IS TOURISM IMPORTANT?

The Rotary Club of Minden learned an important lesson on January 16th.  While giving a very upbeat talk, the three ambassadors of the Carson Valley Visitors Authority (CVVA) sent a message. Michelle Valdovinos, the “Destination Engagement Coordinator” gave an overview of the CVVA, then introduced Keith Lewis, the “Executive Director” who spoke about the Non-Profit 501 C (6), which represents and promotes Gardnerville, Minden, Topaz Lake and Genoa to travelers.  Keith then introduced Josh Rudelbach the “Destination Marketing & Data Strategist.”  Their promotional enthusiasm for Carson Valley is contagious and their message was eye-opening…that our quality of life depends on tourism! Did you know that? 

We learned that residents alone cannot sustain the varied restaurants, attractions, and activities available to us. This is a humbling awareness of our need to reach out. These dedicated three work to promote the common interests and improve business opportunities in the represented areas, by welcoming folks from outside the valley.  The tourism they develop helps our communities economically with job creation, enhances infrastructure, and improves our quality of life with cultural presentations and a growing community pride. 

The CVVA is primarily funded through the “bed tax” or Transient Occupancy Tax on short-term (less than 28 days) lodging. Those funds are mainly divided between Douglas County Parks & Recreation who receive 54% and CVVA with 43%. They also apply for grants from Travel Nevada and other tourism related funding opportunities. A Board of Directors comprised of 9 members governs the CVVA whose mission is to “Connect and influence travelers with compelling tourism experiences while invigorating Carson Valley’s economic vitality.”

Josh Rudelbach’s marketing efforts really show the “personality” of our culture, activities, history, events, restaurants, golf courses, and friendly folks. The website (VISITCARSONVALLEY.ORG) brochures, and campaigns are not only visually compelling, but also give an authentic personal look into our beautiful valley’s western heritage. Highlighted in this outreach are individual valley residents called “Legends,” including: the Lekumberry family, wildlife photographer JT Humphrey, and Kim Harris to name just a few.

The real proof of tourism benefits come from the numbers. Last year our area received over $94 million dollars in overnight visitor spending, with approximately 900 rooms and RV spaces available per night.  That room number could/should be higher. Today, about 21% of Douglas County residents work in tourism or hospitality jobs. They served an estimated 162,000 overnight visitors. 

So when you meet a visitor in a bar, restaurant, on the street, or at an event, remember to show them the hospitality we are known for and that our Ambassadors of the Carson Valley Visitors Authority have promoted and are working to enhance. The quality of life in our County depends on our visitor’s positive experiences. Who would have thought?

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Thank you to special writer/Rotarian Corey Miller for covering this week's special guests!