Settlers Hospitality Receives Local, State and National Honors Leadership. Excellence. Heritage. Settlers Hospitality is honored to receive a number or recent recognitions from industry peers and community organizations. These distinctions were bestowed on multiple businesses in a variety of categories demonstrating Settlers Hospitality’s strong commitment to its core values across all of its holdings. Settlers Hospitality CEO/Owner Justin Genzlinger was named Business Person of the Year by The Chamber of the Northern Poconos in its 2021 Community Awards. Each year The Chamber salutes outstanding business leaders in appreciation for their enhancement of the region as a great place to live and work. “I’m honored and humbled to receive this recognition,” says Justin Genzlinger. “After an unprecedented year of challenges, it’s especially meaningful to me to be named Business Person of the Year. Weathering the uncertainties of COVID-19 was no easy task, but I think we’ve come out of it stronger as a company and even more connected as a community.” Historic preservation was a founding principle of Settlers Hospitality. That commitment remains steadfast today with four heritage properties among its collection of hotels. Therefore, it was a privilege to be selected as a finalist in the 2021 Historic Hotels Awards of Excellence in seven categories! The program recognizes and celebrates the finest historic hotels and hoteliers from across the United States and around the world. To be chosen as a finalist among hundreds of nominees represents the pinnacle of this very select group. Historic Hotels of America (HHA) bestowed its highest honor on Founders Jeanne and Grant Genzlinger. During the recent awards ceremony and gala in Kohler, WI the couple was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Each year HHA recognizes individuals whose lifelong passion has resulted in the preservation and celebration of the history and stories of a legendary historic hotel. The Genzlingers were honored for their 40-plus year career in the hospitality industry and an enduring legacy of historic preservation that has transformed the Lake Region of the Pocono Mountains. Settlers Hospitality was also chosen as a finalist in multiple categories including a nod for Best Social Media for The Settlers Inn, Sustainability Champion for Ledges Hotel, Best Small Historic Inn for The Sayre Mansion and Best Historic Resort for Silver Birches. Additionally, CEO/Owner Justin Genzlinger was nominated for Historic Hotelier of the Year and Founders Jeanne and Grant Genzlinger were also nominees for Steward of History and Historic Preservation. Hotel Anthracite in Carbondale, PA was recently honored with the 2020 Heritage Tourism Award from the PA Route 6 Alliance. Each year the organization honors one group, organization or project from the 11-county PA Route 6 Heritage Corridor that promotes economic development and stimulates tourism while still respecting the heritage and cultural resources of the corridor. Nominees hail from throughout the Keystone State, from Pike County in the east to Erie County in the West. Hotel Anthracite celebrates Carbondale’s rich coal mining past in its name, décor and historical exhibits. When the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce announced its list of 2021 SAGE Award nominees, The Settlers Inn was delighted to be included. The annual event recognizes the outstanding efforts, talent, creativity and innovation in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The Settlers Inn was singled out as a finalist for the 2021 Impact Award- People and Culture. The category acknowledges a business or organization that has gone above and beyond in response to the COVID-19 crisis to ensure the well-being of its employees. “We are truly honored by each and every recognition,” states Genzlinger. “It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our whole staff. The awards are an excellent opportunity to showcase the efforts of everyone at Settlers Hospitality.”
Fall Events at Settlers Hospitality When fall comes calling to the Pocono Mountains, Settlers Hospitality responds with a host of special events that capture the essence of the season. The Settlers Inn, Ledges Hotel, Silver Birches and Hotel Anthracite deliver the flavors and festivities that make autumn a treasured time in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Shrimp will be featured in a big way at The Dock on Wallenpaupack. From October 24 to November 24 enjoy a variety of appetizers and entrees starring the crustacean. Dishes include Bang-Bang Shrimp, Bacon Wrapped Shrimp with Asian Glaze, Shrimp Toast with Ginger Ponzu, Crab Stuffed Shrimp, Steak and Shrimp, Coconut Shrimp and Shrimp Carbonara. Solve crime while you dine! Hotel Anthracite in Carbondale will host an evening of intrigue with a Murder Mystery Dinner Theater on October 29. The drama begins at 7 p.m. Gather clues as you savor a delectable three course meal. The cost is $49 per person. The Settlers Inn will once again have guests spellbound with its Storytelling Dinner. On October 29 and 30 New York Times writer Neil Genzlinger will enthrall audiences with tantalizing tales. Genzlinger is an accomplished writer and storyteller with three wins at Moth StorySlam Open Competitions. He’ll be joined by Michaela Murphy the host of “Word of Mouth Live!” at the Bucks County Playhouse where she is the director of education. The highly regarded speech and performance coach has appeared at many storytelling events including the Moth Mainstage, Harmony in the Woods and TEDxBarnardCollegeWomen. The events unfold in The Undercroft set aglow by over 100 pumpkins hand carved especially for the occasion. Live music and a delectable farm-to-table meal round out the evening. Reservations are required for The Storytelling Dinner, which costs $65 per person. The restaurants of Settlers Hospitality will dig deep into the truffle scene. During the month of November, The Settlers Inn, The Dock on Wallenpaupack and Glass-wine.bar.kitchen will offer dishes featuring the delicacy. The culinary occasion culminates with a Truffle Italian Wine Dinner on November 12 at The Settlers Inn. A guest chef will create an elegant menu of items spotlighting truffles and paired with Italian wines. The decadent evening will include presentations by Urbani Truffles and Pio Cesare Vineyards. Reservations are required. Settlers Hospitality will salute members of the armed forces with complimentary overnight accommodations on Veterans Day, November 11. Veterans may stay at The Settlers Inn, Ledges Hotel, Silver Birches or Hotel Anthracite free of charge. The Settlers Inn will also host a fireside welcome wine on Thursday evening especially for service members. Reservations are required for overnight accommodations. Before the big feast, gather for a Friendsgiving at Glass-wine.bar.kitchen. The casual celebration on Thanksgiving Eve, November 24 features live music by John Curtin plus food specials. Celebrate Thanksgiving with Settlers Hospitality. For a traditional Thanksgiving meal of farm-to-table favorites, make a reservation for Thanksgiving Dinner at The Settlers Inn on November 25. Seatings will be available in from noon-6:30 p.m. in the dining room and the Undercroft. There are two options for lakeside holiday dining at Silver Birches on November 25. Enjoy a fuss-free, family-style meal at The Dock on Wallenpaupack while the popular Thanksgiving Buffet returns to The Waterfront. Large parties may reserve private dining space in The Helm or Starboard Room. Stay home and enjoy a Thanksgiving feast with none of the cooking. Both The Settlers Inn and The Dock on Wallenpaupack will offer Thanksgiving Dinner to Go featuring turkey and all the trimmings. Orders must be placed by November 23. Meals will be ready for pick up on November 25 between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Whether it’s a relaxing getaway, memorable meal or unique special event, Settlers Hospitality crafts the finest offerings of the season into exceptional experiences.
Gorgeous Floral Grand Opening Set for October 9 A new retail and floral service has taken root in Hawley. Settlers Hospitality will hold a grand opening for Gorgeous Floral at 210 Welwood Avenue on Saturday, October 9 with a ribbon cutting set for 10 a.m. An extensive renovation breathed new life into a vacant storefront along Route 6 to create a stunning showcase for this venture. Katharine Brown, of Fox Hill Farm, will serve as director of floral design. The building dates to 1897 when it served as the Paupack Electric Company plant. Energy from Paupack High Falls was harnessed in turbines just below the structure and used to power the town including the adjacent Bellemonte Silk Mill, known as the Hawley Silk Mill today. The revitalization of the property is the latest example of Settlers Hospitality’s commitment to historic preservation. Previous projects have included the restoration of The Settlers Inn, Ledges Hotel and Silver Birches all of which earned membership in Historic Hotels of America. The prestigious program recognizes properties that have faithfully maintained their authenticity, sense of place, and architectural integrity. “The addition of this location is another chapter in the story of Hawley’s manufacturing past as told through the preservation of the Hawley Silk Mill and Ledges Hotel,” explains Settlers Hospitality CEO/Owner Justin Genzlinger. Transformation of the property enabled expansive views of the Wallenpaupack Creek river gorge below. Outside, artist Jeff George refreshed the exterior with a beautiful floral mural that wraps around the building. Sekula Signs created oversized signage with a retro flair. Customers may stop in to choose from the selection of pre-made bouquets or order a custom arrangement for any occasion. Visitors to the shop will also find a curated mix of houseplants, unique vessels, potted plants, terrariums and elegant living and dried centerpieces available for purchase. Merchandise will include floral and garden inspired home décor. The shop offers a central location for Gorgeous Floral’s already burgeoning wedding and events services, which launched in 2021. “Celebrating life’s chapters with flowers is an honor. I’m excited to share my passion for floral design and education through Gorgeous Floral,” states Katharine Brown. “I’m looking forward to greeting customers in the shop and assisting them in expressing the meaning of the occasion through flowers.” Katharine has spent nearly a decade styling weddings at Fox Hill Farm. She’s a highly sought-after floral designer in the tri-state area and beyond. Many of the flowers used in her arrangements are grown on the family farm in Honesdale. Using as much local, Pennsylvania and American grown products as possible is a priority for Katharine. That dedication to locally sourced goods aligns with the values and mission of Settlers Hospitality to support community farms. Gorgeous Floral will also provide in-house floral design for all the properties of Settlers Hospitality. The custom creations will adorn hotel lobbies and grace on-site special events. Guests may also order a seasonal arrangement from Gorgeous Floral for their room as an add-on to any stay. In the future, the shop will host classes and private events. “We’re thrilled to add Gorgeous Floral to the collection of experiences offered at Settlers Hospitality,” says Genzlinger. “It’s one more investment in the community that provides a valuable service to residents and visitors alike and we’re excited about all the opportunities this will bring.” Gorgeous Floral will be open Wednesday through Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Call (570) 576-0490 or visit www.gorgeous-floral.com for more information.
Settlers Hospitality Makes an Investment in its Workforce At the start of what promises to be a busy summer season, Settlers Hospitality announced an ambitious program to benefit its 300 plus strong workforce. The plan calls for an increased starting wage of $15 an hour company wide. The base living wage will be extended to current employees as well as new hires. The investment in its team is also an acknowledgment of the rising cost of living throughout Northeast PA. Additionally, salaried staff will see a cost of living increase and the company is also planning to expand its employee benefits package. “We want all our employees to be able to live and play in the community where we work,” explained CEO/Owner Justin Genzlinger. “Our team is undoubtedly our greatest asset. This is our way of expressing how much we value everyone at Settlers Hospitality and want to help them secure their future.” Guests may notice new initiatives that will enable the program by directly benefitting employees, which will enhance the quality of the visitor experience overall. Settlers Hospitality has multiple openings for full and part-time positions at all of its locations. Potential candidates can begin a career in the hospitality industry with a role that matches their interests and availability. Applicants may find employment as waitstaff, bartenders, chefs, bakers, housekeepers, personal trainers, baristas, dishwashers, front desk staff, maintenance workers, event planners and more. “We’re proud to lead the way among the hospitality industry in the Pocono Mountains with this investment in our team,” said Genzlinger. “Not only is this a well-deserved boost for our staff, it’s a sign of confidence in the return of tourism, and business in general, after an unprecedented year of challenges.” For more information about job openings, visit settlershospitality.com.
Settlers Hospitality’s Summer Music Series Hits All the Right Notes Music nourishes the soul and feeds the spirit. Played in concert with an exceptional meal in a stunning venue, and that’s a feast for the senses! The music series at the Hawley properties of Settlers Hospitality provide the soundtrack for summer in the Lake Region. Lakeside Live at The Dock on Wallenpaupack and Blues, Brews and BBQ at Glass- wine.bar.kitchen get underway Memorial Day weekend. Jazz on the Deck returns to The Settlers Inn on June 2. Jazz on the Deck at The Settlers InnSince it first launched over 10 years ago, Jazz on the Deck has become a cherished rite of summer in the Pocono Mountains. The event at The Settlers Inn draws professional performers whose credits range from Broadway and the New York cabaret scene to international jazz festivals. Every Wednesday evening during summer, a rotating lineup of musicians entertain from 6-9 p.m. Guests may enjoy farm-to-table cuisine overlooking the Inn’s manicured garden or choose a table on the lawn and take advantage of cocktail and full dinner service. The highly anticipated series begins June 2 with Stefan Bauer. The music continues with The Craig Graham Trio (June 9), Luba Mason (June 16), Hang Em High (June 23), and The Andrea Wolper Trio (June 30). The Gypsy Jazz Quartet gets things started in July with a performance on July 7. That’s followed by Judy Silvano (July 14), Liza Dolittle and Robert Kocec (July 21) and The Gary Rixner Trio (July 28). August brings performances by All That Jazz with Michelle Oram (Aug 4), The Glenn Heller Trio (Aug 11), Last Thursday Band (Aug 18), Thos Shipley (Aug 25) and Spencer and Nancy Reed (Aug 27). The Robert Kopec Trio closes out the series on September 1. Lakeside Live at Silver Birches ResortGreat tunes, spectacular views and delectable food. Guests can make the most of every weekend with Lakeside Live at The Dock on Wallenpaupack. On Saturday and Sunday, talented musicians perform live on the lawn overlooking the lake at Silver Birches. Visitors may savor lunch, dinner or drinks while listening to live music. Boaters can order Dock and Dine and enjoy a meal from the water. Bands perform from 3-6 p.m. The lineup features local favorites such as Gone Crazy, Eric Rudy, Kevin Campion and Rare Form. Blues, Brews & BBQ at Ledges HotelLet the good times roll with Blues, Brews and BBQ every Sunday during summer. Renowned blues musicians perform live at Glass-wine.bar.kitchen overlooking Paupack High Falls while guests dig into classic barbecue fare paired with local craft brews. The menu features savory barbecue entrees and side dishes with a twist. Wallenpapuack Gorge serves as a natural amphitheater to showcase the talents of noted blues musicians. Blues, Brews and BBQ kicks off May 30 with a performance by Lighten Up Band. June’s lineup includes Bobby Kyle Band (June 6), Merchants of Groove (June 13), Yasgur (June 20) and Gary Rixner Band (June 27). July starts with a bang on July 4 courtesy of Teddy Young and the Aces. The beat goes on with The Barn Cats (July 11), Dan Brother Band (July 18) and Norman Taylor and Blue Soul (July 25). August brings performances by Randy Lippincott and Joey “Hot Box” Simon (Aug 1), Dustin Douglas and The Electric Gentlemen (Aug 8), The Jeremy Langdale Band (Aug 15), Slam Allen (Aug 22) and Scott Weis Band (Aug 29). The series concludes Labor Day weekend when Bobby Kyle Band returns for a performance (Sept 6). Settlers Hospitality’s Summer Concert Series is a signature event in the Pocono Mountains. There’s something quintessentially summer about relaxing in a beautiful open-air setting, enjoying a fine meal and good company with the sounds of music drifting out. “After an abbreviated season last year, we’re thrilled to host a full schedule of events this year,” says Justin Genzlinger, CEO/Owner. “Welcoming guests back to our properties for the summer concert series will be especially sweet given the challenges of 2020, but this year things are looking bright.”
Business is Blooming at Settlers Hospitality Settlers Hospitality is growing its operations with the opening of Gorgeous Floral. Katharine Brown, the renowned floral designer from Fox Hill Farm, will join forces with Settlers Hospitality to launch the new floral business in May, just in time for Mother’s Day. The floral boutique will be located along Route 6 in Hawley in the former Dorchester Antiques building. The name is a nod to the location of the business overlooking Wallenpaupack Creek river gorge. In addition to retail sales to the public, Gorgeous Floral will provide in-house floral design for all the properties of Settlers Hospitality. The custom creations will adorn hotel lobbies and grace on-site special events. Guests may also order a seasonal arrangement from Gorgeous Floral for their room as an add-on to any stay. Katharine Brown of Fox Hill Farm in Honesdale will serve as floral designer. The self-professed flower fanatic is known for creating unique looks that capture the essence of any occasion. After nearly a decade styling weddings at Fox Hill Farm, she’s become a highly sought-after floral designer throughout the tri-state area and beyond. “I am so excited to bring my passion for floral design and creativity to Gorgeous Floral. Settlers Hospitality’s commitment to high-caliber experiences and superior service align with my own business values. I’m thrilled to join the team,” said Katharine Brown. Customers may stop in to choose from the selection of pre-made bouquets or order a custom arrangement. Shopping at Gorgeous Floral promises to be a feast for the senses. The artful display will feature a curated mix of houseplants, unique vessels, potted plants, terrariums and elegant living and dried centerpieces. Merchandise will also include gardening kits, books, tools and candles as well as unique, garden related home décor. Items will change with the season and custom orders are always welcome. Plans are also in place to offer small classes on flower arranging, gardening and more in the future. “A floral boutique was truly a natural fit for our business,” explains Justin Genzlinger, Settlers Hospitality Owner/CEO. “It’s one more service we can provide to our wedding couples and event organizers. Not only is in-house floral design a convenience for wedding and event planning, it will bring a cohesive look and distinctive style to special occasions and enhance the décor at all of our properties.”
Step Inside a Snow Globe for Greenhouse Dining at Glass-wine.bar.kitchen The weather outside may be frightful, but inside the greenhouse it’s delightful. Diners at Glass- wine.bar.kitchen will now get to see Paupack High Falls in a whole new light. Greenhouses and igloos were recently installed on the decks at Ledges Hotel overlooking the river gorge for socially distanced outdoor dining throughout winter. Made of polycarbonate material, the four greenhouses measure 8 x 12 and can accommodate up to eight people for private dinners. Electric heaters keep things cozy while vents at the roof and over the door allow for natural air flow. “As the weather turned cold, we knew we needed to reimagine dining yet again,” explained Justin Genzlinger, Owner/CEO of Settlers Hospitality. “The greenhouses and igloos serve a practical purpose, but also enable us to offer our guests a new, unique experience. At night the greenhouses are illuminated and dining with a 360-degree view of the surrounding gorge- it really is a magical atmosphere.” Guests in the greenhouses will enjoy a prix fixe menu served family style. There are two dining packages available- standard and deluxe. Both options boast a four-course meal featuring some of the signature fare from Glass-wine.bar.kitchen. The cheese/charcuterie board, a perennial favorite among diners at the restaurant, will get things started. The second course will bring a farmhouse salad and roasted garlic hummus. Depending upon the package, entrée options for the third course range from Bistro Steak and Sautéed Shrimp to Pan Seared Duck and Diver Scallops. The final course features an assortment of hand selected desserts. Upgrades are also available such as a French Onion Soup Hot Pot for the table. Greenhouses may be reserved for dinner seven days a week. There’s a $350 minimum per greenhouse and a $100 non-refundable deposit is required to hold a reservation. Glass-wine.bar.kitchen also added to its outdoor dining options with the introduction of igloos. Setup on the deck overlooking the falls, there are two heated igloos that can accommodate up to four people for a la carte dining. The restaurant is open seven days a week for indoor dining, outdoor dining on the enclosed deck and take-out. Menus are available at ledgeshotel.com For more information, check out SettlersHospitality.com.
