PARKERSBURG, WV (April 15, 2010) – Greater Parkersburg CVB President Steve Nicely and area businesses presented the Wood County Commission with a framed print of the 2010 Visitors Guide cover today.

The visitors guide cover features the Wood County Courthouse. The print will be hung on permanent display at the courthouse.

The annual publication is designed and printed by local businesses. Representatives from Chapman Printing and Stonewall Retail Marketing were on hand for the presentation. Local photographer Jim Osborn, who took the guide’s cover image, also attended.

“It is truly a collaborative effort between the CVB and our local partners to create such a compelling piece, which entices visitors to make Greater Parkersburg a vacation or getaway destination,” Nicely said. “The bureau’s board of directors and staff believe keeping the production of the visitors guide in the immediate area is extremely important.”

“We can never overlook the importance of tourism in Wood County. It is a segment of the economy that pays dividends over and over. Anytime we can attract visitors to our area, the attractions, hotels, restaurants all benefit. Tourism is a huge factor of the West Virginia and Wood County economy,” Wood County Commissioner Rick Modesitt said.

The 76-page full-color digest size book (5.5” x 8.5”) is stocked with key information regarding Greater Parkersburg, West Virginia and surrounding communities. The free guide features a rich design playing up the history and heritage of the region through a vibrant color palette and images. The guide also includes updated listings of area attractions, accommodations, unique shops, special events, restaurants, meeting sites, visitor services, and updated full-color maps.

Nicely noted that ad sales were so strong for the 2010 publication that it allowed the bureau to increase the guide an additional eight pages; making it the largest guide published to date. The bureau reported a 94% retention rate in advertisers for the 2010 visitors guide compared with the 2009 publication, and added 12 new advertisers into the fold. Total ad sales revenue went from $35,561 in 2009 to $41,296 in 2010, an increase of 16.1%.

The bureau is already in the planning stages for the 2011 publication with several changes being considered. Nicely stated that the bureau’s intent is to utilize the same businesses for the guides design, photography and printing in the future, since they have a successful record in producing such a quality product.      

For more information, visit www.greaterparkersburg.com.

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