Georgias‘

Greater Rome Convention & Visitors Bureau

2011Annual Report

Rome2012 GRCVB Board of Directors

Services Offered by the GRCVB

Contact

Lisa Smith Executive DirectorKathy Mathis Deputy DirectorLinda Smith Sales & Event CoordinatorAnn Hortman Sports Marketing & EventsChris Cannon Director of Communications

Charlene Mathis Visitor Center & Gift Shop ManagerLuke Chaffin Customer Service Specialist & Marketing AssistantRobin Shamblin Customer Service Specialist

• Free procedure manual and facilitation for sports and events• Personalized information on facilities, hotels, attractions, restaurants & entertainment• Welcome packets for groups and conventions• Personal site visits for sports, event and meeting planners• Bid presentation: hotel & facility availability & rates• Promotional literature for pre-mailings & on-site event use• Customized itineraries for group tours• Ideas for theme parties & entertainment• Referrals to suppliers for needed goods & services• Wedding and reunion coordination assistance• Press kits, complimentary tours and assistance to the media.

402 Civic Center Drive, Rome, Georgia 30161Phone:706.295.5576•TollFree:800.444.1834•Fax:706.236.5029

www.RomeGeorgia.org

Jennifer Beard, Chair Berry CollegeSandra Lindsay, Vice Chair Suntrust BankLarry Arrington Shorter UniversityJohn Bennett City of RomeBrenda Bowen Harbin ClinicMike Burns Sara Lee CorporationKim Canada Rome City CommissionGarry Fricks Floyd County CommissionRichard Garland Rome Floyd Parks & RecreationVickie Hill Synovus MortgageHolly Lynch The SeasonChris McHagge The Claremont HouseJackie Moreland Hype, Inc.Gay Nichols Hawthorn SuitesAnil Patel Country Inn & SuitesVivian Richmeier Coosa Country ClubRebecca Roberts Shorter UniversityErnie Smith Dempsey, Lord, & SmithJoyce Smith Fairview & E.S. Brown Heritage CorporationJohn Spranza Georgia Highlands CollegeBlaine Williams Floyd County

Greater Rome Convention & Visitors Bureau

www.romegeorgia.org • 800-444-1834For information on Georgia’s Rome

GRCVB StaffPersonnel & Services

2012 Objectives

Events booked for 2012

2012 Outlook

Date Event Expected ParticipantsFebruary Berry Half-Marathon 2,000March SSACMen&Women’sBasketballTournament 450 Rome-Shorter Relays 2,000April Mid-South Conference Championships 1,300 Clocktower Classic Handcycle Race (spectators) 400 Republican Party District Conference 175May Tri-for-the-KidsYouth&OlympicTriathlon 500 Gulf South Conference Baseball Championships 500 ShorterTrack“LastChance”Invitational 900 USTAGeorgiaAdultLeagueTennisChampionship1,000 Rome River Jam 6,500 RomanRoastontheRiver 6,800June Georgia Jr Challenger 600 Southern Closed 16 320 Tri-for-the-ShelterYouth&OlympicTriathlon 300July RegionalJuniorTennisTournament 125 GeorgiaJrOpen 650 JohnIsnerTennisCamp 50 RACERomeSprint&YouthTriathlon 250September WingsOverNorthGeorgiaAirShow 75,000 Seven Hills Three Rivers Adventure Race 125November RACE Rome Mountain Bike Race 200December NAIA Football National Championship 5,300 Rome 26.2 Marathon 2,000

Marketing & Public Relations• Continue to grow Camera Ready program for recruiting film and production• Increase awareness of trail system through marketing and technological innovations • Develop new social media presence for untapped markets (history researchers,

viralvideo,expandingmobileusage)• ExpandRome-FloydHospitalityAssociationwithlocalmarketingvalue• Educate community on role and purpose of Convention & Visitors Bureau• RecruitnewtravelwritersandincreasenationaleditorialexposureMeetings, Conventions, & Groups• Reemerge into group travel market as prime destinationSports Marketing• Develop partnership with public and private schools, both secondary and collegiate, for

new recruitment of sports events• Increase trade show participation to encourage recruitmentLast Stop Gift Shop• Develop Spring Art Market as a premier local art and craft event• Create new events focused on local artists and authors• Launch new website with complete product listing• Increase gift shop sales through awareness and product developmentProduct Development• ContinuetoadvocateforfundinganddevelopmentofTheTennisCenterofGeorgia• ExpandCivilWar150thAnniversaryprograming

*This is not a complete listing of all events assisted or planned by the GRCVB; this listing only includes events which are expected to generate at least $25,000 of economic impact or more.

Greater Rome Convention & Visitors Bureau

Last Stop Gift Shop & Rome - Floyd Visitor Center

Top Achievements

Visitor Information• Remodeled Visitor Center and workspace to provide more area for visitors• Increased brochure display area and capacity for marketing locations around Georgia• Reducing the amount and weight of Visitor Center mail-outs to save money, conserve

paper, and be able to better target the individual needs of each visitorPersonnel • Hired new retail manager and team to aggressively sell products and assist visitors with

informationMarketing• Increased social media outreach with Facebook (followers increased by 100%), the

additionofTwitter,andthecreationofanewmonthly“AllAboardNewsletter,”sharingimages and stories with our customers electronically; facilitation of online discussions, promoting our brand and promoting Rome

• Renewed focus on the importance of advertising in local publicationsPrograms & Events• Developed artist show series for community outreach and awareness• Continuedtoexpandcorporategiftprogram• Overall,drivingthecuriosityofcustomersandpotentialcustomerswithnewactivities

and products offered on Jackson HillExpanded Product Line• Business with new consignors met through word of mouth, through our events, and

encounters at festivalsWinter Art Market• The event focused on local handcrafted items and was held December 1-2 at the Rome

Civic Center. It featured over 40 vendors with a huge variety of handmade items from preserves and wood-turned bowls to salsa and hand-crafted jewelry. Through the event, new business relationships were created and a record season was recorded for the Last Stop Gift Shop.

Advertising

Online Marketing

Mobile Marketing

Social Media In-House Publications

Marketing & Public RelationsLeisure Travel Market - PrintAirtranGO!InflightMagazineBlue Ridge CountryEnjoy!MagazineGeorgia BackroadsGeorgiaTravelGuideGeorgia State Parks GuideGEMC Georgia MagazineRomeNews-TribuneSeeYaThere!Southern Distinction

Leisure Travel Market - InternetGeorgiaTouristGuideGoogle AdwordsFacebook AdsTripAdvisor

Leisure Travel Market - TelevisionComcast CableGeorgia Public Broadcasting

Leisure Travel Market - RadioGeorgia Public Broadcasting

Sports Events MarketSports Destination ManagementSportsEventsCollege Fanz Sports Network

Last Stop Gift ShopRN-TBrideGuideMagnolia MagazineNorthwest Georgia LivingRomeNewsTribuneWLAQ

RomeGeorgia.org Metrics2011Visitation 50,587 2010 Visitation 46,204 2009 Visitation 33,7802011 Pageviews 133,442 2010 Pageviews 126,188New Visits 79%Average time on site 2.12 m2011EventsonCalendar 708 2010 Events 320

Online Information Requests2011 Requests 610 2010 Requests 296

TheCivilWarInRome.org Metrics2011 Visitation 1,515 2010 Visitation 203

SportsInRome.org Metrics2011 Visitation 219 2010 Visitation 186

Website Visitation Via Mobile Phones2011 Visitation 4,615 2010 Visitation 1,918

Tobetteraccommodatethegrowingmobile world, the GRCVB launched a

new mobile application on December 15, 2011 designed to serve as an interactive

guide for visitors with hotel, restaurant and attraction information.

Facebook/RomeGeorgia2011TotalLikes 9,009 2010 Total Likes 3,9592011TotalImpressions 2,501,774 2010 Total 315,1822011TotalFeedback 8,751 2010 Total 5,030

Facebook/LastStopGiftShop2011TotalLikes 166 2010 Total Likes 512011TotalImpressions 40,1602011TotalFeedback 134

• Georgia’s Rome Visitor Guide• 10,000 copies

• Visit Georgia’s Rome • 20,000 copies

• OutdoorAdventuresinGeorgia’sRome• 4,000 copies

• The Civil War Guide to Georgia’s Rome• 5,000 copies

• Seasonal Calendars - 5,000-8,000copieseach• Spring into Rome Calendar of Events• Summer Fun in Georgia’s Rome• Fall in Love with Georgia’s Rome• Winter Calendar of Events

• BetweentheRiversDrivingTour• 3,000 copies

• MyrtleHillCemeteryTour• 3,000 copies

Total 2010 Economic Impact of Tourism

2011 Economic Impact of Sports, Groups & Events

Economic Impact

Total GRCVB Impact $7,650,850Meetings & Conventions $471,618Sports Events $5,419,380Weddings $118,005Reunions $551,459Group Travel $13,267Events $1,072,301Corporate Travel $4,820

People serviced 67,742; 155 groupsLocal Tax Generated on Groups $229,525State Tax Generated on Groups $306,034Market Mix of Sports, Groups & Events Meetings & Conventions: 6% Sports Events: 71% Weddings & Reunions: 9% GroupTravel:0.17% Events: 14% CorporateTravel:0.06%

2010* total impact of tourism in Rome & Floyd County: $111,460,000Estimatesincludetravelexpenditures,travel-generatedemploymentandpayrollincome,aswellastaxrevenuesforstateandlocalgovernment.InFloydCounty,thetourismindustrysupportedapayroll of $22 million and supported 1,160 jobs throughout the service and hospitality industries. TravelerstoRome&FloydCountygenerated$4.1millioninstatetaxrevenueand$3.31inlocaltaxrevenue.EstimatesaccordingtoastudybytheUSTravelAssociation.*2011 numbers will be available from the US Travel Association September 2012.

*Numbers represented on this economic impact report represent only events, conventions, meetings and other activities where the GRCVB was directly involved in planning, coordination, or assistance.

Major Conventions & Events in 2011Date Event Estimated ImpactJanuary MasonDixonGirlsBasketballTournament $79,608.00February 7AASub-RegionBasketballTournament $309,972.00 7AARegionBasketballTournament $302,484.00March SSACMen’s&Women’sBasketballTournament $416,096.00 Berry Half Marathon $212,424.00 CarlHurleyShow $80,750.00April GeorgiaStateJrSpringOpen $307,392.00 Clocktower Classic Handcycling $75,792.00 May USTAAdultLeagueStateChampionship $189,560.00 RomanRoastontheRiver $598,539.00 ConvertibleClub-Loudon,TN $79,242.00June Georgia Challenger $327,900.00 Southern Closed 16 $233,444.00 July 6yr.oldDizzyDeanWorldSeries $558,310.00 GeorgiaJrOpen $366,526.00August Southern Closed Doubles Championship $312,060.00 September Georgia Main Street Conference $106,500.00 October USTANational/RegionalJr.TennisChampionship $79,608.00 ShorterUniversityHomecoming $314,800.00November USTASouthernComboDoubles $127,120.00December NAIA Football National Championship $1,131,169.00

*This is not a complete listing of all events assisted or planned by the GRCVB - this listing only includes events which generated at least $75,000 of economic impact or more.

Marketing & Public Relations• Developed new Visitor Guide in conjunction with the Downtown Development Authority• Published quarterly printed calendar of events• Enhanced social media community through increased activity and interaction • Continued success of seasonal photo contests• Launched interactive Visitor Guide application for Android and Apple smartphones • Increased resources available to the film industry on Rome & Floyd County • Launchedthe“SuperstarsofService”recognitionprogramtohonorserviceindustry

employeeswhoexceedexpectationsandbenefitRome&FloydCountyCivil War 150th Anniversary Marketing• Developed two Civil War series: Spirits of the Civil War and Civil War Symposium Series• ExpandedonlineCivilWarcontentandsocialmediainteractionGroup Travel• RecruitednewtourgroupbusinessatTravelSouthConferenceinAtlantaSports Marketing• ActivelyrecruitednewbusinessattheTEAMSSportsConferenceinLasVegas• Awarded“TopDestinationtoWatch”bySportsEventsMagazine• Partnered with Georgia Sports and the National Association of Sports Commissions• ExpandedsportsandeventscommitteetoimprovecommunicationinplanningeventsProduct Development• ContinuedtoadvocateandorganizethedevelopmentofTheTennisCenterofGeorgia• Actively supported the development of the West Third Corridor in Downtown Rome as

the prime location for a new, full-service hotel• Advocated for trail system on Jackson Hill

Greater Rome Convention & Visitors Bureau

Last Stop Gift Shop & Rome - Floyd Visitor Center

Top Achievements

Visitor Information• Remodeled Visitor Center and workspace to provide more area for visitors• Increased brochure display area and capacity for marketing locations around Georgia• Reducing the amount and weight of Visitor Center mail-outs to save money, conserve

paper, and be able to better target the individual needs of each visitorPersonnel • Hired new retail manager and team to aggressively sell products and assist visitors with

informationMarketing• Increased social media outreach with Facebook (followers increased by 100%), the

additionofTwitter,andthecreationofanewmonthly“AllAboardNewsletter,”sharingimages and stories with our customers electronically; facilitation of online discussions, promoting our brand and promoting Rome

• Renewed focus on the importance of advertising in local publicationsPrograms & Events• Developed artist show series for community outreach and awareness• Continuedtoexpandcorporategiftprogram• Overall,drivingthecuriosityofcustomersandpotentialcustomerswithnewactivities

and products offered on Jackson HillExpanded Product Line• Business with new consignors met through word of mouth, through our events, and

encounters at festivalsWinter Art Market• The event focused on local handcrafted items and was held December 1-2 at the Rome

Civic Center. It featured over 40 vendors with a huge variety of handmade items from preserves and wood-turned bowls to salsa and hand-crafted jewelry. Through the event, new business relationships were created and a record season was recorded for the Last Stop Gift Shop.

Advertising

Online Marketing

Mobile Marketing

Social Media In-House Publications

Marketing & Public RelationsLeisure Travel Market - PrintAirtranGO!InflightMagazineBlue Ridge CountryEnjoy!MagazineGeorgia BackroadsGeorgiaTravelGuideGeorgia State Parks GuideGEMC Georgia MagazineRomeNews-TribuneSeeYaThere!Southern Distinction

Leisure Travel Market - InternetGeorgiaTouristGuideGoogle AdwordsFacebook AdsTripAdvisor

Leisure Travel Market - TelevisionComcast CableGeorgia Public Broadcasting

Leisure Travel Market - RadioGeorgia Public Broadcasting

Sports Events MarketSports Destination ManagementSportsEventsCollege Fanz Sports Network

Last Stop Gift ShopRN-TBrideGuideMagnolia MagazineNorthwest Georgia LivingRomeNewsTribuneWLAQ

RomeGeorgia.org Metrics2011Visitation 50,587 2010 Visitation 46,204 2009 Visitation 33,7802011 Pageviews 133,442 2010 Pageviews 126,188New Visits 79%Average time on site 2.12 m2011EventsonCalendar 708 2010 Events 320

Online Information Requests2011 Requests 610 2010 Requests 296

TheCivilWarInRome.org Metrics2011 Visitation 1,515 2010 Visitation 203

SportsInRome.org Metrics2011 Visitation 219 2010 Visitation 186

Website Visitation Via Mobile Phones2011 Visitation 4,615 2010 Visitation 1,918

Tobetteraccommodatethegrowingmobile world, the GRCVB launched a

new mobile application on December 15, 2011 designed to serve as an interactive

guide for visitors with hotel, restaurant and attraction information.

Facebook/RomeGeorgia2011TotalLikes 9,009 2010 Total Likes 3,9592011TotalImpressions 2,501,774 2010 Total 315,1822011TotalFeedback 8,751 2010 Total 5,030

Facebook/LastStopGiftShop2011TotalLikes 166 2010 Total Likes 512011TotalImpressions 40,1602011TotalFeedback 134

• Georgia’s Rome Visitor Guide• 10,000 copies

• Visit Georgia’s Rome • 20,000 copies

• OutdoorAdventuresinGeorgia’sRome• 4,000 copies

• The Civil War Guide to Georgia’s Rome• 5,000 copies

• Seasonal Calendars - 5,000-8,000copieseach• Spring into Rome Calendar of Events• Summer Fun in Georgia’s Rome• Fall in Love with Georgia’s Rome• Winter Calendar of Events

• BetweentheRiversDrivingTour• 3,000 copies

• MyrtleHillCemeteryTour• 3,000 copies

Total 2010 Economic Impact of Tourism

2011 Economic Impact of Sports, Groups & Events

Economic Impact

Total GRCVB Impact $7,650,850Meetings & Conventions $471,618Sports Events $5,419,380Weddings $118,005Reunions $551,459Group Travel $13,267Events $1,072,301Corporate Travel $4,820

People serviced 67,742; 155 groupsLocal Tax Generated on Groups $229,525State Tax Generated on Groups $306,034Market Mix of Sports, Groups & Events Meetings & Conventions: 6% Sports Events: 71% Weddings & Reunions: 9% GroupTravel:0.17% Events: 14% CorporateTravel:0.06%

2010* total impact of tourism in Rome & Floyd County: $111,460,000Estimatesincludetravelexpenditures,travel-generatedemploymentandpayrollincome,aswellastaxrevenuesforstateandlocalgovernment.InFloydCounty,thetourismindustrysupportedapayroll of $22 million and supported 1,160 jobs throughout the service and hospitality industries. TravelerstoRome&FloydCountygenerated$4.1millioninstatetaxrevenueand$3.31inlocaltaxrevenue.EstimatesaccordingtoastudybytheUSTravelAssociation.*2011 numbers will be available from the US Travel Association September 2012.

*Numbers represented on this economic impact report represent only events, conventions, meetings and other activities where the GRCVB was directly involved in planning, coordination, or assistance.

Major Conventions & Events in 2011Date Event Estimated ImpactJanuary MasonDixonGirlsBasketballTournament $79,608.00February 7AASub-RegionBasketballTournament $309,972.00 7AARegionBasketballTournament $302,484.00March SSACMen’s&Women’sBasketballTournament $416,096.00 Berry Half Marathon $212,424.00 CarlHurleyShow $80,750.00April GeorgiaStateJrSpringOpen $307,392.00 Clocktower Classic Handcycling $75,792.00 May USTAAdultLeagueStateChampionship $189,560.00 RomanRoastontheRiver $598,539.00 ConvertibleClub-Loudon,TN $79,242.00June Georgia Challenger $327,900.00 Southern Closed 16 $233,444.00 July 6yr.oldDizzyDeanWorldSeries $558,310.00 GeorgiaJrOpen $366,526.00August Southern Closed Doubles Championship $312,060.00 September Georgia Main Street Conference $106,500.00 October USTANational/RegionalJr.TennisChampionship $79,608.00 ShorterUniversityHomecoming $314,800.00November USTASouthernComboDoubles $127,120.00December NAIA Football National Championship $1,131,169.00

*This is not a complete listing of all events assisted or planned by the GRCVB - this listing only includes events which generated at least $75,000 of economic impact or more.

Marketing & Public Relations• Developed new Visitor Guide in conjunction with the Downtown Development Authority• Published quarterly printed calendar of events• Enhanced social media community through increased activity and interaction • Continued success of seasonal photo contests• Launched interactive Visitor Guide application for Android and Apple smartphones • Increased resources available to the film industry on Rome & Floyd County • Launchedthe“SuperstarsofService”recognitionprogramtohonorserviceindustry

employeeswhoexceedexpectationsandbenefitRome&FloydCountyCivil War 150th Anniversary Marketing• Developed two Civil War series: Spirits of the Civil War and Civil War Symposium Series• ExpandedonlineCivilWarcontentandsocialmediainteractionGroup Travel• RecruitednewtourgroupbusinessatTravelSouthConferenceinAtlantaSports Marketing• ActivelyrecruitednewbusinessattheTEAMSSportsConferenceinLasVegas• Awarded“TopDestinationtoWatch”bySportsEventsMagazine• Partnered with Georgia Sports and the National Association of Sports Commissions• ExpandedsportsandeventscommitteetoimprovecommunicationinplanningeventsProduct Development• ContinuedtoadvocateandorganizethedevelopmentofTheTennisCenterofGeorgia• Actively supported the development of the West Third Corridor in Downtown Rome as

the prime location for a new, full-service hotel• Advocated for trail system on Jackson Hill

Greater Rome Convention & Visitors Bureau

Last Stop Gift Shop & Rome - Floyd Visitor Center

Top Achievements

Visitor Information• Remodeled Visitor Center and workspace to provide more area for visitors• Increased brochure display area and capacity for marketing locations around Georgia• Reducing the amount and weight of Visitor Center mail-outs to save money, conserve

paper, and be able to better target the individual needs of each visitorPersonnel • Hired new retail manager and team to aggressively sell products and assist visitors with

informationMarketing• Increased social media outreach with Facebook (followers increased by 100%), the

additionofTwitter,andthecreationofanewmonthly“AllAboardNewsletter,”sharingimages and stories with our customers electronically; facilitation of online discussions, promoting our brand and promoting Rome

• Renewed focus on the importance of advertising in local publicationsPrograms & Events• Developed artist show series for community outreach and awareness• Continuedtoexpandcorporategiftprogram• Overall,drivingthecuriosityofcustomersandpotentialcustomerswithnewactivities

and products offered on Jackson HillExpanded Product Line• Business with new consignors met through word of mouth, through our events, and

encounters at festivalsWinter Art Market• The event focused on local handcrafted items and was held December 1-2 at the Rome

Civic Center. It featured over 40 vendors with a huge variety of handmade items from preserves and wood-turned bowls to salsa and hand-crafted jewelry. Through the event, new business relationships were created and a record season was recorded for the Last Stop Gift Shop.

Advertising

Online Marketing

Mobile Marketing

Social Media In-House Publications

Marketing & Public RelationsLeisure Travel Market - PrintAirtranGO!InflightMagazineBlue Ridge CountryEnjoy!MagazineGeorgia BackroadsGeorgiaTravelGuideGeorgia State Parks GuideGEMC Georgia MagazineRomeNews-TribuneSeeYaThere!Southern Distinction

Leisure Travel Market - InternetGeorgiaTouristGuideGoogle AdwordsFacebook AdsTripAdvisor

Leisure Travel Market - TelevisionComcast CableGeorgia Public Broadcasting

Leisure Travel Market - RadioGeorgia Public Broadcasting

Sports Events MarketSports Destination ManagementSportsEventsCollege Fanz Sports Network

Last Stop Gift ShopRN-TBrideGuideMagnolia MagazineNorthwest Georgia LivingRomeNewsTribuneWLAQ

RomeGeorgia.org Metrics2011Visitation 50,587 2010 Visitation 46,204 2009 Visitation 33,7802011 Pageviews 133,442 2010 Pageviews 126,188New Visits 79%Average time on site 2.12 m2011EventsonCalendar 708 2010 Events 320

Online Information Requests2011 Requests 610 2010 Requests 296

TheCivilWarInRome.org Metrics2011 Visitation 1,515 2010 Visitation 203

SportsInRome.org Metrics2011 Visitation 219 2010 Visitation 186

Website Visitation Via Mobile Phones2011 Visitation 4,615 2010 Visitation 1,918

Tobetteraccommodatethegrowingmobile world, the GRCVB launched a

new mobile application on December 15, 2011 designed to serve as an interactive

guide for visitors with hotel, restaurant and attraction information.

Facebook/RomeGeorgia2011TotalLikes 9,009 2010 Total Likes 3,9592011TotalImpressions 2,501,774 2010 Total 315,1822011TotalFeedback 8,751 2010 Total 5,030

Facebook/LastStopGiftShop2011TotalLikes 166 2010 Total Likes 512011TotalImpressions 40,1602011TotalFeedback 134

• Georgia’s Rome Visitor Guide• 10,000 copies

• Visit Georgia’s Rome • 20,000 copies

• OutdoorAdventuresinGeorgia’sRome• 4,000 copies

• The Civil War Guide to Georgia’s Rome• 5,000 copies

• Seasonal Calendars - 5,000-8,000copieseach• Spring into Rome Calendar of Events• Summer Fun in Georgia’s Rome• Fall in Love with Georgia’s Rome• Winter Calendar of Events

• BetweentheRiversDrivingTour• 3,000 copies

• MyrtleHillCemeteryTour• 3,000 copies

Total 2010 Economic Impact of Tourism

2011 Economic Impact of Sports, Groups & Events

Economic Impact

Total GRCVB Impact $7,650,850Meetings & Conventions $471,618Sports Events $5,419,380Weddings $118,005Reunions $551,459Group Travel $13,267Events $1,072,301Corporate Travel $4,820

People serviced 67,742; 155 groupsLocal Tax Generated on Groups $229,525State Tax Generated on Groups $306,034Market Mix of Sports, Groups & Events Meetings & Conventions: 6% Sports Events: 71% Weddings & Reunions: 9% GroupTravel:0.17% Events: 14% CorporateTravel:0.06%

2010* total impact of tourism in Rome & Floyd County: $111,460,000Estimatesincludetravelexpenditures,travel-generatedemploymentandpayrollincome,aswellastaxrevenuesforstateandlocalgovernment.InFloydCounty,thetourismindustrysupportedapayroll of $22 million and supported 1,160 jobs throughout the service and hospitality industries. TravelerstoRome&FloydCountygenerated$4.1millioninstatetaxrevenueand$3.31inlocaltaxrevenue.EstimatesaccordingtoastudybytheUSTravelAssociation.*2011 numbers will be available from the US Travel Association September 2012.

*Numbers represented on this economic impact report represent only events, conventions, meetings and other activities where the GRCVB was directly involved in planning, coordination, or assistance.

Major Conventions & Events in 2011Date Event Estimated ImpactJanuary MasonDixonGirlsBasketballTournament $79,608.00February 7AASub-RegionBasketballTournament $309,972.00 7AARegionBasketballTournament $302,484.00March SSACMen’s&Women’sBasketballTournament $416,096.00 Berry Half Marathon $212,424.00 CarlHurleyShow $80,750.00April GeorgiaStateJrSpringOpen $307,392.00 Clocktower Classic Handcycling $75,792.00 May USTAAdultLeagueStateChampionship $189,560.00 RomanRoastontheRiver $598,539.00 ConvertibleClub-Loudon,TN $79,242.00June Georgia Challenger $327,900.00 Southern Closed 16 $233,444.00 July 6yr.oldDizzyDeanWorldSeries $558,310.00 GeorgiaJrOpen $366,526.00August Southern Closed Doubles Championship $312,060.00 September Georgia Main Street Conference $106,500.00 October USTANational/RegionalJr.TennisChampionship $79,608.00 ShorterUniversityHomecoming $314,800.00November USTASouthernComboDoubles $127,120.00December NAIA Football National Championship $1,131,169.00

*This is not a complete listing of all events assisted or planned by the GRCVB - this listing only includes events which generated at least $75,000 of economic impact or more.

Marketing & Public Relations• Developed new Visitor Guide in conjunction with the Downtown Development Authority• Published quarterly printed calendar of events• Enhanced social media community through increased activity and interaction • Continued success of seasonal photo contests• Launched interactive Visitor Guide application for Android and Apple smartphones • Increased resources available to the film industry on Rome & Floyd County • Launchedthe“SuperstarsofService”recognitionprogramtohonorserviceindustry

employeeswhoexceedexpectationsandbenefitRome&FloydCountyCivil War 150th Anniversary Marketing• Developed two Civil War series: Spirits of the Civil War and Civil War Symposium Series• ExpandedonlineCivilWarcontentandsocialmediainteractionGroup Travel• RecruitednewtourgroupbusinessatTravelSouthConferenceinAtlantaSports Marketing• ActivelyrecruitednewbusinessattheTEAMSSportsConferenceinLasVegas• Awarded“TopDestinationtoWatch”bySportsEventsMagazine• Partnered with Georgia Sports and the National Association of Sports Commissions• ExpandedsportsandeventscommitteetoimprovecommunicationinplanningeventsProduct Development• ContinuedtoadvocateandorganizethedevelopmentofTheTennisCenterofGeorgia• Actively supported the development of the West Third Corridor in Downtown Rome as

the prime location for a new, full-service hotel• Advocated for trail system on Jackson Hill

Georgias‘

Greater Rome Convention & Visitors Bureau

2011Annual Report

Rome2012 GRCVB Board of Directors

Services Offered by the GRCVB

Contact

Lisa Smith Executive DirectorKathy Mathis Deputy DirectorLinda Smith Sales & Event CoordinatorAnn Hortman Sports Marketing & EventsChris Cannon Director of Communications

Charlene Mathis Visitor Center & Gift Shop ManagerLuke Chaffin Customer Service Specialist & Marketing AssistantRobin Shamblin Customer Service Specialist

• Free procedure manual and facilitation for sports and events• Personalized information on facilities, hotels, attractions, restaurants & entertainment• Welcome packets for groups and conventions• Personal site visits for sports, event and meeting planners• Bid presentation: hotel & facility availability & rates• Promotional literature for pre-mailings & on-site event use• Customized itineraries for group tours• Ideas for theme parties & entertainment• Referrals to suppliers for needed goods & services• Wedding and reunion coordination assistance• Press kits, complimentary tours and assistance to the media.

402 Civic Center Drive, Rome, Georgia 30161Phone:706.295.5576•TollFree:800.444.1834•Fax:706.236.5029

www.RomeGeorgia.org

Jennifer Beard, Chair Berry CollegeSandra Lindsay, Vice Chair Suntrust BankLarry Arrington Shorter UniversityJohn Bennett City of RomeBrenda Bowen Harbin ClinicMike Burns Sara Lee CorporationKim Canada Rome City CommissionGarry Fricks Floyd County CommissionRichard Garland Rome Floyd Parks & RecreationVickie Hill Synovus MortgageHolly Lynch The SeasonChris McHagge The Claremont HouseJackie Moreland Hype, Inc.Gay Nichols Hawthorn SuitesAnil Patel Country Inn & SuitesVivian Richmeier Coosa Country ClubRebecca Roberts Shorter UniversityErnie Smith Dempsey, Lord, & SmithJoyce Smith Fairview & E.S. Brown Heritage CorporationJohn Spranza Georgia Highlands CollegeBlaine Williams Floyd County

Greater Rome Convention & Visitors Bureau

www.romegeorgia.org • 800-444-1834For information on Georgia’s Rome

GRCVB StaffPersonnel & Services

2012 Objectives

Events booked for 2012

2012 Outlook

Date Event Expected ParticipantsFebruary Berry Half-Marathon 2,000March SSACMen&Women’sBasketballTournament 450 Rome-Shorter Relays 2,000April Mid-South Conference Championships 1,300 Clocktower Classic Handcycle Race (spectators) 400 Republican Party District Conference 175May Tri-for-the-KidsYouth&OlympicTriathlon 500 Gulf South Conference Baseball Championships 500 ShorterTrack“LastChance”Invitational 900 USTAGeorgiaAdultLeagueTennisChampionship1,000 Rome River Jam 6,500 RomanRoastontheRiver 6,800June Georgia Jr Challenger 600 Southern Closed 16 320 Tri-for-the-ShelterYouth&OlympicTriathlon 300July RegionalJuniorTennisTournament 125 GeorgiaJrOpen 650 JohnIsnerTennisCamp 50 RACERomeSprint&YouthTriathlon 250September WingsOverNorthGeorgiaAirShow 75,000 Seven Hills Three Rivers Adventure Race 125November RACE Rome Mountain Bike Race 200December NAIA Football National Championship 5,300 Rome 26.2 Marathon 2,000

Marketing & Public Relations• Continue to grow Camera Ready program for recruiting film and production• Increase awareness of trail system through marketing and technological innovations • Develop new social media presence for untapped markets (history researchers,

viralvideo,expandingmobileusage)• ExpandRome-FloydHospitalityAssociationwithlocalmarketingvalue• Educate community on role and purpose of Convention & Visitors Bureau• RecruitnewtravelwritersandincreasenationaleditorialexposureMeetings, Conventions, & Groups• Reemerge into group travel market as prime destinationSports Marketing• Develop partnership with public and private schools, both secondary and collegiate, for

new recruitment of sports events• Increase trade show participation to encourage recruitmentLast Stop Gift Shop• Develop Spring Art Market as a premier local art and craft event• Create new events focused on local artists and authors• Launch new website with complete product listing• Increase gift shop sales through awareness and product developmentProduct Development• ContinuetoadvocateforfundinganddevelopmentofTheTennisCenterofGeorgia• ExpandCivilWar150thAnniversaryprograming

*This is not a complete listing of all events assisted or planned by the GRCVB; this listing only includes events which are expected to generate at least $25,000 of economic impact or more.

Georgias‘

Greater Rome Convention & Visitors Bureau

2011Annual Report

Rome2012 GRCVB Board of Directors

Services Offered by the GRCVB

Contact

Lisa Smith Executive DirectorKathy Mathis Deputy DirectorLinda Smith Sales & Event CoordinatorAnn Hortman Sports Marketing & EventsChris Cannon Director of Communications

Charlene Mathis Visitor Center & Gift Shop ManagerLuke Chaffin Customer Service Specialist & Marketing AssistantRobin Shamblin Customer Service Specialist

• Free procedure manual and facilitation for sports and events• Personalized information on facilities, hotels, attractions, restaurants & entertainment• Welcome packets for groups and conventions• Personal site visits for sports, event and meeting planners• Bid presentation: hotel & facility availability & rates• Promotional literature for pre-mailings & on-site event use• Customized itineraries for group tours• Ideas for theme parties & entertainment• Referrals to suppliers for needed goods & services• Wedding and reunion coordination assistance• Press kits, complimentary tours and assistance to the media.

402 Civic Center Drive, Rome, Georgia 30161Phone:706.295.5576•TollFree:800.444.1834•Fax:706.236.5029

www.RomeGeorgia.org

Jennifer Beard, Chair Berry CollegeSandra Lindsay, Vice Chair Suntrust BankLarry Arrington Shorter UniversityJohn Bennett City of RomeBrenda Bowen Harbin ClinicMike Burns Sara Lee CorporationKim Canada Rome City CommissionGarry Fricks Floyd County CommissionRichard Garland Rome Floyd Parks & RecreationVickie Hill Synovus MortgageHolly Lynch The SeasonChris McHagge The Claremont HouseJackie Moreland Hype, Inc.Gay Nichols Hawthorn SuitesAnil Patel Country Inn & SuitesVivian Richmeier Coosa Country ClubRebecca Roberts Shorter UniversityErnie Smith Dempsey, Lord, & SmithJoyce Smith Fairview & E.S. Brown Heritage CorporationJohn Spranza Georgia Highlands CollegeBlaine Williams Floyd County

Greater Rome Convention & Visitors Bureau

www.romegeorgia.org • 800-444-1834For information on Georgia’s Rome

GRCVB StaffPersonnel & Services

2012 Objectives

Events booked for 2012

2012 Outlook

Date Event Expected ParticipantsFebruary Berry Half-Marathon 2,000March SSACMen&Women’sBasketballTournament 450 Rome-Shorter Relays 2,000April Mid-South Conference Championships 1,300 Clocktower Classic Handcycle Race (spectators) 400 Republican Party District Conference 175May Tri-for-the-KidsYouth&OlympicTriathlon 500 Gulf South Conference Baseball Championships 500 ShorterTrack“LastChance”Invitational 900 USTAGeorgiaAdultLeagueTennisChampionship1,000 Rome River Jam 6,500 RomanRoastontheRiver 6,800June Georgia Jr Challenger 600 Southern Closed 16 320 Tri-for-the-ShelterYouth&OlympicTriathlon 300July RegionalJuniorTennisTournament 125 GeorgiaJrOpen 650 JohnIsnerTennisCamp 50 RACERomeSprint&YouthTriathlon 250September WingsOverNorthGeorgiaAirShow 75,000 Seven Hills Three Rivers Adventure Race 125November RACE Rome Mountain Bike Race 200December NAIA Football National Championship 5,300 Rome 26.2 Marathon 2,000

Marketing & Public Relations• Continue to grow Camera Ready program for recruiting film and production• Increase awareness of trail system through marketing and technological innovations • Develop new social media presence for untapped markets (history researchers,

viralvideo,expandingmobileusage)• ExpandRome-FloydHospitalityAssociationwithlocalmarketingvalue• Educate community on role and purpose of Convention & Visitors Bureau• RecruitnewtravelwritersandincreasenationaleditorialexposureMeetings, Conventions, & Groups• Reemerge into group travel market as prime destinationSports Marketing• Develop partnership with public and private schools, both secondary and collegiate, for

new recruitment of sports events• Increase trade show participation to encourage recruitmentLast Stop Gift Shop• Develop Spring Art Market as a premier local art and craft event• Create new events focused on local artists and authors• Launch new website with complete product listing• Increase gift shop sales through awareness and product developmentProduct Development• ContinuetoadvocateforfundinganddevelopmentofTheTennisCenterofGeorgia• ExpandCivilWar150thAnniversaryprograming

*This is not a complete listing of all events assisted or planned by the GRCVB; this listing only includes events which are expected to generate at least $25,000 of economic impact or more.