Over the years the talented men and women of our industry have given freely of their time and expertise to ensure the success of our association.

Our association is strong and vibrant, but we are living in troubled times. Our lives and our world have changed dramatically. Our businesses and our industry must reevaluate and creatively structure new plans and new approaches in order to survive.

NYSH&TA's role will take on greater significance in the immediate future. I have no doubt that this organization of great leaders will rise to the occasion - as it has so many times before - to ensure that our membership is well represented and that our industry successfully meets the new challenges we face with our old but strong resolve.

To continue to be a successful and meaningful association, we must continue to attract new members and retain existing ones. There are areas of our great state with virtually no active representation. There are many small properties where proprietors are busy operating their businesses and don't have the opportunity to attend association functions. They do, however, need representation and information.

I therefore pledge to visit any area of the state where members or prospective members wish to voice their concerns or are interested in knowing more about the advantages of membership in NYSH&TA.

It is a distinct honor for me to serve as your Chairman. I am energized by the firm commitment so many of you have made toward our future success. When I think of our strong resolve, I am reminded of the words of George Bernard Shaw:

"You see things and say Why?
But I dream things that never were
and I say Why Not?"

Louis N. Ventresca
Chairman