Suzanne Shearer                      502-564-4930, ext. 145
suzanne.shearer@ky.gov  

            Frankfort, Ky. (July 16, 2004) The Commonwealth of Kentucky hopes to see an increase in tourism as a result of non-stop jet service from Washington D.C. to Lexington.  Kentucky Department of Tourism Commissioner Randy Fiveash and Suzanne Shearer, Director of Communications and Travel Industry Relations, visited the D.C. area to promote tourism and economic development across the Bluegrass and Kentucky.

The trip was sponsored by Lexington's Blue Grass Airport and included the Department of Tourism and other tourism-related organizations from central and eastern Kentucky.

"This opportunity enabled us to network with key local and national travel industry professionals in a productive and cost effective way," said Commissioner Fiveash. Fiveash and Shearer met with the American Bus Association (ABA), Travel Industry Association of America (TIA) and the Washington D.C. Tourist Commission while in D.C.

During an evening presentation, to a group of more than180 travel agents, group tour leaders, travel writers and Congressional staff members, the Commissioner focused on the advantages Kentucky has to offer. He also encouraged Kentucky natives living in Washington D.C. to promote the Commonwealth as much as possible.

"The Department of Tourism is enthusiastic about increased awareness through the leads and relationships we were able to create," said Shearer.

The daily service offers connections between the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Lexington's Blue Grass Airport.  It offers the flexibility of visiting the Bluegrass for same-day trips or extended visits.