Featherstonhaugh to headline Business Council Chamber Executive Summit

ALBANY, NY (05/15/2012)(readMedia)-- New York Gaming Association president Jim Featherstonaugh will make a special appearance at The Business Council of New York State, Inc.' s Chamber Executive Summit at The Hilton Garden Inn in Troy, New York, on Friday, June 8. Featherstonaugh will discuss the impact that full casino gambling would have on local communities.

"New York Gaming Association members have a solid record of creating jobs and bolstering their regional economies," said Featherstonhaugh. "The authorization of live table games will allow our members to create more jobs, provide additional revenue for our state, and to help local governments. Just as important, our support for agriculture, breeding and the racing industry will increase tremendously."

Enhanced casino gambling has the potential to create over 15,000 new construction jobs, over 8,000 gaming related jobs and has the ability to generate over $100 million annually to local governments.

Another highlight of the summit will be The Business Council's, president and CEO Heather Briccetti's presentation, "How to Make Your Voice Heard in Albany." She will discuss with chamber executives The Business Council's aggressive Fix New York e-advocacy program.

"Our Chamber members play a key role in getting the word out on the issues that matter most to New Yorkers," said Briccetti. "The business community knows that public policy and elections directly impact economic growth and jobs, and Chambers are very effective in keeping members up to date with important information."

Pamela G. Matt, Esq., Executive Director of the Mohawk Valley Chamber of Commerce will discuss how Chambers can take advantage of the New York Youth Works program. Businesses can earn tax credits to hire unemployed, disadvantaged youths in areas around the state.

The Business Council's Director of Communications Rob Lillpopp will discuss the organization's new Made in New York website, which will feature member products and services.

"The Made in New York website is intended to be a place where the public can easily find the many products which are made and sold in New York," said Briccetti. "It's a call to buy in New York. The more we can create good business, the better we can strengthen our economy and create meaningful jobs."

Visit The Business Council's website for a detailed agenda and online registration.