Words from Wooden - November 2016

President and CEO Ernest Wooden Jr., LATCB


The crisp fall air of November has arrived quickly which can only mean the most wonderful time of year is right around the corner. Thanksgiving, of course, is a time to reflect on everything we have to be thankful for.

And at L.A. Tourism, we’re not only thankful for our 45 million annual visitors from around the globe, but for all of you – our members – who roll out the signature L.A. red carpet for our guests and ensure they have a memorable experience. Thank you for your partnership in making Los Angeles one of the world’s premier travel destinations.

I’m delighted to share our industry continues to thrive with more than $69.7 million in Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) collections for the City’s General Fund in July-Sept. 2016, which is 12.3% above the same time period last year. Also, the Leisure & Hospitality sector increased employment by 1,000 in September bringing the total for the year to 17,800 new jobs (a 3.6% YOY increase), trailing only Educational and Health Services. 

If you haven’t yet, I encourage you to RSVP for a digital advertising educational seminar L.A. Tourism is hosting in partnership with American Express at the Petersen Automotive Museum on December 5, 2016. Inivations will be emailed shortly.

These are just a few of the many updates on L.A. Tourism and our industry that we’re sharing with you in this month’s newsletter. As always, we will be here, working on behalf of all of our members and partners to keep the world coming to Los Angeles.

With best wishes,
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