AUGUSTA – The Legislature passed a special legislative sentiment recently, sponsored by Rep. Timothy Carter, D-Bethel, to honor Bethel residents Rocky and Lisa Freda for their commitment to innovation in tourism.

The couple received the Maine Tourism Award for their accomplishments at the Governor’s Conference on Tourism in February. The conference attracted more than 500 tourism and hospitality professionals, among whom six, including the Fredas, were honored for their work in the tourism industry, which is Maine’s largest economic sector.

The Fredas have operated Sun Valley Sports in Bethel since 1995. They offer a variety of guided activities throughout the year, including wine and cheese float trips on the Androscoggin River, ride-and-dine fireworks outings and ATV tours during snowless winters.

“I’ve known Rocky and Lisa for several years,” Carter said. “I’m glad they’re achieving such success in their innovative endeavors, and I applaud their contributions to the growing tourism industry in the Bethel area.”