Big news, ChumCity folks! The Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau (GBCV just dropped a bombshell during National Travel & Tourism Week: Jefferson County's tourism scene is hotter than ever, clocking in at a record-smashing $2.57 billion in economic impact for 2024! During their annual luncheon, the GBCVB revealed that Birmingham's tourism sector is flexing some serious muscle. We're talking over 51,000 jobs supported, a whopping $302 million in tax revenue generated, and over 4 million overnight visitors – the most we've seen since 2017! Looks like people are lovin' our city! But the celebration didn't stop there! The GBCVB officially launched their new Tourism Hall of Fame, and the first inductee is none other than Alabama State Senator Jabo Waggoner! The man's a legend, having dedicated decades to boosting our region's tourism. GBCVB President and CEO John Oros, along with Executive Sports CEO Gene Hallman, couldn't sing Waggoner's praises enough. They pointed out he was instrumental in creating the Convention and Visitors Bureau way back in 1969. Plus, he's been a board member since '93, even serving as chair twice! From bringing major sports events to helping develop UAB and the BJCC, Waggoner's been a true champion. Waggoner, clearly moved by the honor, expressed his gratitude and reminisced about his time with the bureau, calling it one of his most cherished affiliations. He promised the Hall of Fame award would have a place of honor in his office and home. The event also served as a heartfelt send-off to GBCVB CEO John Oros, who's retiring later this year after a decade of awesome leadership. The GBCVB is committed to making Birmingham an even bigger tourist hotspot, while always remembering and celebrating the amazing people who helped build this city up!Birmingham's Tourism Scene is BOOMING!
Numbers Don't Lie!
Hall of Fame Honors Local Legend
Celebrating Senator Waggoner's Legacy
A Humble Hero
Farewell to a Leader
The Future is Bright!
