As oil continues to gush into the Gulf, Mississippi offers $75 gas cards to tourists

[RedEarth]

Gov. Haley Barbour said that the Mississippi Gulf Coast is open for business, despite the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

In an effort to encourage tourism, Mississippi Gulf Coast officials are offering $75 gas cards for those who book a two-night stay at one of the participating hotels or resorts listed online at www.gulfcoast.org. Resident can also sign up online for a chance to win one of four getaway packages.

Hotel room cancellations are above 50 percent right now, even though the Mississippi beaches are clear of oil, said Linda Hornsby, director of the Hotel and Lodging Association

He told The Associated Press the oil spill could be disastrous for Mississippi’s coastal economy. Then he added: “But it’s just as possible that what happens here will be manageable and of moderate and even minimal impact.”

Oil has not started washing up on shore in any large quantities, and Barbour likened much of the spill to the gasoline sheen commonly found around ski boats.

“We don’t wash our face in it, but it doesn’t stop us from jumping off the boat to ski,” Barbour said.

At a press conference, Barbour encouraged potential visitors to “ome on down here and play golf, enjoy the beach <8>, catch a fish.”

http://climateprogress.org/2010/05/16/bp-oil-spill-mississippi-barbour/print/

[RKP5637]

1. This is so weird! He should also throw in a cup to scoop up some oil for a souvenir. This is

like giving our free samples of the plague if you would just come visit! Me, I think I would try to win one of four getaway packages and forget to come back.

[Robb]

2. Rearranging the deck chairs, right there. nt

[JBoy]

3. Can't help but think of the Simpson's episode with the 3-eyed fish:

Monty Burns decides to run for governor, and Bart catches a 3-eyed fish that was mutated because of the nuclear plant. They make Burns eat the fish, but he can't. Press photographers rush in to catch him spitting it out, and it ended Burns' run.

[NNN0LHI]

4. This is like a bad dream

Imagine your state being run by this goof?

Don

[greencharlie]

5. well... it's a bit odd for sure, but those people in the hotels and resorts NEED the help. nt