“We are excited to welcome Robins to the Visit Tuscaloosa team,” said Kelsey Rush, Visit Tuscaloosa president and CEO. “Sports and events play a vital role in our organization’s mission and in keeping the Tuscaloosa area vibrant. Robins is well suited to help continue the tradition of welcoming a robust sports tourism landscape to our community.”

Konnie Patke has spent the last almost nine nine years as the Director of Group Sales for the Fredericksburg, TX Convention and Visitors Bureau. Creating personal and professional relationships with local partners/stakeholders has contributed to the success of businesses and group programs.

After nearly two years of research, focus groups, design, and interpretive creation, officials gathered to open the new visitors center for the Ridgeland Tourism Commission (RTC) and unveil the destination’s new brand: Explore Ridgeland. As Mississippi’s fourth-largest industry, tourism plays a vital role in Ridgeland, and RTC has been leading this charge for almost 27 years.

Heather Molina promoted to Director of Strategic Insights and Ashley Dogwillo to Senior Director of Creative Services. Molina will helm our expanding data and research team, with a focus on key Artificial Intelligence (AI) initiatives, while Dogwillo will drive the strategy and execution of diverse creative service offerings, including experiential activations and unique content development efforts across video, content creators, and email marketing.

Introducing Rock City Seasons, four distinct themed seasons each featuring special celebrations, performances, activities, photo opportunities and more: Spring Blooms, Mountaintop Summers, Fall Colors, and HoliDAYS. Rock City Seasons replaces the events Shamrock City, EarthDayz, Southern Blooms Festival, Summer Music Weekends, and Rocktoberfest, however, the Enchanted Garden of Lights remains. 

(Photo: Joe Howell)

“We are thrilled to be recognized with the Major Event of the Year award from the Louisiana
Travel Association,” said Jason Suitt, Director of Sports Development for Visit Baton Rouge.
“This event would not have been possible without the partnerships of our park system, the
Louisiana Office of Tourism, and the Baton Rouge Soccer Club. Their dedication and
collaborative efforts were instrumental, and we all look forward to the opportunity to spotlight
our city for future sporting events."

The newly formed tourism organization is dedicated to promoting travel and enhancing the overall visitor experience, ultimately stimulating economic growth and prosperity within the vibrant city of East Point. Previously a member of the Atlanta Airport District CVB for six years, East Point now stands independently with its very own destination marketing organization dedicated solely to promoting and marketing the city as a tourism destination.

Thriving Together is an industry panel discussion brought to you by Discover DeKalb that will strengthen community festivals, economic impact, and enhance quality of life, for continued growth and community enrichment in DeKalb County.

“These are incredibly prestigious recognitions in our industry,” said LRCVB President & CEO Gina Gemberling. “Tourism is the second largest industry in Arkansas, and the awards recognize the significance of the work done to grow this large and important part of our economy. It’s fiercely competitive.” 

Voting is currently open and will close on Monday, April 1 at 11:59 am EDT. Winners will be announced Friday, April 12 at 12:00 pm EDT. Viewers can vote once per day during the duration of the contest

West Monroe placed third last year in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Best Southern Small Town contest category.

Connect, the leading business-to-business events company for meetings, travel, and sports professionals, is thrilled to announce a new multi-year partnership with Destinations International. This agreement reaffirms Connect’s strong commitment to assisting DMOs in attracting valuable group, business, and leisure travel through its various platforms and verticals. 

For the fourth consecutive year, Cabarrus County’s month-long celebration of local culinary creativity kicked off on March 1! During Cabarrus Burger Madness, diners are invited to indulge in limited-time burgers at participating restaurants and cast a vote for their favorite. The 2024 contest takes place from March 1-31 and the winner will be crowned on April 3.

Follow the rainbow to Oldham County where you will find over 20 great March events. You’re sure to find something for every age and every interest when it comes to art, nature, and gardening. You can get your green thumb on, take in a scavenger hunt, or enjoy some fine dining at Barn8 Restaurant at Hermitage Farm. Whatever you choose to do, you won’t be disappointed. Your pot of gold is waiting for you ONLY in Oldham County!