VisitMartinsville Welcomes Hoffman

The Martinsville-Henry County Economic Development Corporation's (EDC) Tourism & Film Division is pleased to welcome Heather Hoffman. She has been selected as the new Visitor Center Associate for the Martinsville-Henry County Visitor Center.

Hoffman grew up in Axton, Virginia. She is a 2009 graduate from Longwood University where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Liberal Studies. She completed her degree program through New College Institute and graduated from Longwood Summa Cum Laude. Hoffman brings to the EDC nearly five years of experience in the hospitality industry.

According to Hoffman, "I look forward to the work that I will be doing to help promote tourism in the Martinsville-Henry County area and enjoying this community that I hold so near and dear to my heart."

Beth Stinnett, the former Visitor Center Associate, was promoted from within to fill a vacant position as Tourism & Film Assistant. Both Hoffman and Stinnett work closely with Jennifer Doss, the Director of Tourism.

Tourism in Martinsville-Henry County is a growing industry, according to the Virginia Tourism Corporation. It currently has a $64 million economic impact on our community and supports 728 jobs. According to Doss, "We're seeing positive impact as our area hotels are experiencing an increase in occupancy rates for the first time since the recession of 2008." According to Smith Travel Research there was a 2.3% increase in occupancy in 2012. Doss added, "To continue this momentum as we grow and develop our tourism program, we need a solid team and we're thrilled to have the talent and creativity of both Hoffman and Stinnett on board." 

The Martinsville-Henry County Visitor Center is co-located with The Artisan Center at 54 West Church Street in Martinsville. The Visitor Center is open Tuesday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Information on the area can also be found online at www.VisitMartinsville.com or by calling 276.632.8006.