Welcome to the 10th annual Dutchess Tourism Awards of Distinction, where we honor the exceptional storytellers who have left an indelible mark on visitors with their captivating narratives. This year, we are thrilled to recognize the finalists for the Storytelling Award of Distinction: Susan Boudreau, Pamela Perry, and Tara Grieb. These talented individuals have demonstrated a remarkable ability to connect with visitors, sharing the rich history, heritage, and culture of their respective attractions. Join us on November 1, 2023, at The Henry A. Wallace Center at the FDR Presidential Library and Home in Hyde Park as we celebrate their outstanding contributions. Read on to learn more about each finalist and the unique ways they have brought their attraction's history to life.
Unveiling the Finalists
Get to know the finalists for the Storytelling Award of Distinction
Let's dive into the remarkable finalists for the Storytelling Award of Distinction at the Dutchess Tourism Awards. These talented individuals have captivated visitors with their unique perspectives and ability to connect with the history and culture of their attractions. Get ready to be inspired by their storytelling prowess.
Susan Boudreau: Bringing History to Life at Clermont State Historic Site
Discover how Susan Boudreau creates an inclusive and immersive experience at Clermont State Historic Site
Susan Boudreau, Clermont State Historic Site:
At Clermont State Historic Site, Susan Boudreau has revolutionized the way history is told. Through a new Visitor Center exhibit and interactive house tours, she invites visitors to engage in a dialogue about the stories of the Livingston family, enslaved people, and servants who inhabited Clermont. By incorporating the perspectives of indigenous people and advisory boards, Boudreau ensures a more inclusive and welcoming experience for all.
Pamela Perry: Empowering Youth at the Trolley Barn Gallery
Explore how Pamela Perry empowers youth through the Trolley Barn Gallery
Pamela Perry, The Art Effect at the Trolley Barn Gallery:
Located in downtown Poughkeepsie, the Trolley Barn Gallery is not your typical art gallery. Under the guidance of Pamela Perry, young people aged 14-19 in The Art Effect's curatorial workforce development program take the reins. They learn about careers in the arts, curatorial practices, and exhibition design. Through collaborations with esteemed artists and curators, the gallery offers a fresh take on contemporary art, filtered through the lens of Poughkeepsie's youth.
Tara Grieb: Celebrating Early Aviation at Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome
Take flight with Tara Grieb as she showcases the history of aviation at Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome
Tara Grieb, Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome:
Step into the world of early aviation at the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome, curated by Tara Grieb. As a living history museum, the aerodrome educates and entertains visitors with its extensive collection of vintage planes and cars. From immersive airshows to biplane rides, guests can experience the thrill of flight while taking in the beauty of the Hudson Valley. Grieb's dedication to preserving aviation history ensures that the aerodrome remains a unique destination for aviation enthusiasts and curious tourists alike.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Discover the challenges faced by these storytellers and the lessons they have learned
Susan Boudreau, Clermont State Historic Site:
One of the biggest challenges for Susan Boudreau has been engaging visitors in a dialogue about the traditionally ignored stories of indigenous people and slavery. However, through continuous efforts, the staff at Clermont State Historic Site has found ways to bring all visitors into the conversation, creating a more inclusive experience for everyone.
Pamela Perry, The Art Effect at the Trolley Barn Gallery:
Pamela Perry faces the challenge of softening resistance from adults who underestimate the creativity and wisdom of the youth she works with. However, by empowering their voices, Perry has witnessed the profound insights and perspectives they bring to the art world. Through exhibitions like "Quiet as it's kept," the Trolley Barn Gallery challenges established art institutions and amplifies the voices of Black artists.
Tara Grieb, Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome:
Tara Grieb acknowledges the challenges of advertising in a changing digital landscape and competing for people's time. To overcome these challenges, the aerodrome has embraced social media and diversified its offerings. From Wednesday night events for locals to corporate retreats, they continue to find innovative ways to engage and entertain visitors.
Conclusion
The Dutchess Tourism Awards of Distinction celebrate the exceptional storytellers who have mesmerized visitors with their unique perspectives and ability to connect with the history and culture of their attractions. Through their innovative approaches, Susan Boudreau, Pamela Perry, and Tara Grieb have brought their respective sites to life, creating immersive and inclusive experiences for all. Their dedication and passion for storytelling have left a lasting impact on the tourism industry in Dutchess County.
FQA
What is the purpose of the Dutchess Tourism Awards of Distinction?
The Dutchess Tourism Awards of Distinction aim to recognize and honor the exceptional storytellers who have made a significant impact on the tourism industry in Dutchess County through their captivating narratives.
Who are the finalists for the Storytelling Award of Distinction?
The finalists for the Storytelling Award of Distinction are Susan Boudreau, Pamela Perry, and Tara Grieb. Each of them has demonstrated a unique ability to connect with visitors and share the rich history and culture of their attractions.
What are some of the challenges faced by these storytellers?
Some of the challenges faced by these storytellers include engaging visitors in conversations about traditionally ignored stories, softening resistance from adults who underestimate the creativity of youth, and adapting to changing advertising methods in the digital age.
What can visitors expect when visiting Clermont State Historic Site, the Trolley Barn Gallery, and Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome?
Visitors can expect immersive experiences that bring history to life at Clermont State Historic Site, a fresh take on contemporary art at the Trolley Barn Gallery, and a journey into early aviation at Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome. These attractions offer unique perspectives and engaging narratives that will leave visitors inspired and entertained.
