U.S. Rep James Oberstar (D-Minn.), chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, was named the recipient of the 2009 Tony Jannus Award, May 7, by a Tampa, Florida society formed to recognize contributions to the aviation industry. Oberstar was selected for his advocacy of safety and competition in air travel.
Tony Jannus started the first scheduled U.S. commercial flights in 1914. They were between St. Petersburg and Tampa, using a single engine flying boat.
The Tony Jannus Distinguished Aviation Society, created by the chambers of commerce in Tampa and St. Petersburg in 1964, will honor Oberstar with a luncheon in St. Petersburg and dinner in Tampa on Nov. 5.
For information: www.tonyjannusaward.com
