The Gore Municipal Complex has changed its name to the Gore Municipal Complex and Tourism Center, complete with a new sign. Not only has the name changed, but artwork now adorns the once bare walls.
Vicki Tincher, deputy clerk, said the artwork is on display throughout the center and showcases Gore artists and artists from the surrounding areas for tourists and residents to view. Free literature and information on upcoming events and attractions in the Gore area is also available to the public, Tincher said.
John Ellis, commerce president, and Mayor Larry Pack, have been working together on ways to spread the word of what the Gore area has to offer.
"It's the first time the town has entered into a contract with the chamber to promote tourism," Tincher said.
To be more effective in reaching this goal, the town and chamber have entered into an agreement that will allow the chamber telephone to be answered at the complex from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The complex also houses the water department and clerk's office.
"I want to do everything possible to let people know what a great community Gore is," Pack said. "I feel like working with the chamber of commerce is a positive step in bringing our community forward."
The new $675 sign was paid for by donations from Marval Family Camping Resort, Armstrong Bank, and Sequoyah Fuels, Ellis said.
Prior to developing the tourism center, the chamber wasn't really active, Tincher said.
"As a small town, you have to work together to show what your town has," Tincher said.
Tourists and community members can view the artwork, and pick up information about the area's activities and attractions by visiting the tourism center.
Ellis said in the future they hope to get online with a Web site that will allow all chamber members to list their basic business information, and if they have their own Web site, they could provide a link to it. Ellis said the chamber will be hearing a cost proposal for a Web site at the chamber's next meeting in March.
