NEWSLETTER
Utica, NY (April 7, 2025) – Oneida County Tourism (OCT), in proud partnership with the New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association (NYSHTA), will host the first-ever Central New York Legislative Networking Breakfast on Friday, May 9, 2025, from 9:00–11:00 a.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Crystal Ballroom, Utica, 102 Lafayette Street. OCT is also pleased to collaborate with Oneida County Government, Mohawk Valley EDGE, the Greater Utica Chamber of Commerce, and The Genesis Group in bringing this important regional event to life.
This inaugural gathering will bring together tourism, hospitality, business, and government leaders from across Central New York to engage in open dialogue with local and state legislators. Attendees will hear about legislative issues directly affecting the industry and the broader regional economy.
Topics on the Legislative Agenda Include:
- Short-term rental legislation
- ADA website compliance
- Tourism Promotion Matching Grants
- Hotel and resort fees
- And more
“We’re proud to host the CNY Legislative Networking Breakfast for the first time, in partnership with NYSHTA,” said Sarah Foster Calero, President of Oneida County Tourism. As the leading voice for lodging and tourism in New York State, NYSHTA plays a critical role in advocating for policies that support our industry. Bringing together regional partners like Oneida County Government, Mohawk Valley EDGE, the Greater Utica Chamber, and The Genesis Group allows us to collectively engage with our elected officials and highlight the importance of tourism as an economic driver across Central New York and the Mohawk Valley.”
Who Should Attend:
This event is open to all partners in the tourism, hospitality, and business community—including hotels, attractions, event organizers, restaurants, and beyond. This event is also uniquely tailored for state and local elected officials representing Oneida County and the Mohawk Valley/Central NY region to hear about the interests of the tourism industry.
Registration Information:
Attendees must register in advance.
- Fee
- Non-member fee: $50*
- Member fee: $35 (must be a member of one of the partnering organizations)
- Register here: https://web.nyshta.org/events/Central-NY-Legislative-Networking-Breakfast-1124/details?_gl=1*1ngar9h*_gcl_au*MTg3MzU1MjM1MC4xNzQyODI5OTIx
- *Complimentary admission is extended to elected officials.
This is a notable event for the Mohawk Valley and Central New York region—designed to connect the industries that shape our economy with the lawmakers who influence their success.
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About Oneida County Tourism
Oneida County Tourism is the official tourism promotion agency for Central New York’s region, representing Utica, Rome, Verona, and Sylvan Beach. Through strategic marketing and public relations, the organization attracts visitors across multiple sectors, including leisure, meetings, sports, travel trade, and film/TV production. Governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, OCT is dedicated to showcasing the region’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and natural beauty.
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Contact: Sarah Foster Calero
Title: President
Organization: On behalf of Oneida County Tourism
Email: sarah@oneidacountytourism.com
Phone: (315) 749-8958