Dear Travel Colleague:

Our comprehensive and aggressive campaign to change attitudes about meetings, events and incentive travel continues to reap results. In addition to favorable stories this week on NBC’s Today show, CNBC and the New York Times, an exchange yesterday on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives between Congressmen Barney Frank (D-MA) and Shelley Berkley (D-NV) is a clear sign that the tone has changed in Washington toward the value of business travel. Click on image or here to play (may take a minute to buffer).

The colloquy with Congressman Frank is a major win for our industry because it clarifies on the record the importance of business travel by the chairman of the Financial Services Committee and a respected House leader. Please share this message with your colleagues and customers to spread the word about these encouraging developments.

These positive signs are important indications that our message is being heard. We continue to make our case with policymakers and the media daily, and I will keep you informed of future progress.

As always, thanks for your continued involvement and support.

Sincerely,

Roger Dow
President and CEO
U.S. Travel Association