GENESEO — At Thursday night’s Geneseo Town Board meeting, Arleen Somerville received the William Pryor Letchworth Award for Excellent Tourism.
Somerville came to the meeting prepared to speak on behalf of the Geneseo Tourism Committee; her presentation was thorough and ambitious, covering everything from new brochure designs to plans for Livingston County TV ads. Unbeknownst to Somerville, she would soon be awarded for exactly these efforts.
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Somerville’s enthusiasm revealed itself as she presented her work to the board.
“We really can’t emphasize enough the economic benefit that tourism has brought to this area,” said Somerville. “Local merchants have expressed their gratitude to the committee on multiple occasions.”
Somerville explained how the committee has made tourism more accessible to visitors.
“We’ve revised and redesigned our brochures, which we now distribute to local banks, libraries, and college residence halls, among other public places,” said Somerville. “We also provided all participants in the Oak Tree Marathon with Geneseo brochures in their gift bags.”
As for goals ahead, Somerville spoke of “improving direct communication with businesses.” She seemed very optimistic about the future of local tourism, and made a point to acknowledge the tireless work ethic of her fellow committee members.
“I’d also like to thank the committee for all of the effort and time they’ve put into these projects,” said Somerville. “They’ve really done a wonderful job.”
Clearly the feeling is mutual, for at the close of her speech, Somerville was presented with celebratory balloons and a bouquet of flowers. Her face gave way to happiness and surprise as a fellow committee member presented her with the William Pryor Letchworth Award. Somerville thanked those in attendance as she was met with a standing ovation.
“Geneseo is lucky to have residents like Arleen, residents who are as talented as they are committed to this town” said Councilman “Hop” Manapol.