NATCHEZ — The state’s tourism director will be in Natchez Tuesday to update local officials and businesspeople about statewide tourism efforts and their effects on Natchez.

Malcolm White, tourism division director for the Mississippi Development Authority, will speak at the Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce’s quarterly luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday at Rolling River Bistro.

Chamber President Debbie Hudson said White will give an overview of the state’s tourism efforts and tourism’s economic impact on Mississippi.

Mississippi Tourism Association President Lyn Fortenbery, who is also assistant general manager at Dunleith, will discuss MTA’s work with the division of tourism, as well as MTA’s efforts in the Legislature this year to get more funding.

MTA lobbyist Craig Ray will also give an update of MTA’s lobbying efforts.

Hudson said the luncheon coincides with Connie Taunton’s recent departure from the City of Natchez as tourism director and could offer insight into the future of tourism in Natchez.

Hudson encourages representatives from businesses not directly related to tourism to attend the luncheon.

“It’s good for the other business people to know the important economic factors that are going on in the tourism industry since we are a tourism community,” she said. “They need to know what the state is doing, as well as our efforts and how we can make those even better.”

Fortenbery said in light of Taunton’s departure, now is a good time for the community to work together in the name of tourism.

“This is a great time for us to come together so that we can market our product to the best of our ability and keep it at the forefront in Natchez and see it continue to grow,” she said.

Lunch is $12, and reservations are required and can be made by contacting the chamber at 601-445-4611.