Whats New in the Press Room

President Obama Announces National Strategy on Travel and Tourism

In a first for the United States (US), President Barack Obama announced a national strategy on travel and tourism to boost travel to the US and across the nation. Dutchess County Tourism joins the US Travel Association (USTA) in applauding this national strategy to boost travel and tourism. The US travel industry is a cornerstone of the US economy, representing $1.8 trillion in economic output, and supporting 14 million American jobs.

"Travel and tourism have significant economic impacts on both our state and local economies," said Mary Kay Vrba, Director of Dutchess County Tourism. "Let´s keep spreading the word that tourism puts people to work, with jobs that can drive our nation´s recovery. This order will substantially increase the number of foreign visitors, who are more difficult to reach with our limited advertising funds. We're off to a great start in 2012."

This call for a national strategy to make the US the world's top travel and tourism destination is part of a comprehensive effort to stimulate job creation. The number of travelers from emerging economies with growing middle classes, such as China, Brazil, and India, is projected to grow by 135%, 274% and 50% respectively by 2016, when compared to 2010.

President Obama signed an Executive Order charging several government agencies to take part in new initiatives designed to significantly increase travel. These include: a pilot program and rule change for faster visa processing in China and Brazil, increasing capacity by 40%; a final rule to expand and make the Global Entry program permanent; appointing new members to the US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board; and the Nomination of Taiwan to the Visa Waiver Program. The order aims to have 80% of nonimmigrant visa applicants interviewed within three weeks of applying.

"This is the first time our country has had a national strategy and set goals for how many visitors we want to welcome to our country. The timing of the President’s announcement could not be better. Travel is an essential industry for our nation, and a bipartisan issue that can unite our country and rally us forward. Not only will this increase traffic to America's wonderful destinations and attractions, but nearly half of the travelers come to attend conferences and trade shows," said Roger Dow, president and CEO for the USTA. "The president put forward his vision and the travel industry is ready to heed the call. US Travel looks forward to working with the administration to improve America's economy and create more jobs."

Dutchess County Tourism has partnered with the USTA to attract more foreign visitors to the US. Among objectives for 2012 is for the US government to pursue concrete actions to increase international travel, business travel, participation in meetings and conventions, and leisure travel throughout America. Policies the USTA champions include expansion of the Visa Waiver Program to Brazil, Argentina and Chile; further improvements to our entry process for international guests; streamlining the TSA experience for trusted travelers; and building an aviation system encouraging greater air travel.

In 2000, the US had 17% of the worldwide long-haul tourism market. By 2010, it dropped to 12.4%. With lost jobs and revenue a thing of the past decade, the industry expects this new executive order to turn things around. Click here for more travel industry facts from the USTA.

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Culinary Tourism Conference: Creating Culinary Adventures

Dutchess County Tourism hosts a Culinary Tourism Conference, set for Tuesday, February 28th. "Creating Culinary Adventures" is a day-long program highlighting 2012 trends in agritourism and culinary tourism, and presenting new ideas on ways your business can attract visitors. Don't miss the vibrant keynote speaker, author Betty Fussell.

Join Dutchess County Tourism and Hudson Valley's tourism community at The Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel for this exciting, informational one-day conference. It's geared specifically for area tourism businesses; hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, historic sites, arts organizations, restaurants, farms, attractions, food producers, vintners, travel agents, and others. You'll get practical suggestions on how to grow your business, including how to create culinary packages with others.

Make plans now to hear Betty Fussell, the dynamic guest speaker. For more than 50 years, Betty's written about what it's like to be an American, first by examining movies and theater, and then taking a look at food. Her recent books include Raising Steaks: The Life & Times of American Beef (2008) and I Hear America Cooking. In 2007 she won a James Beard Foundation Award for Journalism. She was honored with the Silver Spoon Award by Food Arts Magazine, for which she has long been a contributor. Her lifestyle essays have appeared in scholarly journals, national magazines and major newspapers.

Sara Grady of The Glynwood Center will be on hand to showcase her work in creating a Cider Week Trail and event, an exciting example of regional branding.

Knowledgeable speakers and area agritourism leaders serving on a variety of panels are: Laura Pensiero, Gigi Hudson Valley; Don Lewis, Wild Hive Bakery; Mark Strausman, Agriturismo restaurant; Valerie Knoblauch, Finger Lakes Visitors Connection; Janet Crawshaw, Valley Table magazine; Derek Grout, Harvest Spirits/Berkshire Hudson Beverage Trail; Scott Boggs, Crown Maple Farm; and Todd Ehrling, Hudson Valley Bounty.

See the complete schedule of the expert-led seminars and the topics of these sessions at www.dutchesstourism.com/culinarytourism

Thanks to the seminar's sponsors thus far: BBG & G, Crown Maple, Gigi Hudson Valley;, Hudson Valley Agribusiness Development Corporation, Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation, M&T Bank, Poughkeepsie Journal, Ulster County Tourism, Valley Table, and Westchester County Tourism.

The all-day conference includes lunch with locally sourced ingredients for $65. PayPal is accepted for your online reservation now. Or, mail a check to Dutchess County Tourism, attention Lydia Higginson, 3 Neptune Rd., Suite Q-17, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601. Contact Lydia Higginson for information on sponsorships and attendance at 845-463-4000 or Lydia@DutchessTourism.com

Started in 1984, Dutchess County Tourism (dutchesstourism.com) is a division of the Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation and is funded by the County of Dutchess

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Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation Announces New Leadership

Paul P. Calogerakis, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC) today announced he had accepted the resignation of John MacEnroe, President and CEO of the organization. He also announced that Catherine A. Maloney has been appointed as the acting President and CEO of DCEDC. Maloney has served as DCEDC's Director of Business Development since January of 2008. These changes are effective immediately.

Calogerakis said, "I'd like to thank John for his dedicated service to the organization and Dutchess County. Under his leadership, DCEDC achieved several noteworthy accomplishments, most recently welcoming the Linuo Company as it expands from China to East Fishkill."

Calogerakis is a Senior Vice President at Key Bank Corporate Banking and has served on the DCEDC board for over 10 years. At the group's Annual Meeting on January 26, it is expected that Thomas McQuade will be elected as the new DCEDC Board Chairman.

These changes come as the New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo launches the New York Open for Business campaign, marketing New York as a smart place to invest, and expanding its tourism promotion by highlighting regional treasures such as the Hudson Valley.

Incoming DCEDC Board Chairman Thomas McQuade observed, "As we look ahead to 2012, our staff and leadership will keep the momentum going. We all remain dedicated to attracting new businesses, and also to retaining and expanding the many companies already doing business in Dutchess County."

Started in 1984, the DCEDC is a private, nonprofit organization serving the cities, towns, and villages of Dutchess County. Dutchess County Tourism is a division of the DCEDC, and both receive funding from the County of Dutchess. DCEDC supports and promotes business development in Dutchess County through a variety of business attraction, expansion, and entrepreneurial development programs. Their offices are located at 3 Neptune Road in the Town of Poughkeepsie.

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DCEDC Business Excellence Awards Place Successful Businesses Center Stage

Poughkeepsie, New York – The 2011 Business Excellence Awards, awarded annually by the Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC) and sponsored by KeyBank and several other generous sponsors, are set for Tuesday, October 18th at The Grandview at 5:30pm. Tickets are $135 per person or $1200 per table of 10 and can be purchased through DCEDC or online at www.thinkdutchess.com.

John MacEnroe, President and CEO of the Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation, observed, “During these economic times, when there can often appear to be challenges at every turn, it is increasingly important to focus on what is working well. The DCEDC Business Excellence Awards do just that – not only do they inspire each of us to reach higher, they offer insight into their success as employers.”

William R. Steinhaus, Dutchess County Executive, stated, “The Business Excellence Awards spotlight the innovation and outstanding work of Dutchess County’s exceptional business community. It's not by luck Dutchess County has maintained a positive record of achievement in the area of economic development. These businesses tell the rest of New York State, the nation, and the world that Dutchess is open for business, and growing in prominence as a tourist destination.”

Paul P. Calogerakis, Senior Vice President at Key Bank Corporate Banking and Chairman of the Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors, said, “KeyBank is committed to supporting the DCEDC, whose programs and services are vital to helping firms grow and thrive in Dutchess County. When one business prospers, the entire business landscape is strengthened. KeyBank is dedicated not only to attracting new industry, but supporting such a diverse range of companies, all demonstrating excellence in their field.”

Now in its 14th year, the DCEDC Business Excellence Awards recognize and celebrate the people and businesses whose ingenuity, perseverance, financial investment, time and effort make Dutchess County a spectacular place to live and work. This year, the Grand Award recipient is Health Quest, in recognition of its outstanding contribution to the region’s economic strength.

"Health Quest is honored to receive the Grand Award this year. We are not just one of the region's largest private employers, but we are the largest provider of comprehensive medical care to our community as well. We are pleased to be both an economic leader as well as leader in delivering health care and have our excellent team of physicians, employees and board members to thank for our success," said Michael T. Weber, President and CEO of Health Quest.

Eight additional awards for business achievement will be presented to employers who have made significant contributions to Dutchess County's economic landscape. Award recipients were chosen from a large and impressive pool of nominees by a committee of DCEDC board members and other business leaders. The categories and awardees include:

• Agriculture: Madava Farms, Crown Maple;
• Entrepreneur: Hudson Valley Shred;
• Innovation: Hudson Valley Clean Energy;
• Manufacturing: Dorsey Metrology;
• Newcomer: Karma Lounge;
• Not-for-Profit: Astor Services for Children and Family;
• Small Business: Niche Modern Lighting and
• Tourism: Art Along the Hudson.

The event draws more than 350 attendees annually; business leaders of small and large businesses, CEOs, bank presidents, leaders of nonprofit and community organizations, state and local elected officials, and representatives of the news media. Don’t miss this chance to do business with the “who’s who” of the Dutchess County business community.

Several generous sponsors have committed their support to honor this remarkable slate of awardees, among them, KeyBank (Visionary Sponsor); Health Quest (Leader Sponsor); BBG&G Advertising & Public Relations, Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation, The Chazen Companies, Dover Knolls Development Co. II, LLC, IBM Corporation, M & T Bank Corporation, Marshall & Sterling Insurance, Poughkeepsie Journal (Advocate Sponsors); Morris Associates, PLLC, Gellert & Klein, PC, and The Honorable G. Brian Morgan, Corporation Counsel of the City of Poughkeepsie (Additional sponsors).

Members of the 2011 Business Excellence Awards event committee include: Kathleen Hickey, Chair; Chief Communications Officer, Beacon Institute for Rivers & Estuaries; Nancy O. Amy, President, Nancy Amy Consulting; Susan Sayre Batton, Managing Director, Dia: Beacon; Paul P. Calogerakis, Senior Vice President, Key Bank Corporate Banking; John MacEnroe, President, DCEDC; Wayne L. Nussbickel, President & CEO, N & S Supply, Inc.; Andrea L. Reynolds, President & CEO, Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley; Mary Kay Vrba, Director, Dutchess County Tourism; Nancy Lutz, Communications Manager, Dutchess County Tourism.

Enjoy an evening of conversation with colleagues, delicious food and drink, and hear inspirational stories of distinction. Tickets are $135 per person or $1200 per table of 10. Purchase your tickets through Pay Pal at http://thinkdutchess.com. Checks may be mailed to: Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation, 3 Neptune Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601. Call 845-463-5400 with questions. As the DCEDC states, "Think Dutchess!" and don’t miss this significant county-wide business networking evening.

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The Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation is a private, nonprofit organization serving the cities, towns, and villages of Dutchess County. Funded annually by the County, the County's Industrial Development Agency, and through private-sector investment, the EDC supports and promotes business development in Dutchess County through a variety of business attraction, expansion, and entrepreneurial development programs. EDC's offices are located on Neptune Road, off Route 9 south in the Town of Poughkeepsie. Anyone interested in learning more about EDC and its services for business and industry may do so by calling 845-463-5400 or visiting http://thinkdutchess.com

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New York State’s Fall Foliage Color Reports Start September 7

As summer fades away, New York State is getting ready for the fall travel season, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors to the state’s roadways and waterways, small towns, scenic vistas, country fairs and harvest festivals. And it all takes place before a backdrop of spectacularly colorful autumn foliage.

New York’s dedicated team of foliage observers, or “Leaf Peepers”, are getting ready to swing into action, scouring the state’s countryside and towns to gather information for I LOVE NEW YORK'S weekly fall foliage reports. Dutchess County Tourism is an official leaf peeper for the state.

Get Up-to-Date Fall Foliage Color Reports Online

New York’s weekly I LOVE NEW YORK fall foliage color reports begin Wednesday, September 7 and continue until the end of the foliage season, around the first week in November. Each Wednesday afternoon throughout the season, reports are updated online to provide the latest information on foliage color conditions in each region of the state.

The weekly foliage report, a detailed map charting fall color progress, vantage points for viewing spectacular foliage, suggested autumn getaways and weekly event listings are posted on the I LOVE NEW YORK web site at www.iloveny.com

Reports are also available by dialing, toll-free, 800-CALL-NYS (800-225-5697) from anywhere in the US, its territories and Canada.

For more New York fall foliage information, including select sneak previews of the week’s I LOVE NEW YORK Fall Foliage Report, follow the hash tag: #ILoveNYFallColors on Twitter. Type #ILoveNYFallColors into the search box on Twitter to access all of the tweets about New York State’s fall colors, and where to find the best places in the state to see them. Follow Dutchess County Tourism's Tweets tracking the fall colors in the Hudson Valley at @DutchessTourism.

New York State's Advantage

Why do people from all over the world head to the spectacular New York State foliage display? Unlike the rest of the country, the northeast is particularly blessed with a great variety of broad-leaved trees, which help give the region’s foliage a spectacular color range. New York State has almost as many acres of such trees as the rest of the Northeast combined.

The change in color from the bright greens of summer to the brilliant hues of fall follows a predictable pattern across the state. It begins high in the Adirondack and Catskill mountains in late August and early September, and spreads out and down across the hills and valleys of the state, ending on Long Island and in New York City in late October to early November. It takes about two weeks for the colors to complete their cycles in any given area, with peak brilliance lasting three to four days in any one spot.

How Leaves Change Color

Seasonal conditions and the resultant chemical changes in the leaves are the key factors in the timing and coloration of the leaves. Generally, clear, sunny days and cool nights with temperatures in the 40’s bring about the most striking autumn colors.

Three chemicals within the leaves, chlorophyll, carotenoids and anthocyanins, are involved in the annual color change process. As temperatures cool and days shorten, cells at the base of the leaves disintegrate, blocking passages from the leaves to branches, and causing chlorophyll to decompose.

Chlorophyll is what gives most plants their green color. As the chlorophyll fades, colors in the other pigments, the carotenoids and anthocyanins, come to the surface. Trees with leaves having a preponderance of carotenoids, like beech, birch and willow, turn varying shades of yellow. When anthocyanins predominate, as in the case of many maples, dogwoods and sumac, reds and purples will appear.

Foliage Means Business for New York State

The spectacular colors of a New York State autumn mean more than just pretty scenery to those in the State’s travel and tourism industry. The fall foliage season means big business for New York; with more than 24 percent of overnight trips and more than 23 percent of day trips taking place between September and November, it’s one of the state’s most popular travel seasons. This so-called “shoulder season” has become a favorite time for weekend getaways and week-long vacations, as well as the traditional drive to the country to view nature’s colorful display. 

Get ‘More Smiles Per Gallon’ This Fall

Autumn is the perfect season for driving tours in New York State, the air is crisp and cool and the colors spectacular. Visit iloveny.com and www.DutchessTourism.com for terrific ‘More Smiles Per Gallon’ driving excursions throughout the state you can enjoy on a single tank of gas. Choose from many destinations and routes and connect with tourism professionals to find out more about dining, lodging, events, packages and promotions.

Editor’s Note to Meteorologists: If you would like to directly receive I LOVE NEW YORK fall foliage reports along with high-resolution versions of the weekly color progression map, please contact Eric Scheffel at escheffel@empire.state.ny.us or (518) 292-5274.

About New York State 

New York State features 11 beautiful vacation regions, with attractions from Niagara Falls to the wine trails of Hudson Valley. Whether it’s outdoor activities for the whole family like fishing, hiking and boating; culinary wonders and farm-to-table fresh foods; or the rich history and culture of one of the 13 original colonies, New York State offers diverse activities for all travelers. For information visit www.iloveny.com . Media can find press releases and more at www.thebeat.iloveny.com. You can get I LOVE NEW YORK updates and information on at twitter.com/@I_LOVE_NY Facebook: www.facebook.com/iloveny Flickr:  www.flickr.com/photos/officialiloveny YouTube:  www.youtube.com/OFFICIALILOVENY 

Dutchess County Tourism in Poughkeepsie is a division of the Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation and is funded by the county of Dutchess.

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"Pick-Your-Own Apples" by Tracci Suppa

Tracci Suppa highlights Barton Orchards in Poughquag. "Sure, apples are a delicious, nutritious snack. But in the fall months, apples aren’t just something to eat. Pick-your-own apples are the perfect activity to get the entire family outside, moving and having fun!"

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Gay and Lesbian Wedding Showcase Set for September at Staatsburg

Gay and Lesbian couples planning their weddings in New York State are invited to attend Big Gay Hudson Valley’s first-annual Wedding Showcase on Sunday, September 25, 2011. With vendors representing a variety of services including caterers, bakers, florists, registries, and so much more, this is a great opportunity to learn about how local/regional companies are supporting the gay and lesbian community when planning our weddings.

With door prizes, special offers, live music, and a full cash bar, the entire Hudson Valley gay and lesbian community and our allies are invited to join Big Gay Hudson Valley as we celebrate Marriage Equality in New York State with this first-of-a-kind event in our region.

New York State began performing same-sex weddings on July 24, 2011. Area wedding package to bring couples and businesses together to create magnificent wedding celebrations are listed at www.DutchessTourism.com under the story "Save the Date: I Love New York’s Same-Sex Wedding Campaign is Underway". New York is rich in history, art and culture, and combined with the area's natural scenic beauty, it's perfect for wedding celebrations and honeymoons. There are more than a dozen deals offered here in Dutchess County.

Admission to the Big Gay Hudson Valley Wedding Showcase is $10 per couple or $5 for individuals, although you can receive free admission in two ways; 1) Show your Hudson Valley LGBTQ Community Center Membership Card, or 2) RSVP online via Eventbrite prior to walking in the door.

The Gay and Lesbian Wedding Showcase will be held at Terrapin Catering at Dinsmore Golf Course, at 371 Albany Post Road/Route 9 in Staatsburg. The event takes place from 12 noon to 5pm. For more information, or to register in advance for free admission, call 845-926-0652 or visit www.BigGayHudsonValley.com/Weddings

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Dutchess County Farm Fresh Link: Great One-Day Getaways

Interested in a one-day escape that’s convenient, affordable, fun - and perfect to enjoy with family and friends? Then check out the "Dutchess County Farm Fresh Link" MTA Metro-North One-Day Getaways. Dutchess County’s pastoral green countryside is just a relaxing train ride away, in the heart of the Hudson River Valley. You’ll get to visit charming villages as well as farms and wineries. Even if you have a car, why pay for gas? Leave it home and sightsee by train and shuttle bus!

This summer and fall, Metro-North and Dutchess County Tourism team up to offer a series of weekend day trips so you can experience fresh-from-the-farm produce. You’ll be able to pick your own fruits and vegetables, taste and tour award-winning wineries, savor freshly made cheeses, meet friendly farm animals, and a great deal more. The Dutchess County Farm Fresh Link Shuttle picks you up and returns you to your destination train station. You travel on the same shuttle to all of the stops, so you can even leave your belongings right on board!

If you’re looking for a One-Day-Getaway that is fun for the whole family, be sure to participate in a Family Fun Farm Days this fall. Reconnect to the region’s rich agricultural heritage and explore the Renaissance City of Beacon when you pick up the Dutchess County Farm Fresh Link shuttle at the Beacon Station for stops at Hudson Valley Fiber Farm ™ and Fishkill Farms. Start your day with a visit to Main Street Beacon, home to a growing arts movement. Take advantage of one the many fine eateries for lunch or picnic in the park, or by the Hudson River.

Start your farm tour with a visit to the 100 –acre Hudson Valley Fiber Farm in Hopewell Junction, home of the first “Fiber CSA” in the USA where they pride themselves on the green and sustainable way they treat their animals and the land that feeds them. Your second farm stop will be a tour of Fishkill Farms. Whether picking your own peaches, apples and vegetables, enjoying hayrides, or seeing the farm's flock of pasture-raised hens, the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings will lift your spirits. This year, Family Fun Farm Days are held on September 3 & 4 and on September 10 & 11.

Come and enjoy a Farm Fresh Food, Wine, Cheese and Fine Tea Weekend and celebrate the bounty of the fall season when you board the Dutchess County Farm Fresh Link shuttle at Wassaic Station (Harlem Valley Line) for excursions to the charming Village of Millerton, Cascade Winery, and McEnroe Organic Farm, with cheese tastings from The Amazing Real Live Food Company. Throughout this itinerary, you'll have the opportunity to stroll through pastoral village shops, wineries, and farms.

The day begins with a stopover in Millerton, home to the internationally acclaimed Harney & Sons Fine Teas. You'll have the chance to stroll through idyllic village shops, farmers markets, cheese markets and choose from several dining locations to enjoy lunch. On Saturdays until 1pm, enjoy the Millerton Farmer’s Market on Dutchess Avenue, just off Main Street. This popular package is only offered on the following Saturdays & Sundays: September 17 & 18 and on September 24 & 25.

All Farm Fresh Link Getaway packages – available through MTA Metro-North beginning August 1 – include discounted, round-trip rail fare and shuttle transportation (some activities, as well as lunch, are an additional cost). The packages are available at station ticket offices and full-service ticket machines. You cannot buy the packages on the train, on-line or at destination stations. Reservations for the Dutchess County Farm Fresh Link Shuttle are required at least 48 hours in advance by calling 800-445-3131 or you can make reservations for the shuttle on-line at http://dutchesstourism.com/agri-metronorth.asp

For more details about the Dutchess County Farm Fresh Link One-Day Getaways, as well as other local agri-tourism resources, news and information, visit Dutchess County Tourism website, www.dutchesstourism.com and click on the Farm Fresh tab. Go up to the country without spending money at the pump, and return to the city that evening.

The programs provided by this agency are partially funded by monies received from the county of Dutchess.

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Read about us in an article for Bentley magazine by Neil Davey

Neil Davey, "a freelance journalist, specialising in food, drink, travel and entertainment. Anything you can do sitting down, basically." We hosted him on a familiarization tour that included stops at the Belvedere Mansion, The Rhinecliff Hotel, dinner at the CIA, and Dia: Beacon.

"As joyous as a week in Manhattan is, a trip upstate comes highly recommended. While trips three hours out of London can leave you thinking you imagined the UK’s food revolution, the area around Dutchess County… is informally known as ‘Manhattan’s Bread Basket’…..learn more.

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Dutchess Launches "More Smiles Per Gallon" Travel Campaign

This summer and fall, do wonders for your soul! Experience Duchess County, less than two hours away from the New York City metro area and the Capital District, for less money. Explore magnificent landscapes, cruise the majestic Hudson River, tour historic estates and splendid gardens, and savor farm-fresh cuisine, family fun, and fascinating history, all on one tank of gas.

Dutchess County Tourism (DCT) is working with I LOVE NEW YORK to tell summer travelers they can have an amazing and affordable vacation close by on a single tank of gas! Together they've launched the "More Smiles Per Gallon" 2011 campaign, telling potential visitors within driving distance of New York State (NYS) how to enjoy affordable getaways on a tank of gas. Visitors can take advantage of discounts and incentives offered by participating "More Smiles Per Gallon" hotels, sites and attractions, and be entered into DC T's Great Getaway Giveaway. Stay at least one night from Sunday - Thursday at one of the participating accommodations, and visit any two sites and attractions to be eligible.

There's an online guide highlighting adventures that can be taken on one tank of gas. Attractions in Dutchess include culinary spots such as wineries and farms, historic sites, arts and entertainment venues, recreation opportunities such as ziplines and Hudson River cruises, and relaxation at spas and shops. Stay one weeknight at any of the eight participating hotels, visit several participating attractions, and enjoy discounts just for mentioning "More Smiles Per Gallon."  In addition, you'll be entered into the "More Smiles Per Gallon" Great Getaway Giveaway!

Links from each of the NYS itineraries connect visitors with attractions, accommodations and destinations; the Hudson Valley itinerary links to www.DutchessTourism.com. There are 40 participating tourism partners in Dutchess County. A rack card listing each participating business will be given to you upon check-in at your hotel.

Mary Kay Vrba, Dutchess Country Tourism Director said, “New Yorkers have so many choices for their summer vacations, but the I LOVE NEW YORK More Smiles Per Gallon program provides means for travelers to discover us, the Hudson Valley and other NYS destinations this summer. So start your engines and enjoy the best vacation you’ll ever have!”

All DCT partner sites are listed online. You must mention "More Smiles Per Gallon" when making reservations to receive your discount card.  Follow DCT Twitter/@DutchessTourism and on Facebook. You’ll see why we say "You Deserve Dutchess!" Find out more about the entire NYS campaign's dining, lodging, events, packages and promotions at www.iloveny.com   

Dutchess County Tourism in Poughkeepsie is a division of the Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation and is funded by the county of Dutchess.

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Dutchess County Tourism Selects BBG&G Advertising to Manage & Update Websites

Dutchess County Tourism (DCT) has selected BBG&G Advertising & Public Relations to maintain and manage daily operations and current functionality of the DCT and Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation's (DCEDC) websites www.DutchessTourism.com and www.ThinkDutchess.com. The agency has also redesigned DCT's digital tourism marketing tools, such as Tourism's monthly consumer and tourism industry e-newsletters. The transition got underway in April.

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