NTA Welcomes New Congressional Travel and Tourism Caucus Co-Chair
February 2, 2009
The National Tour Association applauds the appointment of Rep. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., as co-chair of the Congressional Travel and Tourism Caucus. Blunt joins Sam Farr, D-Calif., as co-chairs for the 111PthP Congress. In its more than 30 years of existence, the caucus has served to recognize the economic importance of travel and tourism and the need for a congressional advocacy organization to support the industry in Congress.
"NTA has a long history with the Congressional Travel and Tourism Caucus, and we welcome Rep. Blunt to his leadership position," said NTA Chairman and CEO Michele Michalewicz, CTP. "The NTA Advocacy Team looks forward to working with Chairman Blunt and Chairman Farr to develop and enhance the travel and tourism economy. Blunt comes from a strong tourism background, and we hope he will serve the industry well as we face many new challenges."
NTA has already reached out to Blunt by sending him a copy of the economic stimulus recommendations developed by participants of the Economic Summit of the Travel and Tourism Sector.
Also, NTA has a long record of with the Congressional Travel and Tourism Caucus. NTA Legislative Counsel Jim Santini was a founder and the first secretary/treasurer of the caucus in the House of Representatives in 1978 and served from 1979-82. During his chairmanship, the caucus became the largest Democrat/Republican caucus organization in the House of Representatives with more than 280 members. Under Santini’s leadership, the caucus led the legislative charge that produced the National Tourism Policy Act of 1981.
The National Tour Association is the preferred association in the tourism industry for packaged travel professionals. NTA’s diverse membership and progressive nature make it an industry leader as the place to do business. NTA consistently seeks innovations for the services and business tools it provides to members, and the leadership keeps its fingers on the pulse of the ever-changing world. In turn, NTA members are some of the most creative in the dynamic travel industry. NTA membership represents 36 countries, and tour and travel packagers of all types, including a group, independent, student, and more. To learn more, please visit http://www.NTAonline.com.
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