Lumi Bekteshi nominated for state 'Lincoln Award'

Palms Grill head waitress up for title of Best Supporting Actress to be presented at Excellence in Tourism dinner

[February 18, 2013]  ATLANTA -- Inspired by the Oscar-nominated Steven Spielberg blockbuster film "Lincoln," the Illinois Office of Tourism is rolling out the red carpet for the state's brightest tourism stars in its first-ever "Lincoln Awards." The recipients are those "behind-the-scenes stars" who go above and beyond for the Illinois tourism industry. The awards will be presented during a special program at the upcoming Excellence in Tourism Awards on Feb. 27.

Atlanta's own Lumi Bekteshi is nominated for Best Supporting Actress in Illinois. Other contenders are Elaine Stonich, gift shop manager of the Joliet Area Historical Museum, and Michelle Boon, commissioner of the city of Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.

Geoff Ladd, executive director of the Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau of Logan County, is behind Lumi Bekteshi. "We are thrilled to have Lumi representing Atlanta and Logan County. Her dedication to our area could not be more valuable to our community," said Ladd.

Jen Hoelzle, deputy director of the Illinois Office of Tourism, is excited to honor the unique individuals who make Illinois a memorable destination for travelers. "I have always felt the people and personalities that make up Illinois are our greatest asset. You simply will not find so many wonderful people anywhere else," said Hoelzle.

The awards will kick off the 2013 Illinois Governor's Conference on Travel & Tourism. The conference runs Feb. 27-March 1 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont. For more information and registration, visit ilgovconference.com.

[Text from file received from Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau of Logan County]