S/T Tourism Committee Works To Secure Matching Funds For Grants

By Naomi Hatch
   “The Snowflake-Taylor Tourism Committee has been awarded an EZ Marketing grant, which offers matching funds on very specific planned advertising purchases,” Tourism Committee Secretary Treavor Allen reported to the Taylor Town Council Sept. 9.
   Allen noted that Brad Solomon of Solomon Marketing, a Tourism Committee member, submitted the grant application. The grant totals just over $12,000, and will be used to target magazines and publications such as Arizona Highroads, Arizona Official State Visitor’s Guide, Phoenix Official Visitors Guide and True West, as well as advertising slots in the Arizona Office of Tourism (AOT) Monthly E-Newsletter, the AOT in State Summer Deals E-Newsletter and the AOT Targeted E-Blast/Direct Fulfillment Program, giving significant and repeated exposure to the Snowflake/Taylor region.
   Allen further reported that the Tourism Committee was also awarded an additional matching funds grant through the Arizona Rural and Regional Marketing program, explaining that this grant has more flexibility based on the overall objectives and plans that were presented in the application for the region. This grant is for matching funds up to $12,000.
   “We are eagerly working to finalize the plans for these grant awards now that we have received official notification and confirmation of funding from the AOT,” said Allen.
   “At this time, Snowflake-Taylor Tourism is looking at various avenues, including sponsors, donations and other fund-raising events, to secure our portion of the commitment to get these programs rolling,” Allen said. “We appreciate any and all support and direction the towns can provide as we move forward in our efforts.”
   The Snowflake-Taylor Tourism Committee receives funding from the Snowflake bed tax. Taylor does not have this tax, but has been very involved in the tourism committee and promoting tourism in the community.