Mark McLewin and Cristina Aby-Azar continued from page 15 part of Ethelbert Crawford Library’s Literacy Program in Monticello. She also volunteers at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. Together, McLewin and Aby-Azar purchased Cannie D’s in Neversink in late 2015, and with the help of Stankevicus, a five-star chef who was then working at one of the Top 20 restaurants in the country in Manhattan, has transformed it into the highly successful Neversink General Store (NGS). Not only does NGS serve as a one-stop shop for members of the Neversink community but it also offers culinary options that are affordably priced and out of this world. The trio make a good team. McLewin is in charge of the backbone of the operation, as well as most of the marketing and advertising. Cristina manages human resources and customer service and is constantly looking for local and unique products to add to the store's shelves. Apart from overseeing the kitchen, Stankevicus leads NGS’ fast growing catering business and helps with pretty much everything else. Some of NGS’ catering highlights include having done about 20 weddings, ranging from 100-250 people, catering the Town of Wallkill Boys & Girls Club’s largest fundraiser in Circleville, and when Resorts World Catskills was being built, served meals to 820 construction workers in under 30 minutes. Today, Aby-Azar and McLewin, individually and collectively are members of the Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association, Sullivan 2019
County Chamber of Commerce and Bethel “We chose to Business Association. live here and One of McLewin’s we want to pet peeves is when cooperate and people say there’s make the nothing to do in Sullivan County or you community can’t make money better. We don’t here. His belief: “If just want to live you’re motivated, you here and not be can.” a part of it.” McLewin also offered the following advice. “Watch and listen. This store [NGS] is not about me. It’s what they [the customers] want. Many business owners inflict their desires upon their endeavor. It’s not about you, it’s what the clients desire.” As for why they feel motivated to be involved locally, Aby-Azar explains, “We chose to live here and we want to cooperate and make the community better. We don’t just want to live here and not be a part of it.” McLewin jokes: “It is also related to my inability to say no! I jump into a job, keep the job, and then get another. I look at things and say: ‘What’s missing.’ “Cris and I are honored to receive the Distinguished Service Award,” McLewin said. “My first response was ‘Who voted for us?’ I have always kept a reserved profile and eschewed attention. That is increasingly tougher with Neversink General. Cris, Jaime and I do make a good team and I love sharing great food. Thank you mystery voters!” P R I D E AWA R D S 1 7