Survivor” started a television revolution.

Gone were the days of the same-ole sitcom. Here to stay for a while were the days of reality TV.

“Amazing Race” and “Man vs. Wild” followed suit and America was hooked.

In the land of hundreds of TV channels, countless video games and the World Wide Web, what made these shows successful?

They were different.

America is a land of voyeurs and vicarious adventurers.

The key aspect of almost all of these TV shows is watching the “winners” and “survivors” use their heads, stay calm and work together when possible to overcome adversity.

Natchez’s tourism industry is facing a set of mettle-testing challenges.

A storm of pressures is facing the industry including a slowing national economy, more frugal consumers and the seasonal lag that winter normally brings.

The result is a gloomy period ahead, gloomy unless quick concerted action is taken.

Tourism industry leaders met this week with the Natchez Convention Promotion Commission’s tourism marketing advisory group to discuss how best to spend the NCPC’s marketing funds.

The original budget for marketing created in the summer is no longer adequate as much has changed since.

Working together, hand-in-hand with the people on the front lines, the NCPC stands a chance.

Difficult times call for changing rules and if the Natchez tourism industry is going to be a survivor, all parties must work toward a common goal. The meeting this week is a great first step, but the journey ahead remains a long one.