Video: Columbus Lands Statewide Tourism Award

 PRESS RELEASE

Natchez, Miss. – The Mississippi Tourism Association (MTA) presented their annual awards for tourism achievement for the year 2016 during activities at the Governor’s Conference on Tourism held at the Natchez Convention Center in Natchez, Miss. on Sept. 18-20, 2016.

The awards program recognizes outstanding contributions to the advancement of tourism by members of the 300+-member private sector organization as well as honoring travel media, community leaders and friends of the industry. Awards were presented in 15 categories, each focusing on a different aspect of the hospitality industry or individual achievement.

Receiving the award for MTA Social Media Campaign of the Year was the Visit Columbus “The City That Has it All.” campaign.  The campaign was recognized for effectively marketing their Spring Celebration featuring three unique events.  The attendance for all three events broke all previous records and generated over 35% additional tax collections compared to the previous year. With this celebration spanning almost two weeks, restaurants, attractions and various accommodations were able to welcome guests from across the nation.

“Special recognition should be given to our tourism industry leaders for their outstanding accomplishments.  We are happy to have the opportunity to honor the winners of these awards as we truly appreciate their dedication not only to our organization but to the entire tourism industry,” said Wesley Smith, 2016-2017 president of MTA.