January 27, 2017
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Marietta Visitors Bureau
770-429-1115
Katie Peterson, Executive Director
Katie@mariettasquare.com
www.mariettasquare.com
MARIETTA– On January 24, representatives from the Georgia tourism industry – including individuals from Marietta and Cobb County – joined Gov. Nathan Deal for the annual Tourism, Hospitality, and Arts Day at the Capitol to recognize the $59 billion impact of tourism on Georgia's economy. Leaders from the tourism industry presented Deal with a check representing the $3 billion in state and local tax revenue generated by tourism-related expenditures.
"With a total economic impact of $59 billion, the tourism industry is an integral part of Georgia's dynamic business sector and continues to be a major economic driver," said Deal. "Today, this industry sustains more than 439,000 jobs across the state, making up approximately 10.3 percent of our total workforce. Following last year's 'Year of Georgia Music' theme, this year we are celebrating the 'Year of Georgia Film,' as Georgia is now the third-busiest hub for film production in the country. The impact of tourism benefits both the state as a whole and local communities, and we are proud of all Georgia has to offer to visitors from around the world."
In 2015, Cobb County's tourism industry supported 17,449 jobs, and generated $1.6 billion in direct tourist spending. As a result of the taxes generated by tourism economic activity, each Cobb County household received $432 in tax relief per household.
Deal also unveiled the cover of the official 2017 state travel guide. The guide features actor and director Ian Somerhalder from "The Vampire Diaries" and provides details on film-related tourism destinations and activities throughout the state. "Georgia has become one of the most sought-after filming locations in the world," said Kevin Langston, GDEcD deputy commissioner for tourism. "Visitors come from all over the world to follow in the footsteps of their favorite movie and TV personalities."
According to Katie Peterson, executive director of the Marietta Visitors Bureau, "Marietta's culture is interwoven with film attractions including Marietta's Gone With the Wind Museum: Scarlett on the Square and the full length feature and silent films shown at the Earl Smith Strand Theatre. The City's culture is what helps make the location attractive to the film industry." The Square has been the backdrop to the filming of many movies, TV shows, and commercials, including "Selma," AMC's "Halt and Catch Fire," and yet to be released "The Leisure Seeker," featuring Helen Mirren and Donald Sutherland.
"Tourism day at the Capitol validates the efforts of those of us whose jobs are to enhance visitation and revenue for our city and for the state of Georgia," said Connie Sutherland, Executive Director of Marietta's Gone With The Wind Museum. "And, it's always a pleasure seeing familiar faces and meeting new ones."
A copy of the official 2017 travel guide can be picked up at the Marietta Welcome Center, temporarily located in the Marietta Museum of History at 1 Depot Street.
About Marietta Visitors Bureau
The Marietta Visitors Bureau works to promote Marietta as a tourism destination with an emphasis on heritage and cultural tourism; thereby increasing overnight visitation by reinvesting visitor generated tax dollars into messages and services targeted exclusively to the visitor.
About the Gone With The Wind Museum
The Marietta Gone with the Wind Museum: Scarlett on the Square has been a mainstay in downtown Marietta since April 2003 when it opened in the historic Old Thomas Warehouse Building. With an extensive collection of memorabilia provided by Dr. Christopher Sullivan the museum is sure to delight and intrigue any Gone with the Wind fan, from novice to aficionado. Conveniently located steps away from the historic Marietta Square on Whitlock Avenue, the museum is within walking distance of quaint shops and unique dining experiences.