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And so it began the dream of many... to have the tourist facilities in the Pocono Mountains compete for the title of Tourism Games - Fire and Ice Champions. It was an overcast day but spirits were high as spectators and future champions alike gathered at the base of Fernwood Hotel & Resort's snow tubing park to register for the first-ever Pocono Mountains Tourism Games. Eleven teams brought together 10 of their fiercest employees in the hopes of taking home the trophy and $1,000 prize. Our team consisted of one powerful man and eight ferocious women, lol (see pic)!  We came ready to conquer the world!

As the first event approached, teams worked on their strategies, indulged in libations and feasted on hearty burgers. Brent, Alicia and I walked to the starting line of the backward bobsled with high hopes and dreams of a top three finish. Unfortunately, crawling up a 30-foot snowy incline backwards with only the use of your hands proved much more difficult than expected and our dreams of a top three finish were dashed but our spirits remained high! Next up was the Olympic obstacle course, followed by Flip Cup then the Silly Suitcase Relay and what kind of spectator event would it be without a jello eating contest? I won't go into detail, let's just say the jello didn't stay in my stomach for very long. The final event was snow tubing and it was our last chance to get points on the scoreboard. Our tenacious Theresa qualified in the top three but was overtaken in the final run. Although we did not make it to the podium there is no denying that PMVB... Pure Energy was filled with team spirit and is more than ready to compete in the next tourism games.

I would be remiss if I did not mention the participating teams along with the podium winners. Teams from Camelback Ski Area, Fernwood Hotel & Resort, The French Manor Inn and Spa, Mountain Laurel Resort, Shawnee Mountain Ski Area, The Shawnee Inn and Resort, Split Rock Resort & Golf Club, The Settlers Inn and Woodloch Resort all competed in the games. In third place was Shawnee's Best from the Shawnee Inn and Resort, second place was the team from Split Rock, H2OOooohh!! and the grand champions were the Frosty Mugs from Woodloch Resort.

Hope you can join us next time. Ciao for now...

Growing up the daughter of Margaret Anne Ryan there was little chance of me not embracing my Irish heritage, no matter how long ago my ancestors crossed the mighty, mighty seas. Mom was one of seven including twins Kathleen and Patrick born on... you guessed it, St. Patrick's Day.  

As far back as I can remember I would spend several days creating my St. Patrick's Day costume. I wanted everyone to know how proud I was to be Irish, and boy would it peeve me when I would see people with absolutely NO green on whatsoever. I mean seriously, on St. Patrick's Day aren't we all Irish? As I've grown older and wiser, my obsession with wearing green on March 17 hasn't faded at all, although I have to be a little more conservative in the workplace, I still make sure my Irish is showing.  

Normally I don't admit this, but growing up does have its advantages. Not only do I get to wear green on the 17^th, I also get to wear it on parade days and I can drink green beer! There is no better way to celebrate the day than with corned beef & cabbage, potatoes and BEER. If you haven't already done so, meander your way to Stroudsburg and check out our authentic Irish Pub, Siamsa. Siamsa's bar was designed by Irish Designers, built in a factory in Ireland and shipped to Stroudsburg where it was assembled by Irish Craftsmen. You can't get more authentic than that without going to Ireland.

It's been three years since I've been able to celebrate my favorite holiday in the Pocono Mountains, and I am very much looking forward to a tasty meal at Siamsa, sans the beer. Why not get your Irish on and meet me down there! Erin Go Bragh!  

Next week a recap of the first annual Pocono Mountains Tourism Games!  Ciao for now...

So here we are again desperately awaiting the arrival of spring but dealing with the lion's component of March. I'm sure you all know the old adage "March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb". Well it got me to thinking does that always hold true? I would have to say three days into March it seems to be spot on. I'm looking out my office window at grey skies, snow lined streets and temperatures in the mid 30's. I've decided that I am going to test the laurels of this famous saying and let you know at the end of the month just how lion and lamb like March turned out to be. In the meantime, I would love for you to check out our very own LION...

Yea, that's right; we have a lion right here in the phenomenal Pocono Mountains. It's not a traditional lion, but it's our lion, the Stourbridge Lion! The Stourbridge Lion arrived in Honesdale, PA in July of 1829. It was the first steam locomotive to run on a commercial line in the United States. Built by Foster, Rastrick & Co. in 1829, the Stourbridge Lion's historic first run took place on August 8 of that year. Being your resident Socialista and not your local historian I won't irk you with all my fun fact's, I will just encourage you to take a trip to the Wayne County Museum this spring to check out the Lion!!

Now for something you can indulge in while you are waiting for the museum to open. Check out the Women's Day Ski & Spa package offered by Shawnee Mountain and The Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort. On March 19 indulge in breakfast with your best girlfriends, hit the slopes for your morning exercise then pamper yourself with a 20-minute massage, a mini-facial and hand paraffin treatment. Then spoil yourself with an afternoon of delights including wine and chocolate!!  It's like a mini-winter fantasy!

Next week's blog will be all about the most important holiday of the year... Of course I'm talking about St. Patrick's Day.  Ciao for now...

Did you know that the Pocono Mountains was touted as the honeymoon capital of the world in the late 60s through the 70s and even into the early 1980s? With abundant heart shaped tubs and champagne towers we enticed newlyweds to celebrate their love, Pocono Mountains style.  Although we have branched out and broadened our brand you can still find love and romance alive and well in our breathtaking mountains.  

Every year the Barrett Paradise Friendly Library holds a fundraiser aptly named, the Booklovers' Ball.   The library started as a dream of the Director Cindy DeLuca.  Cindy brought the community together to make her dream of a friendly library a reality and each year Skytop Lodge hosts the ball to raise money to keep the dream alive.  Skytop is the perfect setting for the ball.  We were welcomed with a red carpet outfitted with photographers to capture me in my designer BCBG gown and Mark in his "oh so sexy" tuxedo.  At the end of the red carpet we were greeted by volunteers who gladly sold us tickets for the silent auction and got us excited for the evening's main event, the live auction. 

As we entered the ballroom it had been transformed into a lover's paradise instantly comforting us and drawing us in.  Dinner was proudly served by the skillful Skytop staff as the Doug Smith Orchestra reminded us that dancing was not far off.  As we chatted with the couples at our table, I quickly decided that this has to be an annual evening out for us and I just can't wait to pick out a new gown for next year!  Dessert was followed by dancing and fun was had by all.  Most importantly, funds were raised to keep the library alive!

If you love books, dressing up and dancing make sure to put the Booklovers' Ball on your calendar next year!  Ciao for now...

I remember it like it was yesterday, when in actuality it was over 20 years ago.  The anticipation, the preparation, the shear excitement of the crowd... Do you remember your first live concert?  Mine was Cher and it was an epiphany for me.  Who in their right mind doesn't fall in love with live music the first time they experience it?  I have committed to memory exactly what I wore that evening and every outfit change the mighty, mighty Cher dazzled us with.  I know there were times when I held my breath and others when a tear or two trickled down my cheek.  I fell in love with live music that night and I've never let go. 

Over the years, I can honestly say that I have been to more music concerts than movies.  The genres range from Alternative to Rock and the artists from ABBA to Zeppelin, from Broadway stages to smoky bars, live music makes me happy.  My love of music is one I share with many people and I'd like to share it with you.  On Sunday, March 7, Grammy-winner Michael Bolton will be in the Pocono Mountains for one exclusive concert event.  I've had the opportunity to see Michael in concert on two separate occasions and even sent my parents to see him perform, he's that good! 

Would you like to be part of this intimate evening with the undisputed king of the romantic ballad? I can't imagine a more perfect setting than Cove Haven Resort.  Tickets can be purchased for $50 per person or make an exceptional evening of it and have dinner before the show for $93 per person (concert ticket included).  Actually, here is a better idea!  Book a suite at the resort and your concert ticket is included in the price of your stay!  Your first concert only happens once in a lifetime but the joy music brings lasts forever. 

Ciao for now...

Are you ready for some winter weekend excitement? Seems like Mother Nature wants us to enjoy a few more weeks of fluffy stuff and I have an entertaining Valentine's weekend planned just for you, no skis or snowboards required!

Here is what I want you to do.  First, put on your best cozy winter wear; don't forget to include yummy red mittens, a stylish pink hat and a sexy white scarf (all our favorite Valentine colors)!  Second, grab that special someone or your entire family and jump into the car.  Thirdly, head toward the fascinating town of Jim Thorpe for their 16^th Annual Winterfest Weekend!

Once you arrive in Jim Thorpe you will be enticed by the shopping and dining promotions, enthralled by the Opera House performance of Tusk covering the music of Fleetwood Mac and enchanted by the ice carving demonstrations.  Grab a $10 mug at the Jim Thorpe train station and participating businesses all over town will fill it for FREE!  If this isn't enough to captivate you, don't miss the Civil War reenactment by the PA 69^th Irish Volunteer Infantry or a 19^th Century Soiree by Pianist Helen Beedle.  You will surely be charmed by all there is to see and do this weekend. Since it is the weekend of love, you may want to book a stay at one of the many bed and breakfasts in town!

Speaking of love and romance, look for my upcoming blogs on the Booklovers Ball being held at Skytop Lodge this Sunday and Michael Bolton performing at Cove Haven on Sunday, March 7th.  Ciao for now...

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...

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...

Where has the time gone? Can you believe that we are already 20 days into 2010?  My father always told me that once you turn 25 the years just fly by in the blink of an eye.  Truer words were never spoken. Thanks Dad!  I turned 40 this month and I must admit that it went much smoother than turning 30 did.  If you remember from an earlier blog, one of the things that I would like to do this year is be more adventurous.  With that being said, I am proud to report that I hit the slopes again after an eight year hiatus. 

I can proudly admit that I have not injured any part of my own body or the body of anyone else to date. The best thing about skiing at Camelback is that I know once I'm done on the slopes, the pleasure and mayhem continues inside the newly renovated Thirsty Camel!  Every weekend during the ski season, Camelback has excellent entertainment. I am so thrilled that I was able to see old favorites The Dr. Cheeko Band a few weekends ago and I am looking forward to the Maybabies this weekend and UUU and the Soulbusters appearing in February!  

So whether you are a skier, snowboarder, tuber or just love fantastic live entertainment, lace up your boots, throw on a scarf and head up to Camelback for a fun-filled weekend. Heck, why not make it a fun- filled week!!!  Check out their Web site for specials!  Ciao for now...

The holidays are over, the decorations are packed away and winter is officially here.  I'm guessing most of you have thought about or have made a few New Year's resolutions and I will admit that I have several in mind as well.  I think it's always a good idea to set some attainable goals this time of year and to challenge yourself to be a better you.  One of my challenges this year is to broaden my horizons and try new things.  This may seem simple to you, or maybe if you are like me, sometimes trying new things can be a scary proposition. 

Are you wondering how this ties into tourism or being the "socialista" for the Visitor's Bureau?  Well, believe it or not, I have never stayed overnight in a Bed & Breakfast. Can you believe that?  It seems like almost an impossibility given the remarkable B&B properties we have in our four-county region.  Take Buttermilk Falls B&B located in Shawnee-on-Delaware for instance.  This beautiful home was built in 1886 and captures the wonder of the region with its large wicker porch, soothing waterfalls and a delectable country breakfast.  If you are looking for something more contemporary, head northeast from Buttermilk Falls and find yourself in gorgeous Pike County the home of Nest, a natural, modern and luxury B&B nestled in Dingmans Ferry.  For ski & stay packages visit their website.

Do you love horses? If so then you must take in the stunning views from Double W Ranch Bed & Breakfast located high atop the northern range of the Pocono Mountains in Honesdale.  This hundred acre horse and fruit farm offers guests the opportunity to participate in horseback riding, horse drawn wagons and horse drawn sleigh rides.  Head west to the dazzling town of Jim Thorpe and rest your head in a warm and inviting room at the Parsonage on Broadway .  Whether you are seeking a relaxing getaway or are gearing up for a rafting trip down the Lehigh River or a bike ride along one of the numerous Lehigh Gorge trails, the Parsonage will make your stay in the Pocono Mountains a trip to remember.

Take time to stop and smell the roses, ski down a snow covered mountain with the wind in your face and stay at a B&B in the Pocono Mountains this year.  I promise you that I am going to!  Happy New Year.  Ciao for now...