President's Message

President's Message
Van V. Heffner, President & CEO
Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association

As President of the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association, I welcome you to our Web site, and take this opportunity to introduce you to our Association.

Its founders established the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association in 1980 as an Association that would support the hospitality industry with the highest quality services and resources available. In a state that epitomizes entrepreneurial spirit, creativity and is looked upon as one of the world's elite travel destinations, the association exemplifies these characteristics.

Despite the enormous changes over many decades, the membership of the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association is proud that those goals still hold true today, and that its focus on excellence has been maintained. Through the years, the Association has evolved, anticipating and meeting the growing and changing needs of its members and their respective cities.

The Association is the industry's voice, and has traditionally represented Nevada's hotels in virtually every type of situation, ranging from tourism to legislation to entertainment negotiations. Today, the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association boasts more than 200 lodging members comprised of over 100,000 rooms statewide. The NHLA members represent more than 150,000 employees in Nevada. This membership roster includes all of Nevada's leading hotel and resort organizations in addition to more than 300 allied members who are the major hotel suppliers in the United States.

The Association is governed by a Board of Directors with officers elected by the Board with one appointed national director to sit on the board of the American Hotel & Lodging Association. NHLA's board consists of a broad cross-section of the industry. Within the Association, there are standing committees responsible for addressing all-important topics such as [Link to all of the following appropriately] Fire and Safety, Security, Legislation, Marketing, Regulatory Affairs, Membership and Human Resources. When necessary, they will form focus groups, recommend action and take positions on issues of concern.

To support Nevada's hotels in meeting their diverse business needs in a climate that continues to grow more complex and specialized, the Association requires outside professional advice to complement its wide range of services without sacrificing in-depth knowledge and expertise. Outside counsel is retained for legal representation, legislative representation, labor management relations, public relations as well as guidance on fire and safety protection or immigration.

In addition, NHLA is committed to involving its members in numerous community initiatives and charitable endeavors, which have garnered local and national awards. The Hotel World features more than 400 suppliers that showcase the newest products and services, and 4,000 lodging and foodservice executives representing the fastest growing regions in the lodging and foodservice industries. The Hotel World is where business gets done. Add in numerous exciting competitions, special events and networking opportunities and the Hotel World is the place to be.

Las Vegas' annual Epicurean Affair provides an inside look at the diversity and growth of the city's food, beverage and entertainment industries, showcasing cuisine from world-class chefs and nightlife from area lounges and clubs. The event takes place in conjunction with the Las Vegas International Hotel & Restaurant Show and boasts a variety of signature dishes from as many as 70 of the city's best restaurants and reveal what makes dining in Las Vegas a main attraction.

The energy of Las Vegas' sultry nightlife is unveiled at Bar Alley. A mix of the best ultra lounges and nightclubs, Bar Alley offers a visual smorgasbord featuring dancers, flair bartenders and signature beverages.

The international award-winning Epicurean Affair provides a chance for restaurateurs to show the city and the nation why Las Vegas is a prime location for owning a restaurant. Visitors and locals want variety and the city's dining options expand each year as restaurant sales growth increases.

Whether you are professional seeking information on improving your business, would like access to a network of industry professionals, visibility or desire continuing education, the NHLA is here to serve. If you are not already a member of this important organization we invite you to join us now or contact the association staff for more information.

Sincerely,