This month on Pocono Mountains Magazine, learn how tourism has helped to shape our region's economy, identity, landscape, and way of life. Jim Hamill explores the Poconos history as more than a destination, featuring the story of Cindy Knecht whose family moved to the Poconos after vacationing here. Get an exclusive first look at the new Swiftwater Conference & Events Center and see how this exciting expansion will bring new opportunities to the region while building on the experience guests already love at The Swiftwater. Chris Barrett sits down with Bill Colavito who shares his firsthand experience with the September 11 terrorist attacks, how this historic event profoundly changed his perspective on life and set him on a new path, and how it ultimately led him down a new path dedicated to inspiring others. The Weatherly Hillclimb, taking place in September, is more than a race: it’s a generations-old tradition that brings the community together. Deanna Fontanez speaks with two Weatherly natives about the memories, people and passion that keep this tradition alive year after year.Brianna Strunk highlights the stories of four non-profits being honored for their life-changing work this month at the 23rd annual Pocono Mountains Community Fundraiser, held at Mount Airy Casino Resort. In this month's Pocono Showcase, we feature Clodagh Conboy, a young, local college student who sings, writes music and plays the acoustic guitar.

Season 6, Episode 21 - Bill Colavito, General Manager of Great Wolf Lodge Pocono Mountains, discusses his remarkable journey from family-owned businesses and a career with Marriott International to becoming one of the region's most respected hospitality leaders.

Bill reflects on his firsthand connection to September 11, 2001, sharing how that experience reshaped his outlook on leadership, gratitude, and the importance of focusing on what truly matters.

The conversation explores the power of hospitality, the value of mentorship, the impact leaders can have on future generations, and why creating meaningful family memories has become such a central part of Bill's mission. From building teams and developing future general managers to helping thousands of families create traditions in the Pocono Mountains, Bill offers an inspiring perspective on service, resilience, and finding purpose in people.

The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it’s the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 6, Episode 20 - For years, this podcast has explored the people, businesses, and stories shaping one of America's most iconic four-season destinations. In this episode of our special series, The Pocono Mountains: More Than a Destination, Cindy Knecht shares her journey from family vacationer to lifelong resident, business owner, and community leader. Discover how tourism, local entrepreneurship, and a strong sense of community continue to make the Pocono Mountains a place where people don't just visit, they belong.

The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it’s the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 6, Episode 19 - PTN's Deanna Fontanez sits down with longtime racer and Weatherly native Ray to explore the history, family traditions, and community spirit behind the iconic Weatherly Hillclimb. From childhood memories on the mountain to becoming one of the event's most recognizable competitors, Ray shares how the hillclimb has shaped his life and inspired the next generation of racers.

The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it’s the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 6, Episode 18 (Season 3, Episode 15) - We have no shortage of camps throughout the Pocono Mountains. There are a few dozen in Wayne County alone and in Pike County, quite a few draw kids from all over the map year after year.. and in ⁠Camp Oneka’s⁠ case that’s been a tradition 115 years strong this year. 1908 is when the camp on the shores of Fairview Lake near Lake Wallenpaupack got its start and has led to 3rd and 4th and 5th generation campers and one very well known alumna – Grace Kelly. PTN's Jim Hamill sits down for a chat with the owners for this episode.

The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it’s the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠ or watch ⁠Pocono Television Network⁠ streaming live 24/7.

This month on Pocono Mountains Magazine, join us for a new series as we go Chasing Waterfalls. First stop, George W. Childs Park in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area!Explore Lake Wallenpaupack by paddle board with Bri & Dee, an adventure open to everyone thanks to seasonal rentals from Wallenpaupack Scenic Boat Tours.Brianna Strunk shows us around the Skytop Butterfly House, where guests staying overnight at Skytop Lodge can learn about, and interact with, butterflies select times between July and early September.Jim Hamill shows us how the future of a historic Pocono town is looking bright as a revitalization effort kicks off to attract downtown investment and make Honesdale more walkable and safe. Next, Deanna Fontanez takes us to Mount Airy Casino for the ultimate girls golf getaway.As a local TV meteorologist prepares for a family getaway to the Poconos, Members 1st Federal Credit Union provides helpful ways to save and plan financially.Watch as Yenser's Tree Farm gears up to carve family memories during their annual Fall Fest, one of the many events offered throughout the year at this fourth generation farm in Lehighton, PA. Don't forget to visit their popular Sunflower Festival the first two weekends of August!Finally, hear a story driven by a shared longing for hard work and purpose. Britt, a veterinarian raised on a Pennsylvania homestead, and Kelly, a weary West Coast utility worker, leave their former lives behind to restore a historic 1850s property along Wallenpaupack Creek.

Season 6, Episode 17 - Explore Skytop Lodge's seasonal Butterfly House with Naturalist Theresa as she shares the fascinating life cycle of butterflies, their role as pollinators, and how guests can experience this unique attraction. Plus, learn about Skytop's guided hikes, conservation efforts, and simple ways to create a pollinator-friendly habitat at home.

The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 6, Episode 16 (Flashback to Season 5, Episode 16) - A flashback to a favorite in our series ⁠Exploring State Parks in the Poconos⁠. Jim explored ⁠Promised Land State Park⁠ which is in Pike County - not far from Interstate 84. We learned some great insights from Park Manager Sara Jade Woodsmith about the park's beach, campgrounds, history and more. We also paddled for a bit around the lake with Kara Derry, who's helped lead the new group ⁠Friends of Promised Land⁠. And we learned a lot about the history of the park, one of the oldest in the state and with ties to the New Deal programs.

The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠ or watch ⁠Pocono Television Network⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 6, Episode 15 - Discover why Whitewater Rafting Adventures offers everything from whitewater rafting and ziplining to biking and paintball in one location. In this episode, owner Steve shares the company's story, the joy of introducing guests to new adventures, and what makes the experience memorable for families, groups, and thrill-seekers alike.

The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it’s the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.

This month on Pocono Mountains Magazine, mark a major milestone for the United States with a patriotic show at Pocono Raceway honoring veterans and active duty service members as well as highlighting America250PA's role in the lead-up to 2026 and the U.S. Semiquincentennial! Jim Hamill celebrates and shares America's Birthday with this inside scoop.Whether staying overnight or visiting for the day, Brianna Strunk shows off unique ways to experience Two Creek Farm, a 600-acre regenerative organic farm fostering harmony with animals and the land.Join Deanna Fontanez for a visit to Keen Lake Camping & Cottage Resort, where over 70 years of family tradition have made this lakeside campground a beloved destination for generations. Explore the stories behind its past, present, and future.You've heard of snow tubing in the snow, but what about in the sunshine? Join Bri & Dee for a summer snow tubing adventure at Blue Lightning, one of the many activities at Pocono Mountain Villas by Exploria Resorts.If you’re looking for a destination where everyone in the group can find their thrill, find out how Whitewater Rafting Adventures checks every box, all in one stop.Cross the river and explore the borough of Lehighton at the southern end of the Pocono Mountains to discover unique dining experiences, locally crafted tastes, outdoor adventures, vintage and homemade shopping spots, plus great downtown Lehighton festivals: it's all here!Watch a historic recap of Union Pacific's Big Boy No. 4014, the world's largest operating steam locomotive, including its stop in the Poconos as part of a coast-to-coast tour celebrating America's 250th birthday.Finally, don't miss the latest episode of Pocono Showcase featuring Project 9, a high-energy, alt-rock local band.