TAMPA, Fla. The motorcoach industrys most prestigious event the 2006 United Motorcoach Association Vision Awards Banquet will not only honor outstanding motorcoach operators here next month but give attendees a preview of what to expect at Motorcoach Expo 2007 in New Orleans.

In fact, the theme of the 06 Vision Awards Banquet will be the new New Orleans, with the traditional sights, sounds and tastes of the Big Easy featured throughout the evening.

The UMA Vision Awards Banquet, which annually brings together operators, suppliers, exhibitors and other Expo attendees for a gala evening, will be Jan. 20 at the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel. Expo itself opens Jan. 18.

Along with the food and entertainment, numerous industry awards will be presented near the conclusion of the banquet to leading coach operators, with the highlight being the presentation of the UMA Vision Awards.

For the first time, Vision Awards will be presented in two categories large operators and small operators. Large operators are those with 15 or more coaches, and a small operator is one having fewer than 15 coaches.

Other than the size distinction, the criteria for both awards will be the same. UMA expects the new category will encourage more operators to compete for the award.

"Small coach companies and large operators differ greatly, and UMA is eager to recognize outstanding small motorcoach businesses that exhibit exceptional standards and performance," said UMA President and CEO Victor Parra.

Candidates for the Vision Awards are nominated by the UMAs associate members, based on specific criteria. Each nominee must:

· Engage in sound business practices
· Have an excellent safety record
· Regularly employ innovative marketing, operations and customer-service approaches
· Be a good corporate citizen within its community
· Raise the standards for all motorcoach companies
· Raise the profile of the motorcoach industry

Following presentation of the awards and in keeping with the heritage of Tampa, there will be cordials, cigars, cigar rollers, Cuban music and dancing.

Those who RSVP by Jan. 13 for the banquet will be entered in a drawing for a $250 American Express gift check.