Virginia rolls out push for LGBT tourism dollars

[TexasTowelie]

RICHMOND – You can now buy "Virginia is for Lovers" trucker hats with a gay pride flag incorporated into the state's iconic tourism pitch.

The hat, and other state swag, is part of a new branding effort targeting LGBT tourists. There's a new web page highlighting events and destinations that have self-identified as LGBT friendly and a new resource guide for businesses looking to cash in.

The Virginia Tourism Corporation rolled out the campaign heading into this weekend, just ahead of the Virginia Pridefest in Richmond. But this is no limited-time event.

"This is going to be fully integrated in all our marketing, from top to bottom," tourism corporation spokeswoman Caroline Logan said. "This will be going on forever as far as we're concerned."

Read more: http://www.dailypress.com/news/politics/dp-nws-virginia-lgbt-tourism-20160923-story.html

[spooky3]

1. I'm happy to report that an LGBT couple will be moving to

my neighborhood soon from DC. They had left VA years ago due to discrimination and other factors. I hope they will be able to vote in Nov.

[TexasTowelie]

2. Get them registered to vote.

The deadline is October 17.if they apply in person, by mail or by email. Give your new neighbors a hearty and friendly welcome. FYI, the property values may increase because tolerant people want to move there.

[spooky3]

3. Thanks. We are already very blue but the state is

Slowly moving in that direction (northern VA).

They are friends of mine--not just new neighbors--but unfortunately I don't think the closing will occur before Oct. 17. But I'll let them know the deadline.

[spooky3]

4. Update: They said they will be moving BEFORE the deadline and definitely WILL register!

[TexasTowelie]

5. That is great news.

I'm certain that you are looking forward to having some more friends nearby so that you can discuss politics and other good stuff.

[spooky3]

6. Thanks! We'll discuss that and cats.

We met when they adopted two badly neglected young cats that I fostered. They have given them a wonderful home.