Charles A. Gargano, Chairman of Empire State Development, which administers the I LOVE NEW YORK campaign, today announced that the American Bus Association (ABA) has selected three events in the Empire State to be included on its prestigious list, the Top 100 Events in North America for 2005 due to their entertainment value to both tour groups and individual travelers from around the world.

Chairman Gargano said, �Out of thousands of events in North America, three of our events were chosen to be part of the ABA's Top 100. This is a tribute to the diversity and range of things to do and see throughout New York State. Visitors here learn first hand the wealth of tourism opportunities they can experience and explore everyday.�

New York State's three events selected by ABA as part of their Top 100 are: Saratoga Festival and Dressage, May 28-30, 2005, Saratoga Springs. The festival combines costumed horses, leaping llamas, agile dogs and an Elvis impersonator with 220 arts and crafts venders, musical performers and antique cars.

Grand Encampment of the French and Indian War, June 25-26, 2005, Fort Ticonderoga. This re-enactment of the battle of Lake Champlain marks the 250th anniversary of the war itself, bringing together over 900 re-enactors to display what life was like during this 18th Century war.

Oswego Harborfest, July 28-31, 2005, Oswego. Arrive by land or sea to take part in the city-wide Harborfest. Enjoy fireworks, arts and crafts and the two musical venues providing big-name entertainment.

ABA judges selected the events based on the event's broad appeal, accessibility to motorcoaches and skill at handling large groups. In addition, ABA also selected New York City's Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (November 28) to be included as part of their Internationally Known Events List.

According to a study recently completed by researchers at George Washington University, one overnight visit by a motorcoach group can spend between $5,000 to more than $11,000 in a local destination's economy through lodging, meals, admissions, fees, shopping, souvenirs, services and local taxes.

�Simply put,� said Peter J. Pantuso, ABA's President and CEO, �motorcoach groups spend more and stay longer. That's why these events are truly local economic assets. There is no better way to jump-start tourism than to attract motorcoach groups to a great event and convince them to extend their stay.�

The Top 100 list was published in Destinations magazine and can be viewed at www.buses.org/top100.

Press Contact: Scott Flaherty sflaherty@empire.state.ny.us Ph: +1 (518) 292-5131