Tourism Tips offered for Texas Communities

Guest Blogger: Becky Dempsey, Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Rural Economic Development

As most city leaders will tell you, tourism is a vital component to their community's well-being. As such, the Texas Department of Agriculture is committed and ready to assist Texas communities with developing strategies that can help boost tourism.

The agency has partnered with the Texas Travel Industry Association (TTIA) for a round of workshops called the "Regional Tourism Series." The series was developed to teach Texas communities how to build and sustain local tourism.

Through the series, communities can learn how to develop a community brand while building an effective website – all from presenters who have already done it.

The series continues this summer and fall in Lufkin, Bandera and Abilene. For more information, check the TTIA website at www.ttia.org.

Want to Brag About Texas? Now is Your Chance ... Tell Us What 'Texas Is …' to You!

My travels took me to Lubbock Tuesday where I proudly announced the "Texas Is…" amateur video competition to boost tourism in Texas. The announcement coincides with Texas Travel and Tourism Week, May 8-16. The contest invites all Texans to submit a one-minute video clip telling travelers and tourists why Texas is so near and dear to our hearts.

From our scenic beauty and wide-open spaces to cultural traditions and deep-rooted Texas pride, the Lone Star State gives us plenty to brag about. Whether your next getaway takes you to a Texas winery, beach, nature trail or backyard barbecue, capture it on film, digital recorder or cell phone, and tell us what Texas means to you.

If your video submission is chosen as a winner, your clip may be used in nationwide marketing materials, social media sites and on our website to promote Texas tourism.

For more details on this competition, visit www.TexasAgriculture.gov.