[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 40 (Monday, March 14, 2016)]
[Senate]
[Page S1462]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO ROSSI RALENKOTTER

 Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize Rossi 
Ralenkotter for his hard work and dedication to the State of Nevada. I 
would also like to congratulate him on his induction into the Nevada 
Business Hall of Fame. Mr. Ralenkotter has gone above and beyond in his 
role with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, LVCVA, 
contributing greatly to the touristic success of our great State.
  Mr. Ralenkotter earned his bachelor of science in marketing from 
Arizona State University in 1969 and obtained his master's degree in 
business administration from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 
1971. Prior to working with LVCVA, Mr. Ralenkotter served as a first 
lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force with the 468th Medical Service Flight. 
No words can adequately thank him for his service and sacrifices in 
protecting our freedoms.
  He began his career with LVCVA more than 40 years ago, starting his 
lengthy tenure as a research analyst. From there, Mr. Ralenkotter 
worked diligently, ascending the chain to the very top. He was named 
the authority's executive vice president and senior vice president of 
marketing before taking the role of president and CEO in 2004. As 
president and CEO, Mr. Ralenkotter launched the LVCVA's ``What happens 
here, stays here'' branding campaign, one of the most successful in 
Nevada tourism history.
  He also spearheaded the Las Vegas Convention Center District project, 
further expanding the convention center and increasing Las Vegas's 
reputation as the leading business destination in the world. He is 
truly a role model to the local business community, going above and 
beyond to grow Nevada tourism. As our State continues to flourish as 
one of the Nation's top destinations, I remain committed to introducing 
new policies and strengthening existing ones that positively affect 
Nevada tourism. I am grateful to have allies like Mr. Ralenkotter 
working toward a similar goal.
  Over the past decade, Mr. Ralenkotter has been recognized for his 
efforts. He was named Co-Brand Marketer of the Year in 2004 by 
Brandweek Magazine, as one of the 25 Most Influential People in the 
Meetings Industry by Meeting News in 2005, and as Employer of the Year 
by the Employee Service Management Association in 2006. He was also 
recognized by the International Association of Exhibitions and Events 
with the Pinnacle Award, as well as being inducted into both the U.S. 
Travel's Hall of Leaders and the Destination Marketing Association 
International Hall of Fame in 2014. These awards are given to those 
individuals who have gone to great lengths to grow business and tourism 
in their communities, and without a doubt, Mr. Ralenkotter's efforts 
merit each one of these prestigious awards.
  For the last 40 years, Mr. Ralenkotter has demonstrated an unwavering 
commitment to growing Nevada's tourism industry and further 
establishing its prestige. The State of Nevada is fortunate to have 
someone of such commitment working towards these goals. Today I ask all 
of my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mr. Ralenkotter on his 
induction into the Nevada Business Hall of Fame, and I wish him well as 
he continues in his efforts for the Silver State.

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