/press/release_detail/ en rstebbins@greenbrierwv.com Copyright 2009 2009-10-26T14:25:00-06:00 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/GreenbrierCountyWestVirginia-PressReleases/~3/OqAG7MG7r2A/ http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/cvb_releases_2008_2009_annual_report/#When:14:25:00Z Lewisburg, WV (October 26, 2009) - The Greenbrier County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) has released its Annual Report for the 2008-2009 Fiscal Year spanning July 1, 2008-June 30, 2009. “The tourism industry is a vital economic driver in Greenbrier County,” said Kara Dense, Executive Director of the CVB. “These statistics show how important tourism is to our county’s businesses and families.” • Tourism supports 2,460 jobs and nearly $87 million in earnings. • Tourism generates over $1.8 million in local government revenue and $14.2 million in state revenue. • $214 million spent in 2008 by visitors. • Greenbrier County ranks 5th in the state for overall travel spending (behind 4 counties that offer gaming). • Tourism saves each household in the state over $700 in taxes each year. Other highlights from the past year include: • Based on visitors to the Greenbrier County Visitors Center, the top states of visitor origin are West Virginia at 46%, followed by Virginia at 19% and Ohio at 18%.  • Requests for information and visitor impressions continue to be impressive, including 2,714 visitors to the Information Center; 1,661 telephone requests; 48,562 magazine requests from the CVB’s print advertising campaign; 83,544 unique visits to http://www.greenbrierwv.com; 134,093 brochures distributed; 23 million public relations impressions; and 24 million advertising impressions (Impressions refer to the number of audience members who are exposed to a media message.) • The CVB Mini Grant Program assisted 16 organizations with their marketing efforts in 2008-09 and has granted more than $205,000 since the program’s inception in July 2002. The CVB will present the Annual Report to city and town councils throughout the county, as well as the Greenbrier County Commission, throughout the month of October. To see a copy of the report, visit http://www.greenbrierwv.com or call the CVB at 304-645-1000. # # # Show on Homepage 2009-10-26T14:25:00-06:00 http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/cvb_releases_2008_2009_annual_report/#When:14:25:00Z http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/GreenbrierCountyWestVirginia-PressReleases/~3/t__ws8Z1DII/ http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/2_lewisburg_events_selected_as_southeast_tourism_societys_top_20_events_f/#When:14:06:01Z Lewisburg, WV (October 20, 2009) – The Lewisburg Chocolate Festival and the Battle of Lewisburg Living History and Reenactment were recently selected by the Southeast Tourism Society (STS) as two of the Top 20 Events for Spring 2010. This is their second consecutive year to receive the honor. The Top 20 Events list began in 1985 as a way to promote the best events in the Southeast. Nominations must be received by STS members and the two Lewisburg events were nominated by the Greenbrier County Convention and Visitors Bureau in early October.  The Lewisburg Chocolate Festival is set for April 10 and is in its fourth year of existence, while the Battle of Lewisburg Living History and Reenactment will take place on May 21-23 and is entering its eighth year as an annual event. “It is truly a privilege to be featured along with other winners like Louisville’s Kentucky Derby Festival and New Orleans’ French Quarter Festival,” said Kara Dense, Executive Director of the Greenbrier County Convention and Visitors Bureau. “By being named to the STS Top 20 Events list, it gives the event a distinction that can be used in their marketing efforts. It can also help to draw more media attention and entice visitors from all over the Southeast.” The Top 20 Events publication is sent to over 1,600 newspapers, magazines, radio stations, TV stations, AAA publications and others. The combined circulation runs into the millions. Founded in 1983, Southeast Tourism Society is dedicated to the promotion and development of tourism to its 12 member states of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. The membership includes state travel offices, attractions, hotels, motels, resorts, convention and visitors bureaus, airlines, car rental agencies, newspapers, magazines and other travel-related organizations. Its headquarters are in Atlanta. ### 2009-10-21T14:06:01-06:00 http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/2_lewisburg_events_selected_as_southeast_tourism_societys_top_20_events_f/#When:14:06:01Z http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/GreenbrierCountyWestVirginia-PressReleases/~3/2Q1kSstnoJM/ http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/weekly_badges_for_the_greenbrier_classic_now_on_sale/#When:13:03:00Z In July 2010, the world’s top golfers will convene in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia for The Greenbrier Classic, a PGA TOUR, FedExCup event. This nationally televised event will be played on the historic, links-style Old White, The Greenbrier’s first 18-hole course and the oldest course on the TOUR. Golf fans can select from several badge options now available for purchase for access to this exciting event which will be held July 26 - August 1, 2010. The Grounds badge provides tournament admittance for the entire week for $147. The $275 Benefactor badge includes entry to select air-conditioned hospitality tents, as well as premium food and beverage options. Alumni and fans of West Virginia University, Marshall University, Virginia Tech and the University of Virginia may choose the Alumni Tent badge for $495. Guests of these special alumni hospitality areas will enjoy unlimited tailgate-style food non-alcoholic beverages as well as guest appearances from celebrity alumni. For the ultimate Greenbrier Classic experience, the Clubhouse badge provides a limited number of people with exclusive access to the event, including prime viewing areas on Old White #1 and #18, unlimited food and beverage at Sam Snead’s at the Golf Club and access to all hospitality tents. In addition, Clubhouse badge holders will also receive two tickets to a private concert on Wednesday, July 28, 2010 and one complimentary two-night stay at The Greenbrier, including one round of golf on The Old White Course for two and $1,000 in special amenity vouchers. For information on this VIP opportunity, please contact Rob Booth at 304-536-7758. The Old White Course, measuring over 7,000 yards and playing to par 70, was originally designed by Charles Blair Macdonald in 1914 and was recently restored to its original design by Lester George. Over the years, golf greats such as Sam Snead, Ben Hogan, Byron Nelson, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, Lee Trevino and Tom Watson have played these challenging greens. In preparation for the tournament, minimal course modifications are underway to add several new tees and enhance the practice facility. Badges may be purchased at the resort’s Greenbrier Shop or online at http://www.greenbriershopping.com . For phone orders, please call 304-536-5322. For holidays, birthday and other special occasions, gift certificates for each of the badge levels are also available. The badges will be mailed approximately 60 days prior to the tournament. Prior to the tournament, the only way to guarantee admission is through the purchase of a weekly badge.  Daily badges are not currently available for sale and may not become available based on badge inventory. Each weekly badge also allows for one complimentary grounds admission for a child age 15 or under. For additional information, please contact: Lynn Swann, Director of Public Relations The Greenbrier 304-536-7857 2009-10-09T13:03:00-06:00 http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/weekly_badges_for_the_greenbrier_classic_now_on_sale/#When:13:03:00Z http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/GreenbrierCountyWestVirginia-PressReleases/~3/b32idfHSno8/ http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/hospitality_star_nominees_announced_for_summer_2009/#When:14:32:00Z Lewisburg, WV (October 2, 2009) - The Greenbrier County Convention and Visitors Bureau received 117 nominations during the summer months of June, July, August and early September for the Hospitality Stars Program. Nominations were received for fifteen individuals from six Greenbrier County businesses including restaurants, attractions and hotels. Michael Coleman topped the list of nominees with 30 nominations for his work at the General Lewis Inn. Additional nominees included:  Elizabeth Keys, Lisa Gordon, Joanne Hale, Angie Phillips and Twain Wesley of the General Lewis Inn; Doug and Bernetta Sams of the Greenbrier River Retreat; Amy Kaczynski and Delilah Dixon of the Greenbrier County CVB; Thurmond McCoy and Joyce Holmes of the Super 8 Motel; and Betsy Carol and Mike McCormick of The Mason Jar Restaurant.  The Hospitality Stars program is designed recognize exceptional service by hospitality employees throughout the county. Each season, nominated employees receive a star lapel pin and recognition by the CVB. The CVB will host a celebration for all of the nominees during next year’s National Tourism Awareness Week, where one standout will be named the “Hospitality Star of the Year.” For additional information on the Hospitality Stars program, or to carry nomination brochures in your business, contact the CVB at 304-645-1000. # # # Show on Homepage 2009-10-02T14:32:00-06:00 http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/hospitality_star_nominees_announced_for_summer_2009/#When:14:32:00Z http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/GreenbrierCountyWestVirginia-PressReleases/~3/2f68jMbB57o/ http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/greenbrier_valley_announces_exciting_weekend_activities1/#When:13:30:00Z Lewisburg, WV (September 30, 2009) – Plan to visit the Greenbrier Valley during the weekend of October 2-4 and take advantage of a variety of special events going on in the area. From a folk festival to a flea market, no matter your age or interests, you’ll find something to suit you. First Friday After Five - October 2 Historic Downtown Lewisburg continues its monthly tradition of First Fridays After Five from 5pm to 9pm on Friday, October 2. Join the downtown shops and businesses for an evening jam-packed with live music, artist receptions, special events and refreshments. Downtown Lewisburg welcomes the blues and jazz tunes of the local band the Jar Movers. John Foster and Josh Baldwin will perform in the city green space at the intersection of Washington Street and Jefferson Street at the fountain from 6pm to 9pm. Bring the family and enjoy some great music. This event is free to the public and everyone is welcome. First Fridays After Five: You’ll find the lights on and the town alive! For more information, contact Harmony Ridge Gallery at 304-645-4333 or visit www.downtownlewisburg.com. Greenbrier Valley Theatre Presents Sweety - October 2 Greenbrier Valley Theatre presents a live performance of Sweety as part of its Hollowell Theatre Music Series on Friday, October 2 at 8pm. This rockin’ blues band will feature Christine Campbell, Bill Clapham, Virgil Kelly, Ben Hunt and Philip McLaughlin. Admission is $10 per person. For more information, contact Greenbrier Valley Theatre at 304-645-3838 or visit http://www.gvtheatre.org. White Sulphur Springs Fall Fling - October 2-3 Celebrate the 100th Birthday of White Sulphur Springs during their Fall Fling weekend, Friday, October 2 and Saturday, October 3. A number of special events take place throughout the weekend including a sock hop, ham and bean dinner and a pancake breakfast. For more information, contact 304-536-9206 or visit http://www.wssmainstreet.org. Giant Fall Flea Market - October 2-4 The West Virginia State Fairgrounds presents a Giant Fall Flea Market on October 2-4 from 8am to 5pm. The flea market showcases over 100 indoor and outdoor vendors selling antiques, collectibles, crafts, new and used merchandise and fall produce. Admission to the 3-day event is free. Free parking is available on the main fairgrounds and adjacent to the Route 219 south bridge entrance. Camping is also available, but advance reservations must be made. For more information, visit http://www.statefairofwv.com or contact the State Fair of WV at 304-645-1090. 5th Annual Freshwater Folk Festival - October 3 Join the White Sulphur Springs National Fish Hatchery from 10am-5pm for its 5th Annual Freshwater Folk Festival on Saturday, October 3. This year’s festivities will feature presentations and exhibits by expert biologists, educational children’s activities, art and craft vendors and live musical performances. Musical guests include Everett Lilly and the Lilly Mountaineers and Laura Light and the Avant Gardeners. The event is free to the public. For more information, contact the White Sulphur Springs National Fish Hatchery at 304-536-1361. Greenbrier Valley Theatre Presents The Manhattan Jazz Quartet - October 4 Greenbrier Valley Theatre presents a live performance by the Manhattan Jazz Quartet on Sunday, October 4 at 7:30pm. The Jazz Quartet will feature special guest Royce Campbell along with band members Gary Klein, Tony Hayworth, Bob Peckman and Peter Matthews. Admission is $10 per person. For more information, contact Greenbrier Valley Theatre at 304-645-3838 or visit http://www.gvtheatre.org. Candlelight Ghost Tours of Historic Lewisburg - Now through October 31 Take a candlelight walking tour of the haunted homes and sites in the Lewisburg Historic District. Tours are offered each Friday and Saturday night through October 31. Tours leave from The General Lewis Inn on Washington Street at 8pm. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for students and children 7 and under are free. For more information or to make reservations, call 304-256-TOUR (8687).  Visit the Convention & Visitors website at http://www.greenbrierwv.com for a complete list of upcoming events and activities or call 800-833-2068. About the Greenbrier County Convention & Visitors Bureau:The CVB’s mission is to strive each day to positively impact the area’s economy by marketing the region as a premier tourist destination. The Greenbrier Valley is the second most visited region in the state with 1.3 million visitors annually and an economic impact of more than $223 million. # # # 2009-10-01T13:30:00-06:00 http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/greenbrier_valley_announces_exciting_weekend_activities1/#When:13:30:00Z http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/GreenbrierCountyWestVirginia-PressReleases/~3/qPhSS50yWVk/ http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/greenbrier_county_takes_home_three_awards_during_the_2009_wv_governors_conf/#When:20:40:00Z Lewisburg, WV (September 24, 2009) – On Tuesday, September 22, two Greenbrier County tourism organizations, The Greenbrier and the Greenbrier County Convention & Visitors Bureau, walked away from the 2009 WV Governor’s Conference on Tourism with three Stars of the Industry Awards. The Greenbrier received an award for Best Print Article for their article, “When Glamour Mattered.” The article appeared in the July /August 2008 issue of Golf for Women. The award for Best Print Article is given to the organization whose editorial coverage is unpaid media coverage and does not include advertorial material provided through cooperative advertising projects and special sections. The Greenbrier County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) was awarded Most Innovative Marketing Campaign which is given to the organization that identifies and implements a new idea through integrated marketing efforts. The CVB implemented a Spring Blitz which included social media components, a getaway weekend during the Lewisburg Chocolate Festival and radio, internet and print advertisements. The West Virginia Tourism Oshel Craigo Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Sharon Rowe, Tourism Commissioner and Past-President of the Greenbrier County CVB. Persons nominated for this award demonstrate continued and long-term leadership, benevolence or contributions to the growth and success of the entire state’s tourism industry. This person is the epitome of the state’s success. Ms. Rowe received this award for her achievements in helping to bolster and raise the visibility of West Virginia’s tourism industry through her 27-year career at The Greenbrier, to her service on the West Virginia Tourism Commission, to the start-up of the Greenbrier County CVB, to her leadership at the West Virginia Hospitality and Travel Association, and to her service as past chair of the Board of Advisors of Historic Hotels of America. “Sharon is a trusted resource and valued friend of the industry,” said Kara Dense, Executive Director of the CVB. “She has evolved into a familiar face of West Virginia’s tourism industry not only because of her dedication to the profession, but also because of her energetic, steadfast attitude and work ethic in constantly raising the visibility of her home state. We are greatly blessed to have her right here in Greenbrier County.” For more information about the Stars of the Industry Awards and recipients, please contact the CVB at 304-645-1000. # # # 2009-09-28T20:40:00-06:00 http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/greenbrier_county_takes_home_three_awards_during_the_2009_wv_governors_conf/#When:20:40:00Z http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/GreenbrierCountyWestVirginia-PressReleases/~3/nuKSk7OXS2Y/ http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/nominations_being_accepted_for_greenbrier_county_spirit_of_tourism_awards/#When:18:22:01Z Lewisburg, WV (September 18, 2009) – The Greenbrier County Convention & Visitors Bureau is now accepting nominations for the 2009 Spirit of Tourism Awards. This program is designed to honor the individuals and organizations that make noteworthy contributions to the tourism industry in Greenbrier County. The Spirit of Tourism Awards Program includes the following honors: The Greenbrier Award is presented to an individual, local public official, organization or business that has made exceptional contributions towards the growth and development of the tourism industry.  The Greenbrier County Ambassador Award is presented to an individual or volunteer who has assisted in helping the tourism businesses or community in exceptional ways. This person will have exceeded their day-to-day job description and/or gone above the call of duty to assist the tourism industry. Preference will be given to those whose service has touched more than one particular organization or business.  The Hometown Hero Award is presented to an individual, group or business that has assisted in securing a convention or meeting to our destination that has lead to a significant economic impact for the area. The Friend of Tourism Award is presented to an individual, business or organization that has done outstanding work in promoting the tourism industry by partnering with the CVB.  Nominations must be received by Friday, November 20 and awards will be presented at a special reception on Tuesday, December 1. To nominate someone for the Spirit of Tourism Awards, simply send a one-page, type-written letter describing why he/she is deserving of this honor to: Greenbrier County CVB Spirit of Tourism Awards 540 N. Jefferson Street, Suite N, Box 17 Lewisburg, WV 24901 For additional information about the Spirit of Tourism Awards, visit http://www.greenbrierwv.com or call the CVB at 304-645-1000. About the Greenbrier County Convention & Visitors Bureau: The CVB’s mission is to strive each day to positively impact the area’s economy by marketing the region as a premier tourist destination. The Greenbrier Valley is the second most visited region in the state with 1.3 million visitors annually and an economic impact of more than $223 million. # # # Show on Homepage 2009-09-18T18:22:01-06:00 http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/nominations_being_accepted_for_greenbrier_county_spirit_of_tourism_awards/#When:18:22:01Z http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/GreenbrierCountyWestVirginia-PressReleases/~3/oFbOMxaJwhA/ http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/submit_your_photos_in_the_greenbrier_county_cvbs_facebook_photo_contest/#When:18:31:00Z Lewisburg, WV (September 10, 2009) – The Greenbrier County Convention & Visitors Bureau is kicking off a Facebook Photo Contest on Thursday, September 10. The contest will run through October 30 and winners will be announced on November 6. Photographers are asked to submit pictures of favorite places in the county, or of family and friends enjoying a festival or event–anything goes as long as it is Facebook appropriate and taken between October 1, 2008 and October 30, 2009 in Greenbrier County. Entries will be judged on the basis of creativity, photographic quality and effectiveness conveying the beauty of the Greenbrier Valley. To enter, participants must have a Facebook account and become a Fan of the Greenbrier Valley at http://www.facebook.com/greenbriervalleywv. Post a photo by clicking on the “Photos” icon located beneath the status bar and then click on “Upload a Photo” to post it on the Greenbrier Valley Facebook page. Additionally, provide location and date of the photo. The photo will then be entered into the contest. Winners will be notified on the CVB Facebook Fan page. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place and will include a stay at the James Wylie House Bed & Breakfast, framing gift certificates from Chrysalis and Kitten’s Korner and dinner for two at Julian’s Restaurant. For complete contest details, click here or call 304-645-1000. # # # About the Greenbrier County Convention & Visitors Bureau: The CVB’s mission is to strive each day to positively impact the area’s economy by marketing the region as a premier tourist destination. The Greenbrier Valley is the second most visited region in the state with 1.3 million visitors annually resulting in an economic impact of more than $223 million. Show on Homepage 2009-09-10T18:31:00-06:00 http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/submit_your_photos_in_the_greenbrier_county_cvbs_facebook_photo_contest/#When:18:31:00Z http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/GreenbrierCountyWestVirginia-PressReleases/~3/GDUPL-CLxZw/ http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/greenbrier_county_cvb_unveils_discounted_travel_packages/#When:15:33:00Z Lewisburg, WV (August 27, 2009) Visiting the Greenbrier Valley has never been easier! The Greenbrier County Convention & Visitors Bureau and its tourism partners have tailored six new, exciting packages for the fall travel season. The Greenbrier State Forest is offering two travel packages – one for anglers and one for river connoisseurs. The Smallmouth Bass Fishing Package includes a half or full-day fishing experience on the Greenbrier or New Rivers, guide service and cozy cabin accommodations. The offer is available through October 30, 2009. Or, Float the Day Away on the Greenbrier River with tubes, rafts, canoes or kayaks from the oldest and most experienced outfitters on the Greenbrier River. This package, which includes a furnished State Forest log cabin, is available through October 30, 2009. America’s Resort, The Greenbrier, is offering three amazing packages that include unparalleled luxury, famed dining and one-of-a-kind adventures: the B&B Golf Package, the Discover Package and the Reasons Package. Fall is the perfect time for a round of golf, and with the B&B Golf Package, you can enjoy your golfing experience at one of the country’s most prestigious golf destinations. This package includes accommodations, unlimited golf, daily cart rental and complimentary breakfast and is available through November 30, 2009. All that you need to experience the joys of a weekend getaway are included in the Discover Package: accommodations, complimentary breakfast and a $100 resort credit. The offer is available through December 20, 2009. The Reasons Package, which includes accommodations, a complimentary bottle of wine, a Greenbrier amenity and a $200 resort credit, provides the ultimate combination in luxury. The offer is available through December 20, 2009. The Hampton Inn and Lewisburg’s eclectic shops have teamed up to offer the Shop and Dine in Historic Downtown Lewisburg Package which includes two nights of lodging, complimentary breakfast, welcome bag and $25 gift certificate (per person) to participating shops and restaurants. “Our goal,” said Kara Dense, Executive Director of the CVB, “is to provide a streamlined process for booking a getaway to our area. For each package, lodging and activities are already included. We’ve taken the guess-work out of planning your trip.” These packages won’t last long! For complete details, including availability, log onto www.greenbrierwv.com/packages or call 800-833-2068. About the Greenbrier County Convention & Visitors Bureau: The CVB’s mission is to strive each day to positively impact the area’s economy by marketing the region as a premier tourist destination. The Greenbrier Valley is the second most visited region in the state with 1.3 million visitors annually and an economic impact of more than $223 million. # # # 2009-08-27T15:33:00-06:00 http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/greenbrier_county_cvb_unveils_discounted_travel_packages/#When:15:33:00Z http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/GreenbrierCountyWestVirginia-PressReleases/~3/yMSnf440SkU/ http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/two_west_virginia_civil_war_trails_markers_unveiled_in_greenbrier_county/#When:14:16:00Z Lewisburg, WV (August 18, 2009) - The City of Alderson and Organ Cave received Civil War Trails signage on August 12, 2009, as part of the West Virginia Division of Tourism’s efforts to fund and install 150 Civil War Trails signs throughout the state. Signage in Alderson denotes the strategic crossing of the Alderson’s Ferry at the Greenbrier River. During the Civil War, the ferry played a significant role as both Union and Confederate forces used it to carry men and supplies across the river. Organ Cave played an important role during the Civil War as well. Because of the available saltpeter in the cave, General Robert E. Lee’s soldiers were able to use the area as an underground ammunition factory. Hoppers used in the production of gunpowder can still be seen there today. The signage is located in Alderson at Alumni Park on the south side of the Greenbrier River and at the entrance of Organ Cave. Organ Cave is located on Route 63 between Routes 219 and 60. For questions, or additional information, please call the Convention & Visitors Bureau at 304-645-1000. About the Civil War Trails Program: Civil War Trails is a multi-state program that identifies, interprets and creates driving tours of Civil War campaigns and the lesser-known sites. The interpretive markers with maps, illustrations and text have been installed at more than 900 previously un-interpreted sites throughout West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina and Tennessee. The Civil War Trails program is administered by a nonprofit corporation and is supported by local communities, state tourism offices and state departments of transportation. In 2001, the National Trust for Historic Preservation identified the Civil War Trails program as one of the most successful and sustainable heritage tourism programs across the nation. About the Greenbrier County Convention & Visitors Bureau: The CVB’s mission is to strive each day to positively impact the area’s economy by marketing the region as a premier tourist destination. The Greenbrier Valley is the second most visited region in the state with 1.3 million visitors annually and an economic impact of more than $223 million. # # # 2009-08-18T14:16:00-06:00 http://greenbrierwv.com/press/release_detail/two_west_virginia_civil_war_trails_markers_unveiled_in_greenbrier_county/#When:14:16:00Z