June 2 & 3, 2025 | Harrisburg
The PRLA Public Affairs Conference is your opportunity to stand alongside fellow hospitality and tourism leaders to advocate for the policies that matter most to your business. Over two impactful days, you'll gain insight, build relationships, and take action.
DAY 1 — Monday, June 2
Kick off the day with PRLA's leadership meetings, including the state Board of Directors, the PRLA Educational Foundation Board, and the DMO Council. Then, gear up for a dynamic afternoon of Public Affairs Conference programming featuring:
View the full agenda here.
Cap off the evening at the Taste of the State Reception at the Capitol, featuring dishes and catering from across Pennsylvania's regions. The entire state legislature is invited—giving you a unique and informal opportunity to build connections with your elected officials.
Monday Evening | Tower Lounge, Hilton Harrisburg
Exclusive to PRLA PAC members at the 365 Club level and above
Wrap up your first day with an exclusive, elevated experience in the Tower Lounge of the Hilton Harrisburg. The 365+ Club PAC Reception is a special thank-you to our most dedicated advocacy supporters.
Mingle with PRLA leadership, fellow PAC members, and the celebrity chefs from Monday's lunch, who will be serving up their signature recipes in a relaxed, upscale setting. Enjoy delicious bites, engaging conversation, and a stunning view—all while continuing to support the future of hospitality and tourism through the PRLA Political Action Committee.
Not yet a 365+ Club member? Learn more about how you can join.
The PRLA PAC raises money through personal contributions from individuals or contributions from a partnership business (non-corporate entities).
DAY 2 — Tuesday, June 3
Get ready to put your training into action. PRLA will schedule Hill Visits with your local legislators, giving you the chance to discuss key industry priorities with the decisions-makers who can affect real change.
You won't go unprepared: PRLA will provide customizable talking points in advance, helping you tailor your message to your own story and business needs. After your meetings, PRLA will follow up with you to debrief on how the conversation went, capture feedback, and assess where each legislator stands on key issues.
These visits are one of the most powerful ways to create change—by making it personal, professional, and real.
$125 per person | $75 for each additional attendee from your business
Includes access to all sessions, Monday's lunch and reception, Tuesday's breakfast and lunch, and personalized legislative appointments.
Join us in Harrisburg and be part of the collective voice that's driving hospitality and tourism forward in Pennsylvania.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Hilton Harrisburg is the conference hotel. Book your room before May 12 to take advantage of the conference rate of $179+taxes and fees per night. BOOK ROOM
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
PRLA offers an assortment of sponsorships, each with their own unique benefits. Your support demonstrates your company's commitment to the industry. Download the prospectus or reserve online.
Check back frequently for new additions!
Mike Axiotis
President & CEO, Lehigh Valley Restaurant Group
Lauren Brinjac
Senior Director of Legislative Affairs, PRLA
Kaitie Burger
Executive Director, PA Tourism Office
Chef Shelby Fahrni
Founder & Executive Chef, The Cooking Studio; Competitor on Chopped and Guy's Grocery Games
Tiffany Gallagher
VP of Operations, Civitas
Chef Georgeann Leaming
Executive Chef & Culinary Consultant, Terra Grill + Scusi Pizza; Competitor on Chopped and Man Vs. Master
Alex Halper
SVP of Government Affairs, PA Chamber of Business & Industry
Joe Massaro
President & CEO, PRLA
Juan Martinez
Owner, Martinez Hospitality Group
Scott Nowak
Senior Director, State & Local Government Affairs, Hilton
Chef Clara Park
Founder, eat cetera philly; Co-host, Cinema Chefs podcast; Competitor on Chopped and Snack vs. Chef
Zak Pyzik
Senior Director of Public Affairs, PRLA
Chef Chad Rosenthal
Executive Chef & Founder of Lucky Well Incubator, Rosey's, & Mary; Competitor on Beat Bobby Flay, Chopped Grill Masters, Next Food Network Star
Rick Siger
Secretary, Department of Community & Economic Development
Patrick Smyton
Senior Manager of Client Relationships & Insights, Tourism Economics
Shawn Townsend
President, Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington
Mike Whatley
Vice President of State Affairs and Grassroots Advocacy, National Restaurant Association