Zachary's new marketing campaign, Smart Plus, was unveiled last week at an intimate gathering of community leaders and professionals.

Smart Plus, the result of a collaboration between three of the cornerstones of the Zachary community: the Zachary Chamber of Commerce, the City of Zachary and the Zachary Community School District, is founded in the community's commitment to excellence in education.

The Zachary Community School District, recognized as the number one school district in the state for the past seven years, is only one of several "snapshots" included in the campaign designed to draw economic development to the area.

Lane Regional Medical Center, another anchor within the community, is also highlighted in the campaign and participated in the project.

"The Smart+ campaign not only places emphasis on the strong educational pull that Zachary has, but also on its smarter planning, which adds to the quality of life," Mayor David Amrhein said July 11.

Other "pluses" in Zachary are its growing economy, higher income levels, low crime rate and vibrant community spirit, the Smart+ marketing plan advertises.

In addition, Smart+ places emphasis on industry, schools and athletics, community events, community service, arts/entertainment, shopping, the historical district, transportation and public safety.

Each are presented in the marketing package by a snapshot or snapshots on the front of a glossy card, while the flip side contains detailed information about each specific topic.

Besides the marketing package, a flashdrive and website are other avenues to learn more about the campaign and about Zachary itself.

Mayor Amrhein said the the Smart+ marketing tool has already worked for the City of Zachary, citing the success of a recent article that names Zachary as the ninth top city to live for families.

"We sent a Smart+ packet to Family Circle, so this is proof it's working," Amrhein told guests at the July 11 unveiling.

In addition to introducing Smart+, the Zachary Chamber's new economic development director, Kate MacArthur, was also announced.

Jason St. Romain, the Chamber board's president, and Randy Olson, chairman for the Chamber's economic development committee, introduced MacArthur to guests and said she will be replacing former director Chip Mills beginning Aug. 14.

MacArthur, who is originally from Louisiana, said she is wrapping up an economic development project in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, before moving back to assume her new role at the Chamber.

Smart+ was made possible by the efforts of Adonica Duggan, Sharon Phillips, Julie M. McLin, Brett Pinson and Chip Mills, who moved to Austin in May.

For more about the Smart+ marketing campaign, visit http://smartpluszachary.org.