Best Selling Author and Astronaut Coming To Sioux Falls

The Sioux Falls Convention and Visitors Bureau is pleased to announce Captain Mark Kelly as the featured speaker at the Visitor Industry Annual Luncheon on May 13, 2014.

Captain Mark Kelly was the commander of Space Shuttle Endeavour’s final mission and is an acclaimed public speaker.

Mark Kelly is an American astronaut, retired US Navy Captain, best selling-author, prostate cancer survivor, and an experienced naval aviator who flew combat missions during the Gulf War.

The winner of many awards, including the Legion of Merit, two Defense Superior Service Medals and two Distinguished Flying Crosses, Kelly was selected as an astronaut in 1996.

He flew his first of four missions in 2001 aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour, the same space shuttle that he commanded on its final flight in May 2011.

He has also commanded Space Shuttle Discovery and is one of only two individuals who have visited the International Space Station on four different occasions.

Already a celebrated American, Kelly became the center of international attention after the January 2011 assassination attempt on his wife, former US Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords.

In their best-selling memoir, Gabby, the couple shares their story of hope and resilience with the world. The inspirational memoir has topped multiple best-seller lists, including the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Amazon.

Kelly and Giffords have captivated the nation with their story, appearing in an exclusive Diane Sawyer interview, and on Nightline and The Daily Show, among others, and have appeared on the covers of People and USA Today.

The luncheon will include a brief presentation of the Visitor Industry Awards for categories: Heart of the City Award; First Impressions Award; Business Award; and Media Award.

First PREMIER Bank and PREMIER Bankcard will be the major sponsor of keynote speaker.

Go to www.VisitSiouxFalls.com/Luncheon for more information or call Kathie at 605.373.2032.