Leaders of the travel community expressed their condolences to the family of former Alaska Senator Ted Stevens who was killed in an air crash in Alaska. In a statement, U.S. Travel said that Stevens was widely recognized as a champion of travel.
“Senator Stevens was a long-time champion of travel and, from his unique perch in Alaska, had a profound understanding of the importance of visitors to drive local economies and cultures," said Roger Dow, president and CEO of the association. “Senator Stevens was an original sponsor of the recently enacted Travel Promotion Act and a great friend to the 10 million employees in our industry."
Senator Stevens frequently worked across the aisle to solve problems and had a close friendship with fellow travel champion Senator Daniel Inouye of Hawaii, U.S. Travel said.
"Former Senator Stevens was a true champion of travel," said Jon Tisch, chairman of Loews Hotels and chairman emeritus of the U.S. Travel Association. "Senator Stevens frequently set partisanship aside and reached across the aisle in an effort to create jobs and address the challenges of the day. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to his family and the families of those impacted by this event.”
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