The new stimulus package is indeed good news if it passes. The $789 billion bill appears to have a real chance for quick passage and be a major boost to travel marketer's outlook for spring and summer tourism. Travel marketers are holding their breath.

My phone is ringing like crazy with prospective USDM.net new clients who are companies searching for more results-oriented marketing and advertising programs. I hear the constant complaint that what they did last year is NOT working this year. I also had a conversation with one of the leading executives at PhoCusWright and shared with him that it would be helpful for them to supply all of us with some research data that is almost on the fly... this market is so fluid.

I still believe that companies and organizations have to virtually start over with their 2009 travel marketing approach. This is a totally different environment than most companies have ever dealt with. Even 911 did not have the potential longstanding consequences. But, there is also opportunity in all this. I know that there will be a thinning out of companies that are not strong marketers or those that pull in and are afraid to or cannot afford to market and advertise. I have already seen this with our clients like hotels and resorts doing much better in a destination than their competitors. Market share and brand share will go to the aggressive companies in this economy and those will emerge as real giants in 2010.

Like one of my best friends said to me yesterday... don't sweat the small stuff. Just do what you do and it will all work out well. I believe what she says and I will add to that; you also have to stay strategic and fluid... be ready to turn on a dime when the wind changes. I believe that change is in the wind and it will be good.

keep your fingers crossed that we get the good news on this bill before week's end.

Leah