New York, NY - July 9, 1999 - NBC's Today Show was recently
chosen as the 1999 recipient of the Frank W. Berkman Tourism Achievement
award. Matt Lauer, co-anchor of the Today Show, officially accepted the
award at a black-tie gala, which was held on June 29, 1999 at the St. Regis
Hotel. This award, which is granted by the Big Apple Chapter of the
Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI), recognizes
those individuals / organizations who have made a significant contribution
to the travel and tourism industry in New York City. The award was
named for the late Frank Berkman who was the executive vice
president and chief executive officer of HSMAI for 16 years.
The Today Show was honored for its success in promoting the city of
New York to the millions of people who tune into the show each morning.
The hundreds of happy tourists who turn up each day, from every corner
of the world, are caught on camera frolicking outside the Today Show studios.
They are a wonderful and unsolicited advertisement for New York
as they confirm to all at home and around the world what a great time
they're having in the Big Apple. From Minnesota to Maine, California
to the Carolinas, Arkansas to Australia, the message is that New York is
fun...New York is safe...New York is the place to be!
Previous winners of this award include Donald Trump (1998), Mayor Giuliani
(1997), Arthur Surin (1996), Bob Tisch (1995) and Charles Gillett (1994).
 Founded
in 1927, The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International
(HSMAI) is comprised of over 6,500 sales and marketing professionals worldwide.
The Big Apple Chapter is the organization's largest chapter, with nearly
600 members representing hotels, both large and small, the New York Convention
& Visitors Bureau, and other organization including print media, public
relations and advertising agencies, restaurants, etc.
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