Tourism impact of Spring Training, Arts and Culture

In the first half of this week’s show, Radio Man (aka Gary Guertin) was outnumbered 4 to 1 as the ArtsFest team and Robin chatted up the now concluded 23rd ArtsFest. From the cadre of volunteers represented by Allison Wigley, the artists represented by this year’s featured artist Meg Winter, Martin County arts community represented by Arts Council of Martin County Nancy Turrell and History Lady, Talkin' Tourism’s co-host (Robin Hicks-Connors) who occupies the arts and culture board position on the Martin County Convention and Visitors Bureau, no stone was left unturned! It is clear that visitors that have a passion for arts and culture, and both are an important “segment” of our overall tourism product. Listen in and gain a clearer understanding of the inner workings of this hallmark event and the passion expressed by our outstanding guests.

Soon the tables were turned as former major league professional and local Martin County icon Rusty Meachum and his two sons Reese and Russell joined the show. Back to a 4 to 1, this time with the 'boys' in charge, the discussion centered around the sport of professional baseball and it’s impact on the Florida tourism scene. With teams moving from Florida, once the spring training mecca, our state has lost ground to other sunny and warm locations such as Arizona. So, at the end of the day, who will prevail, the Cactus League of Arizona or the Grapefruit League of Florida? Only time will tell. Each state’s commitment to promoting this sport in their respective locales will tell the tale. While the economic impact figures were not on the front burner, what was on the front burner was Rusty’s obvious passion for the sport and his commitment to assisting youth in our area excel in this American tradition.

If you missed the show, download it HERE. Talkin' Tourism's goal is to help you stay on top of all things tourism along the Treasure Coast and beyond!