HTA teams with RCC for monthly meeting: Members and students excited for future
By Rebekah Binger
March 21, 2008

Members of the Rockland Business Association Hospitality and Tourism Alliance enjoyed fine cuisine including smoked salmon rolls on a spoon, egg custard served in a cracked egg, and yogurt with homemade granola at their March meeting. The HTA was not at an upscale hotel, but rather the food was prepared and served by students of the Hospitality and Tourism department at SUNY Rockland Community College.

"Everything was beautifully presented," said HTA member Gregory Parseghian, the General Manager at Best Western, Nyack. "The students were very creative in the breakfast and serving they did for us."

Students not only served, but also sat in on the meeting. "It was interesting to hear other people talking about what they are planning," said Katie Labriola, who spoke to the group and is graduating from the RCC program in May.

Labriola said that it was beneficial for her and her fellow students to hear from people working in the industry in Rockland. "I think it was good that there were people from hotels in our area at the meeting. It was nice for the other students to see that they don’t have to commute to the city everyday, and they could stay local."

The professionalism and drive of the students left a positive impression with HTA members. "I think that these young ladies and gentlemen were incredibly well informed and off to a great start in careers involving the hospitality industry," said Heather Duke, Director of the Rockland County Department of Tourism.

Sue Solomon runs the Hospitality and Tourism program at RCC. "It was great for the students to hear the specifics on how the business owners are trying to promote the industry in the county," Solomon said. She said the students were particularly interested in the Chocolate Festival, run by member Marvin Baum, and the plans for New York’s Quadricentennial celebration in 2009.

"We were glad to learn about what’s going on in the educational component in the county," said Roger Scheiber, RBA Vice President, Development. "Creating relationships amongst the industry, the college, and the students is valuable to all." Some students have expressed interest in attending future meetings.

Stories in this week's newsletter

RBA Speaks Out in Albany: Members share concerns and perspectives with Legislators

HTA teams with RCC for monthly meeting: Members and students excited for future

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