The Georgia Department of Economic Development and Covington-Newton County to Host 2014 International VIP Tour
Dignitaries representing 26 countries to explore the culture and economy of Covington-Newton Co.
Covington – Ready for immediate release – Covington will be one of 10 host counties for the annual International VIP Tour that takes place March 19-21, 2014.
“This event is a fantastic way to show the international community how our business climate is booming and Georgia’s quality of life is drawing in visitors and investment from across the globe,” said Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) Commissioner Chris Carr. “Not only does this event provide the perfect opportunity for the local community to network with influential leaders from 26 countries, but it also provides VIP Tour guests with a unique perspective of the culture, economy and overall character of Georgia.”
The 2014 International VIP Tour is a three-day event that showcases a region of Georgia to the Consular Corps. This year, the itinerary includes both traditional tourism and an economic development tour in northeast Georgia. The VIP guest will be having breakfast at the Mystic Grill to highlight the impact of film and TV production in Covington-Newton Co. and the better understand why Covington is known around the world as “Hollywood of the South”.
“We are once again excited and honored to put Covington-Newton Co. on display for the world to see.” said Chamber President, Hunter Hall. “Last year we had visitors sign our guest book in the Visitors Center from 33 different counties and 44 different states. People come from all over the world to Covington simply to see where film and TV shows were shot. While we know this a pop culture draw, we also know it is a significant economic driver for us that allows us to keep a diversified economic base for the residents of Newton Co. To have these VIP delegates in Covington is a great privilege and it is our goal that they will create positive global gossip about Covington GA!”
After leaving the Mystic Grill, the delegation will visit SKC, one of Covington’s multinational industrial residents whose corporate headquarters is in Seoul, South Korea. SKC currently employees 320 staff and produces specialty Polyester film products, Polyol chemicals for foam insulation, and EVA film used in solar panels.
The International VIP Tour is the only event that brings the bulk of Atlanta’s diplomatic community together with Georgians in these communities. The Georgia Department of Economic Development has organized the annual three-day tour since 1985.
“Every year the International VIP Tour shows off a ‘slice’ of Georgia to our Consular Corps,” said Abby Turano, Chief of Protocol, State of Georgia, GDEcD. “The tour is an opportunity to familiarize our VIP Tour guests with destinations they might not have otherwise seen. The mutual benefit is tremendous, as the tour forges long-lasting friendships and business connections.”
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