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KIRKSVILLE, MO -- There were many things to see and do in the heart of Northeast Missouri in 2012.

The year 2012 was a great year for tourism in Kirksville with many great events and exciting activities.

Debra Boughton, Tourism Director for Kirksville, said last year's lodging tax was also good. She said her office is hoping to make tourism in 2013 just as great!

"In 2013 we have two new events planned for the first quarter of the year. One on March 23rd, being the first ever wild game chili cook-off and antler scoring, so we hope to make that a great event," Boughton said. "And then in late March or early April we're going to have a busy women's retreat and that will be sort of an encouraging weekend for women."

Boughton tell us white-tail deer season was huge draw this year. She said hunters booked hotels and camp grounds which helped bring a lot of money and people into the Kirksville area.