Bad news – Good news
As we ring in 2009, many of us are experiencing the "economic hangover" brought to us in 2008. Indeed, not since the Great Depression has our country been so challenged economically. And, while many surveys indicate that Americans still have intentions of traveling, Virginia has not escaped the economy's detrimental impact on our tourism industry. That's the bad news. The good news is that there is new momentum in our industry to partner together, to be more innovative and to be more vocal about getting our collective marketing and advocacy voice heard. The Virginia Chamber of Commerce, the Virginia Hospitality and Travel Association, the Virginia Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus and the Bed and Breakfast Association of Virginia have all committed to sounding the gong louder for more tourism funding. Furthermore, individuals in our industry across the state are poised to become more politically active. Often times adversity nurtures strength. This is one of those times. The power of the Virginia tourism industry is evident---$18.7 billion in economic impact; 210,000 jobs; and $1.2 billion in state and local taxes. For more information on what our industry does read this release: http://www.virginia.org/pressroom/tourism.asp

Thanks to all of you for your continued leadership, professionalism and dedication. You shine above the rest!

Alisa Bailey