Pitts receives award & delivers keynote speech at Texas Tourism Unity Dinner
AUSTIN — In recognition of his leadership in keeping Texas’ economy thriving, the Texas Travel Industry Association presented State Representative Jim Pitts with its Silver Spur Award during the 22nd Annual Texas Tourism Unity Dinner held on Wednesday, February 22 at the Austin Convention Center. Approximately 900 people from across the state, including dozens of elected officials as well as a who’s who from the travel and tourism industry, were on hand to hear Rep. Pitts deliver the evening’s keynote address.
Representative Pitts has served in the Texas Legislature on behalf of House District 10, comprised of Ellis and Hill counties, for the past 20 years. He is currently serving his third term as Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. As Chairman, he is tasked with keeping our state’s budget balanced and our economy thriving.
House District 10 was well represented at the event with groups from Waxahachie, Midlothian, and Hillsboro present. “Chairman Pitts has always understood the significance and economic impact of travel and tourism on our local and state economy,” said Debra Wakeland, President & CEO of the Waxahachie Chamber of Commerce. “He is our number one fan and ambassador, and has truly made Waxahachie proud.” Joining in that chorus was Greg Solomon, President & CEO of the Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce, who added that “Rep. Pitts has been an incredible advocate of our area for so many years, and this prestigious award could not go to a more deserving public servant.”
The Silver Spur is awarded to public officials who have demonstrated leadership and exemplary service to the Texas travel and tourism industry, which is the state’s fourth largest employer. Chairman Pitts championed the state’s tourism marketing programs, noting that “every dollar the state spends to advertise Texas as a travel destination generates at least 7 dollars in sales tax revenues. Programs like this are a perfect example of the right kind of government spending: the kind that brings jobs to Texas and grows our economy.” Among the crowd was a large group from Midlothian that included Mayor Bill Houston as well as City Manager Don Hastings. Mr. Hastings complimented his state representative, saying “year in and year out, Chairman Pitts makes his district proud, and did so again at this dinner. He showed his strong support for Texas’ growing tourism industry but also took the time to sing the praises of Ellis and Hill counties. Rep. Pitts loves his district, and it sure shows.” These comments were echoed by Mayor Houston who noted that “Jim has always been a great friend to Midlothian and it is great to see him be recognized for his impact on the entire state of Texas.”
In 2010 alone, direct travel spending in Ellis and Hill counties was almost 200 million dollars. That spending supported 1500 jobs and generated 14 million dollars in local and state revenues. Waxahachie Mayor N.B. “Buck” Jordan thanked Rep. Pitts for his leadership in promoting this important industry: “Jim gave such a wonderful speech at the dinner and absolutely earned the Silver Spur for all he has done to advance travel and tourism in the state of Texas”. Longtime Waxahachie resident Bonney Ramsey also made the trip to Austin and praised Chairman Pitts “for his exceptional record in the Texas Legislature. Our community is so grateful for his contributions of time and sacrifice to all the citizens of our state; we are so lucky to have him.”
The Texas Travel and Tourism Industry Association is dedicated to making Life Better in a State of Travel. TTIA members and everyone in attendance gave the Chairman a standing ovation in appreciation of his remarks, and all agreed with him as he told them “when a family is packing up their car to go on vacation, I want them headed to Texas!”
