Friday, April 27, 2012

St. George hoping to bank on television exposure

It didn't cost the city a dime, but officials say a recent television travel show featuring St. George is stimulating interest in the area that could lead to tangible economic benefits.

"This is one of the larger things we've ever done as far as exposure goes," said Marc Mortensen, assistant to the city manager. "The reach is probably several million people, and that doesn't even include social media."

On April 14, Los Angeles-based travel show "Eye on L.A." aired for the first time, devoting a half hour to spotlighting St. George's outdoor, downtown, arts and dining offerings, among others. The show will air several more times throughout the year, describing St. George as a scenic destination only six hours away from Los Angeles.


"You can't put a price on that kind of exposure," Mortensen said. "That could help in a number of ways." The St. George Convention & Tourism Office Director Roxie Sherwin is reporting positive feedback and increased interest, while Mortensen said the city is already receiving calls from L.A.-based photographers and filmmakers. The Spectrum