DigiTalks Speakers Highlight Economic Impact of Arts, Culture

Louisiana Lt. Gov. Jay Dardenne and Electronic Music Alliance Executive Director Janine Jordan spoke at the chapter luncheon in September, which doubled as "DigiTalks," a kickoff event for DigiFest South, an annual digital media symposium held in Shreveport/Bossier City, Louisiana. Lt. Gov. Dardenne mentioned Louisiana's unique arts and culture attract millions of tourists every year. Domestic and international visitors spent $10.8 billion in Louisiana in 2013. He also gave a preview of new "Pick Your Passion" commercials, which will be broadcast to attract more travelers. Jordan talked about current environmental issues the planet faces due to overabundant trash from human consumerism. She showed how artists use their work to draw attention to the issues and provide solutions. One example Jordan gave was “sustainable fashion,” like her earrings, which look like gold but were actually made from a kind of grass.

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