CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) - Even as freezing rain and sleet left South Carolina in winter's grip, the state Department of Parks and Recreation and Tourism released its 2004 tourist guide on Monday featuring a cover with children playing on the beach in summer.

The guide, which is sent to those requesting information about the state and given out at state welcome centers, features a watercolor by Johns Island artist Mary Whyte.

The guide, "Smiles and Places," plays on the tourism slogan of "Smiling Faces, Beautiful Places," and about 700,000 copies are circulated.

Tourism is South Carolina's biggest industry and PRT officials say the guide is an important tool for bringing visitors to the state.

Whyte painted the watercolor, entitled "Treasures," specifically for the guide.

In exchange for the right to reproduce the painting, PRT features a profile of the artist and her work in the guide.