Commissioner Mark Ezell's Letter to the Industry

March 5, 2020

Dear Tennessee tourism industry colleagues,

This week has been difficult in Tennessee.

Our hearts are heavy and thoughts and prayers are with our neighbors in Benton, Carroll, Davidson, Gibson, Putnam and Wilson counties as they continue to work, rescue and restore their communities following Tuesday’s tornadoes.

It’s no surprise Tennesseans are emulating our state’s nickname, the Volunteer State, as volunteers, monetary donations and supplies rush to these areas. We are grateful to live in such a generous state where neighbors help neighbors every day, but especially during times of crisis.

TDTD is working closely with the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency and updating this travel resources page on tnvacation.com. Also see TEMA’s recovery resource page.

If you are looking to assist in these areas, there are a few ways you can help:

Updates and ways to help Cookeville and Putnam County.

How to help Nashville.

We have some tough days and weeks ahead; but we are Tennessee, and we will rise up to life’s challenges and prevail. We are #TennesseeStrong.

Blessings,
 
Commissioner Mark Ezell
Tennessee Department of Tourist Development