Tourism industry members from across Arkansas will soon descend on West Memphis to kick off the 38th Annual Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism. This yearly conference brings together more than 600 representatives from the state’s hotels, restaurants, communities and attractions to focus on what’s ahead in the industry in 2012.

The theme this year, “Arkansas Tourism: Building Bridges for Today’s Travelers,” will be addressed with sessions covering a wide variety of topics including branding and social media, increased interest in the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, improving curb appeal for your business and how Arkansas Legislative matters will affect the industry.

Among this year’s keynote speakers: Lt. General Russel L. Honoré (Ret)., known best for his role as Commander of Joint Task Force Katrina. Honoré has become a valued CNN contributor and the author of Survival:  How a Culture of Preparedness Can Save You and Your Family from Disasters. New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin called him “one John Wayne Dude.” Honoré will speak on the topic of “The New Normal: Leadership and Preparedness in the 21st Century.”

The man who garnered the attention of United Airlines with a YouTube music hit will share his insights on how social media affects customer relations.  Dave Carroll’s experience with the airline and a broken guitar inspired him to write “United Breaks Guitars,” which became an instant sensation on YouTube in July 2009 and which has now been viewed more than 11 million times.

This year’s conference will be held at Southland Park Gaming and Racing, with accommodations at the Holiday Inn West Memphis and supporting hotels Ramada Inn and Comfort Suites. It’s not too early to make your reservations.

Informational packets about the conference are being sent out now. For more information, contact Dottie Boyles at (501) 682-1088, and for updates follow the Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism on Facebook.