The bottom line is bringing tourists to Georgia, the part of central Georgia that lies south of Atlanta, that is. That is the mission of newly formed Simply Southern Tourism Association, Inc., a non-profit that intends to serve as a catalyst to enhance economic and community growth through the promotion and development of tourism.

Based in Experiment, a small town adjacent to Griffin, the association currently represents eight counties including Fayette, Coweta, Henry, Clayton, Butts, Pike, Jasper and Spalding. The association held its Jan. 11 board meeting at the newly renovated Fayetteville Depot.

Simply Southern hosted its first fam (familiarization) tour for a group of tour operators from Tennessee in early January.

“Getting the decision makers to tour our area was just one of the many benefits the association offers to its members,” association Vice President Matthew Stafford said.

Speaking at the meeting, Fayetteville Main Street Director Nancy Price provided fellow board members with an overview of the local Main Street efforts and the importance of working collaboratively.

“Our mission is to bring people downtown and that fits very well with tourism. We brought over 30,000 people downtown last year with concerts and other events,” Price explained. “But the tourism draw by small communities can’t always compete with the attractions of larger areas. That’s why a group effort from smaller communities is important. And that’s why I’m really excited about Simply Southern.”

Each of Simply Southern’s marketing campaigns include the association’s slogan, “Simply South of Atlanta.” Member categories include Simply Shop (merchants), Simply See (attractions), Simply Stay (lodging), Simply Savor (dining) and Simply Service (service).

The association already has 11 different motorcoach tours booked for 2006-2007 to “Discover... South of Atlanta.”