Blogs

What do doves, wolves, termites, bald eagles and a few humans all have in common?  They only have one mate for their whole life.  Who knew a termite could be so romantic?!  I think the human species could take a few pointers from nature.

This Valentine's Day, I'm not going to be celebrating romance (sorry Carl), but I will be celebrating the love I have for my family. With that said, why not try something fun and informative as a family on the ‘day of love'.  The Eagle Institute in Lackawaxen will be holding a Valentine's Guided Eagle Excursion on Saturday, February 13.  Enjoy a day out at various eagle viewing sites, as you learn about the majestic bald eagle.  If Valentine's weekend is out of the question, don't worry, the Eagle Institute will be holding another excursion on February 20.  For more information, call the Eagle Institute at 570-685-5960 or visit them online.

Hmmmmm... I wonder what an eagle gives their mate for Valentine's Day.  I highly doubt it's a box of Godiva and bottle of Chardonnay.  Regardless, the fact that certain creatures have one mate for their whole life is much more romantic than a box of Godiva any day.  Be sure to get out and experience the romance of nature.  Until next time...celebrate family, friends and traditions.

 We live in a now kind of world. You know, the mentality that you have to be in the know at all times and the sooner you know, the better. Whether it's news, information or coffee, we want it immediately and done to perfection. With the 2010 Winter Games around the corner, that particular state of mind is personified. Who has the ability to be in front of the television for two weeks straight?

Thus, the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau has teamed up with NBC Universal, Inc. to bring you Olympic updates and alerts. Whether you live in the Philadelphia, New York or Wilkes-Barre area, you can stay in the action by receiving the latest results, standings and information right on your mobile phone. All you have to do is text "Olympics" to 639710 and you will automatically be signed up.

And don't forget to ‘Experience the Games Here.' By signing up for these updates, you will receive special offers to help you live out your Olympic fantasies here in the Pocono Mountains. Also, pay attention to our Outdoorsian blogger throughout the games for tips on where to have these experiences.

So sign up today and be ready when the games roll around, because you don't want to be the one out of the know. Have a great weekend everyone!

Here's one more thing we can chalk up to the economy - innovative ideas.  As Sports Marketing Manager, the year 2009 brought some new leads across my desk.  The sports industry saw a growing number of obscure sports emerge from the woodwork and take center stage as traditional sporting events became expensive and outdated.  Sports groups began thinking outside the box, and the results were most definitely obscure. 

How obscure?  I was in talks with the American Cornhole Organization last year.  (Yes, that's their real name.)  It's like horseshoes but with bean bags stuffed with corn.  I also worked with the US Beard Team Nationals, an event which encourages weird facial hair and is managed by a charismatic "Doctor" of the mustache.  Then came the US Lawn Mower Racing Association, National Beer Pong League and scores of others. 

Of course, these groups got started because camaraderie and competition will always trump cash in the sporting world.  You could see most of these sports being played at NASCAR tailgates, backyard barbeques and any social events involving beer and men.  Most obscure sports organization's tab about history goes like this, "A bunch of guys decided to make it official one day in a bar."  Not eloquent, but real.  And the followers came by the hundreds.  Here was a sport that was fun, addicting, and cheap.  Nowadays, at tradeshows across the country, we see these organizations manning booths between such stalwarts as AAU and Bassmasters.  Their meteoric rise has been quite impressive, to say the least. 

And for now, obscure sports have their spot.  As Wall Street crumbled, the wild and weird world of wacky sports rose to the challenge and decision makers throughout the US took notice.  Expect these groups to stick around because, if nothing else, they are sure are fun to watch.

We walked into the dining room and were met by a mysterious man who handed us our role, (yes role, not roll).  We took our seats with cautious anticipation at what would happen next.  Would the lights flicker on and off? Would someone let out a blood curdling scream? Would one of us disappear?  As it happens, none of the scenarios above were played out until later in the evening.  Characters were perfected, onlookers were awed and dinner was served. 

Have you figured out what is going on yet? I just gave you a tiny glimpse of what you can expect when you attend the Murder Mystery dinner theater at Water Gap Country Club.  Murder Mystery at the County Club is associated with the longest running dinner theater in the Pocono Mountains region and allows you to become part of the cast.  It's your chance to reinvent yourself as a jealous lover, the owner of a castle or a long lost ship's captain, all while enjoying a fabulous meal!   

If this entices you, check out the fantastic murder mystery weekend package.  Your package includes lodging for Friday and Saturday nights, a cooking show, murder mystery show and dinner, along with full breakfast both Saturday and Sunday mornings,  all for the exceptional rate of $289 per couple (plus tax and service charge). Book your weekend getaway today, I highly recommend it! 

Ciao for now...

It seemed like it took forever for me to decide what to put on my calendar for the upcoming weekend, as there are so many awesome things to do in the Pocono Mountains! After much thought and careful consideration, I finally narrowed down my to-do list to two great concerts. Kansas, one of the greatest rock bands of the 70s and 80s, will be at Stroudsburg's Sherman Theater on Saturday, February 6.The doors for this must-see show open at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are only $39.50! (This has been rescheduled for Sunday, February 21.)

I plan on getting into town early to do some shopping in a few of Stroudsburg's specialty shops and having dinner in one of the town's fine eateries before heading to my seat to at the Sherman. I can't wait to hear them perform "Dust in the Wind," my favorite Kansas song! If you've never been to the Sherman you're in for a great time!  

I had planned on heading to Penn's Peak in Jim Thorpe on Friday and Rocking Out with YES, but I waited too long to get my tickets and the show is a sell-out. I hope that you were able to get yours! Penn's Peak is absolutely one of the best places to see a show! The sound is incredible. I wish that I could be there and be able to hear them perform "Owner of a Lonely Heart" and "I've Seen All Good People," my two favorite YES songs!!

As always, I'd love to know where you plan to rock in the Pocono Mountains this weekend; I hope to see you at The Sherman Theater!

As a child, I would never sit still.  I was up early every morning bouncing off the walls and driving my parents crazy until I fell asleep at night.   I would often dance around the living room and pretend I was putting on a Broadway production.  In 1987, my mother and father put my energy to good use by signing me up for dance lessons.  As time went on, I blossomed into a talented tap and jazz performer.  By the time I was 10, I was competing in (and wining) state and national dance competitions.  Around the age of 11, I decided to take things a step further and I auditioned for my first musical at a local theater.  For the next five years, I performed in plays taking on leading children's roles, as well as supporting roles.

As an adult, the performing arts are still a huge passion of mine.  Thankfully, musical productions, dance revues, acting workshops and dramatic theater are alive and well in the Pocono Mountains.  Many theaters in our four counties present a variety of plays and dance performances year-round.   While visiting the area, introduce your family to one of our theaters who passionately and proudly showcase the beauty of our local arts and diverse culture.

• Ritz Company Playhouse, Hawley, PA
• Shawnee Playhouse, Shawnee on Delaware, PA
• Mauch Chunk Opera House, Jim Thorpe , PA
• Pocono Arts Council, Stroudsburg, PA
• Sherman Theater, Stroudsburg, PA
• Wayne County Arts Alliance, Honesdale, PA

With my husband Carl being a gifted clarinet player and my "twinkle toes," Nicholas just might have the same appreciation for the performing arts as I do.  Until next time, celebrate family, friends and traditions.

Could you imagine getting together with your co-workers, coming up with creative drink concoctions and then being judged on them? How about assembling your staff for an eating contest? This is why the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau and Fernwood Hotel & Resort have joined forces for The First Annual Pocono Mountains Tourism Games.

On March 11, Fernwood will be abuzz with contests, relays, races and competitions, all to honor the hospitality industry for their outstanding work in the region.  So grab 10 of your friends in the biz and sign up today because the Pocono Mountains Cup and an array of prizes including overnight stays, gift certificates and apparel, will be up for grabs! Employees from any business who serve the tourism industry such as grocery stores, service stations and restaurants are eligible.

In addition to the games, you can head to Fernwood on Thursdays beginning February 25 and up until the games for Fire and Ice  Hospitality Nights. These evenings will be packed with live entertainment, drink specials and snowtubing discounts. So join the PMVB and and get your game face on because we're predicting a victory!

Promised Land State Park has a name that, if nothing else, makes us wonder what the park is all about.  It was allegedly given its title after early settlers were told they would find a "promised land" in the area.  In fact, many bought land based on the claims of its wondrous and magical attributes.  While it may not be the Eighth Wonder of the World, Promised Land State Park has a rich history and a lot to offer.

Much of the land was clear cut several times before eventually being acquired by the Commonwealth in 1902.  Three years later, the park opened to the public, cementing its spot in history as the fourth state park in Pennsylvania.  In 1986 and 1987, Bear Wallow Cabins and Whittaker Lodge became listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Like many longstanding parks in the country, Promised Land has seen its share of natural disasters.  Decades ago, hurricanes Connie and Diane dumped 20 inches of rain on the notoriously boggy soil of the park.  But as only the great ones can do, Promised Land bounced back.  A true sign of fruitful land, this park often has too many animals.  Bear and whitetail deer are so numerous that sometimes management initiatives are needed to curb the total population. 

Winter visitors to the park can enjoy hiking, ice fishing, orienteering, hunting and cross-country skiing.  Interested in snowmobiling? Promised Land offers more than 23 miles of snowmobile trails!  Those looking to ice skate should contact the park office for conditions.  Basically, anything you can do outside, you can do in this park.  

 In 1999, a pair of bald eagles began nesting at the 173-acre Lower Lake.  An estimated 11 fledglings have been produced since that first pair.  Perhaps these eagles are clinging to the "promised land" they've known for over a decade.  Visit the park this winter and you'll see why its name is well-deserved.

Unless you have been living under a rock, you must know that the 2010 Winter Olympics start in 16 days! I have always loved all the excitement that comes along with the winter games no matter where they are being held. This year is no exception.  I can't wait to see the speed and figure skaters, as well as our hockey team take to the ice, or Apolo Ohno skate to victory.  And who can forget the downhill skiers? What about the adrenaline rush when Team USA hits the Luge track?  Do you have the guts to slide yourself in feet first and face up and steer your way down the course?

Well if you do, I have an incredible opportunity for you! Although the sun is shining and the temperatures are slightly above normal this week, you can most definitely enjoy winter in the Pocono Mountains!  This weekend Blue Mountain Ski Area is proud to announce the 2010 Luge Challenge.  The event will take place both Saturday, January 30 and Sunday, January 31 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 

If the Luge isn't high on your to do list, head over on Saturday and enjoy Blue Mountains' First Annual Winter Festival.  With dog sledding, musical entertainment, ice carving, snow sport demonstrations and cuisine to warm your soul, there is sure to be something for the entire family to enjoy! Embrace winter this weekend. Ciao for now...

If you are beginning to develop a case of the Mid-Winter Blues, the Pocono Mountains has the cure! Beautiful downtown Stroudsburg will be hosting its 10^th Annual Winterfest this weekend.

I am planning to spend the whole weekend wandering around Stroudsburg and stopping in at one fantastic place after another to listen to as many different Bluegrass bands as possible.

I plan to begin at a few of my favorite places, The Main Street Lounge (438 Main Street) a local bar and grill with plenty of hometown atmosphere and hospitality. Fun begins at 7 p.m. with Uncle Pete Tawny and The Juggernaut Band. I'll continue by strolling uptown to The East Café (628 Main Street) at 9 p.m. with The Lost Ramblers and Friends. Then, it is off to The Hideaway Lounge (7^th and Main Streets), inside the Pocono Inne Town, for a night of Heavy Traffic. All of these bands will get you tapping your toes and clapping your hands!

But wait, Friday's Bluegrass continues in The Cedar Room at the Pocono Inne Town with Danny Stewart's Open Jam at 10 p.m. This is guaranteed to be a great time, so bring your instruments and start jammin' or just come hang out and listen! Either way you will definitely enjoy yourself and the best part is that there is no admission fee for the Jam Sessions!

The Sherman Theater is the place to be on Saturday, as several Bluegrass bands will be on stage. The doors will open at noon and the show will begin at 2 p.m. Come out and enjoy the sounds of The Lost Ramblers, Hillbilly Water, Aimless Pursuit and several other great bands! I'm sure that you don't want to miss out on this great concert packed with plenty of bluegrass, so reserve your tickets today! General Admission tickets are $25 and reserved seating is $35. Tickets may be purchased by calling 570-420-2808 or online

Sunday, January 31 will wrap up Winterfest Weekend at the Elks Lodge (260 Washington Street in East Stroudsburg). The show will begin at 10 a.m. with a Traditional Gospel Celebration. Admission is $15 or $10, if you have your ticket stub from Saturday's show at The Sherman Theater. Tickets are only available at the door and I plan to be the first one in line! In addition to the show, a variety of instrument workshops will be offered along with a special show for children.

This is just a sample of all that Winterfest has to offer. Visit for more information. Plan to come for a night or the entire weekend. The Pocono Inne Town, Stroudsburg's oldest hotel, is offering a special rate of $79.00 per night! Call 570-421-2200 to make your reservations. In order to get this great rate, just mention that you are coming for Winterfest and of course read the PMVB's blog about it!

As always, I'd love to hear where you plan to jam this weekend. I hope to see you at Winterfest in Stroudsburg!