07/09/2024
FB Friends -
I am holding one of my Summer Tourism Marketing retreats on Monday, July 22nd. If you or someone you know could benefit from this training, please let me know, and we'd be happy to make room for them. (I would need a final head count by Monday.)
Space is limited, but I do have room for more.
Our Agenda is as follows:
Summer snuck in fast! It's hard to believe it is already time for the Summer Tourism Retreat with the City of Americus!
We will gather on Monday, July 22nd at Rees Park, 409 Elm Street, Americus - in the main room.
Our theme this summer is - Info Safari! Come decked out in your safari best. (We will vote on best costume/themed outfit for a BIG prize.) Most coveted. We promise!
Why Safari? We want you to seek out the rare hacks, the marketing jewels, and build lasting relationships throughout the region. It's going to be so much fun!
You need to RSVP by Monday, July 15th for catering purposes.
**Please let us know if you have any food allergies or needs.
Still not sure?
Here is the amazing agenda:
8:00 am (OPTIONAL) Coffee Talk - Mix and mingle and grab some java as you settle in for a fun filled day at the Info Safari. Bring your business cards, flyers, and anything else you want to share with your new friends.
8:30 am - Welcome & Open - Nicole Kirksey, Dir. Of Tourism
General Housekeeping
Itinerary for the Safari
8:45 am - Jump In The Jeep! (Icebreakers) - Let's get to know one another! - Led by Selina Hall at the Byron Welcome Center
9:15 am - Canoeing Down The River - Round Table Discussions - Marcus Johnson, Phoebe Sumter Medical Center.
Together, we will foster collaborative dialogue while addressing challenges such as sustainability, infrastructure development, and community engagement. Participants share insights, propose solutions, and strategize on enhancing visitor experiences while minimizing negative impacts. The discussions aim to cultivate innovative approaches that balance economic growth with environmental and cultural preservation in the tourism sector.
9:45 am - Communicating with the Lions - Nicole Kirksey, COA
Media spokesperson training involves intensive preparation in message crafting, delivery techniques, and crisis management. Participants learn to effectively communicate key points while navigating interviews, press conferences, and media interactions. The training emphasizes clarity, consistency, and the ability to handle challenging questions with composure and confidence.
10:45 am - National Park Service Updates - Hear from Andersonville National Historic Site and Jimmy Carter National Historical Park share what's happening in their areas.
11:00 am - Looking for Big Game - Chelsea Collins, GSW
Participants learn to structure press releases for maximum impact, incorporating key elements like the headline, lead paragraph, and relevant quotes. The training emphasizes clarity, newsworthiness, and adherence to journalistic style guidelines to ensure press releases effectively capture media attention. (Media being the Big Game!)
Working Lunch - Lunch will be provided - Must RSVP to receive lunch
11:45 am - Aerial Safari - Rashelle Minix, Albany CVB - Key Note Speaker
Rashelle will inspire and captivate you with compelling stories of transformative travel experiences, emphasizing the power of tourism to drive positive change. Through her impassioned delivery and practical insights, she will motivate you to embrace innovation and collaboration for sustainable tourism development in our communities.
12:15 pm - Sumter County Safari - Plains & Andersonville - TBA
An update from our neighbors.
12:30 pm - Tackling The Tiger: From Main Street To Main Attraction - Qaijuan Willis, COA
Learn how a downtown area can serve as a main attraction in tourism by offering a vibrant mix of cultural experiences, historical landmarks, and unique local businesses. Its lively atmosphere, featuring street performances, festivals, and diverse dining options, creates a magnet for visitors seeking authentic urban experiences.
1:30 pm - The Great Migration - Lori Hennsey, Explore Georgia, Dept. of Economic Dev, State of Georgia
Update on what's happening on the state level with tourism.
2:00 pm - Lions, Tigers, and Bears - Tonya Parker, Georgia Tech.
DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) training aims to educate participants on fostering environments where all individuals feel respected, valued, and included. It covers topics such as unconscious bias, cultural competency, and strategies for promoting equity in organizational policies and practices. The training encourages dialogue, self-reflection, and actionable steps to create workplaces and communities that embrace diversity and strive for inclusive excellence.
3:00 pm - How To Be A Honey Badger When A Cobra Strikes - Jennifer English, COA
Crisis communications training for festivals and events prepares organizers and staff to effectively manage communication during unexpected situations that may arise before, during, or after the event. This training focuses on developing strategies to maintain public safety, protect the event's reputation, and ensure clear, accurate, and timely information dissemination.
4:00 pm - Stargazing On The Savannah - Nicole Kirksey, COA
We will wrap up the retreat with a deep dive into the Americus Music Fest plans and implementation and how tourism can utilize this event to make a lasting impact on our community as a whole.
5:00 pm - Adjourn
Some extra items:
Bring a door prize with you! Let's have fun throughout the day! (Always a favorite.)
Bring snacks to share throughout the day - if you like
Bring your business cards & event flyers
Dress like you are going to a safari (or whatever makes you comfortable.)
Bring your fresh ideas and lots of enthusiasm
Don't forget to RSVP ASAP. - [email protected]
We can't WAIT to have another successful Summer Tourism Retreat!
PS - Invite friends that may benefit from these sessions. Just forward the email and ask them to RSVP and accept the invitation.
