Communication Critical Following Katrina

It is impossible to predict the short and long term impacts on the travel industry from the latest national uncertainty over fuel prices and storm-related trauma. But Wisconsin tourism needs to anticipate and be prepared to respond to possible changes in travel patterns over the coming months.

In a planning session this week, Department staff agreed unanimously on one first step...and that is to remain in constant communication with Wisconsin tourism properties and organizations in order to monitor travel trends. We also agreed to continue to solicit the industry's best thinking regarding the most appropriate and most effective state action, if developments warrant that.

Please let us know how your Labor Day weekend goes. Let us know about bookings into September and October. Cancellations? What do tourism businesses in your area predict or know about fall travel and the longer term outlook?

Do you have any recommendations for us? We'd surely like to hear them. You are closest to the situation and your advice is valued. Thanks for keeping the Department informed!

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Getaways For Gulf Aid

We have already seen, and will certainly continue to see, lots of good ideas from lots of sincere people and organizations to aid the relief efforts for Gulf storm victims. The National Association of State Tourism Directors, led by Florida, has already launched a relief effort called "Getaways For Gulf Aid".

The idea is for travel industry businesses to donate rooms, meals, tickets, admissions, etc. which are then bundled as travel packages and auctioned off on E-bay. The proceeds go directly to the American Red Cross. Here's a link to an example of one such offering.

Might there be an interest by the Wisconsin tourism industry in participating in this program…or in replicating it on travelwisconsin.com? The idea certainly has two worthy goals: providing funds which are badly needed by relief agencies, while at the same time generating some awareness of Wisconsin's premier tourism product.

We look forward to hearing from you!

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It's Ba-a-a-a-a-ck

This spring's mini-grant program to promote Wisconsin's new travel slogan proved to be so popular that we're bringing it back for winter.

Any nonprofit tourism marketing organization may apply for a grant of up to $1,000 to be used for a marketing or public relations effort that will raise awareness of the "Wisconsin – Life's So Good" slogan among state residents this winter.

There are a couple of requirements. The project should be original and creative, and therefore interesting to local media. We're not real keen on just adding the Life's So Good logo to an existing project. We've got some really good examples from the spring round of projects if you're looking for new ideas.

We can't fund organization operating expenses or annual publications or advertising agency fees…stuff like that. And, while any organization can apply, we will be giving preference to groups that did not receive a grant during the spring grant cycle.

Applications are due by November 1 and grants will be awarded by November 11. Projects should be implemented between November 14 and March 1. A short, easy to use grant application is available at agency.travelwisconsin.com.

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More Sports Shows…and You're Invited

The Department has expanded the list of Sports, RV, Ski, Bike and Fishing shows we'll be attending this winter and spring. And we've expanded our sports show "partnership program" to include all shows except Golf.

This means you're invited to send one or more of your staff members to help tend the Department's booth at show(s) of your choice. Choose from productive locations like Chicago, Madison, Milwaukee, Grand Rapids, Minneapolis or Cedar Rapids, and others. You can hand out your publications and make your pitch to the thousands of travelers who attend these shows.

The Department will pay all show registration and booth rental costs. All we ask of partners is a $100 per day fee along with meals and lodging for any staff you send.

Partner participation is accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, so inquire soon to ensure your choice of show(s) and date(s). Contact David Spiegelberg here at the Department by calling 262-279-6856 or e-mail dspiegelberg@travelwisconsin.com.

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Here Fishy Fishy

Many folks have encouraged the Department to develop an on-line fishing report…similar to our fall color and winter trail conditions reports. So we're doing just that. Soon.

However, we want to make sure every community that wants to be featured in our weekly fishing report will have a chance to do so. If you know what's happening "on the water" in your area, and would like to write about that once a week, here's your chance. Do you know a local guide or other fishing expert who might be willing to author a paragraph or two on fishing conditions in your community? Maybe you've got two or three knowledgeable people who would be willing to rotate weeks in order to lighten the load.

Naturally, we want these fishing reports to be objective and honest…just like our winter trail condition reports…but the reports will also give communities around the state a great way to get their fishing opportunities in front of potential visitors. Don't delay. Call John Kuehl today to get involved.

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Kathleen Galas, President of the Manitowoc Area Visitor & Convention Bureau recently earned certification as a Professional in Destination Management (PDM). The 40-hour course offers the latest knowledge and skills so that CVB managers may become more effective marketers and leaders for their communities.

Charlene Riese-Hattori is the new marketing coordinator at the Schauer Arts & Activities Center in Hartford. Doreen Anderson has left her position as Director of Tourism for the Superior-Douglas County Chamber of Commerce.

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