LIBERTY — The Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association (SCVA) proudly announces the recipients of the 2023 Tourism Excellence Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment and contributions to the Sullivan Catskills region.

They will be recognized at the SCVA’s annual meeting and cocktail party to be held on Wednesday, December 6 at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

“These community awards are an opportunity for us to express our gratitude to those who go above and beyond in making the Sullivan Catskills an exceptional place to live, work and visit,” said Roberta Byron-Lockwood, President/CEO of SCVA. “Each awardee has made a lasting impact on our community, and we are thrilled to honor and celebrate their achievements.”

STAR Award for Individual Achievement: Rick Lander, Lander’s River Trips: Recognizing an individual who has shown exemplary leadership, fostering unity and inspiring positive change in the community.

Lander’s River Trips has been family-owned and operated since 1955, founded by Bob Lander who came to the Upper Delaware as a Boy Scout at Ten Mile River Scout Camp. Today, Rick Lander continues in the footsteps of his father by providing the best customer service and quality outdoor experience possible.

STAR Award for Business Achievement: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts: Recognizing a business that has demonstrated excellence in service, innovation and dedication to the Sullivan Catskills community.

Bethel Woods was born out of a passion for improving the quality of life in Sullivan County. Since its inaugural season in 2006, the 800-acre campus has seen the likes of Elton John grace the outdoor pavilion stage, solidifying it as a world-class entertainment and arts center. All the while the non-profit organization preserves and interprets the site of the original 1969 Woodstock festival and offers year-long access to the arts.

TOAST Award for Exceptional Service: Adam Jacobson, Villa Roma Resort: Honors an employee who gives the extra effort to customers enhancing the customer’s experience. They exhibit good leadership skills and knowledge about the Sullivan Catskills.

Adam Jacobson is the Director of Sales at Villa Roma Resort. He, with his team, is responsible for bringing over $9 million in resort stays at Villa Roma which translates to almost 19,000 visitors. “With his department staff, Adam handles all aspects of group stays, from check-in to check-out,” stated Paul Carlucci, Vice President of Villa Roma. “Considering the almost 80% of return group visits, there can be no question as to the positive impact of his work.”

Emerging Business Award: The Black Library: Recognizing an innovative and forward-thinking emerging organization that aims to inspire others and leave a positive impact on the Sullivan Catskills community.

The Black Library is a library and community art space focused on celebrating black history and culture, creating a collaborative, creative and educational atmosphere for the residents of Sullivan County. The Black Library carries a diverse collection of books, exhibits visual art, offers educational workshops for children and adults and hosts talks and community discussions.

Sullivan Catskills Ambassador Award: Claire Marin, Catskill Provisions: Honoring an individual or organization that has made significant contributions to promoting tourism in the Sullivan Catskills, attracting visitors and boosting the local economy.

Born in Madrid and raised in New York City, Claire Marin, proprietor of Catskill Provisions, moved to Long Eddy and started a new passion—beekeeping. Since then, she began Catskill Provisions Distillery, where she makes Pollinator Spirits, and has turned it into a thriving company with a storefront and tasting room in Callicoon. She welcomes visitors to the Sullivan Catskills with warm hospitality and gives her time and energy to myriad events throughout the region. 

“The Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association believes in acknowledging those who contribute to making our region a vibrant and welcoming destination,” remarked SCVA Vice Chair, Scott Samuelson. “These awards not only celebrate the achievements of the recipients but also inspire others to actively participate in the growth and prosperity of the Sullivan Catskills.”

SCVA members and the community are invited to attend the annual meeting and holiday party on December 6. Please RSVP in advance by calling the office at 845-747-4449.