FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contacts:
Erica Papillion
New Orleans Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau
504-566-5044
epapillion@neworleanscvb.com

Kelly Schulz
504-566-5045 / 504-421-0962 (cell)
kschulz@neworleanscvb.com

New Orleans Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau Announces Northeast Sales Office

NEW ORLEANS – November 15, 2006 – The New Orleans Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau (NOMCVB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Elizabeth George, CMM as sales manager for the newly created Northeast regional office.

With over 15 years in the hospitality industry, George has served as the manager of Global Chapter Relations and Development for Meeting Professional International (MPI) since 2002 and was previously the regional director of marketing for Meadowlands Regional Sales, providing all sales and marketing for three Marriott properties in the New Jersey area. She also worked as the director of sales for the Doubletree Hotel and Meeting Center in Somerset, New Jersey.

During her tenure at MPI, George had the opportunity to serve as a chapter relations manager for MPI New England and multiple other regions domestically and internationally. George serves as a board retreat facilitator and has shared her passion of leadership development through the creation of many training programs and forums for chapters and MPI international conferences.

“We are thrilled to announce this new position, and especially with a person of Elizabeth’s caliber,” said Nikki Nicholson, vice president of convention sales for the NOMCVB. “Her relationships with the corporate customers in the Northeast will keep New Orleans top of mind as they determine destinations for upcoming meetings.”

“I have always had a special love for New Orleans and have enjoyed my travels here,” said George. “My experience as the liaison to the New Orleans and Gulf Coast meeting professionals during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina was life-changing and it solidified my commitment to this community. I’m so honored to represent New Orleans and to join this fine group of professionals at the NOMCVB.”

George will be working from her home office in Sag Harbor, New York.

The New Orleans Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau (www.neworleanscvb.com) is the driving force behind New Orleans' most important industry, tourism, which generates $5 billion in visitor spending and creates 85,000 jobs. Today the cultural riches, sensual indulgences and unparalleled service that define the New Orleans experience continue to flourish, as they have for centuries. The most celebrated and historic core of the city - including the French Quarter, Central Business District, Warehouse and Arts District, Magazine Street and Garden District - not only remains intact, both physically and spiritually, but is thriving. The New Orleans CVB is proudly welcoming visitors and business travelers every day.