UPDATED May 18, 2017, 3:35 p.m., to reflect change of date.

MASSENA -- The 2017 St. Lawrence County Tourism Award recipients have been announced leading up to the June 22 celebration dinner at the River Road Restaurant at the Massena Country Club.

Robideau's Mahogany Ridge Bar & Grill, South Colton, will receive the Best to the Guest Tourism Excellence Award and Mare's Wares Arts Fest, Ogdensburg, will receive the Best Destination Marketing Initiative Award.

"We received several nominations for the two awardees, and are proud to honor them for their work in the tourism industry" stated Brooke Rouse, St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce Director.

The Best to the Guest Tourism Excellence Award is “presented to the individual, business or organization that has been recognized for providing an excellent guest experience. Customer service, unique offerings, and attention to detail make this awardee stand out in the industry. Restaurants, guides, lodging, and attractions will be recognized based on referral reputation in the community and online reviews from guests.”

Mahogany Ridge, which opened in October 2015, has quickly become a favorite of locals and an attraction for visitors. Owners Terri and Bill Reed, and Kirk & Jeanie Robideau, expressed that they wanted the place to be welcoming to everyone.

“You can show up in a dress for a special occasion, or come off the trail for a casual dinner or drink,” said Terri Reed.

They are known for accommodating special requests and always having quality ingredients.

One tripadvisor review said “Robideau's is a great surprise to find in the wildness of the Adirondacks,” while a Canadian guest noted how they were “treated like family.”

The Best Destination Marketing Initiative Award is “presented to the individual, business or organization that has devised and implemented the most outstanding tourism marketing campaign or initiative to raise awareness and attract visitors to St. Lawrence County. New programs, bundling of experiences and multi-media communication delivered with creativity, innovation, production quality and effectiveness will be recognized.”

This year's recipient, Mare's Wares Arts Fest, was chosen for their effort to highlight the local flavor of St. Lawrence County to Canadian visitors and River communities during the busy Fourth of July holiday week.

Held on July 1 (Canadian Independence Day) every year, now in its tenth year, the Fest attracts crowds to the free event, with demonstrations, live music and quality goods and artisinal work.

A Facebook page highlights vendor products throughout the year, drawing attention to the opportunity to view and purchase from North Country talent in many different venues.

The 2nd Annual Tourism Awards Dinner will take place Thursday, June 22, at River Road Restaurant, Massena Country Club.

A brochure exchange will take place at 4:30 p.m. in the parking lot, followed by happy hour at 5 p.m. Dinner, awards and presentations will take place from 6-8. An auction will be held, which will include items such as Cape Air round trip tickets and a boat cruise to Singer Castle.

Reservations for the awards dinner are $42 per person, and are available by calling the St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce at 315-386-4000 or by emailing jo@slcchamber.org.