"VOLUNTEERISM and CITIZEN SERVICE must lead Louisiana's recovery effort." -Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu The Louisiana Serve Commission is pleased to announce Volunteer Louisiana, a website and call center that matches volunteers with service opportunities throughout the state. Visit www.volunteerlouisiana.gov or call 866-286-3835 or 225-342-3070 to find out how you can begin a summer of service.

Impact - DCRT Returns Investment Dollars to Louisiana For every state tax dollar spent by the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, $5.86 is returned to the State Treasury and citizens of Louisiana. Source: The Impact of the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism on Louisiana's Economy and Quality of Life for Louisiana's... Learn More >>

January 26, 2009

CONTACT:
Denise Quezaire
(225) 342 -0958

WHAT: Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu will host a roundtable addressing challenges for New Orleans tourism in 2009 and beyond

WHERE: Hotel Monteleone, 1st floor, Salon B, 214 Rue Royal New Orleans

WHEN: Monday, January 26, 11:00 am press conference

WHO: Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu
Dennis Castleman, VP of Industry Relations for US Travel Association
Janet Speyrer, University of New Orleans, Regional Tourism Expert
Secretary Pam Breaux, Dept. of Culture, Recreation and Tourism

BACKGROUND: Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu will host a New Orleans Tourism Industry Forum with an economic development session addressing the current economic climate and how it affects tourism in the state. Lt. Governor Landrieu will discuss ideas, experiences and encourage participants to share their successes and ways to improve tourism in New Orleans.

The Forum will include a presentation from UNO Professor and Regional Tourism Expert, Janet Speyrer. She will address current economic and tourism trends in and around New Orleans and will offer recommendations on preparations for the national economic downturn. Vice President of Industry Relations for US Travel Association Dennis Castleman will also give a presentation on national economic issues and major travel-industry trends.