’s nephew, Robbie, has been a staple winning personality in the Social Department for 20 years.
Needless to say, there was a lot of ground, both physical and metaphorical, for the Kiesendahl family to cover. Thankfully, they were ready for it.
Combining John and Steve’s passion and comittment for excellence with the third generation’s talent has made a Woodloch a true family effort in bringing its signature warm hospitality to all guests.
Just as John and Steve had been “classically” trained by their father before them, so were John’s kids. Ever since they were old enough to pitch in here and there, Brooke, Bob, Matt, Bradley and Patrick were involved in learning and helping in the family business. As they grew older and more educated, each of them followed their passions to help cement new roles at Woodloch. Brooke, a true social butterfly who had tremendous success in pharmaceutical sales, seamlessly transitioned into the role of Head of Guest Relations. Matt, who was always quite the athlete, found life as Manager of Woodloch Springs and Woodloch’s Boat House restaurant one that he could hang a hat on. After 8 years managing a Four Seasons Hotel, Brad Kiesendahl returned back home to be Director of Operations. Patrick, a true “people person,” wrapped up his education at St. Joseph’s University and now oversees Activities, Bar, and Safety Services. Bob, John’s oldest son, pursued his interests in food
In addition to family and property, the Woodloch “vacation experience” also continued to expand! New amenities, including an indoor gymnasium and “forest” playground, snow tubing hills, zip lines, year-round skating rink, escape rooms and indoor and outdoor splash pools made for even better family escapes year-round. The creative activities such as “Survivor,” “Winter Olympics” and “Cake Wars” have redefined what folks would consider a “vacation.” With so many guests returning year after year, the experience had to be remain fresh.
W w g c e d b e c m
S r g l t fi g s
h r p Family Fun... redefined!
f
Down “Memory Lane”... In a recent issue of WLP Family Magazine, we decided to share the “throwback” photo to the left with our guests as a fun way to celebrate our 60th Anniversary. Little did we know, some of our original staff would cross paths with the magazine! Doris, one of our first employees, recognized the photo and gave us a call- we were happy to invite her back for a visit! She sat down with us, along with her friend and co-worker Gretchen, and chatted about “the good ole days.” “I first met Harry Kiesendahl when I worked in his
I remember sharing Wooodloch with our boyfriends who came up on weekends and also had a chance to do dishes! It was shared work, and then we could go out. From here, we went to the Cuckoo’s Nest, which featured fiddlers playing on Friday night with square dancing! One memory I think about is when I was learning to water ski. I think everybody learned to water ski. And Harry was so careful about helping us do the right thing, to get up on skis. Eventually Joy and Ben (co-workers) and I did “doubles,” and we were part of the water show. And so we skied criss-cross and inside-out. I was the one who went under the ropes. This one time, the rope wasn’t held quite high enough to the right. I zoomed in, then zoomed out. It was just too close to my head! And I wasn’t going to do that again. But I loved the thrill of it.
The following year, Harry said, “you know, we probably need more people waiting the tables.” So my other sorority sisters came, including my friend Gretchen. There were a total of nine girls altogether that I brought to Woodloch.
Heintze Townhouse in Huntington, Long Island. I was a waitress there. I waited tables; sometimes I helped to make the sodas or the food. Harry said “to have a smile and be welcoming to the guests.” One day, I was standing talking with the person who made the sandwiches and the grill lady, Sally. I But it wasn’t all work. We had so much fun. Sunday nights were particularly fun because Harry served was just chatting and talking, and Harry said, “You us drinks. There was such camaraderie with the know I am paying you to be here, and I’d rather not The Family, 2018always - Patrick,work Bradley, Steve, John, Bob,and and Mary Matt was a large part of staffBrooke, in the kitchen, see you standing and talking. There’s the camaraderie with her ever-present smile and to be done. The straws need filling. Mustards need concern the for most us. Everybody so congenial, wiping. Ketchups need filling.” That example Perhaps Woodloch soon also discovered that the set terman“family” ambitiouswas of alljust of these expansion was changing at our resort. In addition to relatives projects was Woodloch’s involvement in the creation so generous with their time. We all respected their for you about what his expectations were! gathering for good times, new “families” visiting our and management of a new spa property. In 2003, need for us to be on time and to serve their guests. complex included lifelong friends, neighbors, and the opportunity to develop a large plot of land across One day, HarryWoodloch told me that he was thinking about even co-workers. became a one-of-a-kind the street from the golf course at Woodloch Springs how he was going to buy a place in the Poconos, destination for corporate meetings as large companies presented itself. Along with a team of independent began their away for for “team investors, the land was tactfully sculpted into what would and sending he would likeemployees me to come work himbuilding” once events like boat building, “Amazing Race” and marketing become The Lodge at Woodloch: A Destination Spa. he got the lay of the land. The second year of challenges. Even just a little R&R was in order after operation he asked me to come up, and he said meetings concluded. Guests of the spa would have access to fitness classes, I could bring a friend if I wanted to, which I did. I outdoor activities, guest lectures, wine tasting and broughtofaguests, sororityWoodloch sister. The two ofmore us worked that cooking demonstrations as well as an enormous Speaking needed and more room to and accommodate only were more array of spa treatments. While it was somewhat of a year, it was veryeveryone! differentNot than what it looks guests returning year after year, but they were arriving in like today. We washed all the dishes by hand; there change of pace from their traditional brand of family larger groups! What once began as mom and dad with fun, it was certainly welcome to new guests as well as was no dishwasher. But it was a wonderful place to their kids had expanded to include boyfriends, girlfriends, many returning guests who just couldn’t resist a little work.and Harry had biggrandchildren. expecations for his stafftowith fiances eventually In addition all 65 bit of “quiet time.” The Lodge at Woodloch opened its work, yet he exceptionally and generous guest homes at was Woodloch Springs, kind Woodloch also built doors in 2006 and within a decade was named the “#3 Destination Spa in the World” by Travel & Leisure spacious houses knownusastoour Southwoods with his6-bedroom time for us. He taught water ski. He homes. They became lodging wanted us to learn athe newperfect sport and havefor funfamily at the Magazine among other honors! reunions, corporate retreats and even wedding lake, and that’s where we spent our time. parties.
When I think back to that time, mostly there are people memories. I think about Mary’s kindness, Harry’s great laugh and a wonderful sense of humor. And he was very proud of us. And he let other people know that he was proud of us and that was just very affiriming. I think you don’t have that unless you have clearly laid expectations of what is expected of you so that you can work within that framework. It was just a wonderful place to be. There was appreciation for the work done, and it was just so beautiful. Walking around now and seeing how Woodloch has expanded and changed, it is obvious that the spirit of what we were is very much alive and well!”
I remember sharing Wooodloch with our boyfriends who came up on weekends and also had a chance to do dishes! It was shared work, and then we could go out. From here, we went to the Cuckoo’s Nest, which featured fiddlers playing on Friday night with square dancing!
Down “Memory Lane”... In a recent issue of WLP Family Magazine, we decided to share the “throwback” photo to the left with our guests as a fun way to celebrate our 60th Anniversary. Little did we know, some of our original staff would cross paths with the magazine! Doris, one of our first employees, recognized the photo and gave us a call- we were happy to invite her back for a visit! She sat down with us, along with her friend and co-worker Gretchen, and chatted about “the good ole days.” The Lodge at Woodloch, A Destination Spa
“I first met Harry Kiesendahl when I worked in his
Heintze Townhouse in Huntington, Long Island. I was a waitress there. I waited tables; sometimes I helped to make the sodas or the food. Harry said “to have a smile and be welcoming to the guests.” One day, I was standing talking with the person who made the sandwiches and the grill lady, Sally. I was just chatting and talking, and Harry said, “You know I am paying you to be here, and I’d rather not see you standing and talking. There’s always work to be done. The straws need filling. Mustards need wiping. Ketchups need filling.” That set an example for you about what his expectations were! One day, Harry told me that he was thinking about how he was going to buy a place in the Poconos, and he would like me to come work for him once he got the lay of the land. The second year of operation he asked me to come up, and he said I could bring a friend if I wanted to, which I did. I brought a sorority sister. The two of us worked that year, and it was very different than what it looks like today. We washed all the dishes by hand; there was no dishwasher. But it was a wonderful place to work. Harry had big expecations for his staff with work, yet he was exceptionally kind and generous with his time for us. He taught us to water ski. He wanted us to learn a new sport and have fun at the lake, and that’s where we spent our time.
The following year, Harry said, “you know, we probably need more people waiting the tables.” So my other sorority sisters came, including my friend Gretchen. There were a total of nine girls altogether that I brought to Woodloch. But it wasn’t all work. We had so much fun. Sunday nights were particularly fun because Harry served us drinks. There was such camaraderie with the staff in the kitchen, and Mary was a large part of the camaraderie with her ever-present smile and concern for us. Everybody was just so congenial, so generous with their time. We all respected their need for us to be on time and to serve their guests.
One memory I think about is when I was learning to water ski. I think everybody learned to water ski. And Harry was so careful about helping us do the right thing, to get up on skis. Eventually Joy and Ben (co-workers) and I did “doubles,” and we were part of the water show. And so we skied criss-cross and inside-out. I was the one who went under the ropes. This one time, the rope wasn’t held quite high enough to the right. I zoomed in, then zoomed out. It was just too close to my head! And I wasn’t going to do that again. But I loved the thrill of it. Celebrating 60 years of family, friends and FUN!
Our family resort was not without laurels of our own. The state of Pennsylvania recognized Woodloch as “The #1 Place to Work in the State.” After being featured in magazines including Family Circle, Parents Magazine and Better Homes and Gardens, Woodloch received the ultimate honor of being named “The #1 Hotel for Families in America” by TripAdvisor in 2015. For six years running, TripAdvisor has rated us as one of the top five hotels for families in the entire United States. In 2018, Woodloch was humbled to celebrate their 60th Diamond Anniversary. Though the celebration is just about ready to conclude as we enter 2019, we realize that life moves in only one direction: forward. A year of nostalgic reflection will soon give way to starry-eyed ambition as we continue to redefine what a family vacation ought to be. It is hard to believe that seven decades have passed since Harry and Mary boldly ventured into resort ownership. While they are both dearly missed, their presence is still very much alive at our resort. You can see the heart of Aunt Mary every time a staff member goes out of their way to see a guest smile. We remember Uncle Harry every time an employee switches out of an activities shirt and into a cocktail uniform. The echoes of their love for each other and the resort are heard through the winter’s cold and the summer sun.
When I think back to that time, mostly there are people memories. I think about Mary’s kindness, Harry’s great laugh and a wonderful sense of humor. And he was very proud of us. And he let other people know that he was proud of us and that was just very affiriming. I think you don’t have that unless you have clearly laid expectations of what is expected of you so that you can work within that framework. It was just a wonderful place to be. There was appreciation for the work done, and it was just so beautiful. Walking around now and seeing how Woodloch has expanded and changed, it is obvious that the spirit of what we were is very much alive and well!”
Holiday #SummerSnaps This past summer, we were very excited to hold our first ever #WoodlochSummerSnaps contest! Over 800 entries were received- we have a lot of talented guests! Check out our winning entries- thank you to all who entered!
Best Family Photo // Byrne
Best Vintage Photo // Caruso & None
Clark W. Griswold has always been a spirit animal of sorts to us. That’s why every single holiday, you’ll find our sprawling Nature Trail covered from tree limb to limb with thousands and thousands of vibrant holiday lights. Throughout the holiday season, Woodloch is proud to offer our illuminated “Festival of Lights” wagon rides. Family and friends alike are encouraged to bundle up and enjoy a half-hour spirited journey through our Nature Trail, featuring beautifully shining light displays celebrating the spirit of the season’s various holidays as well as our favorite movies and more! The buildup leading to our “Festival of Lights” holiday wagon rides is months in the making. The process begins in late summer as bulbs are tested. Blinking, dim or dead bulbs are no good for showtime. “While our trail is getting prepped for our Haunted Hayrides, new lightboards are being built and painted by our talented staff, and we review literally hundreds of holiday songs, old and new, for the rides,” says Joey Ranner, Social Director. “There is about a three week grace period between the Haunted Hayrides’ conclusion and our first Festival. We simply MOVE to get it all done.” “Like our hayrides,” says Ranner, “it’s a never-ending quest to keep our rides fresh for returning guests. If a response to a ride is ‘we thought it was better last year,’ we consider that a big disappointment on our behalf. Bigger and better is what we always strive for.”
Best Overall Grand Prize winner // Adamo
In addition to your favorite traditional holiday scenes, the team at Woodloch thinks outside the box when designing scenes. We’ve seen fluorescent “under the sea” aquariums, patriotic salutes to America, and your favorite characters from a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away all make an appearance. Everything ends BIG with fireworks, hot chocolate and even a visit from St. Nick himself. Of course, the rides are just part of the seasonal fun at Woodloch. No December Woodloch visit would be complete without joining in our Yule Log Hunt, Gingerbread Wars, Holiday Scavenger Hunt and more. Woodloch’s “Festival of Lights” run from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. Best Nature Shot // Anthony Cristallo
Best “Woodloch” Moment // Wayrich
Funniest Photo // Santora
Holiday #SummerSnaps This past summer, we were very excited to hold our first ever #WoodlochSummerSnaps contest! Over 800 entries were received- we have a lot of talented guests! Check out our winning entries- thank you to all who entered!
Best Family Photo // Byrne
Best Vintage Photo // Caruso & None
Clark W. Griswold has always been a spirit animal of sorts to us. That’s why every single holiday, you’ll find our sprawling Nature Trail covered from tree limb to limb with thousands and thousands of vibrant holiday lights. Throughout the holiday season, Woodloch is proud to offer our illuminated “Festival of Lights” wagon rides. Family and friends alike are encouraged to bundle up and enjoy a half-hour spirited journey through our Nature Trail, featuring beautifully shining light displays celebrating the spirit of the season’s various holidays as well as our favorite movies and more! The buildup leading to our “Festival of Lights” holiday wagon rides is months in the making. The process begins in late summer as bulbs are tested. Blinking, dim or dead bulbs are no good for showtime. “While our trail is getting prepped for our Haunted Hayrides, new lightboards are being built and painted by our talented staff, and we review literally hundreds of holiday songs, old and new, for the rides,” says Joey Ranner, Social Director. “There is about a three week grace period between the Haunted Hayrides’ conclusion and our first Festival. We simply MOVE to get it all done.” “Like our hayrides,” says Ranner, “it’s a never-ending quest to keep our rides fresh for returning guests. If a response to a ride is ‘we thought it was better last year,’ we consider that a big disappointment on our behalf. Bigger and better is what we always strive for.”
Best Overall Grand Prize winner // Adamo
In addition to your favorite traditional holiday scenes, the team at Woodloch thinks outside the box when designing scenes. We’ve seen fluorescent “under the sea” aquariums, patriotic salutes to America, and your favorite characters from a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away all make an appearance. Everything ends BIG with fireworks, hot chocolate and even a visit from St. Nick himself. Of course, the rides are just part of the seasonal fun at Woodloch. No December Woodloch visit would be complete without joining in our Yule Log Hunt, Gingerbread Wars, Holiday Scavenger Hunt and more. Woodloch’s “Festival of Lights” run from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. Best Nature Shot // Anthony Cristallo
Best “Woodloch” Moment // Wayrich
Funniest Photo // Santora
Our
6 TIPS Christmas FOR STAYING HEALTHY WHILE St ries ON VACATION
“Let’s just start by saying my husband’s birthday is on Christmas so celebrating his birthday and Christmas and finding him a gift for both is very difficult.
A week before Christmas, I found out I was pregnant with my first child. I held onto the information that I was pregnant and wrapped up baby bottles, bibs and baby items and gave it to my husband for our first Christmas together with a card that said ‘Dad you can expect me to arrive in the beginning of August, Love, Baby Struble.’ He cried. To top it off, we celebrated Christmas with both of our families there so both of our moms and all of our siblings were together. We gave each of them cards that read the same thing, that Baby Struble would arrive in early August so all family members found out at the same exact time. That was a truly memorable Christmas for us all!”
“It was a few weeks before Christmas when my youngest had just moved out, and I was suffering badly from empty nest syndrome. Having four kids I was used to a noisy lled Christmas morning withis Staying onfun-fi a fi tness and diet plan lots of laughter!! Needless to say I was doing a lot of usually not the first thing that comes whining to my kids about how horrible it would be when people thinkmorning. of going to waketo upmind to a quiet house on Christmas The consensus that My twoaway. oldest had families of their is own andvacation would not be around. My second youngest had plans withand is a time to relax on those diet her in-laws in New Jersey for Christmas morning and exercise rules that we impose upon planned on arriving later in the day. I went to bed on ourselves on a regular basis. But Christmas Eve feeling sorry for myself.
we’re here to tell you that healthy living have to inbe painful! I woke up in the doesn’t morning trying to get the spirit of the season. I decided to get up pack my a place There is always a and time and annual to fudge and cookie trays and get the gifts foods ready incorporate good-for-you to take and to myexercise in-laws for .Christmas brunch. As I . . and sometimes that walked down the hall to the kitchen, I realized perfect time and place is vacation! someone was sitting in the living room! My second
youngest child jumped up and shouted ‘Merry Christmas Mom!’ She had made arrangements for -TRACEY, Reservations Department her uncle to come to New Jersey to pick her up in the middle of the night so that she could be there when Busy household routines often make it hard to fit in exercise and prep healthy meals. One of the best I woke up! Soon after, my youngest arrived with her parts vacation is getting from your typical hectic schedule and havingout time foranthings that you “I wasof raised in a family with fiaway ve children. friend-roommate! It turned to be awesome My parents did We’ve not have much money. all to keep your usually don’t. compiled a list We of tips family healthy fit while you’re Christmas after all.and I knew my kids weretraveling: pretty expected one gift for Christmas. special, and that gesture cinched it for me!”
1) The best, easiest and most obvious way to stay fit on vacation is to incorporate a lot of walking into The gifts were put out under the tree a couple of days -ELLEN, Department your day. When you’re exploring a new city, landmark, or tourist attraction, skip theGardening tour bus and do it on before Christmas. My siblings and I would always foot (or bike). These modes of transportation allow you to see new places as a local would. You can get scope out the gifts, shake them, etc. This one year favorite Christmas memory is an interesting up close and personal, onwas routes vehicles“My cannot, and reap the benefits of enjoying some when I was about 10 yearsventure old there a giftthat under one because I wasn’t there to see it. fresh air and being present in the moment. the tree with no one’s name on it. We had to say goodbye to our family dog the summer
2) TipChristmas #1 provides the came, perfectthe segway --itthe is yourthat best friend! Google When morning gift wasinto for tip me.#2, which prior, is and wasInternet tough holiday year on everyone. is a great place to with start aresearching the My best walking Little tours,did hikes, and nature trails in your new It was a green dress chain link belt. any of us know, not too far away on locale. father hadprovides picked it the out perfect for me, and I was so thrilled. Vacation opportunity to check out Christmas spaces and placesthe thatnewest you wouldn’t to in your morning, additionget to our family This happened everyday life. over 50 years ago yet I remember it was just being born! After the holidays were over, and so well!”
with an overabundance of love to give in our family, -CHRIS, Reservations Department we found that Miniature Pinscher puppies wereare 3) Choose a “fit hotel.” Hotels know how much the health andout wellness trend has grown, and they looking for a home, and our dog MAVERICK soon paying attention to that. Many properties have replaced their small lackluster gyms with beautiful, after welljoined our lives!
equipped fitness centers. Large hotel chains across the country have a diverse array of fitness programs where guests can rent workout clothes (sneakers included!), fitness equipment, and even upgrade to Every year, he gets double presents from everyone rooms that have the gear you need to stay in shape. Westin hotelsmorning now have “RunWestin concierges” who Christmas for both Christmas and his attempt at ‘combination falland on plot out 3K and 5K running routes near their locationsbirthday. so that Any guests can just head out thegifts’ door short of his expectations.” their way! -JOE, Marketing
“What could of been my worst Christmas turned into one of the best. My Mom passed away in July, and my only child,
4) who Try lives an authentic local workout. When traveling, in Arizona, could not make it in for Christmas because he came home for her funeral. He could not afford to it’sflyalways nice to local Eve delicacies it for Sid’s (my husband) and my family but decided I was not again. I always hadtry Christmas dinner at when my house goingto to cuisine. do it this Why Christmas. It wasthis hardsame for melogic to even comes not apply toput up Christmas decorations, but I did. Christmas Eve came, and Sid got up and got dressed and went to work. I had staying active? If you’re visiting a beautiful exoticoff and was really missing my Mom. I cried most of the morning and was really feeling sorry for myself. Sid called me later in the day to check on me, and of course I cried beach, surfing more to him. lessons would be great exercise. Visiting a national park? Guided hikes are your As evening cameThese around,are I wasgreat still alone and still feeling obvious go-to. opportunities to depressed. I was sitting in our living room and thought I heard voices outside. It sounded like people singing. I went into our kitchen and looked out the window and saw bond as a family that will never be forgotten!
people with Santa hats on and thought to myself, ‘Great, all I need now are a bunch of people singing Christmas songs.’ One person was holding a dog, and I recognized that it was Olaf, my son’s dog. Sid flew my son and daughter-in-law in 5) for If you’re looking forthem a real shake-up from Sid your the holidays. It was on the patio singing! actually did not go to work that morning. He went to Philly to pick them up at the airport. We did not have the big meal routine, there’s always the option to take a wellness and presents we usually would have, but we were together. I realized that Christmas that it wasn’t the fancy food and presents that were important but the love and support of my trip. A focus on the importance of both mental and family. That is what makes the best Christmas!”
physical health and wellness has been growing rapidly, and people want a destination that can deliver on this. Websites such as Yogascapes (for yoga retreats), REI Adventures (for outdoor getaways), and Trek Travel (for biking excursions) are great places to begin your research.
- JUDY, Accounting
6) Finally, don’t forget the importance of food in the staying healthy equation! It’s easy to go overboard and indulge while on vacation. But just because you’re traveling, doesn’t mean it’s an excuse to go wild. Look at food the same way as exercise; this is the perfect time to try something new! Delicious fruits and vegetables abound in warm locales. Destinations with hot temperatures are a popular choice for travelers, and these same places are lucky enough to have year-round growing seasons. The mango you have in the Bahamas is guaranteed to be far more flavorful than “Every year, my brothers and I do our annual ‘brotherly shopping trip.’ We stop in stores, restaurants, bars and more, the one that has to travel all the way to Pennsylvania. Eating and at every stop we sing a rousing rendition of ‘We Wish You A Merry Christmas’ loud and proud. We get a few vacation doesn’t have to be punishment; are awkward glances from some folks, but mostlyhealthy everyoneon is in the holiday spirit and either smile or join us. It’sthere a proud tons of delicious foods to try in new places that don’t break the Kiesendahl family tradition!” calorie bank! - BOB K Make a commitment incorporate some was of these small creative “It was our first Christmas at Woodloch, and our family was starting ato new tradition. Johnny 12, I was 9 and Steven was just 3 years old. Our Christmas tree was beautifully decorated, and our living room was what is now theand changes into your weekly routine when you return home. You Staircase Dining Room . Our tradition has always to open ourwell giftson lateyour on Christmas Eve so all of healthy us (Grandma yourbeen family will be way to establishing habits Mould, Grandpa Mould, Pop Kiesendahl, Mom, Dad, Johnny, Steven and I) drove to Barryville, New York across the old activerestaurant. lifestyles while alsoloved creating great Christmas family memories Roebling Bridge to have Christmas Eve dinnerand at Reber’s Dad really that German food and and meaningful bonding experiences! feeling!! We could hardly sit still through dinner wondering what would be waiting for us under the tree when we got home. On the way home, Mom and Dad kept pointing out that they saw Santa and his sleigh coming over the mountains. Steven, the little one, was so excited! It was a beautiful snowy night, and Woodloch seemed like a magical Christmas place to all of us since we were all a bunch of Long Islanders experiencing Pennsylvania winter for the first time. When we walked back into our fireplaced living room, there were beautiful packages everywhere. Johnny and I each got snow skis and boots, which we tried out down the Woodloch hill on Christmas Day. I can still feel the warmth we all shared on that first Christmas, and we continued that Reber’s Christmas dinner tradition for quite a few years. Just so hard to believe that was 60 years ago.
- NANCY K
Our
6 TIPS Christmas FOR STAYING HEALTHY WHILE St ries ON VACATION
“Let’s just start by saying my husband’s birthday is on Christmas so celebrating his birthday and Christmas and finding him a gift for both is very difficult.
A week before Christmas, I found out I was pregnant with my first child. I held onto the information that I was pregnant and wrapped up baby bottles, bibs and baby items and gave it to my husband for our first Christmas together with a card that said ‘Dad you can expect me to arrive in the beginning of August, Love, Baby Struble.’ He cried. To top it off, we celebrated Christmas with both of our families there so both of our moms and all of our siblings were together. We gave each of them cards that read the same thing, that Baby Struble would arrive in early August so all family members found out at the same exact time. That was a truly memorable Christmas for us all!”
“It was a few weeks before Christmas when my youngest had just moved out, and I was suffering badly from empty nest syndrome. Having four kids I was used to a noisyon fun-fi Christmas withis Staying a lled fitness and morning diet plan lots of laughter!! Needless to say I was doing a lot of usually not the first thing that comes whining to my kids about how horrible it would be to mind when people think of going to wake up to a quiet house on Christmas morning. The consensus is that My two away. oldest had families of their own and vacation would is a time to relax on those diet not be around. My second youngest had plans withand her in-laws in New Jersey Christmas morning upon and exercise rules for that we impose plannedourselves on arriving later in the day. I went to bed on a regular basis. onBut Christmas Eve feeling sorry for myself.
we’re here to tell you that healthy living doesn’ttrying have toin be painful! I woke up in the morning to get the spirit of There is always a and time and the season. I decided to get up pack my a place to incorporate good-for-you foods annual fudge and cookie trays and get the gifts ready to take to my in-laws for Christmas brunch. As I and exercise . . . and sometimes that walked down the hall to the kitchen, perfect time and placeI realized is vacation!
someone was sitting in the living room! My second youngest child jumped up and shouted ‘Merry Christmas Mom!’ She had made arrangements for -TRACEY, Reservations Department her uncle to come to New Jersey to pick her up in the middle ofand the night that she could be there Busy household routines often make it hard to fit in exercise prepso healthy meals. One of when the best I woke up! Soon after, my youngest arrived with her parts vacation is getting from your typical hectic schedule and having time for things that you “I was of raised in a family with fiaway ve children. friend-roommate! It turned out to be an awesome usually don’t. We’ve compiled a listWe of all tips to keep your family healthy fit while you’re My parents did not have much money. Christmas after all.and I knew my kids were traveling: pretty expected one gift for Christmas. special, and that gesture cinched it for me!”
1) The best, easiest and most obvious way to stay fit on vacation is to incorporate a lot of walking into
The putyou’re out under the treeaanew couple days Department yourgifts day.were When exploring city,oflandmark, or tourist attraction, -ELLEN, skip theGardening tour bus and do it on before Christmas. My siblings and I would always foot (or bike). These modes of transportation allow you to see new places as a local would. You can get scope out and the gifts, shake them, etc. one that year vehicles “My favoriteand Christmas memory is an up close personal, venture onThis routes cannot, reap the benefits ofinteresting enjoying some when I was about 10 years old there was a gift under one because I wasn’t there to see it. fresh air and being present in the moment. the tree with no one’s name on it. We had to say goodbye to our family dog the summer 2) TipChristmas #1 provides the came, perfect tip #2, which is -- the Internet is your best friend! Google When morning thesegway gift wasinto for me. prior, and it was tough holiday that year on everyone. is was a great place to with startaresearching theMy best walking Little tours,didhikes, nature in away your on new locale. It a green dress chain link belt. any ofand us know, nottrails too far Vacation perfect opportunity to check outChristmas spaces and placesthe that you wouldn’t to family in your father hadprovides picked it the out for me, and I was so thrilled. morning, newest addition get to our everyday life. over 50 years ago yet I remember it This happened was just being born! After the holidays were over, and so well!” with an overabundance of love to give in our family, -CHRIS, Reservations Department 3) Choose a “fit hotel.” Hotels know how much the health andout wellness trend has grown, and they we found that Miniature Pinscher puppies wereare looking a home, and ourgyms dog MAVERICK soon after paying attention to that. Many properties have replaced theirfor small lackluster with beautiful, welljoined our lives! equipped fitness centers. Large hotel chains across the country have a diverse array of fitness programs
where guests can rent workout clothes (sneakers included!), fitness equipment, and even upgrade to Every year, he gets double presents from everyone rooms that have the gear you need to stay in shape. Westin hotels now have “RunWestin concierges” who Christmas morning for both Christmas and his plot out 3K and 5K running routes near their locationsbirthday. so that Any guests can just head out the door attempt at ‘combination gifts’ falland on short of his expectations.” their way! -JOE, Marketing
of been local my worst Christmas turned into one of the best. My Mom passed away in July, and my only child, 4) “What Try ancould authentic workout. When traveling, who lives in Arizona, could not make it in for Christmas because he came home for her funeral. He could not afford to it’sfly always nice to local Eve delicacies when again. I always had try Christmas dinner at my houseit for Sid’s (my husband) and my family but decided I was not comes cuisine. Why not apply going to to do it this Christmas. It was this hard same for me logic to eventoput up Christmas decorations, but I did. Christmas Eve came, and Sidactive? got up and got dressed and went to work. Iexotic had off and was really missing my Mom. I cried most of the staying If you’re visiting a beautiful morning and was really feeling sorry for myself. Sid called me later in the day to check on me, and of course I cried beach, surfing lessons would be great exercise. more to him. Visiting a national park? Guided hikes are your obvious go-to. opportunities to depressed. I was sitting in our living room and thought I As evening cameThese around,are I wasgreat still alone and still feeling heardas voices outside. that It sounded like people I went into our kitchen and looked out the window and saw bond a family will never be singing. forgotten!
people with Santa hats on and thought to myself, ‘Great, all I need now are a bunch of people singing Christmas songs.’ One person was holding a dog, and I recognized that it was Olaf, my son’s dog. Sid flew my son and daughter-in-law in 5) for If the you’re looking forthem a real shake-up from Sid your holidays. It was on the patio singing! actually did not go to work that morning. He went to Philly to pick them up atalways the airport. We did not have the big meal and presents we usually would have, but we were together. routine, there’s the option to take a wellness I realized that that it wasn’t the fancy foodand and presents that were important but the love and support of my trip. A focus onChristmas the importance of both mental family. That is what makes the best Christmas!”
physical health and wellness has been growing rapidly, and people want a destination that can deliver on this. Websites such as Yogascapes (for yoga retreats), REI Adventures (for outdoor getaways), and Trek Travel (for biking excursions) are great places to begin your research.
- JUDY, Accounting
6) Finally, don’t forget the importance of food in the staying healthy equation! It’s easy to go overboard and indulge while on vacation. But just because you’re traveling, doesn’t mean it’s an excuse to go wild. Look at food the same way as exercise; this is the perfect time to try something new! Delicious fruits and vegetables abound in warm locales. Destinations with hot temperatures are a popular choice for travelers, and these same places are lucky enough to have year-round growing seasons. The mango you have in the Bahamas is guaranteed to be far more flavorful than “Every year, my brothers and I do our annual ‘brotherly We stopall in stores, restaurants, bars and more, the one shopping that hastrip.’ to travel the way to Pennsylvania. Eating and at every stop we sing a rousing rendition of ‘We Wish You A Merry Christmas’ loud and proud. We get a few healthy on vacation doesn’t have to be punishment; there are awkward glances from some folks, but mostly everyone is in the holiday spirit and either smile or join us. It’s a proud tons of delicious foods to try in new places that don’t break the Kiesendahl family tradition!” calorie bank! - BOB K Make a commitment incorporate somewas of these small creative “It was our first Christmas at Woodloch, and our family was starting a to new tradition. Johnny 12, I was 9 and changes into your weekly routine you return home. You Steven was just 3 years old. Our Christmas tree was beautifully decorated, and our when living room was what is now theand Staircase Dining Room . Our tradition has always to open gifts on lateyour on Christmas Eve so all of us (Grandma yourbeen family will our be well way to establishing healthy habits Mould, Grandpa Mould, Pop Kiesendahl, Mom, Dad, Johnny, Steven and I) drove to Barryville, New York across the old and active lifestyles while also creating great family memories Roebling Bridge to have Christmas Eve dinner at Reber’s restaurant. Dad really loved that German Christmas food and and meaningful bonding experiences! feeling!! We could hardly sit still through dinner wondering what would be waiting for us under the tree when we got home. On the way home, Mom and Dad kept pointing out that they saw Santa and his sleigh coming over the mountains. Steven, the little one, was so excited! It was a beautiful snowy night, and Woodloch seemed like a magical Christmas place to all of us since we were all a bunch of Long Islanders experiencing Pennsylvania winter for the first time. When we walked back into our fireplaced living room, there were beautiful packages everywhere. Johnny and I each got snow skis and boots, which we tried out down the Woodloch hill on Christmas Day. I can still feel the warmth we all shared on that first Christmas, and we continued that Reber’s Christmas dinner tradition for quite a few years. Just so hard to believe that was 60 years ago.
- NANCY K
This time of year at Woodloch is special as we celebrate the season that brings families together. Chef George, from our Woodloch Pines kitchen, has shared some ideas to help inspire your festive meal!
A Taste of Woodloch Set your table this holiday season with some of our family favorite recipes.
Visit our blog for more recipes! WOODLOCH.COM/BLOG
ROASTED BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH BRIE & TURKEY BACON
HONEY LEMON THYME CARROTS
INGREDIENTS: 2 lbs Brussels Sprouts-halved and trimmed 1 oz Olive Oil 6 slices of Turkey Bacon-chopped 4 oz Creamy Melted Brie 1 oz Pomegranate Seeds Salt and Pepper to taste
INGREDIENTS: 1 lb Carrots-peeled 2 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil ¼ cup Honey 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice 6 Sprigs Lemon Thyme Sea Salt and Cracked Black Pepper Toasted Pumpkin Seeds Dried Cranberries
TO MAKE MELTED BRIE: 8 oz creamy brie cheese ¼ cup water Mix well while heating over a slow flame DIRECTIONS: 1. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt and pepper. Spread out evenly onto a lined baking sheet and roast at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, pull out the tray, and mix in the chopped turkey bacon. Place back into the oven for 10 more minutes. 2. Check that the brussels are tender, and empty into a serving pan 3. Pour the melted brie cheese over the brussels and garnish with the pomegranate seeds.
DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven 400°F. Place the carrots on a large baking tray with the oil, honey, lemon juice, thyme, salt and pepper and toss to combine. 2. Roast for 30 minutes or until the carrots are tender. Garnish with pumpkin seeds and cranberries. Serves 2.
We would love to see your Taste of Woodloch creations. When you make one of these dishes, take a photo and tag us on social media with the hashtag #ATasteOfWoodloch.
This time of year at Woodloch is special as we celebrate the season that brings families together. Chef George, from our Woodloch Pines kitchen, has shared some ideas to help inspire your festive meal!
A Taste of Woodloch Set your table this holiday season with some of our family favorite recipes.
Visit our blog for more recipes! WOODLOCH.COM/BLOG
ROASTED BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH BRIE & TURKEY BACON
HONEY LEMON THYME CARROTS
INGREDIENTS: 2 lbs Brussels Sprouts-halved and trimmed 1 oz Olive Oil 6 slices of Turkey Bacon-chopped 4 oz Creamy Melted Brie 1 oz Pomegranate Seeds Salt and Pepper to taste
INGREDIENTS: 1 lb Carrots-peeled 2 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil ¼ cup Honey 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice 6 Sprigs Lemon Thyme Sea Salt and Cracked Black Pepper Toasted Pumpkin Seeds Dried Cranberries
TO MAKE MELTED BRIE: 8 oz creamy brie cheese ¼ cup water Mix well while heating over a slow flame DIRECTIONS: 1. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt and pepper. Spread out evenly onto a lined baking sheet and roast at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, pull out the tray, and mix in the chopped turkey bacon. Place back into the oven for 10 more minutes. 2. Check that the brussels are tender, and empty into a serving pan 3. Pour the melted brie cheese over the brussels and garnish with the pomegranate seeds.
DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven 400°F. Place the carrots on a large baking tray with the oil, honey, lemon juice, thyme, salt and pepper and toss to combine. 2. Roast for 30 minutes or until the carrots are tender. Garnish with pumpkin seeds and cranberries. Serves 2.
We would love to see your Taste of Woodloch creations. When you make one of these dishes, take a photo and tag us on social media with the hashtag #ATasteOfWoodloch.
Our
6 TIPS Christmas FOR STAYING HEALTHY WHILE St ries ON VACATION
“Let’s just start by saying my husband’s birthday is on Christmas so celebrating his birthday and Christmas and finding him a gift for both is very difficult.
A week before Christmas, I found out I was pregnant with my first child. I held onto the information that I was pregnant and wrapped up baby bottles, bibs and baby items and gave it to my husband for our first Christmas together with a card that said ‘Dad you can expect me to arrive in the beginning of August, Love, Baby Struble.’ He cried. To top it off, we celebrated Christmas with both of our families there so both of our moms and all of our siblings were together. We gave each of them cards that read the same thing, that Baby Struble would arrive in early August so all family members found out at the same exact time. That was a truly memorable Christmas for us all!”
“It was a few weeks before Christmas when my youngest had just moved out, and I was suffering badly from empty nest syndrome. Having four kids I was used to a noisyon fun-fi Christmas withis Staying a lled fitness and morning diet plan lots of laughter!! Needless to say I was doing a lot of usually not the first thing that comes whining to my kids about how horrible it would be to mind when people think of going to wake up to a quiet house on Christmas morning. The consensus is that My two away. oldest had families of their own and vacation would is a time to relax on those diet not be around. My second youngest had plans withand her in-laws in New Jersey Christmas morning upon and exercise rules for that we impose plannedourselves on arriving later in the day. I went to bed on a regular basis. onBut Christmas Eve feeling sorry for myself.
we’re here to tell you that healthy living doesn’ttrying have toin be painful! I woke up in the morning to get the spirit of There is always a and time and the season. I decided to get up pack my a place to incorporate good-for-you foods annual fudge and cookie trays and get the gifts ready to take to my in-laws for Christmas brunch. As I and exercise . . . and sometimes that walked down the hall to the kitchen, perfect time and placeI realized is vacation!
someone was sitting in the living room! My second youngest child jumped up and shouted ‘Merry Christmas Mom!’ She had made arrangements for -TRACEY, Reservations Department her uncle to come to New Jersey to pick her up in the middle ofand the night that she could be there Busy household routines often make it hard to fit in exercise prepso healthy meals. One of when the best I woke up! Soon after, my youngest arrived with her parts vacation is getting from your typical hectic schedule and having time for things that you “I was of raised in a family with fiaway ve children. friend-roommate! It turned out to be an awesome usually don’t. We’ve compiled a listWe of all tips to keep your family healthy fit while you’re My parents did not have much money. Christmas after all.and I knew my kids were traveling: pretty expected one gift for Christmas. special, and that gesture cinched it for me!”
1) The best, easiest and most obvious way to stay fit on vacation is to incorporate a lot of walking into
The putyou’re out under the treeaanew couple days Department yourgifts day.were When exploring city,oflandmark, or tourist attraction, -ELLEN, skip theGardening tour bus and do it on before Christmas. My siblings and I would always foot (or bike). These modes of transportation allow you to see new places as a local would. You can get scope out and the gifts, shake them, etc. one that year vehicles “My favoriteand Christmas memory is an up close personal, venture onThis routes cannot, reap the benefits ofinteresting enjoying some when I was about 10 years old there was a gift under one because I wasn’t there to see it. fresh air and being present in the moment. the tree with no one’s name on it. We had to say goodbye to our family dog the summer 2) TipChristmas #1 provides the came, perfect tip #2, which is -- the Internet is your best friend! Google When morning thesegway gift wasinto for me. prior, and it was tough holiday that year on everyone. is was a great place to with startaresearching theMy best walking Little tours,didhikes, nature in away your on new locale. It a green dress chain link belt. any ofand us know, nottrails too far Vacation perfect opportunity to check outChristmas spaces and placesthe that you wouldn’t to family in your father hadprovides picked it the out for me, and I was so thrilled. morning, newest addition get to our everyday life. over 50 years ago yet I remember it This happened was just being born! After the holidays were over, and so well!” with an overabundance of love to give in our family, -CHRIS, Reservations Department 3) Choose a “fit hotel.” Hotels know how much the health andout wellness trend has grown, and they we found that Miniature Pinscher puppies wereare looking a home, and ourgyms dog MAVERICK soon after paying attention to that. Many properties have replaced theirfor small lackluster with beautiful, welljoined our lives! equipped fitness centers. Large hotel chains across the country have a diverse array of fitness programs
where guests can rent workout clothes (sneakers included!), fitness equipment, and even upgrade to Every year, he gets double presents from everyone rooms that have the gear you need to stay in shape. Westin hotels now have “RunWestin concierges” who Christmas morning for both Christmas and his plot out 3K and 5K running routes near their locationsbirthday. so that Any guests can just head out the door attempt at ‘combination gifts’ falland on short of his expectations.” their way! -JOE, Marketing
of been local my worst Christmas turned into one of the best. My Mom passed away in July, and my only child, 4) “What Try ancould authentic workout. When traveling, who lives in Arizona, could not make it in for Christmas because he came home for her funeral. He could not afford to it’sfly always nice to local Eve delicacies when again. I always had try Christmas dinner at my houseit for Sid’s (my husband) and my family but decided I was not comes cuisine. Why not apply going to to do it this Christmas. It was this hard same for me logic to eventoput up Christmas decorations, but I did. Christmas Eve came, and Sidactive? got up and got dressed and went to work. Iexotic had off and was really missing my Mom. I cried most of the staying If you’re visiting a beautiful morning and was really feeling sorry for myself. Sid called me later in the day to check on me, and of course I cried beach, surfing lessons would be great exercise. more to him. Visiting a national park? Guided hikes are your obvious go-to. opportunities to depressed. I was sitting in our living room and thought I As evening cameThese around,are I wasgreat still alone and still feeling heardas voices outside. that It sounded like people I went into our kitchen and looked out the window and saw bond a family will never be singing. forgotten!
people with Santa hats on and thought to myself, ‘Great, all I need now are a bunch of people singing Christmas songs.’ One person was holding a dog, and I recognized that it was Olaf, my son’s dog. Sid flew my son and daughter-in-law in 5) for If the you’re looking forthem a real shake-up from Sid your holidays. It was on the patio singing! actually did not go to work that morning. He went to Philly to pick them up atalways the airport. We did not have the big meal and presents we usually would have, but we were together. routine, there’s the option to take a wellness I realized that that it wasn’t the fancy foodand and presents that were important but the love and support of my trip. A focus onChristmas the importance of both mental family. That is what makes the best Christmas!”
physical health and wellness has been growing rapidly, and people want a destination that can deliver on this. Websites such as Yogascapes (for yoga retreats), REI Adventures (for outdoor getaways), and Trek Travel (for biking excursions) are great places to begin your research.
- JUDY, Accounting
6) Finally, don’t forget the importance of food in the staying healthy equation! It’s easy to go overboard and indulge while on vacation. But just because you’re traveling, doesn’t mean it’s an excuse to go wild. Look at food the same way as exercise; this is the perfect time to try something new! Delicious fruits and vegetables abound in warm locales. Destinations with hot temperatures are a popular choice for travelers, and these same places are lucky enough to have year-round growing seasons. The mango you have in the Bahamas is guaranteed to be far more flavorful than “Every year, my brothers and I do our annual ‘brotherly We stopall in stores, restaurants, bars and more, the one shopping that hastrip.’ to travel the way to Pennsylvania. Eating and at every stop we sing a rousing rendition of ‘We Wish You A Merry Christmas’ loud and proud. We get a few healthy on vacation doesn’t have to be punishment; there are awkward glances from some folks, but mostly everyone is in the holiday spirit and either smile or join us. It’s a proud tons of delicious foods to try in new places that don’t break the Kiesendahl family tradition!” calorie bank! - BOB K Make a commitment incorporate somewas of these small creative “It was our first Christmas at Woodloch, and our family was starting a to new tradition. Johnny 12, I was 9 and changes into your weekly routine you return home. You Steven was just 3 years old. Our Christmas tree was beautifully decorated, and our when living room was what is now theand Staircase Dining Room . Our tradition has always to open gifts on lateyour on Christmas Eve so all of us (Grandma yourbeen family will our be well way to establishing healthy habits Mould, Grandpa Mould, Pop Kiesendahl, Mom, Dad, Johnny, Steven and I) drove to Barryville, New York across the old and active lifestyles while also creating great family memories Roebling Bridge to have Christmas Eve dinner at Reber’s restaurant. Dad really loved that German Christmas food and and meaningful bonding experiences! feeling!! We could hardly sit still through dinner wondering what would be waiting for us under the tree when we got home. On the way home, Mom and Dad kept pointing out that they saw Santa and his sleigh coming over the mountains. Steven, the little one, was so excited! It was a beautiful snowy night, and Woodloch seemed like a magical Christmas place to all of us since we were all a bunch of Long Islanders experiencing Pennsylvania winter for the first time. When we walked back into our fireplaced living room, there were beautiful packages everywhere. Johnny and I each got snow skis and boots, which we tried out down the Woodloch hill on Christmas Day. I can still feel the warmth we all shared on that first Christmas, and we continued that Reber’s Christmas dinner tradition for quite a few years. Just so hard to believe that was 60 years ago.
- NANCY K
Our
6 TIPS Christmas FOR STAYING HEALTHY WHILE St ries ON VACATION
“Let’s just start by saying my husband’s birthday is on Christmas so celebrating his birthday and Christmas and finding him a gift for both is very difficult.
A week before Christmas, I found out I was pregnant with my first child. I held onto the information that I was pregnant and wrapped up baby bottles, bibs and baby items and gave it to my husband for our first Christmas together with a card that said ‘Dad you can expect me to arrive in the beginning of August, Love, Baby Struble.’ He cried. To top it off, we celebrated Christmas with both of our families there so both of our moms and all of our siblings were together. We gave each of them cards that read the same thing, that Baby Struble would arrive in early August so all family members found out at the same exact time. That was a truly memorable Christmas for us all!”
“It was a few weeks before Christmas when my youngest had just moved out, and I was suffering badly from empty nest syndrome. Having four kids I was used to a noisy lled Christmas morning withis Staying onfun-fi a fi tness and diet plan lots of laughter!! Needless to say I was doing a lot of usually not the first thing that comes whining to my kids about how horrible it would be when people thinkmorning. of going to waketo upmind to a quiet house on Christmas The consensus that My twoaway. oldest had families of their is own andvacation would not be around. My second youngest had plans withand is a time to relax on those diet her in-laws in New Jersey for Christmas morning and exercise rules that we impose upon planned on arriving later in the day. I went to bed on ourselves on a regular basis. But Christmas Eve feeling sorry for myself.
we’re here to tell you that healthy living have to inbe painful! I woke up in the doesn’t morning trying to get the spirit of the season. I decided to get up pack my a place There is always a and time and annual to fudge and cookie trays and get the gifts foods ready incorporate good-for-you to take and to myexercise in-laws for .Christmas brunch. As I . . and sometimes that walked down the hall to the kitchen, I realized perfect time and place is vacation! someone was sitting in the living room! My second
youngest child jumped up and shouted ‘Merry Christmas Mom!’ She had made arrangements for -TRACEY, Reservations Department her uncle to come to New Jersey to pick her up in the middle of the night so that she could be there when Busy household routines often make it hard to fit in exercise and prep healthy meals. One of the best I woke up! Soon after, my youngest arrived with her parts vacation is getting from your typical hectic schedule and havingout time foranthings that you “I wasof raised in a family with fiaway ve children. friend-roommate! It turned to be awesome My parents did We’ve not have much money. all to keep your usually don’t. compiled a list We of tips family healthy fit while you’re Christmas after all.and I knew my kids weretraveling: pretty expected one gift for Christmas. special, and that gesture cinched it for me!”
1) The best, easiest and most obvious way to stay fit on vacation is to incorporate a lot of walking into The gifts were put out under the tree a couple of days -ELLEN, Department your day. When you’re exploring a new city, landmark, or tourist attraction, skip theGardening tour bus and do it on before Christmas. My siblings and I would always foot (or bike). These modes of transportation allow you to see new places as a local would. You can get scope out the gifts, shake them, etc. This one year favorite Christmas memory is an interesting up close and personal, onwas routes vehicles“My cannot, and reap the benefits of enjoying some when I was about 10 yearsventure old there a giftthat under one because I wasn’t there to see it. fresh air and being present in the moment. the tree with no one’s name on it. We had to say goodbye to our family dog the summer
2) TipChristmas #1 provides the came, perfectthe segway --itthe is yourthat best friend! Google When morning gift wasinto for tip me.#2, which prior, is and wasInternet tough holiday year on everyone. is a great place to with start aresearching the My best walking Little tours,did hikes, and nature trails in your new It was a green dress chain link belt. any of us know, not too far away on locale. father hadprovides picked it the out perfect for me, and I was so thrilled. Vacation opportunity to check out Christmas spaces and placesthe thatnewest you wouldn’t to in your morning, additionget to our family This happened everyday life. over 50 years ago yet I remember it was just being born! After the holidays were over, and so well!”
with an overabundance of love to give in our family, -CHRIS, Reservations Department we found that Miniature Pinscher puppies wereare 3) Choose a “fit hotel.” Hotels know how much the health andout wellness trend has grown, and they looking for a home, and our dog MAVERICK soon paying attention to that. Many properties have replaced their small lackluster gyms with beautiful, after welljoined our lives!
equipped fitness centers. Large hotel chains across the country have a diverse array of fitness programs where guests can rent workout clothes (sneakers included!), fitness equipment, and even upgrade to Every year, he gets double presents from everyone rooms that have the gear you need to stay in shape. Westin hotelsmorning now have “RunWestin concierges” who Christmas for both Christmas and his attempt at ‘combination falland on plot out 3K and 5K running routes near their locationsbirthday. so that Any guests can just head out thegifts’ door short of his expectations.” their way! -JOE, Marketing
“What could of been my worst Christmas turned into one of the best. My Mom passed away in July, and my only child,
4) who Try lives an authentic local workout. When traveling, in Arizona, could not make it in for Christmas because he came home for her funeral. He could not afford to it’sflyalways nice to local Eve delicacies it for Sid’s (my husband) and my family but decided I was not again. I always hadtry Christmas dinner at when my house goingto to cuisine. do it this Why Christmas. It wasthis hardsame for melogic to even comes not apply toput up Christmas decorations, but I did. Christmas Eve came, and Sid got up and got dressed and went to work. I had staying active? If you’re visiting a beautiful exoticoff and was really missing my Mom. I cried most of the morning and was really feeling sorry for myself. Sid called me later in the day to check on me, and of course I cried beach, surfing more to him. lessons would be great exercise. Visiting a national park? Guided hikes are your As evening cameThese around,are I wasgreat still alone and still feeling obvious go-to. opportunities to depressed. I was sitting in our living room and thought I heard voices outside. It sounded like people singing. I went into our kitchen and looked out the window and saw bond as a family that will never be forgotten!
people with Santa hats on and thought to myself, ‘Great, all I need now are a bunch of people singing Christmas songs.’ One person was holding a dog, and I recognized that it was Olaf, my son’s dog. Sid flew my son and daughter-in-law in 5) for If you’re looking forthem a real shake-up from Sid your the holidays. It was on the patio singing! actually did not go to work that morning. He went to Philly to pick them up at the airport. We did not have the big meal routine, there’s always the option to take a wellness and presents we usually would have, but we were together. I realized that Christmas that it wasn’t the fancy food and presents that were important but the love and support of my trip. A focus on the importance of both mental and family. That is what makes the best Christmas!”
physical health and wellness has been growing rapidly, and people want a destination that can deliver on this. Websites such as Yogascapes (for yoga retreats), REI Adventures (for outdoor getaways), and Trek Travel (for biking excursions) are great places to begin your research.
- JUDY, Accounting
6) Finally, don’t forget the importance of food in the staying healthy equation! It’s easy to go overboard and indulge while on vacation. But just because you’re traveling, doesn’t mean it’s an excuse to go wild. Look at food the same way as exercise; this is the perfect time to try something new! Delicious fruits and vegetables abound in warm locales. Destinations with hot temperatures are a popular choice for travelers, and these same places are lucky enough to have year-round growing seasons. The mango you have in the Bahamas is guaranteed to be far more flavorful than “Every year, my brothers and I do our annual ‘brotherly shopping trip.’ We stop in stores, restaurants, bars and more, the one that has to travel all the way to Pennsylvania. Eating and at every stop we sing a rousing rendition of ‘We Wish You A Merry Christmas’ loud and proud. We get a few vacation doesn’t have to be punishment; are awkward glances from some folks, but mostlyhealthy everyoneon is in the holiday spirit and either smile or join us. It’sthere a proud tons of delicious foods to try in new places that don’t break the Kiesendahl family tradition!” calorie bank! - BOB K Make a commitment incorporate some was of these small creative “It was our first Christmas at Woodloch, and our family was starting ato new tradition. Johnny 12, I was 9 and Steven was just 3 years old. Our Christmas tree was beautifully decorated, and our living room was what is now theand changes into your weekly routine when you return home. You Staircase Dining Room . Our tradition has always to open ourwell giftson lateyour on Christmas Eve so all of healthy us (Grandma yourbeen family will be way to establishing habits Mould, Grandpa Mould, Pop Kiesendahl, Mom, Dad, Johnny, Steven and I) drove to Barryville, New York across the old activerestaurant. lifestyles while alsoloved creating great Christmas family memories Roebling Bridge to have Christmas Eve dinnerand at Reber’s Dad really that German food and and meaningful bonding experiences! feeling!! We could hardly sit still through dinner wondering what would be waiting for us under the tree when we got home. On the way home, Mom and Dad kept pointing out that they saw Santa and his sleigh coming over the mountains. Steven, the little one, was so excited! It was a beautiful snowy night, and Woodloch seemed like a magical Christmas place to all of us since we were all a bunch of Long Islanders experiencing Pennsylvania winter for the first time. When we walked back into our fireplaced living room, there were beautiful packages everywhere. Johnny and I each got snow skis and boots, which we tried out down the Woodloch hill on Christmas Day. I can still feel the warmth we all shared on that first Christmas, and we continued that Reber’s Christmas dinner tradition for quite a few years. Just so hard to believe that was 60 years ago.
- NANCY K
Holiday #SummerSnaps This past summer, we were very excited to hold our first ever #WoodlochSummerSnaps contest! Over 800 entries were received- we have a lot of talented guests! Check out our winning entries- thank you to all who entered!
Best Family Photo // Byrne
Best Vintage Photo // Caruso & None
Clark W. Griswold has always been a spirit animal of sorts to us. That’s why every single holiday, you’ll find our sprawling Nature Trail covered from tree limb to limb with thousands and thousands of vibrant holiday lights. Throughout the holiday season, Woodloch is proud to offer our illuminated “Festival of Lights” wagon rides. Family and friends alike are encouraged to bundle up and enjoy a half-hour spirited journey through our Nature Trail, featuring beautifully shining light displays celebrating the spirit of the season’s various holidays as well as our favorite movies and more! The buildup leading to our “Festival of Lights” holiday wagon rides is months in the making. The process begins in late summer as bulbs are tested. Blinking, dim or dead bulbs are no good for showtime. “While our trail is getting prepped for our Haunted Hayrides, new lightboards are being built and painted by our talented staff, and we review literally hundreds of holiday songs, old and new, for the rides,” says Joey Ranner, Social Director. “There is about a three week grace period between the Haunted Hayrides’ conclusion and our first Festival. We simply MOVE to get it all done.” “Like our hayrides,” says Ranner, “it’s a never-ending quest to keep our rides fresh for returning guests. If a response to a ride is ‘we thought it was better last year,’ we consider that a big disappointment on our behalf. Bigger and better is what we always strive for.”
Best Overall Grand Prize winner // Adamo
In addition to your favorite traditional holiday scenes, the team at Woodloch thinks outside the box when designing scenes. We’ve seen fluorescent “under the sea” aquariums, patriotic salutes to America, and your favorite characters from a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away all make an appearance. Everything ends BIG with fireworks, hot chocolate and even a visit from St. Nick himself. Of course, the rides are just part of the seasonal fun at Woodloch. No December Woodloch visit would be complete without joining in our Yule Log Hunt, Gingerbread Wars, Holiday Scavenger Hunt and more. Woodloch’s “Festival of Lights” run from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. Best Nature Shot // Anthony Cristallo
Best “Woodloch” Moment // Wayrich
Funniest Photo // Santora
Holiday #SummerSnaps This past summer, we were very excited to hold our first ever #WoodlochSummerSnaps contest! Over 800 entries were received- we have a lot of talented guests! Check out our winning entries- thank you to all who entered!
Best Family Photo // Byrne
Best Vintage Photo // Caruso & None
Clark W. Griswold has always been a spirit animal of sorts to us. That’s why every single holiday, you’ll find our sprawling Nature Trail covered from tree limb to limb with thousands and thousands of vibrant holiday lights. Throughout the holiday season, Woodloch is proud to offer our illuminated “Festival of Lights” wagon rides. Family and friends alike are encouraged to bundle up and enjoy a half-hour spirited journey through our Nature Trail, featuring beautifully shining light displays celebrating the spirit of the season’s various holidays as well as our favorite movies and more! The buildup leading to our “Festival of Lights” holiday wagon rides is months in the making. The process begins in late summer as bulbs are tested. Blinking, dim or dead bulbs are no good for showtime. “While our trail is getting prepped for our Haunted Hayrides, new lightboards are being built and painted by our talented staff, and we review literally hundreds of holiday songs, old and new, for the rides,” says Joey Ranner, Social Director. “There is about a three week grace period between the Haunted Hayrides’ conclusion and our first Festival. We simply MOVE to get it all done.” “Like our hayrides,” says Ranner, “it’s a never-ending quest to keep our rides fresh for returning guests. If a response to a ride is ‘we thought it was better last year,’ we consider that a big disappointment on our behalf. Bigger and better is what we always strive for.”
Best Overall Grand Prize winner // Adamo
In addition to your favorite traditional holiday scenes, the team at Woodloch thinks outside the box when designing scenes. We’ve seen fluorescent “under the sea” aquariums, patriotic salutes to America, and your favorite characters from a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away all make an appearance. Everything ends BIG with fireworks, hot chocolate and even a visit from St. Nick himself. Of course, the rides are just part of the seasonal fun at Woodloch. No December Woodloch visit would be complete without joining in our Yule Log Hunt, Gingerbread Wars, Holiday Scavenger Hunt and more. Woodloch’s “Festival of Lights” run from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. Best Nature Shot // Anthony Cristallo
Best “Woodloch” Moment // Wayrich
Funniest Photo // Santora
I remember sharing Wooodloch with our boyfriends who came up on weekends and also had a chance to do dishes! It was shared work, and then we could go out. From here, we went to the Cuckoo’s Nest, which featured fiddlers playing on Friday night with square dancing!
Down “Memory Lane”... In a recent issue of WLP Family Magazine, we decided to share the “throwback” photo to the left with our guests as a fun way to celebrate our 60th Anniversary. Little did we know, some of our original staff would cross paths with the magazine! Doris, one of our first employees, recognized the photo and gave us a call- we were happy to invite her back for a visit! She sat down with us, along with her friend and co-worker Gretchen, and chatted about “the good ole days.” The Lodge at Woodloch, A Destination Spa
“I first met Harry Kiesendahl when I worked in his
Heintze Townhouse in Huntington, Long Island. I was a waitress there. I waited tables; sometimes I helped to make the sodas or the food. Harry said “to have a smile and be welcoming to the guests.” One day, I was standing talking with the person who made the sandwiches and the grill lady, Sally. I was just chatting and talking, and Harry said, “You know I am paying you to be here, and I’d rather not see you standing and talking. There’s always work to be done. The straws need filling. Mustards need wiping. Ketchups need filling.” That set an example for you about what his expectations were! One day, Harry told me that he was thinking about how he was going to buy a place in the Poconos, and he would like me to come work for him once he got the lay of the land. The second year of operation he asked me to come up, and he said I could bring a friend if I wanted to, which I did. I brought a sorority sister. The two of us worked that year, and it was very different than what it looks like today. We washed all the dishes by hand; there was no dishwasher. But it was a wonderful place to work. Harry had big expecations for his staff with work, yet he was exceptionally kind and generous with his time for us. He taught us to water ski. He wanted us to learn a new sport and have fun at the lake, and that’s where we spent our time.
The following year, Harry said, “you know, we probably need more people waiting the tables.” So my other sorority sisters came, including my friend Gretchen. There were a total of nine girls altogether that I brought to Woodloch. But it wasn’t all work. We had so much fun. Sunday nights were particularly fun because Harry served us drinks. There was such camaraderie with the staff in the kitchen, and Mary was a large part of the camaraderie with her ever-present smile and concern for us. Everybody was just so congenial, so generous with their time. We all respected their need for us to be on time and to serve their guests.
One memory I think about is when I was learning to water ski. I think everybody learned to water ski. And Harry was so careful about helping us do the right thing, to get up on skis. Eventually Joy and Ben (co-workers) and I did “doubles,” and we were part of the water show. And so we skied criss-cross and inside-out. I was the one who went under the ropes. This one time, the rope wasn’t held quite high enough to the right. I zoomed in, then zoomed out. It was just too close to my head! And I wasn’t going to do that again. But I loved the thrill of it. Celebrating 60 years of family, friends and FUN!
Our family resort was not without laurels of our own. The state of Pennsylvania recognized Woodloch as “The #1 Place to Work in the State.” After being featured in magazines including Family Circle, Parents Magazine and Better Homes and Gardens, Woodloch received the ultimate honor of being named “The #1 Hotel for Families in America” by TripAdvisor in 2015. For six years running, TripAdvisor has rated us as one of the top five hotels for families in the entire United States. In 2018, Woodloch was humbled to celebrate their 60th Diamond Anniversary. Though the celebration is just about ready to conclude as we enter 2019, we realize that life moves in only one direction: forward. A year of nostalgic reflection will soon give way to starry-eyed ambition as we continue to redefine what a family vacation ought to be. It is hard to believe that seven decades have passed since Harry and Mary boldly ventured into resort ownership. While they are both dearly missed, their presence is still very much alive at our resort. You can see the heart of Aunt Mary every time a staff member goes out of their way to see a guest smile. We remember Uncle Harry every time an employee switches out of an activities shirt and into a cocktail uniform. The echoes of their love for each other and the resort are heard through the winter’s cold and the summer sun.
When I think back to that time, mostly there are people memories. I think about Mary’s kindness, Harry’s great laugh and a wonderful sense of humor. And he was very proud of us. And he let other people know that he was proud of us and that was just very affiriming. I think you don’t have that unless you have clearly laid expectations of what is expected of you so that you can work within that framework. It was just a wonderful place to be. There was appreciation for the work done, and it was just so beautiful. Walking around now and seeing how Woodloch has expanded and changed, it is obvious that the spirit of what we were is very much alive and well!”
f
Down “Memory Lane”... In a recent issue of WLP Family Magazine, we decided to share the “throwback” photo to the left with our guests as a fun way to celebrate our 60th Anniversary. Little did we know, some of our original staff would cross paths with the magazine! Doris, one of our first employees, recognized the photo and gave us a call- we were happy to invite her back for a visit! She sat down with us, along with her friend and co-worker Gretchen, and chatted about “the good ole days.” “I first met Harry Kiesendahl when I worked in his
I remember sharing Wooodloch with our boyfriends who came up on weekends and also had a chance to do dishes! It was shared work, and then we could go out. From here, we went to the Cuckoo’s Nest, which featured fiddlers playing on Friday night with square dancing! One memory I think about is when I was learning to water ski. I think everybody learned to water ski. And Harry was so careful about helping us do the right thing, to get up on skis. Eventually Joy and Ben (co-workers) and I did “doubles,” and we were part of the water show. And so we skied criss-cross and inside-out. I was the one who went under the ropes. This one time, the rope wasn’t held quite high enough to the right. I zoomed in, then zoomed out. It was just too close to my head! And I wasn’t going to do that again. But I loved the thrill of it.
The following year, Harry said, “you know, we probably need more people waiting the tables.” So my other sorority sisters came, including my friend Gretchen. There were a total of nine girls altogether that I brought to Woodloch.
Heintze Townhouse in Huntington, Long Island. I was a waitress there. I waited tables; sometimes I helped to make the sodas or the food. Harry said “to have a smile and be welcoming to the guests.” One day, I was standing talking with the person who made the sandwiches and the grill lady, Sally. I But it wasn’t all work. We had so much fun. Sunday nights were particularly fun because Harry served was just chatting and talking, and Harry said, “You us drinks. There was such camaraderie with the know I am paying you to be here, and I’d rather not The Family, 2018always - Patrick,work Bradley, Steve, John, Bob,and and Mary Matt was a large part of staffBrooke, in the kitchen, see you standing and talking. There’s the camaraderie with her ever-present smile and to be done. The straws need filling. Mustards need concern the for most us. Everybody so congenial, wiping. Ketchups need filling.” That example Perhaps Woodloch soon also discovered that the set terman“family” ambitiouswas of alljust of these expansion was changing at our resort. In addition to relatives projects was Woodloch’s involvement in the creation so generous with their time. We all respected their for you about what his expectations were! gathering for good times, new “families” visiting our and management of a new spa property. In 2003, need for us to be on time and to serve their guests. complex included lifelong friends, neighbors, and the opportunity to develop a large plot of land across One day, HarryWoodloch told me that he was thinking about even co-workers. became a one-of-a-kind the street from the golf course at Woodloch Springs how he was going to buy a place in the Poconos, destination for corporate meetings as large companies presented itself. Along with a team of independent began their away for for “team investors, the land was tactfully sculpted into what would and sending he would likeemployees me to come work himbuilding” once events like boat building, “Amazing Race” and marketing become The Lodge at Woodloch: A Destination Spa. he got the lay of the land. The second year of challenges. Even just a little R&R was in order after operation he asked me to come up, and he said meetings concluded. Guests of the spa would have access to fitness classes, I could bring a friend if I wanted to, which I did. I outdoor activities, guest lectures, wine tasting and broughtofaguests, sororityWoodloch sister. The two ofmore us worked that cooking demonstrations as well as an enormous Speaking needed and more room to and accommodate only were more array of spa treatments. While it was somewhat of a year, it was veryeveryone! differentNot than what it looks guests returning year after year, but they were arriving in like today. We washed all the dishes by hand; there change of pace from their traditional brand of family larger groups! What once began as mom and dad with fun, it was certainly welcome to new guests as well as was no dishwasher. But it was a wonderful place to their kids had expanded to include boyfriends, girlfriends, many returning guests who just couldn’t resist a little work.and Harry had biggrandchildren. expecations for his stafftowith fiances eventually In addition all 65 bit of “quiet time.” The Lodge at Woodloch opened its work, yet he exceptionally and generous guest homes at was Woodloch Springs, kind Woodloch also built doors in 2006 and within a decade was named the “#3 Destination Spa in the World” by Travel & Leisure spacious houses knownusastoour Southwoods with his6-bedroom time for us. He taught water ski. He homes. They became lodging wanted us to learn athe newperfect sport and havefor funfamily at the Magazine among other honors! reunions, corporate retreats and even wedding lake, and that’s where we spent our time. parties.
When I think back to that time, mostly there are people memories. I think about Mary’s kindness, Harry’s great laugh and a wonderful sense of humor. And he was very proud of us. And he let other people know that he was proud of us and that was just very affiriming. I think you don’t have that unless you have clearly laid expectations of what is expected of you so that you can work within that framework. It was just a wonderful place to be. There was appreciation for the work done, and it was just so beautiful. Walking around now and seeing how Woodloch has expanded and changed, it is obvious that the spirit of what we were is very much alive and well!”
IT’S A
Jumble
The Story of Woodloch
Everything is mixed up! Unscramble the following “Woodloch” words- then decrypt the boxed letters to spell out a secet message!
When our tale last concluded, Woodloch had just hosted its largest house count ever as more than 1300 guests helped them ring in the year 2000 with a truly unforgettable bash in our Nightclub. When dawn broke, the sun not only rose on a new millennium but also on a new era in the history of Woodloch…
O UT THERE!
Be the first reader to submit a 100% completed puzzle to josephj.ranner@woodloch.com (scan or photograph) and WIN a special Woodloch prize pack!
1. IEEAKSDLHN
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2 . K AO C E S T D E O U H
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3. OPNSOCO
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4 . E K M R B AC C U
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5. STUKEUDEGNYU
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6. EIPSLINYWOCMRT
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7. S R E S E A R O H C
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8. THSHEWOME
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9. OLDHTOERGN
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10. CGEVUTNANHRSE
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CHAPTER IV
Time seemed to fly by quicker than anyone was able to keep pace with. In the blink of an eye, more than 40 years had elapsed since Harry and Mary had taken a chance with a 12-room boarding house. Through acquisitions and growth, the tiny campus had blossomed to over 1,200 acres. A small staff of just a few friendly faces was now an army of over 1,000 employees. And what began as Long Island’s best kept secret was no longer one - more than 40,000 guests were visiting the campus on an annual basis!
and beverage and became Food Service Director. Additionally, after battling leukemia, he established the Hope Cures Foundation, which has raised over $1 million in the fight against cancer. The organization hosts a 5k, golf tournament, and tricky tray, which grow by leaps and bounds every year. John’s wife, Patti, oversees both retail and decor at the resort and is instrumental in giving Woodloch that “homey” feeling. John’s nephew, Robbie, has been a staple winning personality in the Social Department for 20 years.
Needless to say, there was a lot of ground, both physical and metaphorical, for the Kiesendahl family to cover. Thankfully, they were ready for it.
Combining John and Steve’s passion and comittment for excellence with the third generation’s talent has made a Woodloch a true family effort in bringing its signature warm hospitality to all guests.
Just as John and Steve had been “classically” trained by their father before them, so were John’s kids. Ever since they were old enough to pitch in here and there, Brooke, Bob, Matt, Bradley and Patrick were involved in learning and helping in the family business. As they grew older and more educated, each of them followed their passions to help cement new roles at Woodloch. Brooke, a true social butterfly who had tremendous success in pharmaceutical sales, seamlessly transitioned into the role of Head of Guest Relations. Matt, who was always quite the athlete, found life as Manager of Woodloch Springs and Woodloch’s Boat House restaurant one that he could hang a hat on. After 8 years managing a Four Seasons Hotel, Brad Kiesendahl returned back home to be Director of Operations. Patrick, a true “people person,” wrapped up his education at St. Joseph’s University and now oversees Activities, Bar, and Safety Services. Bob, John’s oldest son, pursued his interests in food
In addition to family and property, the Woodloch “vacation experience” also continued to expand! New amenities, including an indoor gymnasium and “forest” playground, snow tubing hills, zip lines, year-round skating rink, escape rooms and indoor and outdoor splash pools made for even better family escapes year-round. The creative activities such as “Survivor,” “Winter Olympics” and “Cake Wars” have redefined what folks would consider a “vacation.” With so many guests returning year after year, the experience had to be remain fresh.
W w g c e d b e c m
S r g l t fi g s
h r p Family Fun... redefined!
Welcome
As this issue hits newsstands, we’ll be smack in the middle of the holiday season, our favorite time of year. It’s that time when we all come a little closer together and we share in the warmth of our family and friends. The hustle and bustle between Thanksgiving and New Years can be exhausting at times, but that’s part of the charm, right? Through all the parties, all the shopping, the personalities, and the incessant consumerism, it’s important to remind yourself of the of the season. The holidays shouldn’t necessarily focus on60 the materialistic The bedrock Lodge at Woodloch, A Destination Spa Celebrating years of family, friends and FUN! gifts we give or how much we get; it should be about the gift of family and friendship.
Our family It’s resort was laurels ourgranted own. The of Pennsylvania Woodloch as “The #1 easy to not losewithout sight and takeoffor thestate connections we haverecognized through family. Place to Work in the State.” After being featured in magazines including Family Circle, Parents Magazine and Better Strengthening those connections and spending time with your Homes and Gardens, Woodloch received the ultimate honor ofisbeing named #1When Hotelyou for Families in America” family and friends the best gift “The of all. work at it, by TripAdvisor in 2015. For six years running, TripAdvisor has rated us as one of the top five hotels for families in the the benefit is felt by all. Family bonds produce an entire United States. incredible network of support, encouragement, and love. In 2018, Woodloch was humbled to celebrate 60th Diamond Anniversary. Though the celebration is just about For their Woodloch, it’s all about family, both immediate and ready to conclude as we enter 2019, we realize that life moves in only one direction: forward. A year of nostalgic extended. We try to work hard at it all year round - but have reflection will soon give way to starry-eyed aambition asdoing we continue to redefine what a family vacation ought to be. lot of fun it as well! Speaking of fun, we’re
excited to launch a new activity this winter called the It is hard to believe that seven decades have passed since Harry and Mary boldly venturedwe’ll into resort Woodloch Winterfest! Non-holiday Saturdays have aownership. While they are both dearly missed, their presence is still very much alive at our resort. You can see festival with a hot chocolate bar, carnival games, mini the heart of Aunt Mary every time a staff member goes out of their way to seebonfire a guestand smile. We rememberlive Uncle Harry every time an festival of lights, marshmallows, music employee switches out of an activities shirtand andmuch into amore! cocktail uniform. Stay tuned! The echoes of their love for each other and the
The 4th Generation
resort are heard through the winter’s cold and the summer sun.
Please take a moment to take a breath from all the craziness of the holiday season and be thankful. Maybe make a resolution to work at building those intangibles that are missing or lacking. Happy holidays, and we hope to see you at Woodloch again soon. God Bless,
The Woodloch Family
2019 THEME SHOW Preview - You’ll like the way we work this... no diggity. I don’t have the scientific data to back it up, and of course it’s all a matter of opinion- but for me, there was no better decade than the 1990’s. The music, the movies, the TV, and the fads (slap bracelets and flannel? YUP). I can’t speak for everyone, but I had everything I needed, and nothing that I didn’t. It was a HAPPY time. Cue Marky Mark and the Funky bunch, because for 2019, Woodloch is bringing “GOOD VIBRATIONS” and heading back to that magical decade with our “Welcome to the 90’s” Theme Show. “It’s hard to believe that the 90’s are almost 20 years past us now,” says Bradley Kiesendahl, Manager of Operations. “We all find ourselves fondly remembering this time- and if kids weren’t yet born, what a great decade for them to rediscover through the power of entertainment!” As with every Woodloch Theme Night, the evening will begin with characters greeting guests as they arrive for dinner, followed by the traditional parade. Then, we head to our Heritage Nightclub as the show is presented by Joey Casella and his troupe of performersprofessional dancers and singers alike! “We’ve got a great show coming your way in 2019,” says Joey. “Be on the lookout for great R&B songs, the rise of country
music, a salute to great television shows, a tribute to grunge rock, and of course, a battle of THE BOY BANDS. We look forward to bringing you one of our best shows EVER!” -J.Ranner
Catch Woodloch’s Theme Show Wednesday and Saturday nights all year long!
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!
A story about bringing families together..
WOODLOCH.COM/REUNITE | 800.453.8263 OPTION #2
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