Local tourism posts records in 2011
Savannah passed another tourism milestone in 2011, surpassing 12 million visitors as the city’s reputation as a getaway destination continues to grow.
Savannah saw an 8 percent rise in overnight visitors and a 4 percent uptick in day-rippers in 2011 compared to 2010. Spending grew by 15 percent, with out-of-towners pouring $1.95 billion into the local economy. The statistics were compiled by Longwoods International, a third-party travel research firm.
“Savannah’s performance measurable for the tourism sector continues to be a terrific story,” said Joe Marinelli, president of Visit Savannah, the local equivalent of a convention and visitors bureau. “Ultimately, this all means good things for the hotels, attractions and retail shops in our city, as well as the gas stations, drug stores and shopping malls throughout the area.”
Read Sunday’s Savannah Morning News for full details on Savannah’s tourism industry performance in 2011.
7th annual Savannah Uncorked coming June 22
Tickets and sponsorships are available for the seventh annual Savannah Uncorked event at the Savannah Golf Club, from 7-10 p.m. on June 22. This event features wine and gourmet food pairings, music by local Savannah band “The 8-Tracks” and a silent auction.
This year’s event is being held in honor of John Manly and Megan Usher Manly who were involved in a traumatic car accident the day before their wedding and received life-saving care at Memorial University Medical Center. Proceeds from Savannah Uncorked benefit Memorial’s Level 1 trauma center, critical care units, and The Rehabilitation Institute at Memorial.
Tickets are $75 each. Tribute sponsorships in honor of John and Megan are available for $1,000 and include two tickets and recognition at the event. Contact Brynn Bruno for tickets and sponsorship details at 912-350-6381.
Go to www.memorialhealth.com/foundation and click on “Events” to order tickets online.
Local funeral home helped bury singer in D.C.
The family of Chuck Brown sought the help of a Savannah funeral home to lay the legendary singer to rest. The family made a special request for the 1934 Rolls Royce Hearse from Bonaventure Funeral Home after looking nationwide for a special vehicle.
Chuck Brown, music pioneer of “go-go funk” died after suffering from pneumonia. He was 75.
A public memorial service held in the Washington, D.C., area at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center drew a crowd of more than 9,000 people.
