Department of Development | News Room
Ohio Tourism Division Unveils Ad Campaign, Economic Impact Data
Travel industry to showcase Ohio tourism experiences with consumer Tourism Celebration at Statehouse

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 6, 2008

Columbus, OH -- Next Tuesday, May 13, the Ohio Department of Development’s Tourism Division will hold a news conference and consumer event showcasing Ohio tourism opportunities on the west lawn of the Statehouse. During the 11 a.m. news conference featuring Governor Ted Strickland and Lt. Gov. Lee Fisher, the Division will unveil its new Ohio tourism advertising campaign and Web site, and announce the results of a study analyzing the economic impact of tourism in travel year 2007.

The news conference will serve as the official kick off to Ohio Tourism Month – a statewide celebration of tourism held in conjunction with the Travel Industry Association’s National Tourism Week (May 10-18). Images, audio, and streaming versions of campaign elements will be available at the event.

Ohio Tourism Celebration
Immediately following the news conference, a free Tourism Celebration will take place on the Statehouse west lawn from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring more than 70 interactive experiences and displays from the travel industry; mini concerts from some of the State’s best travel-related performing arts groups; and mascots from the State’s sports teams. Attendees also will enjoy close encounters with a Mid-Ohio racecar, Columbus Zoo animals, samples of Amish cheese and other Ohio food products, opportunities to win prizes from the Ohio Lottery Spin & Win Prize Wheel, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Guitar Hero contest, and plenty more.

Event Details
Tuesday, May 13, 2008

News Conference at the Statehouse
West Steps (11 a.m.)
Rain location – Ohio Theater Lobby

Tourism Rally at the Statehouse
West Lawn (11:30 - 2 p.m.)
Rain location – Galbreath Pavilion, Ohio Theater

About the Ohio Tourism Division
The Ohio Tourism Division is the premier source of information for travelers and media about Ohio’s vibrant tourism experiences, attractions, and economy. Division marketing programs contributed to an estimated $33.7 billion in visitor spending in 2006 and 560,000 full-time equivalent tourism industry jobs. A part of the Ohio Department of Development, the Division’s mission is to promote and celebrate Ohio’s unique travel opportunities and market the State’s outstanding quality of life.

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Media Contacts: Marty McDonald, 614-888-1381; or Tamara Brown, 614-466-8591