Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski to Keynote Tourism Conference

Gathering Attracts Industry Leaders to Tap into Growth Potential

Governor Ted Kulongoski Photo By: Tim King

(SALEM) - Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski will keynote the 22nd Oregon Governor`s Tourism Conference, focusing on the economic benefits of Oregon`s tourism industry, which recorded its highest travel- and tourism-related income in 2005 at $7.4 billion.

The Governor will speak 10:00 AM, Monday, April 3rd, at the Hilton Eugene and Conference Center in Eugene, Ore. The Governor will also present the 2005 Oregon Governor`s Tourism Award.

`As a powerful economic force, tourism is part of Oregon`s ongoing success story," the Governor said. `Hard work by tourism industry leaders across the state has resulted in financial success and the creation of thousands of new jobs. This conference gives the industry an opportunity to tap into its tremendous growth potential, and I want to be there to support and encourage this development."

The three-day event runs Sunday, April 2nd, through Tuesday, April 4th in Eugene, Ore. Developed and presented by the Oregon Tourism Commission (dba Travel Oregon) and hosted by the Convention & Visitors Association of Lane County Oregon, this year`s conference will help industry professionals `Take the Lead!" by offering stimulating keynote speakers, educational workshops focusing on tourism trends, networking sessions and an expanded tradeshow.

`It`s an exciting time to gather from all corners of the state, celebrate what we`ve accomplished and strategize on what we can do together in the future," said Todd Davidson, CEO of Travel Oregon. `The tourism industry experienced solid growth in 2005, and our partnerships and passion, coupled with a strengthening economy, bode well for a promising 2006."