Welcome to EMT Express, providing bi-weekly news
and tips for the people who market Minnesota tourism.

Articles in this edition:

• Celebrate National Tourism Week, May 5-13
• Minnesota’s Lodging Metrics Show Moderate Growth through the First Quarter of 2012
• USA Launches Ad Campaign To Attract International Travelers
• Explore Minnesota Releases New Mobile Website and App
• Aquatic Invasive Species Webinars Offered for Tourism Industry
• New Leads Posted from Travel Trade Unit
• Governor Proclaims May as Biking Month
• MnDOT Launches New Corridor Effort Addressing Quality of Life and Economic Competitiveness
• Research 101 for Destinations, CVBs, and More Webinar
• Minnesota Birding Weekends Announced

Celebrate National Tourism Week, May 5-13

No matter what role you play in attracting or serving visitors to Minnesota, you’re part of something big. Yours is one of 14.4 million jobs in this country supported by the travel and tourism industry. Nationally, more than $800 million is spent by domestic and international travelers in our country, which has widespread economic impact. Right here in Minnesota, tourism is an $11.3 billion industry that generates 235,000 jobs, and 11% of private sector employment. (To see the impact on the county level, see “Tourism & Minnesota’s Economy”.)

The first full week of May is annually recognized as National Travel and Tourism Week, a tradition established by Congress and first celebrated in 1984. In Minnesota, this typically coincides with the Governor’s Fishing Opener, which kicks off the spring/summer travel season in our state. This year, May is also the first annual Minnesota Museums Month, promoting hundreds of museums, large and small, across the state. May is also National Bike Month, and Minnesota has a growing reputation as a bike-friendly state. The Explore Minnesota “More to Explore” ad campaign is underway, and businesses across the state are gearing up for the summer tourism season. As you welcome visitors to your destination, keep in mind that your work is important, and our industry is important to your community, our state and our country. Thanks for all you do.

Minnesota’s Lodging Metrics Show Moderate Growth through the First Quarter of 2012

Minnesota’s lodging industry started 2012 with first quarter year-over-year growth for five of six reported metrics: occupancy, demand, revenue, room rate and revenue per available room (RevPAR). The sixth metric, room supply, decreased slightly, compared with the first quarter of 2011. After tracking very closely with national growth rates coming out of the recession, Minnesota’s lodging performance continues to experience moderate growth yet slipped relative to U.S. and regional growth rates during the first quarter, a trend that started late in 2011. The graph shown below illustrates a 12-month time line of year-over-year monthly change in Minnesota’s revenue per available room (RevPAR), a single measure that takes into account the effects of demand, supply and room rates. A more complete summary includes similar graphs for all six metrics and a comparison of first quarter 2012 lodging performance for various geographic areas across the U.S. and Minnesota.

Click here for a more in-depth summary, including a variety of graphs. http://industry.exploreminnesota.com/?p=8591

This article and graphs are provided under permission granted by STR (Smith Travel Research, Inc.), the source of the data.

USA Launches Ad Campaign To Attract International Travelers

For the first time ever, the United States is marketing itself as a tourist destination to people in other countries. Brand USA, a public-private entity created through federal legislation, launched an ad campaign this month directed at the United Kingdom, Japan and Canada, which are all target markets for Minnesota’s international marketing, as well. A second wave of the campaign targets Brazil and South Korea, with other countries to follow. The ad campaign includes TV, digital, billboard and print ads and various social media. Ads direct potential visitors to the website DiscoverAmerica.com, which includes information on each of the states. The campaign includes a song, “Land of Dreams,” written and performed by Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Rosanne Cash.

The United States share of international travelers has fallen significantly since 9/11, due in large part to more complicated visa and security procedures. Millions of travelers have chosen to visit Europe and other destinations instead of the United States, and most other major countries have tourism marketing campaigns. This new Brand USA campaign is aimed at drawing travelers to our country, along with the significant dollars they spend during their trips.

(Watch the Discover America TV ad: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcfbdiiEQDM)

Explore Minnesota Releases New Mobile Website and App

Explore Minnesota Tourism has just introduced two handy digital resources for travelers on the go, a streamlined mobile version of the state’s travel website and a free application focused on outdoor recreation. As more travelers use smart phones to find information while they’re on their trips, the revamped mobile site and new app both make it easy to find a place to stay or something fun to do along the way.

The Explore Minnesota active living mobile application, available in both Android and iPhone versions, features places to go biking, hiking, birding, paddling, skiing and more, and events such as runs and walks. The app defaults to the user’s current location, but another location can be designated for planning trips to a specific destination. Mapping and directions are available. The app also provides information on places to stay near the selected activities.

A total redesign of the state’s mobile travel website, m.exploreminnesota.com, provides a vast array of travel information and is easy to search. It includes information on places to stay, things to do, events, deals and local visitor information resources, and offers keyword searches. Location based, the site automatically provides information based on where the user is, but other locations can be entered to find information on future destinations.

Aquatic Invasive Species Webinars Offered for Tourism Industry

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will hold two webinars with the tourism industry in May to talk about the state’s Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) laws and new ways the DNR is working with tourism to spread the word about these invaders. The DNR will discuss new AIS informational products available to the tourism industry, such as free posters, metal signs and table tents, and improvements to its website. The agency’s invasive species experts will be on hand to talk about the DNR’s communication, boat inspection and enforcement campaign for 2012.

The webinars will be held on two dates, Tuesday, May 15 at 8:00 a.m. and Thursday, May 17 at noon. Participants will register for the programs, which are limited 200 participants each. The links for the programs are:

• May 15 session
• May 17 session

The DNR also wants input from the tourism industry on important topics for the webinar and future tourism communication strategies. It is asking members of the tourism industry to complete a survey to help the DNR make informed decisions about what communications and products it can provide on AIS. The survey is available online at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/AIS-stakeholders. These programs are a partnership with Explore Minnesota Tourism.

To receive e-mail updates from the DNR about Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) laws and other AIS news, follow this link: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MNDNR/subscriber/new?topic_id=MNDNR_87.

New Leads Posted from Travel Trade Unit

After a transition to a new contact database, Explore Minnesota Tourism is again able to provide leads from various trade show events and sales missions. Items are posted to the respective sections of the industry site. Most recent postings include: American Bus Association 2012 Marketplace in Grapevine, Heartland Travel Showcase in Knoxville, and ITB Travel Fair in Berlin. Find these and other leads on the industry site at Group Tour Leads and International Leads.

Governor Proclaims May as Biking Month

Governor Mark Dayton has proclaimed May as biking month in support of the many activities and investments on the part of organizations, agencies and communities to encourage biking for health, transportation, recreation and leisure in Minnesota. To view the proclamation, go to:
http://industry.exploreminnesota.com/biking-in-minnesota/

MnDOT Launches New Corridor Effort Addressing Quality of Life and Economic Competitiveness

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has established a new approach to corridor planning called the Corridor Investment Management Strategy (CIMS), which is focused on addressing quality of life and economic competitiveness on corridors throughout the state. It is important that the tourism industry is represented in the discussions. CIMS is beginning with a series of regional meetings in May and June to be held in: Baxter, Bemidji, Detroit Lakes, Duluth, Fergus Falls, Litchfield, Mankato, Marshall, Owatonna, Rochester, St. Cloud, Thief River Falls, Willmar, Windom and the Twin Cities. For more information, visit: www.mndot.gov/cims.

Research 101 for Destinations, CVBs, and More Webinar

Jerry Henry, president of H2R Market Research and experienced travel researcher, will present the basics of tourism destination research on a shoestring budget. He will answer questions like “Why invest in research?” and “Why is it important to understand your visitors?” The Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA) is offering this webinar for free or discounted rates for members and $60 for non-members. Click here for details.

Minnesota Birding Weekends Announced

The Minnesota Ornithologist’s Union (MOU) announced the schedule of Minnesota Birding Weekends where you can experience a guided birding trip. The weekends are very reasonable and cover a large portion of Minnesota. This is a good way for you to experience and learn about the various locations in your area that you can market to bring birders to your area. For more information and a detailed list of the events, go to: http://www.mbwbirds.com/MBWeekends.html.

Created on … May 9, 2012 by Explore Minnesota Tourism

Minnesota’s lodging industry started 2012 with moderate 1st quarter year-over-year growth in five of six reported metrics, and a small decline in the sixth metric – room supply. The year-over-year 1st quarter change for all six metrics was lower than the year-over-year change a year earlier (i.e., 1st quarter of 2011 compared with 1st quarter of 2010). This slowing down of growth in lodging performance metrics follows a national trend that reflects a common progression coming out a recession, with lower growth building on initial strong growth from recession-era lows. While the drop-off in the 1st quarter was more pronounced for Minnesota than for the U.S.. it remains to be seen whether or not this softening of lodging growth in Minnesota is part of a longer term trend.

Even as Minnesota and U.S. growth slowed, the seven-state West North Central U.S. region that includes Minnesota bucked the slower growth trend and experienced stronger year-over-year 1st quarter 2012 growth when compared with 1st quarter 2011 growth. Unlike Minnesota’s experience, lodging in the rest of the region was slower to recover from the recession initially, and is now sustaining a higher level of growth as the recovery progresses. Two sets of graphs, with links below, show changes in Minnesota’s lodging metrics during the 1st quarter of 2012.

First Quarter 2012 Lodging Performance Changes for Minnesota, the U.S., the Region and Minnesota Areas  – The 1st quarter of 2012 was the first quarter in quite a while that saw U.S. and regional growth rates exceed Minnesota’s growth for all six metrics. Within Minnesota, all of Minnesota’s 10 distinct market areas (i.e., five in the Minneapolis-St Paul metro and five in Greater Minnesota) experienced 1st quarter year-over-year annual growth in both revenue and revenue per available room (i.e., RevPAR). However, each of the other four metrics saw declines for one or more Minnesota areas. Similarities between Minnesota and Minneapolis-St Paul metro 1st quarter changes point toward a possible end to a period of markedly stronger growth in metro lodging metrics compared with greater Minnesota’s growth.

First quarter 2012 changes in Minnesota lodging metrics (i.e., compared with 2011) and 2011 compared with 2010 were:

• Occupancy 0.6% for 2012 (5.7% for 2011)
• Supply -0.4% (0.8%)
• Demand 0.2% (6.5%)
• Revenue 3.0% (9.8%)
• Room rate 2.9% (3.1%)
• RevPar 3.5% (9.0%)

Month-by-Month Minnesota Lodging Performance Changes through March 2012 -  Minnesota’s growth in year-over-year monthly lodging metrics was fairly strong and consistent for most metrics through the 3rd quarter of 2011. (July was the exception, presumably attributable to the 20-day state government shutdown.) Then, starting in October and continuing through the 1st quarter of 2012, growth slipped in all six metrics. During the 1st quarter of 2012, continued (if weak) growth in room rates contributed to modest growth in revenue and RevPAR each month. January declines in demand and occupancy gave way to modest growth in February and March.

Much of Minnesota’s welcomed, strong growth in lodging metrics over the last couple of years can be attributed to the low recession-era lodging metrics against which growth was measured. While it is not realistic to expect the strong growth coming out of the recession to be sustained indefinitely, Minnesota’s recent level of decline in growth is somewhat unexpected. As we proceed into the important summer season, it will be of great interest to see what trends emerge for Minnesota’s lodging performance.

Click below for accompanying graphs of Minnesota lodging performance (repeats of links from above):

• First Quarter 2012 Lodging Performance Changes for Minnesota, the U.S., the Region and Minnesota Areas 
• Month-by-Month Minnesota Lodging Performance Changes through March 2012

Welcome to EMT Express, providing bi-weekly news
and tips for the people who market Minnesota tourism.

Articles in this edition:

• Aquatic Invasive Species Webinars Offered for Tourism Industry
• Study Points to Changes in Travel Associated with Four-Day School Week
• Co-op Ad Space Available in Winnipeg Free Press
• Tourism-Related Legislation Update
• SMTA To Hold Meeting and Educational Workshop in Windom
• New Minnesota Theatre, Arts & Entertainment Guide Planned
• MSP Best Airport in America

Aquatic Invasive Species Webinars Offered for Tourism Industry

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will hold two webinars with the tourism industry in May to talk about the state’s Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) laws and new ways the DNR is working with tourism to spread the word about these invaders. The DNR will discuss new AIS informational products available to the tourism industry, such as free posters, metal signs and table tents, and improvements to its website. The agency’s invasive species experts will be on hand to talk about the DNR’s communication, boat inspection and enforcement campaign for 2012.

The webinars will be held on two dates, Tuesday, May 15 at 8:00 a.m. and Thursday, May 17 at noon. Participants will register for the programs, which are limited 200 participants each.
The links for the programs are:

* May 15 session

* May 17 session

The DNR also wants input from the tourism industry on important topics for the webinar and future tourism communication strategies. It is asking members of the tourism industry to complete a survey to help the DNR make informed decisions about what communications and products it can provide on AIS. The survey is available online at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/AIS-stakeholders. These programs are a partnership with Explore Minnesota Tourism.

To receive e-mail updates from the DNR about Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) laws and other AIS news, follow this link: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MNDNR/subscriber/new?topic_id=MNDNR_87.

Study Points to Changes in Travel Associated with Four-Day School Week

A recent study was conducted to help the tourism industry understand how travel patterns change when school districts implement a four-day school week, a move 13 Minnesota school districts have made as of 2012, with more districts considering the switch. The study was funded by the University of Minnesota Tourism Center’s Carlson Chair for Travel, and the principal investigator was Elton Mykerezi of the University’s Department of Applied Economics. The study found that impacts differed by type of travel. Parents of children in school districts with four-day school weeks reported sizable increases in “day trips,” and no real change in the number and nature of weekend trips, but fewer trips of five days or more. The reduced number of longer trips resulted in fewer nights spent in hotels, and lower overall expenditures. The complete report on the study can be found at:

http://www.tourism.umn.edu/prod/groups/cfans/@pub/@cfans/@tourism/documents/asset/cfans_asset_380476.pdf.

Co-op Ad Space Available in Winnipeg Free Press

The space deadline for Explore Minnesota’s May 5 travel section co-op is Friday, April 27. This section will include Minnesota editorial. There are only a few ad spaces remaining. Explore Minnesota Tourism has bought down the rates to make these ads more affordable for both public and private sector Minnesota travel industry organizations and businesses. Contact Ron DeLaronde at 204-697-7181 or ron.delaronde@winnipegfresspress.com.

Tourism-Related Legislation Update

This week, the Minnesota Senate approved a game and fish bill that would increase hunting and fishing license fees; the House version of the bill doesn’t include the fee increases. However, the House version does include a provision to move the 2012 fishing opener from May 12 to May 5, but the senate bill does not include this. So, both issues would need to be resolved in a conference committee. (The Governor’s Fishing Opener will still be held on May 12 in Waconia, regardless of any possible legislation moving up the general fishing opener.) Many fishing and environmental groups support the license fee increases; these fees, which haven’t been raised in over 10 years, fund the Department of Natural Resource’s game and fish programs.

Legislation regarding vacation home rentals appears unlikely to pass this session. A Senate bill defines vacation rental properties, prohibits counties and municipalities from disallowing them, but permits these local governments to enact certain restrictions on vacation rentals. These local zoning requirements could ensure a level playing field with hotels, resorts and B&Bs. Legislation to expand the membership of the Explore Minnesota Tourism Council is not moving forward this year. Legislation to repeal the post-Labor Day School Start law also has not moved ahead this session.

SMTA To Hold Meeting and Educational Workshop in Windom

The Southern Minnesota Tourism Association (SMTA) will hold their May meeting on Thursday, May 10 at the Business, Arts and Recreation Center, 1012 10th Street, Windom. The meeting is open to the public with registration beginning at 8:00 a.m. Registration fee is $15 and includes lunch. An educational workshop will be presented beginning at 9:00 a.m. entitled “What You Need to Know about Invasive Species,” by a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources invasive species specialist.  To RSVP, call 888-975-6766 or send an e-mail to dave.vogel@state.mn.us by May 4.

New Minnesota Theatre, Arts & Entertainment Guide Planned

A new Minnesota Theatre, Arts & Entertainment Guide is in the works, which will focus on the rich theater environment in the state. Publisher Tom Swatosh, formerly with Minnesota Meetings and Events, will produce the guide, including ads and information on theaters, travel opportunities, arts and all types of entertainment. The guide will be published in January 2013, with a follow-up theater trade show/convention in March 2013 specifically for the tourism industry, with vendor/theater booths and mini-theatrical stage presentations. For more information, visit www.mntheatreguide.com or e-mail ccbmact@gmail.com.

MSP Best Airport in America

The Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) has been crowned the best airport in America by Travel + Leisure Magazine readers. Thank you for doing your part in making MSP the best airport according to Travel + Leisure Magazine! http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/americas-best-and-worst-airports/13

Created on … April 26, 2012, by Explore Minnesota Tourism

Welcome to EMT Express, providing bi-weekly news
and tips for the people who market Minnesota tourism.

Articles in this edition:

• U.S. Travel Bus Tour Visits Minnesota
• EMT Soliciting for Ad Sales in Travel Guide and State Highway Map
• New Invasive Species Decal Required on all Watercraft
• Get Info on Lake Service Provider Training and Permits
• Don’t Forget to Update Your ExploreMinnesota.com Listing
• Co-Op Advertising Opportunities Available
• Metro Regional Bicycle Tourism Meeting to be Held April 18
• Free Google Map Training Available for Communities along the Great River Road
• Peeps Diorama Represents ‘Explore Minnesota’ Theme
• Employment Opportunity at Thompson Hill Travel Information Center in Duluth
• Student Worker Employment Opportunity at Thompson Hill Travel Information Center
• Minneapolis Northwest Seeks Creative Design & Project Coordinator

U.S. Travel Bus Tour Visits Minnesota

The national bus tour of the U.S. Travel Association stopped at Mall of America (MOA) on April 4 as part of a campaign to increase awareness of the value of tourism to state and national economies. U.S. Travel launched the tour in Washington, D.C.; the tour is making 37 stops in destinations such as Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Chicago, and Miami. The bus tour aims to boost the visibility of the travel industry and to highlight policy priorities such as: streamlining visa procedures for visitors to the U.S, encouraging increased U.S. investment in promoting travel, and keeping the business and meetings industry thriving. The stop at MOA included remarks by John Edman, Director, Explore Minnesota Tourism; Bonnie Carlson, President & CEO, Bloomington CVB; Karen Nordstrom, Bloomington City Council; and Dave Haselman, Executive Vice President, Mall of America.

EMT Soliciting for Ad Sales in Travel Guide and State Highway Map

Explore Minnesota Tourism (EMT) is seeking a commission-based sales vendor to sell advertising in our Minnesota Travel Guide publication and in the State Highway Map. This sales vendor’s mission will be to find new advertisers and augment the sales efforts of internal staff for EMT Travel Guide and State Highway Map.

EMT currently has two internal, non-commissioned staff who will continue to sell advertising in these products. EMT retains the sole right to sell to those who advertised in the 2012 Travel Guide and the 2012 State Highway Map. The sales vendor will sell to Minnesota tourism-related business and organizations, e.g., lodging properties, tourism organizations, attractions and events.

Anyone interested in receiving the Notice of Solicitation or having questions about this opportunity may contact: Tim Campbell, EMT, Northeast Regional Office, tim.campbell@state.mn.us, or 888-876-6784.

New Invasive Species Decal Required on all Watercraft

A new law passed in 2011 (Minnesota Statues 86B.508) requires a watercraft owner or operator to obtain and attach an aquatic invasive species rules decal to all types of watercraft prior to launching on, entering into, or operating on any waters of the state. The decals are available at DNR offices, Deputy Registrar offices where licenses are sold, and large sport shops, as well from DNR watercraft inspectors and conservation officers. They will be included in the envelopes of new and renewal watercraft licenses mailed from DNR. They are free. For more information visit: www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/aquatic_qa.html.

Get Info on Lake Service Provider Training and Permits

In 2011, the Legislature passed a number of new laws related to prevention and management of aquatic invasive species (AIS) that apply to boaters, property owners, service providers, bait dealers and others involved with the transportation of water-related equipment.

You can find helpful information about the definitions of types of service providers who need to attend the training and receive a permit by visiting the Department of Natural Resources’ Lake Service Provider information page: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/lsp/index.html. Training is available through April.

Don’t Forget to Update Your ExploreMinnesota.com Listing

For the past several months, Explore Minnesota staff have been reaching out to businesses and organizations that have listings on the ExploreMinnesota.com website that have not been updated since 2010. There are still over 500 lodging and camping properties and 700 attractions waiting to be updated. Accommodation listings that are not updated will be dropped from the website and the 2013 Minnesota Travel Guide and attractions will be dropped from the website, if the information is not reviewed and confirmed. If you think your listing may be one of these, or if you’ve received a phone call or message from EMT staff, we strongly encourage you to take a few minutes to bring your listing up to date, by using our online Tourism Manager system at www.admin.exploreminnesota.com.

The Explore Minnesota website gets about 2.5 million visits per year, and your listing is free — including options to add a photo and accept reviews from customers. Don’t miss out on this opportunity! If you have questions, contact Kimberly Clarke at 651-757-1842 or 800-657-3737, or by email tourism@state.mn.us.

Co-Op Advertising Opportunities Available

New Cooperative E-newsletter Opportunity — For only $335 each, the nonprofit and private sector tourism industry can advertise in an e-newsletter to 110,000 geo- and behaviorally targeted potential travelers in Minnesota and the surrounding states. E-newsletters are targeted to Midwest travelers who enjoy outdoors, fishing, family vacations, resort, entertainment, theater, shopping events, golf and romantic vacations. Advertisers can select one, two or three e-newsletters (May 15, June 12 and July 10) with varying Destination Marketing Areas (DMA) such as Fargo/Valley City, Des Moines-Ames, Madison and more. This program is partially underwritten by Explore Minnesota to support tourism industry advertising. Minimum/maximum six (6) advertisers. For more information and space, contact Lori Grosslein, Pioneer Press/Twincities.com, lgrosslein@pioneerpress.com , telephone 651-228-5508 or 800-950-9080 ext. 5568.

New Clear Channel Digital Outdoor Co-op — Now you can buy co-op Clear Channel Digital Outdoor starting at $2,300 and choose from thirteen Metro locations for one week or four weeks (minimum two advertisers). This co-op program is available during April, May and June 2012. In addition, tourism advertisers will receive an Explore Minnesota discount from $500 – $750 depending upon the amount of advertising purchased. The brightly lit Clear Channel Digital Outdoor is easily visible to thousands of motorists in key Twin Cities locations. Advertisers have the ability to make unlimited copy changes from their desktops. Full service art department services are included. “More to Explore” banner is included with each ad. For more information and to reserve space, contact Tom Hooker, Clear Channel Outdoor, thooker@clearchannel.com or telephone 612-605-5110.

Metro Regional Bicycle Tourism Meeting to be Held April 18

The next Metro Regional Bicycle Tourism meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 18 from 2:00 – 4:00 pm at the Meet Minneapolis office located at 250 Marquette Avenue South, Suite 1300, Minneapolis, MN 55401.This group has been meeting to discuss ways to further partner or expand promotion of bicycle tourism in the metro region. At these meetings we share information on initiatives, promotions, and other activities that promote bicycle tourism. The agenda for this meeting includes a report on Pedal MN — a bicycling initiative that is being launched in May through a partnership with several public and private agencies and organizations. Please RSVP to Gayle Junnila at gayle.junnila@state.mn.us so we can plan for the right amount of people. In addition, please feel free to forward this to anyone you think would be interested in joining this group! For additional questions, call Gayle Junnila at 651-757-1852.

Free Google Map Training Available for Communities along the Great River Road

The Blandin Foundation, University of Minnesota Extension, and the Minnesota Mississippi River Parkway Commission are offering a free workshop on Friday, April 27 from 9-11 a.m. at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, to help all communities along the Great River Road map their community attractions on Google Maps. Not only will you be able to learn the process to map all of your community attractions, you will get a good start on doing so at the workshop. So, gather a team from your community/county, (chambers, CVBs, park and recreation, public lands, interns, etc.), identify your key community attractions, and bring their addresses to help residents and visitors find your key assets and things to do in your area. A small registration fee may be required to hold your computer seat, but will be returned upon attendance.

Registration information is available from: Kari Schugel, Sauk Rapids – Rice Community Education, 320-258-1569, kari.schugel@isd47.org.

Peeps Diorama Represents ‘Explore Minnesota’ Theme

The graphic design department at the Industrial Fabrics Association International won an honorable mention in the 9th annual Pioneer Press Marshmallow Peeps Diorama contest with an entry entitled “Explore Minnesota.” The diorama depicts Peeps enjoying Minnesota’s great outdoors, such as soaking up the sun, scaling Peep Mountain and catching Swedish fish for a Lutefisk supper.

For more detailed photos, check out the IFAI design team’s Flickr account.

Employment Opportunity at Thompson Hill Travel Information Center in Duluth

Explore Minnesota Tourism is seeking someone with a ready smile who enjoys working with people. This Customer Services Specialist intermittent position is 35% part-time. The winning candidate will provide travel information services and promote travel in Minnesota in person, by telephone, and/or in writing at the Thompson Hill Travel Information Center (TIC). General knowledge of Minnesota is helpful.  Thompson Hill TIC is a seven-day operation and the winning candidate can expect to work more hours during the highest travel period (Memorial Day to Labor Day) including many weekends, weekdays and at least two holidays. Fall and winter hours are fewer and will vary. Hours of operation:  Seven days a week 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. throughout the year. This position requires a significant amount of standing and occasional lifting up to 35 lbs. Please contact Julie Ramer at 651-757-1863 with any questions. How to Apply: Most State selection processes utilize a resume-based screening process. You will be contacted by agency staff if your background best matches the selection criteria on this job posting. To apply for this position, click the APPLY box found at the bottom of this job announcement. For additional information about the State’s selection process, go to http://www.careers.state.mn.us/job-tip .

Anyone with a disability who believes they may need an accommodation should contact the Department of Employment and Economic Development’s Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity, in advance, so any necessary arrangements can be made. To request an accommodation, email DEED.ODEO@state.mn.us; or call 651-259-7094 (MN Relay 711 or MN Relay 1-800-627-3529).

Posting Number: 12TOUR000001
Closing Date: April 13, 2012

Student Worker Employment Opportunity at Thompson Hill Travel Information Center

Do you know a college student who needs a job in the Duluth area? If the person loves to work face-to-face with people, this may be the perfect opportunity to get some experience in the tourism industry. Explore Minnesota Tourism is seeking a student currently enrolled in a post-secondary educational institution. This 35% part-time student worker position will work the majority of hours during the highest travel period (Memorial Day through Labor Day). There may be limited hours during the school year if available. The winning candidate will provide travel information services and promote travel in Minnesota in person, by telephone, and/or in writing at the Thompson Hill Travel Information Center. General knowledge of Minnesota is helpful, but not required. Thompson Hill TIC is a seven day 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. operation and the winning candidate can expect to work many weekends, weekdays and at least two holidays. Fall and winter hours are fewer, based upon school schedule. This position requires a significant amount of standing and occasional lifting up to 35 lbs. Resumes will be accepted through April 13, 2012. Questions? Please contact Julie Ramer at 651-757-1863. Submit your resume via email to: julie.ramer@state.mn.us

Minneapolis Northwest Seeks Creative Design & Project Coordinator

This metro-area tourism bureau is looking to hire someone with two plus years experience to produce all creative design projects for the bureau as well as assist to all bureau staff in marketing and sales efforts. Responsible for the creation of marketing collateral including: logos, sales collateral and general tourism marketing collateral. Assist the Senior Sports & Marketing Manager and other sales/marketing staff in planning, concept development and execution of print and media campaigns. Other duties as assigned by supervisor. Proficiency in Adobe Suite & Microsoft Office. Knowledge of Google AdWords/Analytics. Understanding of printing matters and formats, as well as knowledge of different formats for web. Send cover letter, resume and samples of work to info@mplsnw.com. Deadline: April 20, 2012.

Created on … April 10, 2012 by Explore Minnesota Tourism

EMT currently has two internal, non-commissioned staff who will continue to sell advertising in these products. EMT retains the sole right to sell to those who advertised in the 2012 Travel Guide and the 2012 State Highway Map. The sales vendor will sell to Minnesota tourism related business and organizations, e.g., lodging properties, tourism organizations, attractions and events.

Informal Solicitation

Anyone interested in receiving the Notice of Solicitation or having questions about this opportunity may contact:
Tim Campbell
EMT, Northeast Regional Office
Tim.campbell@state.mn.us
888-876-6784
218-723-4692
218-723-4689 (fax)

Welcome to EMT Express, providing bi-weekly news
and tips for the people who market Minnesota tourism.

Articles in this edition:

• Explore Minnesota Tourism Taps Minnesota Singers for Radio Ads
• 2012 Vote Travel Bus Tour to Visit Minnesota April 4
• Be Included in the Fishing Report and Reach Thousands of Anglers for Free
• Read About Minnesota in the News
• Meet in Minnesota and Amateur Sports Marketing Meetings April 4
• Minnesota Heartland Spring Meeting To Be Held at Arrowwood Resort
• Date Set for Central Region Bicycle Tourism Meeting
• Riverland Tourism Conference To Be Held on April 26
• 2012 MFEA/IFEA Spring Conference Rescheduled

Explore Minnesota Tourism Taps Minnesota Singers for Radio Ads

Last year, Explore Minnesota Tourism launched the “More to Explore” campaign with television ads featuring Twins baseball player Joe Mauer. Using the same jingle, ad agency Colle+McVoy created five new radio ads for placement statewide through the Minnesota Broadcasters Association. Three of the radio ads are sung by the same talent who appear in the TV ad, and two others feature seven Minnesota recording artists singing new lyrics to the “More to Explore” jingle.

To introduce our “More to Explore” 60-second radio spot, Colle+McVoy created a music video that gives a nod to Bob Dylan and features the vocal talents of the seven Minnesota musicians: http://www.exploreminnesota.com/more-to-explore/index.aspx.

2012 Vote Travel Bus Tour to Visit Minnesota April 4

U.S. Travel’s “Vote Travel Bus Tour” (VTBT) is a coast-to-coast tour of destinations across America to insert the travel narrative into the 2012 election season, and highlight the strength and breadth of our industry with candidates running for all levels of public office. U.S. Travel will travel in a Vote Travel themed bus and host rallies in destinations across the country. The tour will be in Bloomington on Wednesday, April 4 at 4:00 p.m.

The VTBT will aim to:

• Raise awareness with elected officials and candidates about the economic impact that travel has on all 435 Congressional districts around the country.
• Engage industry employees in the electoral process through voter registration drives and the Get America Moving Candidate Pledge.
• Grow U.S. Travel’s grassroots network, the Power of Travel Coalition, which is working to make travel and tourism a top issue in local, state, and federal elected bodies.

Be Included in the Fishing Report and Reach Thousands of Anglers for Free

Explore Minnesota Tourism’s (EMT’s) fishing report is great way to generate inquiries, and it’s free. EMT uses fishing reports from chambers of commerce, convention & visitor bureaus, resort associations and other community organizations to compile the EMT fishing report, with more than 20 organizations statewide currently participating. The weekly EMT fishing report is sent via e-mail and RSS feed, and posted on our website. Thousands of consumers and media read this report on a regular basis, with many calling and linking directly to the source for further travel information.

To participate, reports must be sent to fishing@emt.travel by Wednesday evening to be included in that week’s fishing report. Reports should include:

1)  Name of city/area and lakes covered;

2)  Current fishing activity on Minnesota waters, i.e., species of fish being caught, specific bodies of water producing these fish, successful types of bait, recommended fishing techniques and methods, and time of day;

3)  Regulatory items of importance;

4) Name of person & organization reporting, phone, and web address (if applicable).

Information regarding natural occurrences such as lake-turnover, or events such as upcoming fishing tournaments, is also encouraged.

To subscribe to this and other e-newsletters, check out our e-newsletter subscription page at:  http://www.exploreminnesota.com/eNewsletterSignup.aspx. If you have further questions, please contact Christine Lawton at Christine.Lawton@state.mn.us.

Read About Minnesota in the News

Minnesota makes the news with museums month, biking, beer tourism and much more. Link to http://www.exploreminnesota.com/news-room/news-details/index.aspx?nid=106

Meet in Minnesota and Amateur Sports Marketing Meetings April 4

On Wednesday, April 4 at 10:30 a.m., a meeting will be held to discuss upcoming plans to market Minnesota to regional and national meetings and conventions markets, including a Minnesota presence at the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) National Convention. At 1:00 p.m. a meeting will be held for those interested in amateur sports marketing, including the National Association of Sports Commissions (NASC) Convention. Both meetings will be held at the Bloomington CVB. For details, contact Colleen Tollefson at colleen.tollefson@state.mn.us.

Minnesota Heartland Spring Meeting To Be Held at Arrowwood Resort

The Minnesota Heartland Tourism Association will meet on Thursday, April 12, at Arrowwood Resort, near Alexandria. The meeting will begin at 11:00 a.m. and will end by 1:00 p.m.
Special guest speaker is Alex Watson, a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources naturalist, serving Lake Carlos, Glacial Lakes and Glendalough state parks and the Central Lakes State Trail. Nearly 9,000 participants accompany Alex on nature-based education and activities annually.

Registration is $15 and includes lunch. Please RSVP by Friday, April 6 so we can plan for you.
For more information or to RSVP contact Carol Altepeter at colleen.tollefson@state.mn.us or 888-629-6466.

Date Set for Central Region Bicycle Tourism Meeting

A bicycle tourism meeting for the central region will be held on Thursday, April 12 at 1:30 p.m. at Carlos Creek Winery, just north of Alexandria. This meeting is for anyone interested in bicycle tourism in the central region. Program includes updates on Minnesota biking initiatives including bicycle tourism month and how you can participate, bicycle events and marketing, and other trail information. We want to hear about your projects and learn of partnering opportunities. Please RSVP to carol.altepeter@state.mn.us or call 888-629-6466.

Riverland Tourism Conference To Be Held on April 26

The Riverland Tourism Association will be holding “Growing Tourism” from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 26 in the Imperial Room at the Ralph Engelstad Arena in Thief River Falls. The day-long seminar is designed to highlight tourism opportunities in northwest Minnesota. A wide variety of sessions focusing on marketing, event promotion and tourism trends will be presented. Keynote speaker will be Terry Dullum, WDAZ-TV, who will focus on dealing with the media. Other presenters will include John Kohlhase, from W.A. Fisher Advertising; Dave Bergman, Explore Minnesota Tourism; Frank Soukup, Grand View Lodge and Virgil DR Gunnarson from the Western Minnesota Steam Threshing Reunion.

For more information on the seminar contact Laura Anderson at 218-686-9785 or trfcvb@mncable.net.

2012 MFEA/IFEA Spring Conference Rescheduled

The 2012 MFEA/IFEA Spring Conference has been rescheduled. The conference will remain at the same location, Mankato City Center Hotel, 101 East Main Street, Mankato, but the date has changed. The conference will be held on Thursday, April 26. For additional information, contact Shelly Harris CFEE, CFM at 612-751-3323, or go to www.mfea.net.

Created on … March 27, 2012 by Explore Minnesota Tourism