With Jennifer Y. Scott, executive director of the Hanover Association of Businesses and Chamber of Commerce, and Edwin A. Gaskin, director of Hanover County Economic Development, spearheading efforts, as well as the commitment of several community leaders, tourism is getting a big boost here.

Among those stepping up to the challenge is Del. Chris Peace, R-97. He shared a recent correspondence he had with Scott and Gaskin.

After participating in a meeting of the Hanover Tourism Supporters, Peace cut right to the heart of the matter by asking: How do we increase tourism in Hanover County?

“The bottom line is that tourism has a demonstrable return on investment,” the delegate wrote. “As Gov. McDonnell has repeated so frequently, the increase in revenue from tourism is very encouraging.”

He quoted the governor, who said, “Tourism is an instant revenue generator and job creator for Virginia, which is why I continue to advocate for more resources for tourism marketing. Smart investments in tourism provide economic benefits to communities across the Commonwealth and good jobs for our citizens.”

According to Peace, the state “has witnessed a 6.7 percent growth in domestic visitor spending and that is significant compared to the growth in GDP (gross domestic product) in the same period. With the proper strategic plan outlining goals and objectives, coupled with a developed strategic and tactical support, Hanover can likewise increase its revenues related to tourism.”

Etc.

+ OK, gotta say it again: the 2011 Mechanicsville Christmas Parade was a great success! The weather was — as Goldilocks would have said — “just right.” As always, the Mechanicsville Rotary Club and Mechanicsville Ruritan Club stepped up and organized a wonderful event. No matter your age, you gotta love a parade — and we sure do in Mechanicsville!