AH&LA Co-hosts National Bed Bug Symposiums

Association Supports Two Events to Educate Hoteliers on Eradicating Bed Bugs

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. August 03, 2009

AUGUST 3, 2009 - The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) is co-hosting two National Bed Bug Symposium events this month. The first event will be held in Newark, New Jersey, on August 25, followed by one in Seattle, Washington, on August 27.

According to industry research, bed bug infestations are on the rise in all 50 states. Pest management companies have reported a 71 percent increase in bed bug calls since 2001, and annual sales from this pest have increased by more than 30 percent in 2008 over the year prior. Additionally, U.S. Representative G.K. Butterfield's (D-NC) has proposed federal legislation to help state and local officials combat these pests - this upcoming symposium will help attendees address the public and legal issues related to bed bugs.

This Symposium is a proactive next step in helping to address concerns hoteliers and property/maintenance managers have expressed over the resurgence of bed bugs. It will serve to provide necessary education regarding these elusive pests and offer critical advice and resources on how to properly eradicate bed bug infestations. From identifying bed bugs and inspection techniques to public affairs and legal ramifications, the Symposium will provide tips- both preventative and corrective- to help attendees make informed decisions while protecting their customers and establishments.

Beyond the educational component of the Symposium, this event will also feature a Marketplace, which will offer attendees the opportunity to learn more about the products and services available to prevent and eradicate infestations.

Due of the sensitivity of this issue, attendees will also be provided opportunities to ask questions of the expert instructors anonymously and meet with trained professionals to address site-specific questions in a confidential fashion.

Hoteliers, property managers and owners, and anyone working with accommodations for the general public are urged to attend. The two symposiums are being held in cooperation with the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), Association of Structural Pest Control Regulatory Officials, National Apartment Association, New Jersey Apartment Association, New Jersey Hotel & Lodging Association, and Washington State Hotel & Lodging Association.

For more information about the Bed Bug Symposium and online registration, please visit www.npmapestworld.org/events.

For more information on AH&LA's actions to fight bed bugs, please visit www.ahla.com.

Serving the hospitality industry for nearly a century, AH&LA is the sole national association representing all sectors and stakeholders in the lodging industry, including individual hotel property members, hotel companies, student and faculty members, and industry suppliers. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., AH&LA provides members with national advocacy on Capitol Hill, public relations and image management, education, research and information, and other value-added services to provide bottom-line savings and ensure a positive business climate for the lodging industry. Partner state associations provide local representation and additional cost-saving benefits to members.