NTCC announces new board members

The Niagara Tourism & Convention Corp. announced the appointment of four new members to its board of directors.

Michael Capizzi, owner of Michael's Restaurant, and Lucy Muto, vice president at M&T Bank, were added as general business seats, while Marc Papaj, vice president of resort operations at Seneca Niagara Casino, and Galeb Rizek, owner of the Econolodge, were added as hospitality and tourism seats.

In addition, two new ex-officio (non-voting) members were added, including Mark Mistriner of the NCCC Culinary Institute and Kurt Stahara, dean of the School of Hospitality at Niagara University.

At the most recent meeting of the new board of directors, an executive committee was also chosen and includes:

• Chairman - Anthony Brindisi (owner, The Keller Insurance Group)
• Vice Chairman - Michael Fiore (owner, The Village Bake Shoppe)
• Treasurer - Rizek
• Secretary - Deanna Alterio-Brennan (president and CEO, Niagara USA Chamber)

Frank Strangio, owner of the Quality Inn, Antonio's Banquet Facility and the Wingate by Wyndam, vacated the chairmanship. Strangio served on the board for four years, all as chairman. His term expired as a result of board bylaws, which limit a member from serving more than two consecutive two-year terms.

"I am extremely honored and excited to take on the role of chairman for this hard-working and results-driven organization," Brindisi said. "Frank served as chairman of this board with the utmost integrity, and I intend to pick up where he left off alongside a group of professionals who have a wealth of knowledge and experience working throughout Niagara County.

"With the addition of these highly respected new members of our board, we are committed to continuing the rewarding work of promoting Niagara USA as a world-class destination for visitors worldwide."

A complete list of board members can be found on the NTCC website at niagara-usa.com/about-us.