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| APRIL 2011 E-BULLETIN |
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LEGISLATIVE UPDATE |
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Session/Budget Finalized
The 2011 Legislative Session ended on time with a 2012 Fiscal Year budget that did not include any additional funding for tourism promotion. The Formula Fund, which re-directs a percentage of tourism tax revenues towards tourism promotion, is slated to be returned in full for the 2013 FY budget and will account for approximately $14 million for the Arizona Office of Tourism. This Formula Fund was initially permanently repealed, but that was reversed to only a two year suspension after extensive Industry lobbying last year. Thanks to the all of those who contacted their Legislators on behalf of this issue and to those Legislators who worked to support our Industry.
SUPER PAC Status Achieved
The Arizona Hotel & Tourism Political Action Committee (PAC) set a goal of becoming a SuperPaC before the end of the 2011 Legislative Session and, thanks to overwhelming Industry support, that goal was achieved. Becoming a SUPER PAC requires a minimum $10 donation from 500 people. Once confirmed by the Secretary of State's Office, the Arizona Hotel & Tourism will be only the 25th SuperPAC in the state and that status shows the strength and reach of our Industry. Contributions are still welcome and needed, so please complete and return this FORM if you would like to be engaged in tourism advocacy.
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MONTHLY LUNCHEONS |
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Arizona's "State of the Industry" Offered at April's Luncheon
This year's "State of the Industry" presentation by VH&RA's 2011 Chair, Robert Hayward of Warnick & Co., offered a look back at 2010 and offered a glimpse of what we can expect for the remainder of 2011 as well as 2012. In summary, our market is experiencing a fragile recovery and continued growth is projected.
Due to the May 10th Golf Tournament, there is no May luncheon.
Annual "City Officials" Luncheon
June 8, 2011 at The Phoenician
Registration 11:30 a.m.; Luncheon Noon-1:30 p.m.
The Valley's tourism industry is important to our economy and generates revenue in our Valley's metropolitan areas. Our industry is crucial to thousands who depend on us as employers and as a tax base for our state, cities and towns. Join us for an opportunity to meet and communicate with our City Officials as we continue to build our mutual relationships.
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MARK YOUR CALENDARS |
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VH&RA Annual Golf Tournament
May 10, 2011 at the Westin Kierland Golf Club
The VH&RA annual Golf Tournament is almost here! This event is a terrific way to network with Industry peers on one of the Valley's most notable golf courses - while supporting the goals of your Association! If you have not yet registered, offered to sponsor or donated to the silent auction, be sure to do so TODAY! To sponsor or participate, contact Whitney Clark.
Greater Phoenix CVB Annual Meeting
May 17, 2011 at the Hyatt Regency Phoenix
The Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau's 2011 Tourism Summit and Annual Meeting will feature keynote speaker, Peter Yesawich, one of the nation's leading authorities on travel-industry trends. This gathering provides the opportunity to share recent GPCVB successes and strategies and also conveys to local legislators and media the relevance of the visitors industry to Arizona's economic well-being. Go to www.phxannualmeeting.com to register.
Registration Open for the Governor's Conference on Tourism
July 13-15, 2011 at the Doubletree Paradise Valley Resort
This annual event brings together the entire tourism and hospitality industry for the latest information on trends and best practices for success and also provides the perfect off-site setting for networking and idea-sharing with peers. Visit www.AZTourismConference.com for registration and program information.
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MEMBER NEWS |
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Get your Summer Travel Packages and Deals on Value AZ.com
AOT is gearing up to launch its summer, in-state campaign, Value AZ and needs your travel packages and deals. AOT, in partnership with statewide industry partners, will be launching the summer campaign in May. If you want your travel package or deal promoted, this is your chance! Upload your travel deals and packages to the Travel Deals section of AOT's consumer Web site, http://www.arizonaguide.com/arizona-tourism-partners . You must first sign up to be a Travel Partner on www.Arizonaguide.com before you can list a travel package or deal. There is no charge to list a package on the Travel Deals section. If you have questions or need additional assistance, please contact Sandy Pederson at 602-364-3698 or via email at spederson@azot.gov.
Nominations Extended for the Governor's Tourism Awards
The Arizona Office of Tourism coordinates the Governor's Tourism Awards, honoring individuals and organizations that have contributed noteworthy achievements over the past year to the betterment of the tourism industry. AOT invites you to review the 2011 award categories and guidelines and submit nominations by April 29, 2011. The winners will be awarded at the Governor's Tourism Awards Luncheon on Thursday, July 14.
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