Tourism is big business in Georgia, which is the seventh most visited state in America.

Annual tourist expenditures amount to $25 billion, supporting $6 billion in resident wages and 209,500 tourism-related jobs.

These facts are adding fuel to the idea of getting more people to visit Polk during National Tourism Week, observed May 10-18.

"We need to think about inviting folks to Polk County during this time and let them bring dollars to spend with our merchants," said Chairman Ken Suffridge, Polk County Tourist Committee.

He pointed out the number of local activities planned for spring and summer. "We want people to come to Polk On Purpose," he added.

The Georgia Chapter of the Trail of Tears Association (TOTA) will mark the 170th anniversary of removing the Cherokee Indians from Georgia with a special ceremony at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 10 in Cedartown.

The meeting is an open invitation for people to learn about this historic event. The session will be held at the Polk County Historical Society & Museum (formerly the Hawkes Children's Museum), 205 North College Street. For directions, call 770-749-0073.

In addition to the ceremony, President Jeff Bishop and others will give an update on TOTA projects. There is no fee to attend

Not only will the annual Aragon Barbecue be held in June but also Homespun Festival is a highlight of July. In addition, plans have been announced for concerts at The Rock near Rockmart and a Memorial Day Silver Comet Trail ride is scheduled.

"From baseball games and Broadway shows to ‘The Great American Road Trip,' our collective memories are filled with places and activities traditionally associated with travel," said Roger J. Dow, president, The Travel Industry Association (TIA).

"For our 25th celebration of National Tourism Week, TIA is presenting cities and states with the theme ‘Discover Great American Traditions' and resources to help them interpret and celebrate local assets."