Annapolis/Digby Econ. Dev't News

some good news on the tourism front: The province’s visitation numbers were up 1% in 2009, and the Historic Gardens has garnered new financial support. Clearly, the industry is gearing up for the coming season, so tourism is the news of the day …

THE BEST OF THE REGION
The 5th Annual Tourism Showcase is a great opportunity for exhibitors to promote their products and services locally, creating awareness within our regional market. For attendees, it’s a chance to experience the diversity of what our area has to offer while enjoying some great shopping! Workshops and other special events will be announced in the coming weeks, but here’s what we know so far!

LOCAL BLOG RECEIVES INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION
That’s right! Local blogger, Ryan Scranton, has been recognized by a Netherlands-based organization for his exemplary work on the Annapolis Heritage Society blog. And some late breaking news: AHS has also been nominated for two Canadian blog awards … check it out!

SOCIAL MEDIA SHOWDOWN
Speaking of blogging, you’ll want to mark your calendars: On April 2, Terri McCulloch, Manager of the Bay of Fundy Tourism Partnership, will be hosting a debate about what social media is right for you and your organization. Find out the pros and cons of Twitter versus Facebook … there’s no charge but you must reserve a seat!

NEWS FROM DSWNA
Despite Madonna Spinazola’s recent departure from the organization, DSWNA continues to surge forward with plans for 2010: For those of you who haven’t already heard, dates for this year’s Saltscapes event have been changed, and early bird pricing is available only until February 19 on ads in DSWNA’s new regional guides.

FERRY UPDATE
In addition to the scheduled shutdown of the Digby-Saint John Ferry in March, new security measures take effect as of April 1.

Forget about the mid-winter blahs! This weekend, be sure to check out the yummy Chocolate Festival in Middleton, and share a celebratory dinner with the Queen in Annapolis Royal.