Local tourism professional, Kiehne, elected as President of Southern Minnesota Tourism Association

By News Team
ads@fillmorecountyjournal.com

Fri, Sep 21st, 2012
Posted in Lanesboro Business Announcements

Comments

Julie Kiehne, Executive Director of the Lanesboro Area Chamber of Commerce, was elected President of the Southern Minnesota Tourism Association at its Annual Meeting held in Owatonna on September 13, 2012. The Southern Minnesota Tourism Association is a non-profit organization working in cooperation with Explore Minnesota Tourism, Chambers of Commerce, Convention & Visitor Bureaus, tourism businesses, and Southern Minnesota counties, to promote Southern Minnesota as a travel destination and thereby enhance the economic impact and the quality of life for residents and visitors.

The September Annual Meeting included an overview of the 2012 Marketing Plan for Southern Minnesota, updates and opportunities from Explore Minnesota Tourism, and reports from the Government Relations Committee. The keynote speaker was John Edman, Director of Explore Minnesota Tourism, who gave a “State of the Industry” report. Additional speakers included Al Batt noted author and birding expert, plus representatives from Hunting Works for Minnesota, and Minnesota Pheasants Forever.

State conducted research studies show tourism is one of the state’s largest industries and continues to grow. Marketing tourism is an investment in the economy of our region. Research reveals that for every dollar spent marketing tourism in Minnesota, an estimated $4.60 in state and local taxes, $20.40 in wages, and $53 in gross sales are generated.

The Southern Minnesota Tourism Association is part of a network of tourism professionals throughout 36 counties in the southern region. The Southern Minnesota Tourism Association’s marketing efforts have helped to make the southern region one of the fastest growing tourism regions in the State. With continued support of the counties and tourism industry, the future prosperity of Southern Minnesota is excellent.

If you are interested in becoming involved in the promotion of Southern Minnesota as a travel destination, please contact Dave Vogel, Explore Minnesota Tourism, Southern Regional Office at 888-975-6766 or dave.vogel@state.mn.us.

No Comments Yet. Be the first to comment!