Keeping tourism out of the tank

With an eye on rising fuel costs and a shaky economy, Cayuga County tourism organizations are remaining upbeat while making extra efforts to attract visitors who might otherwise pocket dwindling dollars.

“Obviously, there are no hard facts on how this area will be affected,” said Meg Vanek, Cayuga County Convention and Visitor's Bureau director. “Larger groups are thinking that increasing fuel prices will not necessarily stop travel.”

“If people are going to spend $25 more for gas to go on vacation than they have in the past, they will drive,” she said.