MTGC Summer Update – July 2017

Summer in Minnesota is well underway and the tourism season is in full force! We have seen a successful Summer X Games in Minneapolis, Preston Trout Days, Ely Blueberry Festival, Lake City Water Ski Days, St. Cloud’s Granite City Days, Pipestone Watertower Festival and, still to come – the New London Antique Car Run, Heritage Days in East Grand Forks, the Minnesota State Fair and much more! Tourism is alive and thriving in Minnesota!

As you are out and about in Minnesota attending a parade or festival, you may run into a State Representative or Senator – or even the Governor, visiting in your area. If you do, take a minute to thank them for their support of tourism funding in the past legislative session. The Legislature and Governor increased tourism funding by approving $900,000 to continue the major events funding grant program; these funds will be available until 2019. They also approved a small operating budget increase for Explore Minnesota Tourism and $500,000 for updating the EMT web site, developing digital content, and making system upgrades. The Governor and Legislature recognize the value and economic impact of tourism across the state.

It is a pleasure to represent the Minnesota Tourism Growth Coalition and our partners at the State Capitol. I invite you to attend the Minnesota State Capitol Grand Opening Celebration August 11-13 in St. Paul. There will be three days of events, activities, and entertainment, plus tours of the beautifully renovated Capitol! Here is a link to information about the weekend: https://mn.gov/admin/capitol-grand-opening/

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Thank you for your support of tourism in Minnesota!

Sincerely,

Sarah Psick, Lobbyist
Minnesota Tourism Growth Coalition
[email protected]
[email protected]