Author Archives: Quinn Pochekailo

Giants Ridge Shines with Statewide Wins and Team Member Recognitions

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Giants Ridge has once again proven itself a premier destination in Minnesota, taking home multiple accolades in the Minnesota’s Best reader-choice awards presented by the Star Tribune. This year, Giants Ridge earned:

  • Gold – Best Golf Course
  • Gold – Best Ski Hill
  • Gold – Best Ski Resort
  • Gold – Best Weekend Getaway
  • Silver – Best Fall Fun/Events
  • Silver – Best Day Trip
  • Silver – Best Fall Destination
  • Silver – Best Winter Destination

General Manager Fred Seymour explained that these recognitions are more than just titles, saying they reflect “the hard work, dedication, and hospitality that our team brings to every guest experience.” He emphasized that every role, whether it’s grooming trails, mowing greens, or serving guests in the restaurants, contributed to the wins. Fred noted that with more than 250 employees across golf, ski, Nordic, and food & beverage operations, the property is “a unique operation that takes a dedicated team to keep running smoothly.”

Having led Giants Ridge for eight years, Fred added that its variety of offerings makes it unique, pointing out that “championship golf courses, a ski area, Nordic trails, three restaurants, and year-round operations all come together here.” He also emphasized the property’s importance to the community, noting that it is one of the region’s largest employers.

 

 

Spotlight on Rising Talent

Alongside these statewide honors, Giants Ridge is celebrating lift mechanic Neale Leete, who has been nominated for the 2025 SAM Rise Up Challenge, a contest spotlighting lift maintenance professionals.

In less than two years, Neale advanced from lift operator to mechanic while pursuing technical training to deepen his expertise. Marketing Director Josh Woolery shared that “Neale’s journey and passion make him a standout not just at Giants Ridge, but across the ski industry,” encouraging the community to watch his video submission and vote daily to help him secure an education grant.

Fred added that Neale’s story reflects a broader philosophy at Giants Ridge: “It’s important to believe in your team, give them the tools to succeed, and trust them to make decisions. That’s what allows us to create a culture of excellence in everything we do.”

 

 

Continuing the Tradition of Excellence

From wide recognition in Minnesota’s Best to attention for rising talent, Giants Ridge continues to demonstrate the passion, teamwork, and dedication that define the Guest Services experience. Building on these accomplishments, the team looks forward to welcoming even more guests and strengthening its reputation as one of Minnesota’s premier four-season destinations.

Creating Community Through Campground and RV Excellence With Shelly and Roy Moore

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Rotating image of the Willow Beach Campground Views

For Shelly and Roy Moore, Willow Beach has always been more than just a campground, it is their happy place. Before living and working here, they called it their hideout, a quiet stretch along the Colorado River where they could escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Eight years ago, a two-week getaway turned into something life-changing.

“When we arrived at Willow Beach, we encountered the camp host at the time, Mike,” Shelly recalls. “My husband jokingly asked, ‘How do you get a job like this?’ And somehow, within the two weeks we were offered the position, we did all the paperwork, and were back to Reno to pack up our house, put in my two-week notice at work, and told our family we were moving to Willow Beach for a year to try out this thing called camp hosting.” What was supposed to be a one-year trial has become their life’s calling. Today, they continue to welcome travelers and adventurers from around the world, all drawn to the emerald waters and serenity just down the road from Las Vegas.

“Entire facility was the cleanest and best maintained we have ever seen. The host Roy and Shelly were extremely hospitable and shared their knowledge of the area and places to see. They made our stay absolutely wonderful. They are the best campground hosts you will ever find.”

– Campground Guest, August 2025

Roles with Heart

Shelly serves as camp host, caring for the campground by making sure that every site is cleaned and ready for the next camper and that the restrooms, showers, and laundry are sparkling clean. “My husband, Roy, is the maintenance supervisor; he is responsible for all maintenance on the property, not only in the campground, but for all of Willow Beach. He handles everything from the smallest thing, like changing out light bulbs, to the big projects of landscaping and trimming grass and trees. All the extras that make Willow shine above the rest,” she explains.

Together, they go beyond the basics, often spending their own time sharing advice on the best fishing spots, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing areas. “Even on our days off or after hours, we are always out helping campers, talking to them, hearing their stories and sharing ours, offering advice on the best fishing spots or where the best hiking trails are. Just interacting with the campers we come in contact with and giving them more insight into Willow Beach.” Their dedication shines through in the reviews that praise Roy’s willingness to go the extra mile and the couple’s passion for making sure every camper has the best experience possible.

Creating Lasting Connections

In their eight years at Willow Beach, Shelly and Roy have met people from all walks of life. “A lot of them are telling us that the reason they do return is because of us. That really makes your heart smile,” Shelly says. They especially look forward to the busy season from October through April when snowbirds stay for months at a time. “We call them our Willow Beach family. We get together and BBQ and tell stories and spend time together. Not because it is our job, but because we enjoy the people and we love what we do. Christmas and Thanksgiving potlucks are my favorite; everyone is welcome.”

“Campgrounds were the cleanest and best maintained we have ever seen. Campground hosts were absolutely awesome. Very professional, friendly, hospitable and knowledgeable. They were very helpful and answered dozens of our questions about the area. It was our first time there and they took very good care of us, enhancing our outdoor experience. We will definitely be coming back!”

– Campground Guest, June 2025

Advice for Future Camp Hosts

Shelly often hears from people who dream of camp hosting. “A lot of them say it is something that they really have always wanted to do. And I just say if you love working with people, you love being outdoors, camp hosting can be so fulfilling, just do it.” Eight years after taking a chance on their hideout, Shelly and Roy continue to bring joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging to everyone who passes through Willow Beach. Their story is a reminder that sometimes, what begins as a temporary getaway can become the adventure of a lifetime.

Thank you, Shelly and Roy, for your hard work and commitment to excellence!

St. Andrews State Park Team Hosts Another Successful Cleanup

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St. Andrews State Park staff, in collaboration with Guest Services, recently hosted a successful cleanup event on Shell Island. About 30 volunteers participated, helping to remove an estimated 500 pounds of trash from the shoreline. Guest Services provided transportation to the island, making it easier for everyone to take part. These cleanups are held quarterly by the park and remain open to the public, offering a chance for the community to join in preserving this special destination.

At Guest Services, we are proud to support initiatives like these and encourage our team members to take part. Many of our properties and parks provide opportunities for staff to join volunteer efforts or even host events of their own, helping strengthen community connections and protect the natural environments we are entrusted to serve.

Thank you to all who participated in this event and who continue to make sustainability a priority!