State tourism officials announce new 'Georgia On My Mind' campaign

ATLANTA (Jan. 24) - The state of tourism in Georgia is being addressed at the Georgia World Congress Center Jan. 24-25 during the annual Governor's Conference on Tourism.

     Key state leaders are gathered to discuss the present condition of the travel and tourism industry in Georgia.

     "The conference will provide a forum for discussion of the challenges and opportunities we face in a changing world, an economic forecast for the industry, current travel trends, ways to supplement your tourism dollars and how to develop your tourism product," said Gov. Roy E. Barnes.

     One news item coming out of the conference so far is the announcement today of a new "Georgia On My Mind" advertising campaign by the Georgia Department of Industry, Trade and Tourism.

     This new marketing approach includes the launch of a new Web site ( www.georgiaonmymind.org ) and new print and broadcast media advertising materials, bringing new meaning to the Ray Charles song "Georgia on My Mind."

Scheduled speakers during the conference include:

• Howard "Bo" Callaway, honorary chairman
• Commissioner R.K. Sehgal, Georgia Department of Industry, Trade & Tourism
• William S. Norman, president and CEO of the Travel Industry Association of America
• Laura Meadows, commissioner for the Georgia Department of Community Affairs
• Jim Higdon, executive director of the Georgia Municipal Association
• Plus other state and local dignitaries.