Thanks to all who attended last month’s Illinois Governor’s Conference on Tourism. Your participation, as well as our stellar lineup of speakers and presentations, made for a memorable and successful event.

In addition to spreading the good news about Illinois tourism during the State of the State address at the conference, I also had the chance to speak at two other key industry partner meetings in February. Both were great opportunities to share information about IBOT’s marketing goals and activities, innovative grant programs, and the overall economic impact generated by the industry’s efforts. On February 8 I spoke before the Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association (IHLA) in Chicago, and on February 16 I addressed the Illinois state park concessionaires at scenic Starved Rock State Park.

In my speech to IHLA members, I emphasized the “power of one” – how the tourism industry operates most effectively when we all work together. I also recognized IHLA’s contribution to the industry and explained how IBOT acts as the engine that powers, and empowers, partner organizations and programs to complement and enhance their efforts. By working together, we further our goal of maintaining a viable marketing budget to increase Illinois’ market share.

In addition to funding, IBOT helps partner organizations such as IHLA in many ways. During my address, I shared information regarding the myriad ways the bureau helps to fill hotel rooms throughout the state, including TIC bookings, international marketing efforts such as representation at the international trade shows WTM and ITB, media familiarization trips, partnerships such as our relationship with the city of Chicago (which is envied by other states!), the new international Gray Line partnership, and more. I also discussed domestic marketing efforts and grants for special attractions, including the Burpee Museum in Rockford for Jane, and support for the upcoming blockbuster King Tut exhibit at The Field Museum. Continued >

Industry Insider: Katherine Walker

To help you get to know who’s who in Illinois tourism, ITN profiles an industry leader each month. This month, we introduce Katherine Walker, president and CEO of the Macomb Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The Macomb Area Convention & Visitors Bureau began operation in July 1988 to represent the City of Macomb and McDonough County in Western Illinois. As the city celebrates its 175th birthday this year, Bureau President and CEO Katherine Walker and her staff will be busy promoting the area’s wealth of offerings, which include Western Illinois University, a vibrant downtown, affordable accommodations and their popular self-guided historic barn tours.

Walker’s responsibilities are as varied as Macomb’s offerings. As a cornerstone for the area’s tourism promotion, the Bureau’s programs have included everything from hosting the St. Louis Rams summer training camp for nine years (and welcoming their scrimmage partners the Tennessee Titans and the Chicago Bears) to planning national and regional business meetings, including three visits over the past decade from National Forensic Association members. The Bureau also works closely with Roger Carmack and the other partners at the Western Illinois Tourism Development Office to promote the area and its unique attributes.

Walker’s career in tourism began in 1987 when she coordinated a travel television program that showcased Illinois in 12 major Midwest markets. She also worked at the Quincy Convention Bureau initiating their motorcoach program. Continued >