Diamond Mills Hotel and Tavern hosted a fine Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for local media and supporters on February 7th. Owner Tom Struzzieri, Mayor of Saugerties Bill Murphy, County Executive, Mike Hein, Kenneth Adams, president and CEO/Comissioner of Empire State Development gave brief speeches about the journey of constructing Diamond Mills Hotel and Tavern. Adams suprised them with an eagerly awaited check for $780,000.00, apologizing that it wasn't one of those huge super-sized cardboard checks that make for a good photo opportunity. It was the real thing though, which is what matters most.
After the Q & A, owner Tom Struzzieri and Brigid Walsh, the director of marketing and special events, gave us a tour of the hotel. I have dined at the Tavern before, but I had yet to see a room, let alone the Tower suite, so I was eager to follow along.
"It's cozy and sophisticated," said Kelly Myers, Town Supervisor of Saugerties upon entering a standard room. Bob Yerick, former Saugerties Mayor also joined us, adding his humor at every opportunity. "I could fall asleep here!" he said as we ooh and ahhed over the bed int the Tower Suite. Every room has a stunning view of the falls over the Esopus Creek.
Walsh showed us a conference room that can be rented for workshops or meetings, and gave us a sneak peek through the kitchen. All in all, it was a fun event. The speeches weren't too long, and it was a great chance for me to check out the new hotel and meet other media and tourism professionals who happen to follow Hudson Valley Good Stuff too.
If you would like to see more photos I took of this event, friend me on Facebook using vanessa@hudsonvalleygoodstuff.com to find me as HudsonValley GoodStuff.com.
