FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dec. 20, 2006, 1:15 p.m. CT

(Lincoln, NE) Photos - Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy, chairman of the Nebraska Information Technology Commission (NITC), announced today that the NITC is assisting four Nebraska community and regional groups in creating digital media video and audio productions, commonly called podcasts for the ability to play the files on Apple's iPod media players.

The podcasts will promote local tourism attractions, local events, historic sites, recreational opportunities and other activities. Video and audio content distributed through podcasting can also be played on personal computers and other compatible digital media players.

"New technologies like podcasting are enabling communities, groups, and individuals to share their stories and market their attractions to a worldwide audience," said Lt. Gov. Sheehy. "I am pleased to see Nebraska communities using technology creatively to enhance community marketing and economic development."

The Podcasting Across Nebraska program will provide hardware and software, as well as University of Nebraska Extension training on how to create and produce the podcasts for the City of South Sioux City, the Highway 14 Association, the North Platte/Lincoln County Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Panhandle Public Health District. Network Nebraska will host the podcasts created through the statewide program.

Lisa Cox, executive director of the North Platte Convention and Visitors Bureau, said, "In the ever changing world of technology I feel it is imperative that we keep up to date with the new products that help us market our area. We will use podcasting to promote attractions and events on our Web site by letting the listener feel as if they are right there during NEBRASKAland DAYS or with Buffalo Bill as he walks the grounds of his ranch. When a potential traveler can experience just a small amount of the excitement of North Platte we have a better chance to get them to come here for business or leisure."

Project partners include the NITC, the University of Nebraska, Network Nebraska, Technologies Across Nebraska, the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, Nebraska Lied Main Street Program and Apple Computer. The NITC Community Technology Fund is providing $19,030 for the project.