An annual trade show that pumps tens of millions of dollars into Salt Lake's economy has promised to stay for another year.

Salt Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau board Chairman David Jensen announced Thursday that the Outdoor Retailer trade show has extended its contract with the bureau through 2009.

Jensen made the announcement during the bureau's second quarter board meeting Thursday.

The bureau works to bring tourism in the form of conventions to the city, such as the recent Rotary International meeting. Last year, the bureau booked conventions for coming years that are expected to bring an estimated $200 million in revenue to the city.

Beyond booking conventions, the bureau also implemented a "Be a Tourist in Your Own Backyard" slogan and created a Connect Pass, which allows people to purchase one pass and visit several locations ranging from Utah Olympic Park to the Children's Museum of Utah.

The bureau hopes people understand better the opportunities found in Utah — opportunities that go beyond skiing.

"As a lot of you know our summer product is equally as incredible as our winter product, but our summer offerings are not as well known on a national and regional level," said Scott Beck, CVB president and chief executive officer.

The bureau plans to spend about $350,000 in summer advertising this year, more than any other year, Beck said. Advertising for Salt Lake City and for family-friendly activities will be posted on family Web sites, such as disney.com and family.com.

The board of trustees presented several members of the community with Ambassador Recognition Awards. The awards were presented to those who contributed time and expertise in bringing significant conventions to Salt Lake City.

Representatives from local restaurants, hotels and other companies also received recognition from the bureau.

"We can't sell Salt Lake without you, our hospitality partners," said Mark White, vice president of convention sales.

---

E-mail: csmith@desnews.com