Houston -- June, 1997   The Hospitality Industry Hall of Honor announced the 1997 nominees for induction into the Hall of Honor. �This years inductees include founders and pioneers from multiple sectors of the industry,� according to Dr. Ronald A. Nykiel, Hall of Honor chairman. The honorees are: Curtis Carlson, Lord Charles Forte, Ray Kroc, and Ellsworth Statler.

Curtis Carlson, founder and Chairman of the Carlson Companies, dedicated his career to compiling the multi-billion dollar enterprise which includes: Radisson Hotels, TGI Friday�s, Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, and Carlson Wagonlit travel agencies.

Lord Forte began his career with an ice-cream parlor, and went on to develop business that included catering, contract food services and hotels. In the 1970�s, his company merged with Trusthouse Plc. and purchased Travelodge, and later acquired the prestigious Savoy Group of hotels.

Ray Kroc, founded McDonald�s Corporation, which today is the world�s largest global foodservice retailer. McDonald�s now has over 20,000 fast food restaurants in 101 countries.

Ellsworth Statler began his career in the restaurant business in 1895. He then extended into the hotel business by developing the first chain of middle class hotels. His accomplishments formed the foundation of today�s hotel industry.

These four individuals are not only legends, but represent extraordinary examples of leadership in our industry,� Nykiel stated. William P. Fisher, President and CEO of the American Hotel & Motel Association, will be the master of ceremony for the induction event scheduled for October 8, 1997 at the University of Houston�s Conrad N. Hilton College, which houses the Hall of Honor and Industry Archives.

Dean of the College, Alan T. Stutts said: �It is most fitting that these individuals were selected as they provide excellent examples of leadership from which all can learn.� Previous inductees include: Conrad N. Hilton, J. Willard Marriott, Vernon Stouffer, and Kemmons Wilson.

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