Pocono Manor owner: ‘We’re here to stay’

The owner of Pocono Manor held a press conference today, just hours after the fire departments cleared the scene of a devastating fire.

Joe Jerome, president of JEMB Realty, said, “The Bailey and Jerome families are heartbroken with the loss of our cherished Pocono Manor – The Grand Lady of the Poconos. We didn’t lose a building, we lost a legacy of dreams and decades of memories through the thousands of people that enjoyed all The Manor had to offer. Jim Cahill, Don Snyder and the Pocono Manor family would like to thank Chief Kresge of the Pocono Township Fire Department.

Fire broke out at the historic inn at 6 a.m. Friday. Firefighters from surrounding counties were called to help, staying on through Friday and Saturday nights.

“Through the valiant efforts of the hundreds of men and women firefighters - ALL VOLUNTEERS, I may add — there were no fatalities, and everyone made it out safely. Over seven battalions from two states participated in trying to save whatever they could of our beautiful Manor. There are not enough words of gratitude for all of them, but please note you will always have a special place in our hearts.”

He thanked the Salvation Army and the neighbors in cottages around Pocono Manor.

“We are a generational family-owned company and rest assured, we will rebuild a new and spectacular facility that we are sure you will be proud of. We will incorporate this new facility with our future plans to create a destination retail and entertainment center. Our master plan for these 3,000 beautiful acres will continue. We are here to stay, so stay tuned.”