In the midst of a recession threatening the travel and tourism industry, the Association of Travel Marketing Executives (ATME) is taking time to boost morale and recognize some of the most innovative leaders and companies in travel marketing during its 28th Annual ATLAS Awards banquet, sponsored by Discover Network, on June 12 at Red Rock Casino in Las Vegas. ATME is a network of travel marketing professionals committed to enhancing skills, recognizing excellence, and providing innovative and effective marketing ideas and solutions within the industry.

The ATME ATLAS Awards were created to honor and promote leaders and innovators within the travel industry who have displayed breakthrough thinking and leadership specifically in marketing. Some of the top categories recognize executives and companies for innovative tactics, results-oriented programs and broad marketing vision. Submissions were accepted online and selected by the ATME ATLAS Award committee and approved by the ATME Board of Directors, evaluating effectiveness and results.

New to the 2008 Awards is the Top Marketer Category, which recognizes people behind successful marketing initiatives and strategies. This year’s recipients are Kirk Thompson of Hilton Hotels and Joanne Smith of Delta Airlines.

Recipients of other ATME Atlas Award categories include:

• Inspiration, given to companies who have done something good to benefit others or the world: CTO Foundation
• Innovation, presented by Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority: Red Rock Resort / Station Casinos
• Outstanding Woman in Travel, presented by American Airlines: Beverly Nicholson-Doty
• Green Innovation: Kimpton Hotel & Restaurant Group
• Best Cruise Line Branding: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Best Branding: International Destination: Dubai
• Best Overall Branding: Travelocity
• Best Hotel Branding: Residence Inn Marriott
• Best Airline Branding: Singapore Airlines
• Best Branding, Airline Launch: Virgin America
• Best Destination Branding: California Tourism