Governor's Conference on Tourism

The 38th Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism is next week. Are you registered? Registration has been extended – and now there are three ways to reserve:

· Mail it. Your letter must be postmarked by Monday, February 27th.

· Fax it in to (501) 682-2523.

· Call (501) 682-6999 and speak to Dorreta George. She will happily take your registration and credit card information over the phone.

You’ll find your registration packet here. If you can’t register in advance, there will be registration at the door – but you’ll miss out on that significant price break!

You really don’t want to miss the conference this year. Our slate of speakers includes intriguing people with great advice.

General Russel Honoré, the man who took charge in restoring order and coordinating military efforts as commander of Joint Task Force Katrina, will share how to better prepare yourself and your business for any sort of disaster.

Attendees will hear from Dave Carroll, the Canadian musician whose song “United Breaks Guitars” became a YouTube Sensation, on how social media has changed customer service.

Spike Jones talks about brand ambassadorship, how social media has not replaced traditional word of mouth advertising, and what you need to do to stay on top of both.

Bill Carter plans to relate his experience on the Arkansas music scene, from providing security for the Rolling Stones to managing great country music acts like Reba McIntire, Shenandoah and Waylon Jennings.

Our sessions will also touch on why it’s economically smart to save historic Civil War battlefields; how to make your business more sustainable; how Arkansas food and foodways can bring tourists to your door; what to expect from new legislation and how to bring curb appeal to your property.

You’ll also want to reserve space at one of our participating hotels. Rooms are still available at the Days Inn West Memphis (870-735-8600) and at the Red Roof Inn (870-735-7100). Shuttles will run between all five of our participating hotels and Southland Park Gaming & Racing, the site for this year’s conference.

And be sure to bring cash to purchase items for the Arkansas Tourism Development Foundation Auction. The money raised at the auction goes to fund scholarships for students seeking degrees in the hospitality industry. We’re still accepting neat and unusual items for the auction. It’s a great way to showcase your business, attraction or region in front of the movers and shakers in Arkansas Tourism. If you’d prefer to bring your items when you come to the conference, that’s great; just contact Tiffany Knox at (501) 324-1524 or tiffany.knox@arkansas.gov.

There’s so much going on at this year’s Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism. Be sure to reserve your spot today!