Reno, Nevada - The Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority (RSCVA) is taking its Reno-Tahoe, America’s Adventure Place message directly to the hands of potential visitors with its newly launched text messaging program. Skier and riders need go no further than their mobile phones to receive Reno-Tahoe information such as snow alerts, road condition and special event details. 

"As it becomes more challenging to directly reach our visitors, we are using technology to provide new inventive ways to communicate with our customers. Reno-Tahoe skews its marketing objectives towards a younger demographic, which have an active-lifestyle and mentality," said Deanna Ashby, executive director of marketing for the RSCVA. "The text messaging program provides this target market with communication channel that they are comfortable with and is most adaptable to their time restraints. Text messaging has the best chance among all communication channels of instantly reaching users, regardless of their location, and initiates instant communication between the two parties. In theory if we can get Reno-Tahoe information directly to an interested potential visitor we see the strong opportunity to convert the interest into an overnight visit."

Reno-Tahoe’s text messaging program is simple and customizable. To sign up for snow alerts and road conditions, logon to www.VisitRenoTahoe.com and click on the mobile phone icon from the homepage then simply follow the instructions. Text messaging is available on most wireless phones and based on mobile carrier availability, individual contract plans (standard text messaging rates may apply) and customer preference.

In addition to the text message program, mobile subscribers can use their phone’s text messaging feature to enter to win a Reno-Tahoe Ski Getaway. Contest entrants register by text messaging the word “WIN” to 78227 (or RTAAP = Reno-Tahoe, America’s Adventure Place on the numeric keypad).  Reno-Tahoe is awarding six ski getaway packages that include lodging and lift tickets.

“Mobile text messaging is especially useful for regional travelers who come to the Reno-Tahoe area in search of adventure,” said Lynnette Bellin, internet-marketing manager for the RSCVA.  “For skiers and riders that often look to reports throughout the week to make their ski decisions, this form of instant communication helps them to take advantage of the best conditions even on short notice.”   

The RSCVA’s mobile marketing campaign was developed in conjunction with Twelve Horses North America. In addition to strategic and creative Web services, Twelve Horses provides Reno-Tahoe, America’s Adventure Place with direct customer connections and brand loyalty through mobile text messaging, internet and e-mail services. 

Text messaging is quickly becoming a widely used channel of communication with more than 165 million Americans now using mobile phones capable of sending and receiving mobile text messages. MessageMakerTM, Twelve Horses’ integrated web-based messaging platform, enables dynamic electronic communications via email, fax, voice and mobile text with consolidated tracking, reporting and permission management. For more information visit www.twelvehorses.com.

The RSCVA is the region’s primary tourism agency, supporting convention and tourism business for the Reno-Tahoe region.  Reno-Tahoe, America’s Adventure Place, supports unlimited possibilities from outdoor recreation to 24-hour Nevada style gaming and entertainment. 

For more information about Reno-Tahoe, America’s Adventure Place, call 800-FOR-RENO (800-367-7366) or visit www.VisitRenoTahoe.com.