MEETING NOTES

Beth North introduced Rob DeCleene, Executive Director of Visit South Bend Mishawaka.  Since Rob became Director six years ago, he has doubled his staff and his budget to promote tourism in the South Bend area.  Tourism is up due to the creative partnering with the Ad Co-op program with the Morris Inn, South Bend Chocolate, South Bend Cubs, the Studebaker Museum, and the History Museum in the “Dream Weekend at the Morris Inn.”  Another innovation is the “Get Out Get Active” which lists 51 activities and is edited by Midwest Living magazine.  Midwest Living also features the “Don’t Mind If I Do” ad campaign which highlights the Compton Family Ice Facility, located on the edge of Notre Dame’s campus.  The Compton is also a major draw for youth hockey events.  Youth sporting events like hockey and bowling fill thousands of hotel rooms and play a major role in area tourism.  Tourism has a large impact on the economy which generates $487.5 million in income from 4.2 million visitors.  Another of Rob’s innovations is the introduction of the “Golden Roamer” RV which is a mobile visitors bureau serving tourists and guests at various events by directing them to various venues and restaurants.