The WTA Board had the opportunity to meet with both gubernatorial candidates this summer. We are thankful for the chance to have a frank discussion about the economic benefits of the tourism industry. Both candidates acknowledged the value tourism brings to the state. We continue to share our message that our industry generates over $1 billion in visitor tax revenues to Washington State and is vital to economic development.

The Long Term Funding/Advocacy Committee (LTFA) continues to hold meetings evaluating possible long-term funding mechanisms. In coordination with the DMO's throughout the state the committee has held regional focus groups to discuss ideas and concepts for the funding model moving forward. The feedback and support has been very positive and has prepared us for our next steps.

WTA is also exploring the possibility of seeking bridge funding from the 2013 legislature for key projects like the website, call center, postage and research. Regardless of our ability to get a long-term funding mechanism adopted by the legislature, we will need some funding in the interim to keep these items going and we believe it's appropriate for the state to assist with funding.

Kimberly Bennett, WTA Board of Directors - Destination Marketing Organization Representative

President & CEO, Vancouver Regional Tourism Office

kbennett@VisitVancouverUSA.com

The Tri-Cities Visitor & Convention Bureau, Yakima Valley Visitors & Convention Bureau, Tourism Walla Walla, and Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance have launched a new collaborative effort with Alaska Airlines and Enterprise Rent-A-Car to promote Washington Wine Country. "Taste and Tote" allows Alaska Airlines passengers to check their first case of wine free on their return flight from the Yakima, Pasco/Tri-Cities and Walla Walla regional airports. In addition, Enterprise Rent-A-Car will waive car drop-off fees for visitors flying on Alaska Airlines into one of the three regional airports who wish to fly out of one of the other two airports.

Alaska Airlines passengers will also be able to present their current boarding pass at over 140 participating wineries and have tasting fees waived.

In honor of the new Taste and Tote program, Alaska Airlines is offering a 10% discounts on flights to Walla Walla , Pasco/Tri-Cities and Yakima for travel from September 1 - November 15. Flights must be booked before September 15.   Click here for details.

For more information on Taste and Tote visit www.tasteandtote.com

 In early August, the city of Vancouver USA was awarded a $750,000 Federal Highway Administration "Transportation, Community and System Preservation Program" grant to be used to extend the Waterfront Renaissance Trail for a half-mile along the downtown waterfront. The current five-mile trail in Vancouver USA draws visitors and residents alike to walk, bike, or jog the paved path while taking in the awe-inspiring views of the mighty Columbia River. The extension of the trail, as part of a larger Waterfront Park development project, will expand the extensive trail system already in place in Vancouver, improving the livability of the area and giving visitors the chance to experience the natural beauty of our town.