Key Speaker

The Honorable Dale Strong

U.S. Representative (AL-05)

Discussion Summary

On February 20, 2025, U.S. Representative Dale Strong (AL-05) joined Huntsville Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau and local travel industry leaders for a Travel Works for America Power Hour at the Orion Amphitheater in Huntsville, Alabama.

The Power Hour agenda included critical topics to the local and national travel industry, such as: the need to lower wait times for first-time visitor visa applicants, currently facing 230+ day wait times on average in key inbound markets; reducing wait times for travelers at U.S. Customs at gateway airports; investing in technology to revolutionize airport screening and investing in travel mobility and infrastructure. 

Congressman Strong and attendees also addressed the importance of working together to boost tourism in North Alabama and highlighted the industry’s role in benefiting businesses and the broader local community. 

Attendees

  • Alex Craig, Orion Amphitheater
  • Allison Dillon-Jauken, ArtsHuntsville
  • Pete Doyle, Lodging Association
  • Tricia Gonterman, Lodging Association
  • Beth Goodwin, EarlyWorks Museum
  • Erin Koshut, Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce
  • Brenda Martin, Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau
  • Jennifer Moore, Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau
  • Ryan Murphy, Orion Amphitheater
  • Nicole Porter, U.S. Travel Association
  • Brandi Quick, Ditto Landing & Marina
  • Kimberly Robinson, U.S. Space & Rocket Center
  • Melanie Thornton, Burritt on the Mountain
  • Sue Wagner, Huntsville Botanical Garden

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