THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, October 9, 1994 TAG: 9410070253
SECTION: CAROLINA COAST PAGE: 17 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Cover Story
SOURCE: BY DARA MCLEOD, CORRESPONDENT
LENGTH: Medium: 59 lines
OUTER BANKS officials are hoping new efforts to attract visitors during the fall ``shoulder'' season will further strengthen the year-round economy and prompt more businesses to stay open longer.
Rebecca Moore, director of tourism and marketing at the Dare County Tourist Bureau, said one way officials are attempting to bring in fall visitation is with a new ``Peace on Earth'' advertising campaign.
Last week the tourist bureau began distributing its new brochure promoting fall and winter sightseeing, shopping, fishing and other outdoor activities.
The brochure also features listings of accommodations, restaurants and other businesses that will stay open at least until Jan. 1, 1995, along with information on special discount packages and a calendar of events.
``We want people to know you don't have to visit the Outer Banks in the summertime to have a great experience,'' Moore says.
The booklet will be distributed in targeted areas that have traditionally been good for shoulder season development because of their close proximity to the Outer Banks - including Raleigh, Richmond, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia, Moore says.
It also will be distributed at welcome centers along I-95 and in response to visitor inquiries.
``This is the first promotion that looks at all components of marketing the area during the fall season.''
Moore said she hopes that as more people are made aware of what the area has to offer in the fall and winter, many local businesses will see shoulder season visitation increase enough to warrant extending their hours and keeping their doors open for a longer season.
``I think the initial step - what we're trying to do is to create an awareness that there are hotels and restaurants that are open year-round. Once we create this awareness and continue with our promotions and shoulder season marketing, at some point businesses are going to see a return from that.''
In addition to the brochure, other literature will be sent out promoting 10 discount package deals that local resorts and rental agencies have organized with restaurants and other businesses.
``I think these packages are great for local residents, too. There are going to be some great opportunities this fall to experience the Outer Banks at a great price,'' Moore says. MEMO: Anyone interested in receiving the ``Peace on Earth'' brochure and other
information can call the Dare County Tourist Bureau at 1-800-446-6262.
[For a related story, see page 18 of The Carolina Coast for this date.]
ILLUSTRATION: Fall's bountiful fishing attracts the kind of visitor who wants
more than a bite to eat at a restaurant, as evidenced by these
anglers lining Avalon Fishing Pier in Kill Devil Hills.
by CNB