Award Recipients Announced for 29th Annual 'California Travel Summit'

June 20-22, 2011 Travel Summit to be held in Pasadena

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., April 26, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A unique blend of individuals who have furthered the efforts of the hospitality industry – from elected officials and national celebrities to travel industry leaders and regional business entrepreneurs – will be recognized for their valuable work in a variety of categories at the California Travel Association's 29th Annual 'California Travel Summit', June 20-22, 2011 in Pasadena, California.

Themed "Think, Adapt, Thrive ... Keeping it Relevant," the summit is expected to attract over 600 travel, tourism and hospitality professionals and state legislative officials from California and neighboring states. Registration is available at www.caltravel.org

Awards and recipients featured at the summit will include:  

2011 CalTravel F. Norman Clark Tourism Champion of the Year - Caroline Beteta, President & CEO, California Travel & Tourism Commission, & Vice Chair, Corporation for Travel Promotion, in recognition for her remarkable contributions to expanding and broadening the  image, development and enhancement of California Tourism.

California Travel Industry Award for the Promotion and Advancement of Tourism - Roger Dow, President & CEO, U.S. Travel Association, in recognition  of USTA's leadership role and accomplishments in during the year that have positively impacted the causes of tourism throughout the country.

California Tourism Award for Excellence in Advocacy - State Senator Fran Pavley- In recognition her leadership in promoting and preserving California's State Parks system.

2011 CalTravel  Restaurateur of the Year – 'Too Hot Tamales' Mary Sue Millikan and Susan Feniger, who have had a tremendous impact in nationally promoting a colorful, fun side of California's restaurant industry.

2011 CalTravel Winery of the Year - Bonny Doon Winery and proprietor Randall Grahm, pioneers in proactive biodynamic farming and one of California's most iconic  wineries.

For more information about the summit visit www.caltravel.org

The California Travel Association (formerly CalTIA) is the unified voice for the California travel industry's political concerns. By advocating directly to the state legislature, the Governor's office, local and federal officials, businesses, and the public, the California Travel Association addresses issues that affect the state's tourism industry. It also aggressively seeks to ensure continued funding for the California Travel and Tourism Commission (CTTC). 

SOURCE California Travel Association