Swinging out of a slump
As Californians Rob Owens and Ian Au-Yeung took in an early April spring training game between the San Diego Padres and Milwaukee Brewers at Peoria Sports Complex, they may have felt a bit more crowded by the fans this year at the ballpark.
Arizona at 100 A high-tech powerhouse of scenic vistas, natural resources and recreation
From the day that Arizona became a state on Feb. 14, 1912, its boundaries have remained unchanged, but if not for some political gamesmanship, today’s Grand Canyon State would have had a remarkably different portrait.
Tribes celebrate 10 years of sharing gaming revenue with Arizonans
This year marks 10 years since Arizona tribes signed new gaming compacts with the state of Arizona. These compacts provide an avenue for tribes to share gaming revenues with all Arizonans. As of September 2011, tribes have contributed more than $640 million to benefit education, trauma and emergency care, wildlife conservation and business development through tourism. These are real, hard dollars [...]
Brewer seeks funding increase for tourism office
Gov. Jan Brewer is seeking a big funding boost for the Arizona Office of Tourism so it can step up efforts to market the state.
Then and now: Does Arizona need construction and conservation as new ‘Cs’?
As the state prepares to turn 100 years old in 2012, reflection is inevitable.
Looking back on old photographs, such as a sturdy miner posing in front of a giant hole in the earth, recalls the glory of days when Arizona and its residents were sustained on what the state’s rugged, diverse terrain could provide.
Building the Arizona Brand: Faced with a total fund sweep, the tourism industry says it’s worth the investment
Arizona’s moderate winters, diverse geography and year-round golfing have long been a draw for visitors from around the country and the world. From the awe-inspiring vistas of the Grand Canyon and Sedona’s red rocks to the rich history of Route 66 and Tombstone, the state offers something for just about everyone. The mere existence of these attractions isn’t enough, some say. Making sure [...]
Arizona’s tourism office to launch new campaign
Arizona has a new advertising campaign to attract visitors from other parts of the country. The Arizona Office of Tourism developed the campaign, which it's calling "In One Word a�� Arizona."
UpClose with Renée Bahl; State Parks chief concerned that higher fees may deter visitors
From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Renée Bahl’s career has always been centered on the environment. She’s on her second stretch with Arizona State Parks, with a seven-year stint in-between running the Parks and Recreation Department for San Diego County.
Despite budget cuts, Tombstone refuses to let its state park die
Under an arrangement with Arizona State Parks, the city of Tombstone officially took over the courthouse April 1. A professional service agreement allows the Tombstone Chamber of Commerce to oversee park operations for at least three years, with two more two-year terms possible.
Tourism leaders look to rebuild state’s brand in wake of SB 1070 controversy
At FireSky Resort and Spa, Jim Hollister’s inbox swelled with e-mails from guests demanding cancellations just after SB 1070 became law. But the general manager of the luxury resort said... […]
Protesters help boost hotel occupancy in Phoenix
The days leading up to Senate Bill 1070 were good for the hotel industry.
Come for the canyon, stay for the kidnapping
In the immediate aftermath of signing S1070 and the resulting boycotts, Brewer convened a panel of tourism and business leaders to discuss how the state could portray itself as a... […]