For more information, contact Krista Elias, 608/267-3773
For immediate release

MACKVILLE TRACTOR PULLERS ASSOCIATION RECEIVES TOURISM GRANT

Madison -- (April 13, 1998) – Gov. Tommy G. Thompson today announced the Wisconsin Tractor Pullers Association will receive a $12,000 state tourism grant to help promote the Mackville Nationals Truck and Tractor Pull to be held June 19-21, 1998.

The grant was awarded through the Department of Tourism’s Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) grant program. The funds, matched by local promotional dollars, will be used to revitalize and increase awareness of the event through television advertising. This is the first year the 22-year-old event has received funding.

"We’re pleased to join efforts with the Wisconsin Tractor Pullers Association to promote the Mackville Nationals," Gov. Thompson said. "This is an excellent opportunity for this organization to expand awareness of its activities and attract more visitors to east central Wisconsin."

Competitors from nine states will participate in the 1998 Mackville Nationals Truck and Tractor Pull and event organizers expect 10,000 spectators to attend. Attendees can enjoy a fish fry and chicken dinner and regional band performances throughout the weekend. Sunday has been designated as "Community Day" with free admission to the grounds to see the Mackville High School pom-pon competition, a motorcycle pull and a polka band.

The JEM grant program helps non-profit tourism organizations attract visitors to unique events and promotions. Since July 1, the program has allocated more than $339,285 to help promote 30 events and promotions across Wisconsin.

The JEM program is available to non-profit tourism organizations involved in tourism promotion. The state funds up to 75 percent of a project's first year advertising and marketing costs, but no more than 50 percent of the project's total budget. The program also offers grant support during the second and third year of a new project, but at lower levels each year in hopes that the project will become self-sufficient. To be funded, projects must complement or supplement the state's overall tourism marketing plan.

JEM proposals are submitted to the Wisconsin Department of Tourism and are reviewed by Department staff and the JEM Review Committee of the Governor’s Council on Tourism. For more information on the JEM program, contact Sarah Klavas at 608/266-3750.