Westchester County, N.Y. - County Executive Robert P. Astorino has announced a new director of tourism and film in Westchester County, New York.  Natasha Caputo, a former vice president of NYC & Company, will guide efforts to increase Westchester County's visibility in her role as Director of Westchester County Tourism & Film. "Westchester is one of the most dynamic areas to live, work and visit in New York State," said Astorino.  "Natasha brings a unique breadth of experience to this position that will help us build awareness about everything that Westchester has to offer and create more opportunities for tourism and film." Caputo has an established track record of success that includes experience as a top executive with NYC & Company, the official tourism and marketing agency of New York City.  Her knowledge of strategic marketing, promotions and business development will be main components of her new position and will help take Westchester's tourism and film efforts to the next level. "Westchester has untapped potential and I am eager to bring my expertise and energy to build new partnerships and welcome visitors to our county," said Caputo.  "I also want to make sure our residents know about the great things we have in our county since we have so much." At NYC & Company, Caputo developed and spearheaded signature tourism marketing campaigns such as Restaurant Week, Paint the Town, Summer Breaks and Shop 4 Class. She also led marketing partnerships with American Express, American Airlines, The Coca-Cola Company, Target, Time Warner and other companies. Caputo created and launched business building seminars that provided forums for travel and hospitality related industries and was also part of September 11 rebuilding efforts. Most recently, Caputo worked as a consultant for companies including American Express, Madison Square Garden Entertainment and City Harvest.  She was chief marketing officer for Nicholas and Lence Communications, a New York City based communications firm specializing in media relations, destination marketing and government and community relations. Caputo is the recipient of two Adrian Awards from the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International for NYC Summer Breaks and the NYC Explore Chinatown campaign. In 2003, she was honored as one of Promo Magazine's Marketers of the Year. Westchester County Tourism & Film is dedicated to promoting and advancing tourism within the county to attract visitors and generate economic growth, an industry that contributes about $1.6 billion annually to the local economy.  The office also handles filming requests for county properties. In addition to Caputo, staff includes Amanda M. Modugno, Deputy Director, Lydia A. Ruth, Public Relations, Film & Marketing and Sandra J. Mahonski, Administrative Assistant.  For more information about Westchester County Tourism & Film, please call (914) 995-8500 or visit http://www.westchestertourism.com/.

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Contact: Lydia A. Ruth, Westchester County Tourism & Film Public Relations (914) 995-8503