‘All About Arkansas’ published

Book to be used in economic development efforts

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A statewide project led by Gov. Asa Hutchinson, the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism, the Arkansas Economic Development Commission and members of the private sector has resulted in the publication of the state’s first image book in nearly a decade.

All About Arkansas, a 128-page, full-color, limited edition book, has been produced to promote economic development through business growth and travel to the state, enhance the image of Arkansas, and provide a tool to be used in recruiting potential employees and new residents to the state.

Governor Hutchinson said the project supports his emphasis on economic development for Arkansas. He said he was particularly pleased with the collaboration of state agencies and private businesses that made it possible.

“The first order of business for the State of Arkansas is economic growth and job creation,” Hutchinson said. “All About Arkansas is a valuable tool to help showcase our great state and grow our economy. The fact that so many entities were involved in its production reflects the cooperative spirit we have between the public and private sectors.”

More than 35 Arkansas private companies and public agencies from across the state financially supported the project.

Mike Preston, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, said it was definitely time to produce an updated image book for the state.

“Since the time the last official image book was produced, the face and character of Arkansas has changed dramatically, with more than 200 new facilities and attractions added to our economy,” said Preston. “We look forward to sharing All About Arkansas with prospective companies throughout the world as it highlights the beauty of our state along with some of the world-class companies that call Arkansas home.”

Kane Webb, director of the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism, said the state’s natural beauty and recreational offerings play a role in attracting not only visitors to Arkansas, but also new businesses.

“All About Arkansas, in stunning fashion, shows the world what Arkansans already know: that The Natural State is a place of beauty, hospitality, diversity, culture, opportunity and economic dynamism,” said Webb.

“Supporters and investors in this project have joined together to promote and enhance the attractiveness of what the great state of Arkansas has to offer in an effort to help build a more robust economy,” added Larry Walther, director of the Department of Finance and Administration. “It will be a great tool for recruiting businesses to Arkansas.”

CJRW, the Little Rock-based communications firm, managed the project, coordinating the state agencies’ involvement, and securing private funding. CJRW also managed the book’s extensive photography and content, as well as the production of almost 50,000 copies of All About Arkansas.