Tourism leaders celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week at Welcome Center
Tourism leaders celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week at Welcome Center
Lauderdale County officials joined state tourism leaders at the Mississippi Welcome Center in Toomsuba on Wednesday to kick off National Travel and Tourism Week by unveiling the newly renovated facility.
Upgrades to the center include fresh paint, new wallpaper and specially curated artwork from the Magnolia State’s talented artists.
Rochelle Hicks, executive director of Visit Mississippi, said tourism is Mississippi’s fourth largest industry and plays a major part in the state’s overall economy. It’s a field that involves every city, county and community throughout the state.
“Tourism is the fourth largest industry in the state, but it is a team effort, and we have so many people in every community, in every place around the state that are promoting tourism every day,” she said. “If you work in a gas station and you’re friendly to them and you tell them where they should go and what they should do in your community, you are part of the tourism family.”
Laura Carmichael, executive director of Visit Meridian, Lauderdale County’s tourism arm, said visitors to the Queen City make a huge impact for both the local community and the state.
“Tourism is a powerful driver for Mississippi and Lauderdale County. It supports local businesses, creates jobs, and brings new energy and opportunity into our community. Every visitor who stops here—whether for a night or just passing through—makes a meaningful impact,” Carmichael said.
National Travel and Tourism Week is an opportunity to celebrate the people who drive tourism but often aren’t recognized, such as hotel staff who welcome guests and point them in the right direction to the restaurant workers who provide quality service and a good meal.
“I want to extend a special thank you to our partners at Visit Mississippi for their continued leadership and support in promoting destinations like ours across the state and beyond. Your work helps tell Mississippi’s story in a way that inspires people to explore, connect, and experience all we have to offer,” Carmichael said.
Wednesday’s celebration coincides with local and state efforts to commemorate America’s 250th birthday through its America 250 campaign. Mississippi has played a key role in that history, Hicks said, and it has an important place in telling the nation’s story.
“Our state is rich with history and culture and contributions that have helped shape this nation. From the land itself to the music, the people and the enduring spirit of resilience and innovation,” she said.
America 250 is a rare opportunity to celebrate American and Mississippi culture, music, history and more, Carmichael said, and Visit Meridian is looking forward to it.
“As we look ahead, we’re especially excited about America 250—a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase our nation’s history, culture, and creativity,” she said. “Mississippi has a unique story to tell, and we are proud to be part of that larger American narrative.”
CUTLINES:
Tourism 1 — Visit Meridian Executive Director Laura Carmichael, from left, Meridian Miss Hospitality Milan Greer and Lauderdale County Supervisor Josh Todd stand for a photo Wednesday at the Mississippi Welcome Center.
Tourism 2 — Members of the Rose Hill Storytellers Guild brought history to life during the kickoff of National Travel and Tourism Week at the Mississippi Welcome Center on Wednesday.
Tourism 3 — The Meridian Community College Guitar Ensemble provided the national anthem and other patriotic music during the kickoff of National Travel and Tourism Week on Wednesday at the Mississippi Welcome Center.