On Tuesday, May 13, 2008, the Ohio Department of Development's Tourism Division held a news conference and consumer event showcasing Ohio tourism opportunities on the west lawn of the Ohio Statehouse. The Division unveiled its new Ohio tourism advertising campaign and Web site, and announced the results of a study analyzing the economic impact of tourism in travel year 2007.

The news conference served as the official kick off to Ohio Tourism Month - a statewide celebration of tourism held in conjunction with the Travel Industry Association's National Tourism Week (May 10-18).

Featuring:

- Governor Ted Strickland

- Lt. Governor Lee Fisher

- State Tourism Director Amir Eylon

- Assistant State Tourism Director Alicia Reece

- Jack Hanna, Director Emeritus of the Columbus Zoo