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Division of Tourism, Film and the Arts Accomplishments - 2007

  • In May, Tourism Film and the Arts launched Insights, a bi-weekly electronic newsletter distributed to 1,200 partners in cultural, tourism, heritage, business and creative industries. Demonstrated inter-agency synergy and established regular communication with key stakeholders.

  • The Maryland Film Office welcomed and supported the cast and crew of Step Up 2, the sequel to the successful Step Up, in and around Baltimore. The projected economic impact from this production is $30 million.

  • In September, the Office of Tourism coordinated the Governor’s Executive Order creating the Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission to plan a major statewide commemoration in 2012-2014. Issued at Fort McHenry during the Defenders Day celebration, the signing was witnessed by thousands of Marylanders. The Commission will convene in 2008 to launch strategic planning for this one-time chance to elevate Maryland globally as a premier location to live, work and visit.

  • In July, the Arts Council launched the Cultural Data Project, a comprehensive data collection and financial reporting system to measure the impact of the State’s investment in non-profit arts organizations. Maryland is only the second state nationally to implement this gold standard system.

  • In Fall, OTD partnered with private sector hospitality representatives and the Governor’s Workforce Investment Board to implement the recommendations of the 2007 Governor’s Hospitality and Tourism Industry Initiative. A soon-to-be launched portal on the OTD website will provide employers and job seekers with often hard to find information on opportunities for education and training.

  • Produced a host of informative publications for visitors and residents, including: Maryland By-Ways map/guide; African-American Heritage Guide; The Maryland Field Trip and Teachers’ Guide; Calendar of Events; Destination Maryland; and Charms of the Chesapeake.

  • In December 2007, the State Arts Council hosted the 40th anniversary of the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies and welcomed 450 representatives from all 50 states to this conference. The convening resulted in positive publicity, attracted national arts leaders and showcased Maryland artists.

  • By the end of the year, final planning was completed to launch the Maryland Public Art Commission in January 2008. A blue ribbon panel of private sector representatives will meet to develop a selection process for public art in state government undertakings.