Keynote speakers for the event will be Louise Lacroix, Executive Director of Direction Ontario, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting Francophone tourism in Ontario, and Bernard Charlebois, Co-founder and CEO of Virtuo.ca CMS Technologies Inc, an Ottawa based company specializing in the development and deployment of internet content management systems, membership management systems, web communication and promotional strategies.

 

Ms. Lacroix’s keynote presentation will highlight the exciting Francophone tourism opportunities in the Ottawa Valley. Keynote speaker Mr. Charlebois will share his expertise in social media. His presentation will contain a special focus on how medium and small businesses can make the most out of viral social media tools like Facebook and Twitter. “This year’s keynote speakers will present engaging and timely information,” explains Lauren McIllfaterick, Communications Coordinator for the OVTA. “The francophone tourism market offers incredible potential for local tourism operators. And the role of social media in tourism marketing initiatives, as well as its importance in providing quality customer service, continues to grow at a significant rate.”

 

The conference will also showcase a social media panel made of up OVTA members and partners who have successfully developed strong social media campaigns. Panel members include: Susan Ellis, Manager of Economic Development, Recreation and Tourism for the City of Pembroke; Leah Piltz, Marketing and Communications Coordinator for Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization; Ray Bretzloff, Owner/Operator of Pure Life Adventures; Bryan McLaughlin of Dragonfly Golf Links; and Craig Kelley, Economic Development Officer for the Township of Madawaska Valley. The panel will be hosted by myFM President Jon Pole. 

 

Opening remarks for the conference will be provided by Mayor of Petawawa and Renfrew County Warden Bob Sweet. The event is being sponsored by the Town of Petawawa, Twin Rivers Golf Course, myFM Radio, RiverRun Rafting, Calabogie Peaks Resort, and the Upper Ottawa Valley Chamber of Commerce. For sponsorship packages and information, please contact Lauren McIllfaterick at 613.732.4364.

 

Registration for the event is now open. The cost to attend is $50 for OVTA members, $60 for non-members and $20 for students, and includes all sessions, lunch and refreshments. For more information or to register visit www.ottawavalley.travel or call 1-800-757-6580.

 

The OVTA is the official destination marketing organization for the Upper Ottawa Valley and proudly represents more than 230 tourism businesses, comprised of attractions and events, accommodation, dining and retail establishments, rafting companies and outfitters, artists and galleries, as well as media and industry suppliers.