CARBON • MONROE • PIKE • WAYNE COUNTIES

POCONO MOUNTAINS VISITORS BUREAU___________________________________________________

___________________________________

2013 ANNUAL REPORT

1004 West Main StreetStroudsburg, PA 18360Phone: 570.421.5791Fax: 570.476.8959

INTER TABLE OF CONTENTS

Executive Message ...........................................................................3Big Stories ....................................................................................4Big Numbers ..................................................................................5Who We Are / What We Do / How We Do It .............................................6Officers, Board of Directors & Past Directors ...........................................7Winter Campaign ............................................................................8Summer Campaign .........................................................................10PoconoMountains.com / Mobile ..........................................................12Live Cameras ...............................................................................13Public Relations ............................................................................14Social Media ................................................................................16Meetings .....................................................................................18International / Group Tour / Student Travel ...........................................19Our Visitors .................................................................................20Committees / Membership ...............................................................22Hosted Events ..............................................................................23Impact of Travel ............................................................................24Advocacy ....................................................................................25According to the Press ....................................................................26Awards .......................................................................................26Partnerships .................................................................................28

INTER STAY IN TOUCH

Our family of online and social media properties continues to grow. Stay connected with PoconoTourism here:

PoconoMountains.com

/PoconoTourism

/PoconoTourism

/PoconoTourism

/PoconoTourism

/PoconoTourism

/PoconoTourism

/PoconoMountainsVisitorsBureau

Dear Partners and Friends,

Rather than attempt to recount the many successes of this past year, I would prefer to zero in on one specific effort by the PMVB that will hopefully have a positive profound impact on the Bureau, its stakeholders and the industry moving forward.

On March 19, representatives of the Pocono Mountains hospitality industry met at the Chateau Resort & Conference Center to participate in a StoryJam. The focus was to entirely explore the next generation of the Pocono Mountains brand. The 30 participants were a diverse group representing PMVB staff and sales and marketing professionals from the four counties as well as two StoryJam facilitators from IDEAS, Bob Allen, Chief Storyteller and Kelly Pound, Vice President of Learning.

Through the creative use of storytelling, the team members tapped into their creative talents and eloquently generated powerful stories that described what the Pocono Mountains brand looked like in all of its dynamic dimensions. These stories will serve as the springboard for improving the design and delivery of the next iteration of the Pocono Mountains brand.

Over the course of the day, seven different “exercises” where conducted in small groups where we were challenged with a question such as “What’s gone well for the PMVB brand?” Then, as a group, they listed the top three things on a poster and shared with the larger group. By the end of the day, a voluminous amount of data was collected related to what we have accomplished, and what we have yet to do along with a direction and pathway to the future.

There were four summary findings as evaluated by the IDEAS team, including:• The brand work begun in 2006 has borne fruit. The positioning is solid, continue to capitalize on “year-round outdoor adventure”.• Without ever compromising your commitment to your core market guest, you have growth opportunities in diversity markets, programs and branded link to destination wellness.• Beneficial to building future for the region around implementation of the following three strategies.

o Expansion of the core urban market to the Boston-Washington D.C. corridoro Develop broader brand evangelismo Implement plans for gap visitation (midweek, shoulder season)

• The following components constitute a catalog of actionable tactics for the Pocono Mountains brand to perform at the next level.o Leveraging brand contento Commit to destination wellnesso Enhance your brand position as “natural outdoor adventure tourism capital”o Manage both the fact and perception of regional inclusivity and diversity o Support the event marketing business, particularly in off-peak timeso Commit to brand managemento Target big brand alliance/partnership marketingo Build a sustainable financial plan for increased funding and execute ito Develop a deeper and wider hospitality enculturation programo A major branded festival

Thanks to Bob Allen and Kelly Pound for their help and assistance in working with us to develop and update our brand platform, and I specifically want to express my appreciation to all the stakeholders and staff who took time out of their schedules to help.

We are currently in the process of implementing many of these recommendations. Hopefully you have heard that the PMVB is shifting the promotion of our website URL. Our main website address is remaining 800poconos.com but we are now using PoconoMountains.com in our marketing. Now is the perfect time to confirm our links on your website. Please let us know if you have any questions or suggestions. Carl G. Wilgus John Kiesendahl President/CEO Chairman of the Board

LIFE’S GREATER ... ... IN THE POCONO MOUNTAINS

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INTER BIG STORIES

The Pocono Mountains is coming off a terrific year. Here are some of the biggest stories created and pitched to media outlets from the past year.

Region Offers WellnessA wellness getaway awaits in the Pocono Mountains. Along with lavish spas, the region is teeming with natural beauty, exciting adventures, intriguing classes, motivating workouts, farm-to-table dining and tests of strength that will ensure the mind, body and soul experience you’re looking for in a wellness vacation.

Challenge Yourself With Our Adventure Bucket ListBucket lists have evolved from climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and the Great Wall of China to participating in professional sports and free falling through gravity. With 2,400 square miles of rolling mountains and breathtakingly beautiful landscape, the Pocono Mountains provides the perfect backdrop for thrilling escapades and heart racing adventure. It’s the destination of choice for those who want to have a great adventure to share with their friends and family; whether trying ziplining for the first time or experiencing an Olympic Luge, it’s a cross-off the bucket list affordable, adventure.

Reinvented Romance Scene The Pocono Mountains has been rejuvenated, as new, chic and stylish accommodations offering lavish amenities have brought a different perception to the original couples’ destination. Several resorts, boutique hotels and luxurious small inns cater to couples, with on-site spa facilities, activities and dining options, encouraging re-connection with one another. The Pocono Mountains have invested both financially and philosophically into providing exceptional facilities that not only focus on couples’ wellness, but also the charm and ambiance that makes the experience even more intimate, adding to the romance of the trip.

National Geographic Features Pocono MountainsNational Geographic’s DestinationMaps series now includes the Pocono Mountains. The new map is ideal for touring this culturally and geographically unique region filled with unparalleled natural beauty and authentic travel experiences, from climbing the boulders at the designated historic natural landmark, Boulder Field, to hiking a unique series of eight waterfalls accessible through a network of trails and bridges around Bushkill Falls, the “Niagara of Pennsylvania.”

Adventure Sport Races Growing Over 40,000 athletes and guests will enjoy pushing their bodies to the limit in Pocono Mountains’ Outdoor Adventure Sports. There will be mud-crawling, fire-leaping, extreme runs, triathlons, marathons and half-marathons. Many of the races and challenges are fundraising initiatives for local and national charities and non-profit organizations.

Endless Winter Recreational ActivitiesThe Pocono Mountains has seven major ski resorts with over 1,000 instructors. The student to teacher ratio makes the region a great place to celebrate Learn To Ski Month. Ski areas have family-friendly facilities and trails ranging from beginner to expert, ensuring everyone in the family a chance to learn and build confidence as a skier and snowboarder. Pocono Mountains ski areas have been perfecting snow-making since its beginning 60 years ago, allowing skiers and riders to learn and take pleasure in snowsports even without the cooperation of Mother Nature. Whether the snow is natural or man-made, the conditions are always right for learning.

GolfAs spring nears and trees begin to green, so do the more than 30 golf courses in the four-county region. Ranging from preserved Golden Age landscapes to modern layouts and mountainous challenges, there are a variety of options, meeting preferences of all golfers. Courses range from challenging championship courses designed by such notables as Robert Trent Jones, Geoffrey Cornish, A.W. Tillinghast and Jack Nicklaus to friendly nine-hole facilities. With so many golf courses throughout the Pocono Mountains, the PMVB offers the Pocono Mountains Golf-A-Round Card, which offers players hundreds of dollars in savings at eight public golf clubs with a combined 171 holes. Cardholders can save nearly $200 off the regular rate by playing each course once, up to $400 playing each twice.

17 Ways To View Fall Foliage Amid radiant colors, fall offerings in the Pocono Mountains are endless. Hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking, biking, visiting festivals, pumpkin picking, hayrides, haunted attractions and more, encompass fall in the region. Leaf peepers can visit the Fall Foliage Forecast before planning their scenic drive or stroll down a streetscape.

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INTERBIG NUMBERS

No question: Destination marketing is fun work, but it’s also important work. Here’s a quick and easy way to see the impact of what we do by the numbers.

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25 MILLION Visitors this past year - that’s 17 million more than in 2006 before our rebranding of the region took place

Of total 4-county room tax collections is from Monroe County

Partners invested in the winter co-op campaign and

Partners invested in the summer co-op campaign

raised through the co-ops to expand

the PMVB’s marketing efforts

$2.9 MILLION In added media value from live cameras

People on @PoconoTourism’s Facebook, Twitter,

Pinterest and Instagram accounts

New social media fans & followers

added this past year

$2.4 BILLION In visitor spending

Average number of nights visitors stay

65%

912

$775,095

80,992

28,380

2.3

31%

630 MILLION People reached through press clippings

$7 MILLION Saved through Public Relations efforts versus

paid-for advertising

2.1 MILLION PoconoMountains.com visits

Of all PoconoMountains.com traffic comes from

the New York and Philadelphia DMA’s

Average bounce rate on PoconoMountains.com vs.

the industry average of 48%

Increase in mobile traffic

Room nights booked through sales efforts

Square miles marketed each day

Members that belong to the PMVB

60%

51%

4,022

471

2,400

INTER WHO WE ARE / WHAT WE DID / HOW WE DO IT

Our MissionIt’s our mission to enhance the economic and environmental well-being of our region and members through the promotion of tourism and the comprehensive marketing of our destination. It’s our charge at the PMVB to build the region’s economy and image through destination marketing that increases the number of visitors, the number of nights they stay and the number of things they do in the four-county area. How we market the region evolves year after year, but one thing is certain: Our marketing efforts enhance the quality of life and sense of hometown pride for residents of the Pocono Mountains.

Our Definition of The Pocono MountainsWe mean Carbon, Monroe, Pike and Wayne counties.

Giving The Pocono Mountains A VoiceWhile we use traditional tactics to spread the Pocono Mountain’s message and establish its voice, we’re always looking for newways to amplify our marketing efforts. Here are some of the ways we’ve evolved to achieve our mission:

Advertising: PoconoTourism continues to find value in traditional media (TV, Digital and Out-of-Home), but we’re consistently looking to make a splash with new ideas to ensure that our messages reach potential travelers when they’re most receptive to them.

Communications: Our communications team drives earned media coverage, starting with the best content (words and pictures) and media team to promote the Pocono Mountains’ image.

The Web: Our web properties—PoconoMountains.com, PoconoSki.com and PoconoMeetings.com—remain PoconoTourism’s most important calls to action and the most powerful ways in which we communicate the Pocono Mountains brand.

Social Media: We delved into social media in 2009when we launched our Facebook account. Today wemanage 7 properties and maintain relationships withnearly 100,000 fans—and counting.

Sales Force: Our sales team reaches out to key travel professionals in both domestic and internationalarenas utilizing trade and consumer shows, as well as tour operator, travel agent and meeting planner relationships to keep visitors coming to the four-county region.

Regional Partnerships: PoconoTourism’s partnershipsmake the Pocono Mountains travel industry what it is today. Museums, restaurants, civic organizations, regional marketing groups and so many others embrace our Pocono Mountains brand and use their own resources to enforceand spread the destination’s message.

Hotel Marketing: Our hotel scene boasts more options, and we market this increasingly varied inventory through special hotel packages and promotions, created by PMVB and our partners.

6

Fiscal Year Budget for 2012-13

$5,223,712

Lisa DeNaplesMount Airy Casino Resort

Chuck DickinsonSplit Rock Resort & Golf Club

Bob DunlapThe Crescent Lodge

Bridget GeldermanEast Shore Lodging

Barbara GreenBlue Mountain Ski Area

Lisa GreenThe Inn at Pocono Manor

Pete HelmsDavis R Chant Real Estate, Inc.

Martin HorowitzBrookview Manor Inn

Nick IgdalskyPocono Raceway

Paul SchuchmanOdd Lot Outlet, Inc.

Don SnyderBetter Homes and Gardens, Wilkins & Assoc. Real Estate

John WarnagirisChateau Resort & Conference Center

Executive Committee

John Kiesendahl, ChairmanWoodloch Resort

Eric Ehrhardt, Vice ChairmanEhrhardt’s Waterfront Resort

Arthur Berry III, Vice ChairmanCamelback Mountain Resort

Genevieve Reese, Vice ChairpersonThe French Manor Inn and Spa

Barth Rubin, TreasurerBudget Inn and Suites

Andy Worthington, Immediate Past ChairBushkill Group, Inc.

Bill ColavitoGreat Wolf Lodge

Peter DoggettCove Haven PropCo, LLC

Tony FardaHideaway Hills Golf Club

Andrew ForteStroudsmoor Country Inn

Jeanne GenzlingerThe Settlers Inn at Bingham Park

Larry GreeneLEG Consultants

Edward MayotteSkytop Lodge

Donna SmithBushkill Falls

Doug SmithThe Crossings Premium Outlets

Jim TustShawnee Mountain

Pocono Mountains Tourism is overseen by a 28-member volunteer Board of Directors appointed by the Executive Committee, who also serves as part of the Board of Directors. The Board is comprised of representatives from key sectors of the tourism industry and is balanced geographically throughout our four-county region.

INTER OFFICERS & BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PAST CHAIRMEN 1934-1953 Ted Jenkins1953-1954 Jack Shinn1954-1955 Henry Arneberg1955-1956 Harry Ahnert1956-1957 Paul Asure1957-1958 Leroy Guccini1958-1963 William J. Altier1963-1964 Eric Schuchard1964-1967 Harry Kiesendahl1967-1969 Robert Ahnert1969-1972 Charles Poalillo1972-1973 Glenn Kissel1973-1974 Paul Asure1974-1976 Peter Ahnert

1976-1978 Joan Toms1978-1979 Wes Smith1979-1981 Bill Van Gilder1981-1985 Tony Farda1985-1989 Ron Logan1989-1992 Donald H. Pierson1992-1995 Frank Kelley1995-1998 Jeanne Genzlinger1998-2000 W. Jack Kalins2000-2002 Larry Greene2002-2007 Andrew Forte2007-2009 Edward Mayotte2009-2012 Andy Worthington

Additional Members of the Board of Directors

7

Media Buy = $600,000

Media Value = $1,402,830

Cooperative Investment = $300,000

Out of Home

• Commuter Highway Billboards• NJ Transit

• Interior Car Cards• Train Station Platform Posters

• NY Penn Digital Wall• NY Train Station Display Digital Network

Television

• WNBC (NBC4); New York, NY• :15 Commercial Spots• Live Beauty Cameras

• WCAU (NBC10); Philadelphia, PA• :15 Commercial Spots• Live Beauty Cameras

• WPIX; New York, NY• :15 Commercial Spots• Live Beauty Cameras• In Programming Snipes

• WCBS; New York, NY• :15 Commercial Spots• Live Beauty Cameras• Online Banners

Online Banner Ads

• NJ.com• Philly.com• WeatherBug.com

Cooperative Marketing Partners

Blue Mountain Ski Area, Camelback Mountain Resort, Fernwood Resort, Inn at Pocono Manor, The Lodge at Woodloch, Shawnee Mountain, Ski Committee, Skytop Lodge and Woodloch Resort

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INTERWINTER CAMPAIGN: DECEMBER 3, 2012 - FEBRUARY 28, 2013

8 9

Media Buy = $772,874

Media Value = $1,953,271

Cooperative Investment = $386,437

Out of Home

• Commuter Highway Billboards, New York & Philadelphia DMAs• NJ Transit

• Interior Car Cards• Train Station Platform Posters• Train Station Display Digital Network• Train Station Digital Wall• Metro Park Station Domination

Television

• WNBC (NBC4); New York, NY• :15 Commercial Spots• Live Beauty Cameras

• WCAU (NBC10); Philadelphia, PA• :15 Commercial Spots• Live Beauty Cameras

• WPIX; New York, NY• :15 Commercial Spots• Live Beauty Cameras• In Programming Snipes

• WCBS; New York, NY• :15 Commercial Spots• Live Beauty Cameras• Online Banners

• Bookend purchases on WABC, WNEP and WPVI for IndayCar 400 at Pocono Raceway

Online Banner Ads

• NJ.com• TripAdvisor

Cooperative Marketing Partners

Buck Hill Golf Club, Bushkill Falls, Camelbeach Waterpark/CBK Mountain Adventures, Cove Haven Entertainment Resorts, Discover PikePA, Fernwood Resort, Golf Committee, Kittattiny Canoes, Inn at Pocono Manor, Lake Committee, Skytop Lodge and Woodloch Resort

10

INTERSUMMER CAMPAIGN: MAY 13, 2013 - AUGUST 31, 2013

10 11

Greater Escape Giveaway... Choose Your Own AdventureA custom application located on the PMVB Facebook page, highlighted the four vacation themes featured in the Pocono Mountains 2013 summer commercials. Our fans had the option to enter to win prizes within the four categories. At three designated levels of fan growth, prizes were unlocked within each category and awarded at random to fans who had entered. Fans were encouraged to share the PMVB Facebook page with their friends, to help reach tiers more quickly, as prizes continued to become greater in value at each level. The PMVB page reached the desired goal of 85,000 fans in a little over two months from the launch of the giveaway.

Outdoor Adventure• 75,000 Likes = 10 Fans Win Sleeping Bags• 80,000 Likes = 5 Fans Win Camping Tents• 85,000 Likes = 1 Fan Wins 2-Night Getaway to Mountain Springs Lake Resort with Treetop Adventure Course Passes

Romantic Getaway• 75,000 Likes = 10 Fans Win Plush Bathrobes• 80,000 Likes = 5 Fans Win Romantic Dinners for Two• 85,000 Likes = 1 Fan Wins 2-Night Getaway to Cove Haven Entertainment Resorts

Rapid Escape• 75,000 Likes = 10 Fans Win Logo’d Beach Bags and Towels• 80,000 Likes = 5 Fans Win Water Recreation Passes & Lunch• 85,000 Likes = 1 Fan Wins 2-Night Getaway to Great Wolf Lodge

Family Vacation• 75,000 Likes = 10 Fans Win Bushkill Falls Family Packages• 80,000 Likes = 5 Fans Win Costa’s Family Fun Park Packages & Lunch• 85,000 Likes = 1 Fan Wins 2-Night Getaway to Woodloch Resort

SponsorsBushkill Falls, Camelbeach, CBK Mountain Adventures, Costa’s Family Fun Park, Cove Haven Entertainment Resorts, The French Manor Inn and Spa, Great Wolf Lodge, The Lodge at Woodloch, Mountain Springs Lake Resort, Moya, Pocono Whitewater, The Settlers Inn at Bingham Park and Woodloch Resort

Results• 10,924 new fans• 9,383 views; 3,319 entries; 44,172 “People Talking About This” • Total Reach of 5,677,794• Total Impressions: 13,054,321• 702 YouTube Views from Application

Web Enhancements1. GetSmart Content Added2. Live Cameras Increased3. Calendar of Events Display4. Online Event Submission5. Enculturation Program on Site6. Tourism Achievement Awards on Site7. Member Deals Implemented8. Videos on Homepage9. Downtown/Destination Strategy: Jim Thorpe, Milford, Stroudsburg/East Stroudsburg, Lake Wallenpaupack10. PoconoMountains.com Strategy

Get Smart Content lets you serve the right message to the right visitor at the right time. Seasonal campaigns were created for but not limited to resorts, ski, deals, activities, vacations, romance, family-friendly and in-market. Ads with appropriate messaging were developed.

PoconoMountains.com Strategy expanded branding efforts and shifted the promotion of our website URL. Our main web address remains 800poconos.com (for SEO purposes), but we have begun to use PoconoMountains.com in our marketing.

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Facelift Goals Achieved: 2012-13 overall web visits reached 2,100,000, an increase of 11.1% over 2011-12. Page views saw an increase of 8.5% over the previous year.

INTER POCONOMOUNTAINS.COM

800POCONOS.MOBI• All traffic garnered an increase from the previous year.

o Visits - 205,610, +50.49%o Pageviews - 911,773, +63.40%o Average Visit- 2:54, +20.95%o Bounce Rate - 31.44%, -12.28%

• Total visits equaled 136,631, a 100% increase from last year.• Regular text offers were discontinued in March 2013.

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A LIVE LOOK AT THE POCONO MOUNTAINSOne of the best ways to market a destination and communicate a brand is by the use of imagery, after all, a destination is a very visual product. So what better way to tell our story of who and what we are, than by offering consumers a “live” look-in to the Pocono Mountains. The “live” cameras that were introduced in 2010’s annual report have grown in numbers and media outlets.

Highlights• 22 “live” cameras highlighting both activity and scenic beauty.• CBS New York, WNEP Scranton and WFMZ Allentown were added as television partners, making six total stations along with NBC 10 in Philadelphia, NBC 4 in New York City and WPIX in New York City.• Added media value = over $2.9 million.• Stream over the Internet and are able to be seen on PoconoMountains.com, WFMZ.com, WPIX.com and member websites along with 800Pocono.mobi.• Camera streams have been viewed 4,037,148 times equaling 19,812,153 minutes or approximately 38 years of viewing time.• Camera locations include Blue Mountain (5), Bushkill Falls, Camelback Mountain Resort (4), Costa’s Family Fun Park, Fernwood Resort, The French Manor Inn and Spa, Jim Thorpe at Flagstaff, Lake Wallenpaupack, The Lodge at Woodloch, Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, Shawnee Mountain, Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain, Skytop Lodge and Woodloch Resort (2).

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Live Camera Total Unique Impressions- Shawnee Inn camera streamed Jan-Mar- Jim Thorpe camera streamed Jan-Jun

Biblical Rebels

Medical Revolutions

Chabad’s Expansion

Local Game-Changers

The Post-Sandy Shore

Radical Repurposing

Outsider Art

Volume 34 Number 1 Spring & Summer 2013 $3.50

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V34 N1 SPRING & SUM

MER 2013

In 2012-13, we interacted with regional, national and international media outlets for information and targeted story ideas. New this year was the ability to better track broadcast highlights of the Pocono Mountains as well as increased efforts in curating content and tailoring and delivering customized pitches for niche publications.

Results • 1,764 placements • Over 630 million impressions worldwide • Advertising dollar equivalency of nearly $7 million

We also facilitated and conducted 16 regional press familiarization tours and in-state media missions to update travel editors and journalists, as well as pitched nearly 150 publications on destination news and developments.

We helped promote Jim Thorpe, while in the running for Small Town honors, as well as Hawley, while in the running for the honor to be one of 20 towns out of 100 U.S. and Canadian towns to be repainted in 2013-14 by Benjamin Moore in .

We were committed to redesigning the winter recreation pages on PoconoMountains.com to better communicate the region’s offerings, as well as curating content for various website pages, such as Bucket List and 14 Days of Love.

Writing and editing copy for the Bureau’s collaterals is also an important task. Among the publications written were The Annual Report; Fall Foliage Forecasts; and Phone On-Hold Messages. In addition, dozens of radio scripts and other pieces are written and edited each year.

Keeping Our Members InformedThe newly reconstructured e-newsletter is created and distributed twice monthly to 600 member contacts to inform of public relations, social media and sales efforts as well as announcements and upcoming events. Open rates and click-through have increased as have responses to the newsletter. Average open rate for the last year was 29%.

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INTERPUBLIC RELATIONS

BY JOHN NEWTONSpecial to Newsday

The introduction ofthe heart-shapedtub at CaesarsCove Haven in

Lakeville in 1963 changedthe history of the Poconosforever.The northeastern corner ofPennsylvaniawas soon redubbedthe “honeymoon capital of thecountry” and newlyweds beganarriving enmasse.But the Poconos have been a

summer destination since the19th century, and vacationershave long appreciated the un-spoiled wilderness of the Dela-ware Water Gap and the 150lakes that dot the Poconos’ fourcounties. You can still bathe in a

heart-shaped tub (or in a Cham-pagne glass tower at CoveHaven, if you prefer), but week-end visitors to the region are aslikely to be found hiking andbiking the region’s wooded trailsor rafting down the DelawareRiver.

GEOGRAPHYThe four counties that makeup the Poconos sit along Penn-sylvania’s border with NewYork and New Jersey — it’s easyto get there from New York, atwo- to three-hour drive, de-pending on your exact destina-tion, though the region extendsover 2,400 square miles (that’sabout 1,000 square miles morethan Long Island). The northernend is the most rustic; at theheart of the Poconos, betweenMilford and Stroudsburg, theDelaware River is the principalattraction; at the southern end,

ski resorts and former miningtowns dot the hills.

JIM THORPEOne of thosemining towns,

originallyMauchChunk, hadfallen on hard times in the 1950swhen town fathers decided torename it JimThorpe, after theOlympian and football player.(Though hewas a native of Okla-homa, his remains are in amemo-rial in the town center.) It took awhile, but the attempt to luretravelers eventuallyworked and,fittingly,many are athletes drawnto themiles ofmountain bikingtrails.BlueMountain Sportscan fit you outwith a bike andpoint you to the nearest trail, orset you upwith a two-day bike/boat package, with one day ridingand one day kayaking (34 Susque-hanna St., 570-325-4421, bikejimthorpe.com; bike rentals from $28a day, kayak rentals from $49 a

day). JimThorpeRiverAdven-tures’ inflatable kayaks and easyrafting trips are recommended forfamilieswith younger kids(1 Adventure Lane, 570-325-2570,jtraft.com, daylong rafting tripsfrom $40.95).WhilePoconoWhitewater’smoonlight rafting,which includeswine and goes till

midnight, is for thosewith laterbedtimes (1519 State Rte. 903,800-944-8392, poconowhitewater.com, night rafting $89.95).After working up an appetite,Flow at the Carbon CountyCultural Project takes advantageof summer’s bounty and servesup locally sourced produce and

fish, accompanied by a carefullycurated wine list (268 W. Broad-way, 570-325-8200, thecccp.org,entrees $16 to $27). At night, theInn at Jim Thorpe is the mostatmospheric hotel in a historicdistrict crowded with 19th centu-ry buildings from the town’smining days. Note that the inn,like many hotels in the region,has a two-night minimum onsummer weekends (24 Broad-way, 800-329-2599, innjt.com,doubles from $99 midweek andfrom $139 weekends).

GONE FISHINGFinding a place to cast a line inthe Poconos is not unlike, well,shooting fish in a barrel. There’san abundance of choices, fromstreams to stocked lakes, as wellas the Delaware River. PoconoFishing Adventures is based onBeltzville Lake, not far from JimThorpe, though they can ar-

range charter trips on otherlakes and the Delaware (DeerLane, Beltzville Lake;570-620-6620, one-day fishingcharters start at $59.95). Anyoneolder than 15 must have a fishinglicense from the PennsylvaniaFish and Boat Commission, butyou can apply online, and yourlicense will be sent to you with-in 7 to 10 days (877-707- 4085,fishandboat.com, one-day licens-es for non-Pennsylvaniaresidents are $26.70, one-yearlicenses are $52.70).

DELAWAREWATER GAPJust over an hour from JimThorpe is the highlight of thePoconos in summer, the Dela-wareWater Gap. En route, youmay want to make two detours.First, make a quick pit stop atWhitewater Challengers in

See POCONOS on D6

The Inn atJim Thorpeis amongmanybuildingsthatillustrate thetown’s 19thcenturymining days.

Adventurerssay ‘I do’ tothePoconos

APPH

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TRAVEL

You’ll need a fishing license in Pennsylvania, and you can getone online. Fishing can be solo or chartered.

800PO

CONOS.COM

PHOTO

Mountain bikers are drawn to Jim Thorpe’s miles of trails. Left, rafters on theLehigh River. ON THE COVER: Challenging the rapids with PoconoWhitewater.

Sunset at Arrowhead Lake. For $40 or so, canoes, kayaks orrafts may be rented in Marshalls Creek.

POCONO

RECORD

PHOTO

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800PO

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Planning a vacation? Get itinerary ideas and virtual tours of popular destinations.D4 D5

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SNEAK PEAKSThe unexpected pleasures of vacationing in the Pocono Mountains in the off-season.

By Beth D’Addono

Sunset at Skytop Lodge

Once upon a time, the Pocono Mountains were known primarily as a honeymoon destination — World War II servicemen visited in

droves with their brides before leaving for active duty. Today, while still a honeymoon choice for more than 200,000 couples a year, the Poconos have more to offer than just the setting for romance.

70 INSIDE SPRING & SUMMER 2013

travel

14 15

Over 6,500 Total Print, Broadcast & Internet Placements Geographically Throughout the United States, including Weather Mentions and Live Cameras

Expanding our social media presence, this year’s social highlights included the execution of an internally-hosted Facebook giveaway, as well as an increase of over 28,000 fans. Additional strides were made in other channels including doubling followers on Instagram and a 301% increase of followers on Pinterest. Other highlights included the launch of a new blog site and a weekly Travel Tuesday program.

Pinterest as a PR ToolPinterest boards were used as an avenue to compliment media pitches, providing a visual element to highlight specific story ideas.

Travel TuesdayHosted on both Facebook and Twitter beginning in January 2013,this new program featured weekly offers exclusive for fans and followers. Every Tuesday, attraction and lodging members created an offer, adding value for the most loyal fans and followers who “like”the PMVB on Facebook and Twitter.

Twitter• The PMVB continued to grow its efforts to reach media.• Better communication with media interested in the region, as well as following along with media while visiting.• 3,282 followers, increase of 33%

PoconoTourism BlogLaunched in May 2013, we developed a WordPress blog to act as a channel to host giveaways promoted through Facebook and Twitter. Initial giveaways hosted included concert tickets and Meet and Greet passes for the Sherman Theater Summer Concert Series, which had a positive response. The blog allowed us to host giveaways for fans and followers without violating Facebook rules.

INTER SOCIAL MEDIA

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14 Days of Love Facebook Giveaway

During the first 14 days of February, 14 romance/activity themed giveaways were awarded to our Facebook fans, using a third-party Facebook application creator. The objective was to increase engagement, reward the PMVB’s most loyal fan base and share a message providing a new perception of the modern romance scene. Each day, a Facebook post was created, which included a simple question in relation to Valentine’s Day or romance, as well as an announcement of that day’s giveaway. In addition to the information provided on the official giveaway tab, a webpage was created on PoconoMountains.com, which included specific details on giveaway dates, prizes and contest rules.

Giveaways • Callie’s Candy Kitchen- Box of Chocolates• House of Candles- Centerpiece• Cheesecake Factory- Two Mini Heart-Shaped Cheesecakes• Kitchen Chemistry- Treat Box • Ski Shawnee- Two Lift Tickets• Happy Trails Stables- Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride • Inn at Pocono Manor- Overnight stay for Two• Cheesecake Factory- Large Cheesecake• Sherman Theater $50 Gift Certificate • Skytop Lodge Treetop Course • Mauch Chunk Opera House $50 Gift Certificate• Bushkill Falls Package for Four • French Manor Dinner • Cove Haven- 2-night stay

Results • 3,620 views; 1,881 total entries

• 9,485 total daily people “Talking About This” [Facebook metric]

• 1,001 Woobox application shares

• Total Reach Throughout Giveaway: 1,834,454

• Total Impressions Throughout Giveaway: 9,432,756

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The Pocono Mountains continues to forge ahead in an economy that has shown signs of a moderate rebound.

Outdoor adventure sports continues to emerge as a bright spot as six new races were added to the calendar. The races totaled 20 scheduled events including Civilian Military Combine, Run for the Red, Black Bear Triathlon, Whitewater Challengers Triathlon, North American Orienteering Championships and Go Diva Dash drawing over 40,000 athletes and 80,000 guests between the months of May and November 2012.

Organizations such as The National MS Society, The County Treasurers of PA, Mega International Commercial Bank, PA Amateur Wrestling Federation, PA Sate Little League and the Field Conference of PA Geologists all made their way into the Pocono Region.

We confirmed 30 definite future bookings, representing 4,022 room nights, 8,954 delegates and an economic impact of $8,298,659.

•107 RFPs were sent to the Pocono Mountains comprising of 19,358 room nights and 29,904 total delegates for an economic value estimated at $27,749,549.

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INTER MEET IN THE POCONO MOUNTAINS

Small Market Meetings May 201342

High rollers& history

One of the state’s best-known areas, the Pocono Mountains, continues to see enhancements.

Camelback Mountain Resort, home to the popular water park Camelbeach, recently added the 4,000-foot tandem Zip-Flyer, which lets com-petitors race alongside each other at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.

The heart-pounding attraction proves Camelback’s dedication to warm-weather options.

WHY TAKE AGAMBLE ON YOURNEXT MEETING?

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VALLEY FORGE CASINO RESORT

Whether you’re local to the area or visiting from out of town, the Valley Forge Casino Resort is the perfect destination for meetings and corporate events! We are capable of assisting you in coordinating all the details from finding the perfect meeting room, reserving overnight accommodations, break planning and coordinating audio-visual.

Our convenient location gives you easy access to the area’s business centers and popular attractions. We’re just minutes away from Philadelphia International Airport and offer fast access to downtown Philadelphia and all historic attractions, fine dining and museums.

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vfcasino.comGAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER

With mountains, lakes and attractions

both natural and historic, Pennsylvania

has long been a hub for resorts.

Top, teams can race on the new tandem zip line at Camelback Mountain Resort. Above, drinks are served at the AAA Four Diamond Mount Airy Casino and Resort.

“It’s amazing,” said David Jackson, vice presi-dent of sales for the Poconos Mountain Visitors Bureau. “They just keep adding and adding.”

Visitors will find Segways, disc golf, a treetop adventure course and a 4,500-foot gravity-fed mountain coaster that careens down the slopes sans ski or snow.

August saw the reopening of the Bushkill Inn and Conference Center, formerly the Pocmont Resort, after extensive renovations that converted

Courtesy Poconos Mountain VB

Courtesy Poconos Mountain VB

North American Orienteering Championship

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800POCONOS.COM � 1004 WEST MAIN STREET � STROUDSBURG, PA 18360

For a complete listing of events, visit us online at800poconos.com.

Tour and Travel Services

Calendar of Events

Close to major cities, but far from ordinary.The Pocono Mountains is a short drive from Philadelphia, New York, New Jersey, Southern New England, and Metro D.C. Six interstate highways, I-80, I-81, I-84, I-78, I-380 and I-476, make the Pocono Mountains region quick and easy to reach.

• Online RFP submissions• Web-based trip planning• Customized itineraries• Coordinated FAM tours• Digital media and collateral

• Site inspections• Escort notes• Visitor services• Staff support services• Student-friendly lodging

For information and reservations, contact Ann M. Pilcherat 800-722-9199, direct line 570-421-5791 ext. 3130, e-mail ann@poconos.org.

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New York City75 miles

Harrisburg130 miles

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Baltimore160 milesWashington DC

200 miles

Boston300 mile

Toronto410 miles

85 milePhiladelphi

483 km

322 km4 hours

209 kmGettysburg165 miles

121 km90 mins

137 km90 mins

257 km3 1/2 hours

660 km7 hours

5 hours

266 km3 hours

2 hours

SpringOpening of Whitewater Rafting/GolfChili Cook-OffLehigh Gorge Scenic RailwayJim Thorpe’s Birthday CelebrationAnnual Farm Animal FrolicPocono Mountains Run for the

Red Marathon

Summer

NASCAR Race Fan FestivalPocono 400 NASCAR Race Annual Great Tastes of Pennsylvania

Wine and Food FestivalDelaware River SojournLehigh River SojournRoots and Rhythm Music and

Arts FestivalCeltic FestivalMilford Music FestivalWildflower Music FestivalStreet Festivals and Sidewalk SalesIndy Car RacePennsylvania 400 NASCAR RaceFestival of WoodCarbon, Monroe, Pike and

Wayne County FairsWally Lake Fest

FallPocono Garlic FestivalStroudfestWayne County Wine & Cheese

FestivalCOTA Jazz and Arts FestivalHarvest & Heritage DaysBlack Bear Film FestivalFall Foliage FestivalsOutdoor Adventure RacesGreat Brews of America Classic

Beer FestivalHonesdale for the Holidays

Winter

Olde Time ChristmasChristmas at Grey TowersHawley WinterfestHoliday Shopping EventsJim Thorpe WinterFestTobyhanna Ice Harvest FestivalWinter Lights FestivalAnnual Ice Tee Golf TournamentCrystal Cabin Fever

Life’s greater in the Pocono Mountains.

Sample ItinerariesTeam Building/Outdoor Adventure� Adventure Center at Whitewater

Challengers� Adventure Center at Skytop � All-Terrain Pinzgauer Tours� Beltzville State Park� Bushkill Falls� CBK Mountain Adventures� Chamberlain Canoes� Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area� Jim Thorpe River Adventures� Landers River Trips� Pocono Whitewater Adventures� Pocono Whitewater Adventures – Biking� Skirmish Paintball� Wallenpaupack Scenic Boat Tours� Whitewater Rafting Adventures

Indoor/Outdoor Water Parks� Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark� Great Wolf Lodge� H20ooohh! Indoor Family Waterpark� Kalahari – Coming 2014

Shopping� Country Junction World’s Largest

General Store� Country Kettle� The Crossings Premium Outlets� Downtown Shopping� Pocono Bazaar

Environmental Education� Carbon County Environmental Education

Center� Lacawac Sanctuary� Monroe County Environmental Education

Center at Kettle Creek Wildlife Sanctuary� Pennsylvania State Parks� Pocono Environmental Education Center� PPL Wallenpaupack Environmental

Learning Center� Tannersville Cranberry Bog

History and Heritage� Dorflinger Glass Museum� Grey Towers National Historic Landmark� Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway� No. 9 Mine & Museum� Old Jail Museum� Pike County Historical Society & Columns

Museum – Home of the Lincoln Flag� Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm� Roebling Aqueduct Bridge� Sculpted Ice Works Factory Tour and

Natural Ice Harvest Museum� Steamtown National Historic Site� Water Gap Trolley� Zane Grey Museum

Performance Venues� Mauch Chunk Opera House� Mountain Laurel Pocono Performing

Arts Center� Penn’s Peak� Shawnee Playhouse� Sherman Theater

Culinary and Food Tasting Tours� Agri Tours� Callie’s Candy Kitchen� Callie’s Pretzel Factory� Chef Alice Cooking� Pocono Cheesecake Factory� The Great Shawna Island Farms

Winter Snowsports� Alpine Mountain� Blue Mountain Ski Area� Camelback Mountain Resort� Dogsledding� Fernwood Winter Fun Center� Jack Frost Big Boulder� Shawnee Mountain� Ski Big Bear� Snowshoeing

For a group destination filled with unforgettable fun, come tothe Pocono Mountains any time of the year. With 2,400 squaremiles of breathtaking natural beauty, exciting adventures andunique attractions, there’s something for everyone. Our four

distinct seasons offer activities year-round, so any time is theperfect time to visit. Day packages and overnight itinerarieswith a variety of lodging options are available. Contact usand plan your group tour today.

Refreshing!

pocono mountains

life’s greater in the

800poconos.com/GroupTourYour adventure awaits.

LIFE’S GREATER IN THE POCONO

MOUNTAINS.

Your adventure awaits.

800Poconos.com/GroupTour

INTER LEISURE TIME OUTDOORS

INTEROUR VISITORS

HOSPITALITY SERVICESWe operate four Visitors Centers at key locations throughout the region

and serviced over 133,000 visitors to the region this past fiscal year. The Visitors Centers assist visitors through phone calls, emails and walk-ins.

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We hired Longwoods International to conduct an overview of the Pocono Mountains 2012 domestic tourism business. Each quarter, Longwoods conducted a random cross-section of 500,000 panel members by sending an email invitation to participate in the survey, for a total annual outgo of two million. In 2012, the completion rate for those accessing the Travel USA® questionnaire was 85%.

Meet Our Pocono Mountains Visitor from the 2012 Study

• Total Visitors in 2012 = 25 Million, compared to 22.6 Million in 2010• Size of Overnight Travel Party = 3.2, larger than the US Norm of 2.9• Nearly 70% used a form of social media for travel, on par with US Norm• 57% of visitors are female• Average Age of Visitor = 45 years old• Over 65% are married with partner, compared to 25% that are single/never

married• About 48% do not have children under 18• Nearly 40% are college graduates• 53% are working full-time, opposed to 38% that are either not employed or

retired• 86% are white/caucasian

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MEMBERSHIPWhile the number of members remains relatively unchanged in fiscal year 2012-13, we continually

look to enhance the benefits received by members thereby increasing the exposure

received. New for the fiscal year was the addition of videos to member listings. Additionally, a

member communications section was introduced allowing for members to post their individual

needs.

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES FOR STAFFOur staff is continually encouraged to develop their professional skills by attending workshops, webinars,

seminars and conferences. In 2012-13, the staff continued their professional growth by attending

events such as ambassador trips, PRSA Travel & Tourism Conference, Social Media in Tourism Conference, HSMAI conferences, DMAI conferences, PA Tourism Summitt, PATT roundtables and Adobe workshops just to name a

few.

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INTER COMMITTEES

The following committees help to augment our marketing and advertising programs. In addition to the committee marketing programs, we produce an annual Coupon Booklet. A total of 90,000 Coupon Booklets are produced and distributed each year. Committee marketing and advertising programs are as follows:

Attactions• Produced a new layout/design• Printed and distributed 300,000 copies

Campgrounds• Printed and distributed 60,000 copies• Participated in Camping and RV Show• Radio advertising• Two page co-op ad in the PCOA Camping Directory

Lake Region• Printed and distributed 50,000 copies

Golf• Printed and distributed 30,000 copies• Participated in Golf Shows• Produced and sold a Pocono Mountains Golf A-Round Discount Card. The cards generated over $9,300 in income, which was used to advertise “Golf” through the PMVB’s co-operative advertising program.

Ski• Printed and distributed 125,000 copies• Advertising panel in the Pocono Mountains Attractions brochure• Produced a Pocono Mountains Ski A-Round Discount Card sold exclusively to the Metropolitan NY Ski Council. The income produced from the sale of these cards totaled $18,650, up 27% from previous fiscal year. Dollars were used to advertise “Skiing” in the PMVB’s co-operative advertising program.

Lake RegionLake Wallenpaupack

#LakeRegion

Life’s greater in the pocono mountains

LIFE’S GREATER IN THE POCONO MOUNTAINS

GolfWith Over 600 Holes of Golf

Attractionsand

Accommodations

#PoconoMtns

INTER HOSTED EVENTS

Pocono Mountains Tourism DayThis year’s Pocono Mountains Tourism Day, “The Power of the Brand,” was held May 15 at Bushkill Inn and Conference Center. One hundred-fifty travel industry leaders attended the program and luncheon. The agenda featured Keynote Speaker, Bob Allen of Ideas who shared The Power of the Brand and what destination branding means, along with the evolution of the Pocono Mountains Brand. Our summer commercials launched during luncheon. Sponsors included Masterminds, Mayoseitz Media, Julian James Advertising Design and Bushkill Inn and Conference Center. Other presenters included:

• Mark Preston, TripAdvisor, provided members with tips on how to enhance their TripAdvisor listings.• Angela Keen, Smith Travel Research, provided a data driven presentation about hotel industry performances at

the U.S., Mid-Atlantic and local market levels.• David West, PMVB’s VP of Marketing, shared the latest Longwoods Research Report on Visitation.

Pocono Mountains Tourism Achievement AwardsThe annual Pocono Mountains Tourism Achievement Awards program was held during Tourism Day honoring and recognizing Pocono Mountains hospitality and tourism industry employees, along with member properties, as local tourism heroes for strides in customer service and community involvement.

• Brand Hero: Jennifer Fuller of The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort • Brand Hero: Eric Lansberry of Cove Haven Entertainment Resorts• Outstanding Tourism Employee of the Year Award: Joey Ranner of Woodloch Resort• Lifetime Achievement: Ruth Jones, Kittatinny Canoes• Mattioli Community Service Award: Ehrhardt’s Waterfront Resort• Green Award: Ledges Hotel • Brand Champion Award: Split Rock Resort & Golf Club

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INTER IMPACT OF TRAVEL

To learn more, visit TravelEffect.com

Effects on the Economy: Travel supports more than 14 million jobs nationwide and generates nearly $2 tril-lion in economic output.

Effects on Business: Studies have shown that travel decreases employee burnout and absenteeism. What’s more, companies that support business travel see better earnings—even in a tough economy.

Effects on Individuals: Travel isn’t all about business—it strengthens relationships, relieves stress and promotes happiness and well-being.

The U.S. Travel Association recently launched Travel Effect, a campaign dedicated to helping build awareness of the seen and sometimes unseen benefits of travel. The campaign focuses on three primary travel impacts:

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This past fiscal year was a very busy time for us in both the defense of our industry and our efforts to promote our cause to key policy makers. Highlights included Governor Tom Corbett’s two-day kayak trip down both the Upper and Middle sections of the Delaware River in early August. We sponsored luncheons during the two days (Inn at Lackawaxen and Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort), affording the Governor the opportunity to address those in attendance and take questions on issues related to tourism.

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COUNTY COMMISSIONERSWe would like to thank our County Commissioners for their special assistance, full cooperation and for their overall support of the Pocono Mountains tourism industry.

Carbon CountyWayne E. Nothstein, ChairmanTom GerhardWilliam O’ Gurek

Monroe CountyJohn Mayer, ChairmanCharles GarrisSuzanne McCool

Pike CountyRichard A. Caridi, ChairmanMatthew M. OsterbergKarl A. Wagner, Jr.

Wayne CountyBrian W. Smith, ChairmanJonathan A. FritzWendell R. Kay

Post Labor Day School OpeningThis year the East Stroudsburg School District joined with the Pleasant Valley School District to become the latest adopters of a post Labor Day school start, making for a total of five school districts including Pocono Mountain, Stroudsburg and Wallenpaupack that will have students return to school after the Labor Day holiday. Thanks to the support of our stakeholders who assisted in this effort. We will continue to pursue this important initiative throughout the region.

On-lot Sewage RegulationA special thanks to Eric Ehrhardt for his efforts in leading the charge to get the Department of Environmental Protection to re-evaluate a new set of rules that the agency was about to implement with regards to on-lot sewage regulations. These new rules would have caused unnecessary burdens on property owners. The PMVB helped organize a public meeting held March 22 at Ehrhardt’s Waterfront Restaurant that drew more the 120 participants including local and state policy makers. The educational forum served as an opportunity to discuss the issues and concerns that these proposed regulations would have in our area. As a result of the meeting and follow up effort, the Department of Environmental Protection has chose not to implement these more restrictive measures.

DCED on the RoadThe Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) brought 30 representatives of the agency to Northeast Pennsylvania for their “DCED on the Road” program in which they traveled the region conducting various site inspections, visitations and attended local events over a three-day period in an effort to garner a better understanding of our regions unique character and develop better lines of communication between all parties. The PMVB played a leadership role in coordinating their visit and served as the lead agency for the planning of the kickoff luncheon held at Skytop Lodge for 250 business people throughout the region. Deputy Secretary of DCED, Carolyn Newhouse; Secretary of DCED, Allen Walker; and the First Lady of Pennsylvania, Susan Corbett, all addressed the audience, sharing both their personal and the administration perspective on the tourism and hospitality industry in Pennsylvania.

PA Sales Tax Could Help Tourism On May 17 Secretary of Revenue, Dan Meuser, was in the Pocono Mountains speaking at a breakfast sponsored by the Greater Pocono Chamber of Commerce in which he outlined Governor Corbett’s budget plan for the coming fiscal year. As part of the Q&A that followed, Carl Wilgus expressed his appreciation of the Administration’s efforts to hold the line on the budget and not increasing taxes. However, he noted that the Administration may have “thrown out the baby with the bathwater” in the way it has slashed the DCED line item budget for “Marketing to Attached Tourist” and suggested that the state look at the 6% sales tax currently paid by hotel/motels and resorts in Commonwealth which account for nearly $200 million. If the state would dedicate 1% or around $33 million and challenge the industry to match, the state of Pennsylvania could go from the 45th worst funding tourism program in the nation to the second best. In the past four years we have seen the Commonwealth go from the fourth to the seventh most visited state in the nation. This loss of market share means thousands of jobs not created and millions of tax dollar not generated. The PMVB pledges to continue to push this initiative with our policy makers in Harrisburg.

INTER ADVOCACY

Accolades

• Jim Thorpe named Top Five Most Beautiful Small Towns by Randy McNally in Best of the Road contest

• The Lodge at Woodloch named No. 4 Destination Spa in the World in Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards

• Blue Mountain Ski Resort received the National Ski Area Association Award for Marketing and Safety

• Camelback Mountain Resort received the National Ski Area Association Award for Best Use of Video

• The Lodge at Woodloch named One of the Top 100 Resort Spas in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler Readers

• Blue Mountain Ski Resort received the National Ski Area Association Award for Best Social Media Campaign

• Buck Hill Falls Golf Course Nest Box Project recognized by PA Game Commission

• Otter Lake Camp-Resort named to Good Sam Guide’s 53 Top Campgrounds

• TripAdvisor named Woodloch Pines One of the Best Family Resorts in the World

• Gothamist named Milford, PA one of the 7 Best Weekend Getaways from NYC

• Pocono Mountains made Travel Channel’s list of Surprising Destinations for Families

• The Malibu Dude Ranch received Gene Kilgore’s World’s Best Ranches Award for its high quality of service and hospitality

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INTERACCORDING TO THE PRESS

Through high-quality content, direct pitches, media events, an ever-expanding Visiting Journalist Program and strong media relationships, our media relations team places thousands of positive stories each year about Pocono Mountains Tourism in a blend of high-value print, television, websites and blogs. Here’s just a sampling of some of the accolades Pocono Mountains won this year and a look at some of the 1,700 stories our public relations team generated:

• New York Family Magazine named Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark Best for Intergenerational Adventures

• New York Family Magazine named Great Wolf Lodge Best for a Rainy Day

• The Lodge at Woodloch recognized by Celebrated Living’s Reader’s Choice Platinum List as one of the “Top 25 Spas in the US”

• The Crescent Lodge & Country Inn received TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award

• Skytop Lodge One of Five U.S. Lodges to consider by Newsday.

• New York Daily News put Pocono Mountains on list of New York area’s Best Day Trips and Overnight Jaunts

• Mountain Vista Campground earned “A” by National Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds

Awards Won

• 2012 U.S. Travel National Council of Destination Organizations Destiny Award for Single Targeted Promotion with the Pocono Mountains’ Life’s Greater At The Top Facebook Contest.

• 2012 Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International Gold Adrian Award for the Live Camera Integration in Media and News.

• 2012 Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International Silver Adrian Award for the ‘Greater Maker’ Facebook campaign.

• 2012 Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International Silver Adrian Award for its ‘Life’s Greater in the Pocono Mountains’ marketing campaign.

Best Quotes

Newsday “The Poconos have been a summer destination since the 19th century, and vacationers have long appreciated the unspoiled wilderness of the Delaware Water Gap and the 150 lakes that dot the Poconos’ four counties.” – July 15, 2012

Carolina Bride“Not Your Grandma’s Honeymoon. There’s a new vibe in the Pocono Mountains, a stunning region in northeastern Pennsylvania which offers a wealth of outdoor activities that any honeymooner on the go can enjoy. Yet today’s Pocono honeymooners can also sample high-end spas and gourmet dining.” –July/September 2012

CNN Travel “In the Delaware Water Gap I think we have some of the best fall foliage.” – September 22, 2012

South Jersey Magazine “Couples have longed traveled to the Poconos where the natural environment creates a feeling of intimacy – unplugging and connecting with nature and each other. Breathtaking scenery, winding rivers and picturesque hiking trails are just some of the attractions of the Poconos.” – February 2013

Group Travel Leader “The Pocono Mountains region of Pennsylvania is one the top areas for outdoor recreation in the United States and encompasses Carbon, Monroe, Pike and Wayne counties. Adventurous groups can discover the region’s more than 2,400 square miles of rivers, lakes, mountains, forests and waterfalls.” – February 2013

INSIDE, The Jewish Lifestyle Magazine“Not a single destination, the region is made up of a series of small towns connected by both highways and country roads. If you prefer warmth to chill, tranquility to speed and the great outdoors to concrete-and-steel canyons read on. The Pocono Mountains offers plenty of diversions to keep you entertained, warm and happy.” – Spring & Summer 2013

AM New York“The Poconos area features fishing, hunting, golfing, water sports, hiking, harness racing and automobile racing in addition to the indoor sport of outlet shopping.” – May 27, 2013

Greenwich Post“Lastly there’s upstate, where the breathtakingly vast mountainous surroundings provide opportunities for a swim, canoeing adventures or tubing down the Delaware River for priceless family photos. The Pocono Mountains are the perfect destination for the sporting enthusiast; with everything outdoors you can think of all on the activities menu.” – April 18, 2013

American Spa“Although most people head to the Poconos to enjoy a bit of outdoor recreation, those who visit The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort will also discover the perfect pint to top off their adventures thanks to ShawneeCraft Brewing Company. Guests don’t have to be beer enthusiasts though to enjoy the brew, as the five-treatment-room Spa Shawnee & Salon now offers several beer themed services.” – June 2013

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2012-13 CONTRACTED AGENCIES

Backbone Security, Inc.Julian James Advertising DesignMastermindsMayoSeitz MediaMovitasPenTele DataRight Reason TechnologiesSimpleview, Inc.TravelocityForrest & Sons

2012-13 PROFESSIONAL & TRADE AFFILIATIONS

Alliance of National Heritage AreasAmerican Bus AssociationAmerican Hotel & Lodging AssociationAmerican Society of Association ExecutivesCenter for Rural PADestination Marketing Association InternationalEastern Ski Writers AssociationGreater New Jersey Motorcoach AssociationHotel Sales & Marketing Association InternationalMaryland Motorcoach AssociationMeeting Professionals InternationalMid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations AllianceNational Association of Sports CommissionNational Tour Association, Inc.National Trust for Historic PreservationThe Nature ConservancyNew York Society of Association ExecutivesNorth American Snowsport Journalist AssociationOntario Motor Coach AssociationPennsylvania Association of Convention & Visitors BureausPennsylvania Bus AssociationPennsylvania Chamber of Commerce ExecutivesPennsylvania Downtown CenterPennsylvania Environmental CouncilPennsylvania Outdoor Writers AssociationPennsylvania Public Relations CouncilPennsylvania Route 6 Tourist Association and Heritage CorporationPennsylvania Rural Development CouncilPennsylvania Society of Association ExecutivesPennsylvania Tourism and Lodging AssociationProfessional Convention Management AssociationPublic Relations Society of AmericaReceptive Services Assocation, Inc.Religious Conference Management AssociationSociety for Human Resource Management

Student & Youth Travel AssociationU.S. Travel AssociationVirginia Motorcoach Association

2012-13 PARTNERS

Antique Dealers AssociationBarrett/Paradise Business AssociationBetter Business Bureau of Northeastern PennsylvaniaBrodhead Watershed AssociationCarbon County Chamber of CommerceDelaware & Hudson Transportation Heritage CouncilDelaware & Lehigh National Heritage CorridorDelaware Water Gap Chamber of CommerceDelaware Water Gap National Recreation AreaDiscover PikePADowntown Hawley PartnershipEast Stroudsburg UniversityEastburg Community AllianceEquinunk Historical SocietyGreater Honesdale PartnershipGreater Pocono Chamber of CommerceGreater White Haven Chamber of CommerceGreater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of CommerceGreene-Dreher Historical SocietyJacob Stroud CorporationJim Thorpe Council of the Carbon County Chamber of CommerceLehighton Area Council of the Carbon County Chamber of CommerceMauch Chunk Historical SocietyMonroe County Historical SocietyNorthampton Community CollegeNortheastern Pennsylvania AlliancePalmerton Area Council of the Carbon County Chamber of CommercePenn Kidder Area Council of the Carbon County Chamber of CommercePike County Chamber of CommercePike County Historical SocietyPocono Arts CouncilPocono Builders AssociationPocono Lake Region Chamber of CommercePocono Mountains Association of RealtorsSouthern Wayne Regional Chamber of CommerceUpstatePAWallenpaupack Historical Society, Inc.Wayne County Arts AllianceWayne County Builders Association, Inc.Wayne County Chamber of CommerceWeatherly Area Council of the Carbon County Chamber of Commerce

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