Park Rapids Announced as the site of the
2013 Governor’s Fishing Opener!
Explore Minnesota Tourism
State of Minnesota
Contact: Jill Boldenow, 651-757-1862, jill.boldenow@state.mn.us
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 12, 2012
Park Rapids To Host 2013 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener
Next year’s 66th annual Governor’s Fishing Opener, May 10-11, 2013, will be held in the Park Rapids Lakes Area, a popular destination for outdoor recreation. Located in northwest Minnesota, the Park Rapids area is home to many great fishing lakes, Itasca State Park, the Heartland Trail, Lake Country Scenic Byway, and the Chippewa National Forest.
“The Park Rapids area has a long history as a family vacation destination. Holding the Governor’s Fishing Opener here is a great way to focus on this area’s lakes, family resorts, parks and trails, and excellent fishing. Park Rapids reflects what’s great about fishing and travel throughout Minnesota, and that is what the Governor’s Fishing Opener is all about,” said John Edman, director of Explore Minnesota Tourism.
The 2013 Governor’s Fishing Opener will be hosted locally by the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, along with many sponsors and local volunteers. Dennis Mackedanz will chair the committee of volunteers to plan the event.
“The Park Rapids Lakes Area is a great destination to host the Opener,” said Mackedanz and Katie Magozzi, executive director of the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, in a recent statement. “Our community’s slogan, ‘Now This is Minnesota,’ reflects our focus on outdoor recreation and the natural assets that make Minnesota a great vacation state. Our excellent local fishing, recreational activities, attractions and points of interest are a perfect fit for the 2013 Governor’s Fishing Opener.”
The Governor’s Fishing Opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. The event was designed to promote the development of Minnesota’s recreation industry, and in recent years, it has served as a kick-off celebration for the summer tourism season. Travel and tourism generate $11.3 billion in leisure and hospitality gross sales in Minnesota annually.
The Opener provides the host community with an opportunity to highlight local fishing and other recreational activities, attractions and other points of interest. Media from throughout the region attend the event, resulting in significant publicity for the host community and Minnesota.
More information is available at: www.mngovernorsopener.com