New Beginnings ...

Coming off of a mild winter, it's odd to say "thaw" in this situation, isn't it? While the park is usually under ice and water or snow at this point, today the sun shines. I couldn't be much more grateful for that but it's also a reflection of things being a bit different here in the park as we begin 2020. 
As most of you know the staff here is pretty small and you grow to know us pretty well. When you have a staff of three and you lose one, that's a big change. When you lose two it's a rebuild. It's like a sports team rebuilding their starting lineup. Let me explain.
Jim Bannan, our groundskeeper and caregiver for over ten years has made the decision to retire and move to NY with family. He has been a big part of the park for a long time and if you don't know Jim by name, you likely saw him or his grey van on the grounds over the years. Jim left earlier this month and we wish him all the best in his semi-retirement. 
Also, Lindsey, our event coordinator has moved on be a full time wedding coordinator in NY. It's from part time to full tim and she is working full time now in this new endeavor. Again, all is well and we wish her the very best. 
So we had some work to do. Replacing two hardworking people is a task. The park needs to look beautiful and the events must go on, right? We need to pay for the pretty part. It's a vicious circle of sorts. We needed to find really good people who were willing to jump in, head first ... and the water is chilly!
Welcome Arielle Barker and Craig Reardon to the fold. Arielle assumes multiple responsibilities internally. While I wear many hats, it's helpful to have a right hand here as the Office Manager and Asst. Events Coordinator. A New Milford native, Arielle brings energy, youth and organizational skills that most certainly help the park in so many ways.
Craig is a skilled carpenter and all around talented handyman who will be moving into the park and will be on grounds a lot. So if you see a new face driving the golf cart around the park, it's likely Craig and you will certainly be greeted. 
Arielle and Craig bring fresh faces and some sunshine on their own. It brings a new feel to the park and a breath of fresh air. Two new people with a fire and energy to make things great truly inspires me to do more and be more too. 
So where is the park for 2020?

• I am working on new events and fund raisers for the park now.
  
• We have more weddings booked than any year previously. 
• We are addressing new projects an major renovations.
• We are addressing long term concerns.

Most of all, we are having a blast! The park is and should always bring a smile to your face if you work here or visit here. There's a buzz and an excitement for 2020 that I haven't felt in a couple years here. Events are being rebranded, and new events are hitting that we hope you all enjoy and want to be a part of as well. 
Please take a moment to welcome the two new members of our park family on your next visit. They are excited and it IS contagious. I mean it's no Corona virus, but it's pretty catchy! 
​See you all soon!