f a l l 2 0 1 7 — w i n t e r 2 0 1 8
The only AAA Four Diamond Condominium Resort in historic Williamsburg
Celebrating New Beginnings at Kingsmill Resort
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crowninggloryMcDonald goes on to explain, "We plan on reinvesting into every aspect of the resort to improve upon the experience, amenities and reputation that makes Kingsmill so special. To help us materialize this vision, we have retained one of the country's most acclaimed architectural and design firms, Hart Howerton, to breathe new life into the physical environment—encompassing everything from the sense of arrival and signage to landscaping and architecture."
Headquartered in New York and San Francisco, Hart Howerton's specialty is designing complete environments in special situations where a unique historic or natural setting requires an especially thoughtful and innovative solution.
The firm's past projects include The Cloisters at Sea Island (Sea Island, GA), The Inn at Palmetto Bluff (Palmetto Bluff, SC), Harbor View Hotel & Cottages (Martha's Vineyard, MA), Atlantic Golf Club (Bridgehampton, NY) and other prestigious resorts, clubs and communities across the country.
Kingsmill slated to get a makeover When Escalante Golf was looking to expand its roster of resort and community properties late last year, Kingsmill's reputation put the property in first place.
David McDonald, president of Escalante, says, "Kingsmill is one of the most iconic resorts on the east coast. It has hosted some of the best-known names in golf, including the PGA Tour's Michelob Championship from 1981 to 2002 and now the LPGA's Kingsmill Championship. Having hosted presidents and dignitaries since it opened almost a half century ago, Kingsmill is truly a special place with a revered history."
And now the resort with the revered history is ensured a bright future, thanks to a comprehensive reimagination by the new owners.
Don't miss one step of the exciting progress to come. Register for email offers at kingsmill.com.
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crowning
hail TO THE CHIEF
Kingsmill welcomes a new COO Earlier this year, John Hilker was named
the resort's Chief Operations Officer
mere weeks before the LPGA Kingsmill
Championship. His positive impact was
immediate, helping lead to an extension of
the contract for hosting this tournament
(see page 4 for details).
Prior to joining Kingsmill, John held
executive-level positions at prestigious
golf resorts and country clubs throughout
the southeastern United States. His most
recent role was that of General Manager
and POA Board President for Black Diamond
Ranch in Florida.
John describes himself as a proud alumnus
of Washington State University who enjoys
playing golf and tennis in his spare time.
On his new post, he had this to share,
"I'm thrilled to be part of the Kingsmill
team. The property is beautiful and the
resort offers a vast array of amenities
for every age and activity preference.
We have exciting plans to make this
already remarkable property even better."
(See story at left for details on these plans.)
THE LEGACY continues
MAY 14-20 • 2018
Don't miss one moment of the action. Watch for dates and other event details at TheKingsmillChampionship.com.4
Course of Action One Team's Perfect Plan Earlier this year, Kingsmill joined the Escalante Golf family of highly regarded resorts, clubs and residential communities that have played host to prestigious professional events, such as the Shell Houston Open, WGC-Accenture Match Play and the Web.com Portland Open, among others.
"Kingsmill is a unique golf resort in that it boasts three championship courses, conceived by three different course designers, that can all be played from different sets of tees to satisfy every golfer—from the pros to brand-new players," said John Hilker, Chief Operations Officer.
To highlight and enhance the uniqueness of each course, Michael Pierce, Kingsmill's new Director of Agronomy, is developing a comprehensive plan that will be executed by a highly experienced team of superintendents in consultation with other experts around the country—all with club-level and public golf course experience.
Preliminary improvements the team made on the River Course already left quite an impression on the LPGA pros that competed in the Kingsmill Championship in May…
" It feels like a step above everything else that we play. It's about as close to a major as we're going to get that's not a major." —Angela Stanford
" The golf course is pure…it's as good as I've seen it." —Cristie Kerr
"Incredible…the greens are so fast." —Brittany Lincicome
The greatest praise came from Golf Channel analyst and World Golf Hall of Famer, Judy Rankin, when she said Kingsmill's River Course has the potential to host a U.S. Women's Open.
Wayne Nooe, the resort's Vice President of Sports, summed up this new initiative best, "Kingsmill Resort was built on golf. Creating this agronomy team and perfecting our courses is all about getting back to our roots."
Pierce added, "Golfers will see continued improvement across all playing surfaces as our team implements standards of excellence and refines the agronomic practices."
Of course, the best way to experience these improvements is to golf Kingsmill's courses for yourself. Make plans to stay and play—find your perfect golf package at kingsmill.com/golf.
(l-r) Kyle Newberry, Plantation Course Superintendent; Tim Doran, River Course Superintendent;
Michael Pierce, Director of Agronomy; James Mazowieski, Woods Course Superintendent
| noun | a practice that looks at agriculture (including grass on a golf course) from an integrated, holistic perspective
agron.o.my
It's official. The resort will continue as title sponsor for the Kingsmill Championship through 2020. To say the least, this news was well received in the golf world…
" We are thrilled that Kingsmill Resort has extended our long-term partnership as it ensures that we will continue the rich tradition of showcasing the best golfers in the world at one of the very best resorts in the world."
--LPGA Commissioner Michael Whan
" [The Kingsmill Championship] has always been one of my favorite stops on the Tour with some of the best fans. I can't wait to return to Kingsmill Resort next year to defend my title."
--2017 Kingsmill Championship winner, Lexi Thompson
FUN APPROACH How to get your kids involved in the game of golf
3 AVOID DANCING Easy tip to stabilizing your lower body to square your putter on impact
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Make your next round the best it can be. Follow the top tips in these
short instructional videos by Chris George, PGA, Director of Instruction
at the Kingsmill Golf Academy and Golf Channel Academy Lead Coach.
the pro knows... M O R E WAY S T O I M P R O V E YO U R G A M E
Want to learn more valuable golf tips and tricks? Explore all the Pro Knows videos on the Kingsmill Resort YouTube channel.
SHALLOW APPROACH One handy trick to achieving a tighter, closer, better short game
1 CLUB UNDER HEEL Simple tools to help you become a better ball striker
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BALL STRIKING TOOL Out-of-the-box way to practice a slightly descending blow to the ball
5 STRIKE IT SOLID Process that creates repeatability for consistent ball positioning
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Mo InspoFor more fresh ideas, flip through the Kingsmill Wedding Gallery or call Sarah Pease at 757.253.3977.
if you can dream it.
Kingsmill can do it!
wedding inspirationhot trends14 Pins 25,492 Followers
Comical Cocktail HourHave a caricaturist at your reception so guests can pose for zany portraits.
Wedding Inspiration—Hot Trends
Luminous LightsString Edison-style bulbs around your reception venue for a rustic, yet dreamy, effect.
Wedding Inspiration—Hot Trends
Picture PerfectHire an artist to paint your first dance…while it's actually happening!
Wedding Inspiration—Hot Trends
Oversized FunOutdoor reception? Setting up giant lawn games for your guests is a winning idea.
Wedding Inspiration—Hot Trends
Tiny TransportLoad your ring bearer and flower girl into a wagon for the cutest ride ever down the aisle.
Wedding Inspiration—Hot Trends
Big FinishDrive into your future together on a golf cart or have guests hold sparklers to light the way.
Wedding Inspiration—Hot Trends
Naughty, But NeutralThere's a gold (and copper!) rush in color schemes, plus an undeniable (but subtle) power in soft blush hues.
Wedding Inspiration—Hot Trends
Totally Tasteful Forego ho-hum paper for personalized macaron place cards.
Wedding Inspiration—Hot Trends
Uplifting FootageBring the drama! Have your wedding video shot by drone.
Wedding Inspiration—Hot Trends
The Gift Of SongGot a friend that can belt it out like Adele? Have her sing at your ceremony as a wedding gift to you.
Wedding Inspiration—Hot Trends
Guest (Not)BookBooks are SO 2016. Have your guests sign something personal—like a kayak paddle or other item that's special to you.
Wedding Inspiration—Hot Trends
Farm-to-FavorGive your wedding favors some local flavor. Honey is always a sweet choice!
Wedding Inspiration—Hot Trends
Clinky DrinkMoscow Mules served in copper mugs are THE cocktail of the year.
Wedding Inspiration—Hot Trends
Friday Night LineupDEAN NAPOLITANO This heavy-hitting funnyman is a throwback to the great comedians of yesteryear with a modern twist—dishing out storytelling with a big punch of imaginative delivery. His TV credits include Army Wives, Burn Notice, What About Brian and Las Vegas.
ERIN JACKSON Erin's conversational style and tell-it-to-you-straight humor earned her a semifinalist spot on Last Comic Standing as well as enviable gigs on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Wanda Sykes Presents Herlarious, Live at Gotham and Standup in Stilettos.
DALE JONES This 20+ year comedic veteran and regular on SiriusXM's Blue Collar Channel has lit up the small screen with his rapid-fire delivery and animated faces. TV appearances include Last Comic Standing, The Very Funny Show and 30 Seconds to Fame.
Saturday Night LineupJON FISCH With a fair share of late night appearances on Stephen Colbert and David Letterman's shows, this prolific monologist also opened for Jerry Seinfeld and captured the title of "New York City Capital One Audience Favorite" on Last Comic Standing.
MICHAEL PALASCAK After launching his comedic career on The Late Show with David Letterman and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Michael went on to release a comedy album and become one of the last five comics standing on the latest season of Last Comic Standing.
DON FRIESEN Self-deprecating and highly relatable, Don's frenetic brand of funny earned him two wins at the San Francisco Comedy Festival and scored him a solo Showtime one-hour special, Ask Your Mom, that features adult-smart, yet family-friendly, comedy.
fresh FlavorsMaple Miso Glazed Brussels Sprouts East meets west in this simple yet flavorful dish from Executive Chef Justin Dallinger's stash of favorite recipes. It all starts off with the hardy goodness of roasted Brussels sprouts then gets a sweet-and-savory kick from the homemade miso and maple syrup dressing that delivers a one-of-a-kind taste of fall. Best of all? You're just 30 minutes away from digging into a Kingmsill Resort culinary masterpiece right at home.
Get the recipe today at kingsmill.com/dining/recipes-from-the-kitchen
3RD Annual Comedy WeekendGet Ready to LOLOur first two comedy weekends brought sold-out crowds and rave reviews. Make sure you
get in on all the laughs during the third annual event, JANUARY 26-28, 2018.
Get away for a few nights to laugh off your winter blues. Reserve your Comedy Weekend package at kingsmill.com/comedy before they sell out.
BRIAN HICKS Having spent the last 13 years sharing the stage with top comics like Rob Schneider and winning the prestigious Comedy 10K, Brian has honed his quick-witted material with a mix of thought-provoking views and audience interaction that people find hilarious.
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Event Emcee
"The comedy show was incredibly entertaining. We will definitely return next year ."
--TripAdvisor review from February 2017
groundbreaking newsA MODEL LIFE This behind-the-gates neighborhood will showcase spacious two-story, four-bedroom homes. Each one boasting inspiring views of either Kingsmill's manicured golf courses or the mighty James River.
The 3,353-square-foot Osprey model features a luxurious first-floor master suite, two-story foyer, open floor plan and two-car garage, as well as a gracious front porch and charming covered back porch. At 2,937 square feet, the Heron model offers many of the same features coveted by savvy homeowners in addition to a screened-in porch to enhance your outdoor living experience.
No matter which model you choose, you can truly make it your own with customizable features available through Kingsmill Resort Custom Homes.
Construction Continues In Burwell's Bluff
Think about the last time you stayed at Kingsmill Resort. You probably thought to yourself (more than once), "I could definitely live here!" The good news is…you CAN live here—in the resort's newest community, Burwell's Bluff. Construction is already underway on the first two homesites, but there are still 22 lots to choose from to live out your Kingsmill dreams.
THE SMART CHOICE In 2016, Kingsmill was named one of the "Best of the Best College Town Communities" by ideal-LIVING. This year, Williamsburg is still on that list, thanks to the top-ranking, picturesque College of William and Mary, as well as three community colleges that give area residents the opportunity to expand their horizons through classes and cultural events.
Already sold on Burwell's Bluff? Start your house hunt by taking advantage of the Kingsmill Experience Package. Just call Kingsmill Realty at 800.392.0026 to book your package—and make sure you tell them you read all about it in the Kingsmill Current.
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holiday lobby
If you've ever visited Kingsmill over the holidays, you're familiar with Pastry Chef Uwe Schluszas' gingerbread masterpieces displayed in the lobby. Past creations have included everything from a street scene in the movie A Christmas Story (complete with iconic leg lamp) to a whimsical fairytale village to a nine-foot-tall working grandfather clock.
Seeing these creative handmade confections, you have to wonder, "How does he pull it off?" It's not easy. The process actually involves several months of brainstorming, planning and preparation—all with a healthy dash of inspiration.
Chef Uwe explains, "I always like to create something different—something so detailed that, every time you turn around, you discover a new surprise."
sugar spice And Everything Magical
One of those surprises includes friendly "mice" tucked into the designs as a nod to the holiday classic The Nutcracker. Both kids and adults enjoy the challenge of finding these sugary little creatures within the intricate gingerbread creations.
This year, Chef Uwe is planning something big. We don't want to ruin the surprise, but we can give you some hints: This thing was originally invented in the late 1940s, but it's still in use to this day. It's the Italian word for a type of insect, but is not an insect itself. Also, the design will be both fun and functional.
Think you've guessed it? There's only one way to find out if you're right. Go to kingsmill.com to plan your stay over the holiday season. The big reveal is planned for Thanksgiving weekend and the gingerbread creation will remain on display in the lobby just past New Year's Day.
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september
october
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Events • Entertainment Celebrating New Beginnings Declare a fresh start this fall—and make your holidays
ever so bright. Kingsmill is your festive headquarters
for every season. Browse the calendar below to pick the
best dates for your resort getaway and get complete
event details at kingsmill.com/event-calendar.
BUSCH GARDENS®
Saturdays & Sundays Through SEPT 17 Bier Fest | Busch Gardens®
200 years of Oktoberfest traditions are celebrated with German beer, food & live music
Fridays, OCT 6–27 Hair of the DoG Tastings | Merchants Square
Sip free ales, lagers and more, with a new brewery featured every week
Saturdays, OCT 7–28 Williamsburg Farmers Market | Merchants Square
Local growers and producers sell fresh seasonal food and farm products direct to you
Just because the kids are back in school doesn't mean the fun
has to end. Kingsmill makes your fall festive with these exclusive
seasonal packages…
BED & BREAKFAST
SNORES & S'MORES
AARP 10/20/30 SAVINGS
HOWL-O-SCREAM®
Plan your fall escape and save big today at
kingsmill.com/package
BACK TO coolWeekends, SEPT 22–OCT 29 Howl-O-Scream® | Busch Gardens®
Exclusive stay package includes loads of frightening fun with admission to Howl-O-Scream
7–8 | Occasion for the Arts | Merchants Square
This juried art show brings the work of talented fine artists, local youth artists and lively performing artists together for an exciting weekend
8 | Second Sundays | Colonial Williamsburg
Street festival showcasing arts, handcrafts, live music and family-friendly entertainment
november
december
january
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NOV 22–DEC 31 | Holiday Happenings | KingsmillGet in the holiday spirit with caroling and sweet treats in the lobby, plus ooey-gooey s'mores around the firepit
5 | Virginia Thanksgiving Festival Berkeley Plantation
Join the very first Thanksgiving celebration with a parade, magicians, dancing, corn maze & more fun
Kingsmill knows how to celebrate the season—from Thanksgiving
straight through to the New Year.
THANKSGIVING
LET IT GLOW
CHRISTMAS TOWN™
HOLIDAY TRADITIONS
Get in the holiday spirit! Find your perfect package at kingsmill.com/package
light up THE HOLIDAYS
23 | Thanksgiving Feast Various Seatings | Kingsmill
Celebrate the holiday with a lavish spread at James River Grand Ballroom or Elements 1010
9–12 | Williamsburg Taste Festival Williamsburg, Yorktown & Jamestown
Over 35 culinary-inspired events highlight Virginia's chefs, farmers and foragers
25 | Gingerbread Wonders | Kingsmill
Watch Head Pastry Chef Uwe Schluszas craft a holiday food cart out of gingerbread in the lobby
16 | Breakfast with Santa | Kingsmill
Families can share a meal and score face-time with the big guy in Burwell Ballroom
26–29 | Candy Cane Cinemas | Kingsmill
Enjoy holiday movies and tasty concessions at Moody's Tavern in the Resort Center
26–28 | Comedy Weekend | Kingsmill
Exclusive stay packages are available with tickets to two comedy shows for a full weekend of laughs
NOV 24—DEC 31 Christmas TownTM | Busch Gardens® Exclusive stay package that lights up your holiday season with admission to Christmas TownTM
d i d y o u k n o w. . .The James River Reserve Fleet, oldest of the original
eight National Defense Reserve Fleet sites, reached its peak in 1950 with nearly 800 ships? These intriguing
vessels are being slowly recycled and repurposed.
ship tip—Scope the "Ghost Fleet" from Kingsmill's shores, before they all vanish!
800.832.5665 • Kingsmill.com
Home of the LPGA Kingsmill Championship • May 14–20 , 2018
1010 Kingsmill Road • Williamsburg, VA 23185
©Escalante Kingsmill Resort, LLC. All rights reserved.
©Daily Press